At the dawn of Episode 4 of "The Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity," Rintarou's enthusiasm for studying alongside Kaoruko propels him out of bed much earlier than necessary. As he ventures towards their rendezvous, his mind races with every conceivable detail, from the attire he's donned to the very day itself. However, these anxieties dissipate instantaneously upon catching sight of her awaiting him outside the station.
Kaoruko, too, confesses to harboring nerves, which serves as a balm to Rintarou's jittery heart, prompting him to candidly reciprocate his feelings. They then proceed to a cozy restaurant, diving straight into their studies once their meal is concluded. Rintarou's greatest academic hurdle is mathematics, thus becoming the focal point of their tutorial session.
Embarrassed to admit he wants to study in order to participate in the sports festival alongside his friends, fearing it might come across as trivial, Rintarou hesitates. Kaoruko, however, disputes this notion, viewing his motive as noble and indicative of his deep affection for his peers.
She shares a similar sentiment towards her own friends, particularly towards Subaru—a silver-haired girl whose brusqueness conceals a compassionate heart, scarred by numerous trials. Kaoruko expresses gratitude for Rintarou's kind treatment towards Subaru, recognizing the girl's underlying gentleness.
After bidding farewell at their respective homes, Kaoruko gifts Rintarou a meticulously crafted study plan. Despite her own examination pressures, she is determined to lend him her utmost support in achieving his aspirations. As they part ways, Rintarou is overwhelmed with joy. Nevertheless, his euphoria is abruptly interrupted by Subaru, who invites him for a confidential chat.
The girl inquiries if Rintarou is romantically involved with Kaoruko. When he denies it, she warns him to steer clear of her, emphasizing Kaoruko's immeasurable importance in her life. Their friendship spans years, with Kaoruko being the first person to stand up for her and appreciate her unique hair, in stark contrast to her male classmates who bullied her.
She acknowledges her potential wrongdoing yet persists in beseeching Subaru to convince Rintarou to sever ties with Kaoruko. Should the educators discover that the scholarship recipient is associating with someone from Chidori, they might strip her of everything she's gained. Rintarou comprehends the gravity of the situation, yet he finds himself unable to relinquish his friendship with Kaoruko.
On his journey home by train, Rintarou encounters the two schoolgirls to whom he had earlier yielded his seat in the library. Despite their initial trepidation, they express their gratitude for his kindness. This encounter prompts him to reflect on Kaoruko's constant expressions of thanks for every little thing he does for her. While he doesn't regret his decisions, the thought of potentially harming such a gentle soul leaves him astonished and troubled.
Then, the pivotal day dawns. The moment of reckoning arrives as the test results are unveiled. Fortunately, both Rintarou and Usami have secured passing grades, paving the way for their participation in the upcoming festival. Their classmates celebrate with a jubilant party, even going so far as to adorn them with sashes emblazoned with the words "didn't fail."
However, the jubilance takes a turn when one overeager classmate accidentally topples Rintarou's table. In the ensuing chaos, Saku discovers the study plan tucked away, bearing a note from Kaoruko. The reality dawns on Rintarou that maintaining this clandestine friendship between the two schools might prove far more arduous than he had ever anticipated.
