Kanae Hagiwara is Ayumi Hagiwara's mother. She first appears searching for her missing daughter and stumbles upon a cosplay competition at Cafe Cowbeya. Finding the event amusing and interesting, she spontaneously decides to participate. This impulsive act leads to her reunion with Ayumi, who is already involved in the competition.

After this initial encounter, Kanae becomes a regular at Cafe Cowbeya and spends leisure time with Takaya Murase and his friends. A widow actively seeking a new romantic partner, she develops a particular interest in Takaya. She views her daughter Ayumi, who also has feelings for Takaya, as a romantic rival without concern over this dynamic.

Despite being a mother, Kanae maintains a youthful and energetic demeanor and dislikes assumptions about her age based solely on her parental status. Her physical appearance, especially her bust size, draws attention from male characters like Takaya Murase and Tetsushi Sumitomo, notably overshadowing Minori Sumitomo's figure.

Tetsushi Sumitomo, Cafe Cowbeya's owner, expresses immediate interest in hiring Kanae as a waitress due to her appeal. She subsequently assists at the cafe occasionally.

Her personality is characterized by spontaneity and a willingness to engage in playful activities. She prioritizes fun and interesting experiences, exemplified by her impulsive entry into the cosplay competition. Her approach to romance is proactive and unabashed, openly considering her daughter competition for Takaya's affections.