The atmosphere inside the classroom was becoming tense.

The wind struck against the windows, making a rattling sound.

If today was just like any other day, the soft sound would probably be lost amidst the idle chatter.

However, thanks to the complete silence, the sound of wind blowing about outside gave off the feeling that we were awfully close to it.

The reason for this heavy brooding atmosphere was none other than Miura Yumiko. Or more specifically, what she said earlier.

I hadn't been able to erase away the unease that this caused.

It was slightly embarrassing. Truth be told, there was something embarrassing about all of this. It was probably because I was sensitive to other's gazes.

However there was an even larger reason behind it.

People knowing she was together with me during lunch, I wondered if that will give her some unpleasant memory.

In the first place, there was no one who wanted to be friends with Hikigaya Hachiman. Whether I was alone or with anyone, there was probably no one who cared. If I was by myself right now, I could find a clear explanation to all this.

It would be great if I could shut out all these excessive thoughts and the looks that people gave. However I wasn't able to isolate any of them.

Just what have I gotten myself into today...? No... just what has 'she' gotten me into?

In order for us both to lead peaceful lives, it'd be best to be in tune with our sense of distance.

Furthermore, as high school students, we all belong in our respective cliques and hierarchies which mirror that of a set of different races. We all are individually different existences.

If that is the case, then where do I belong?

"...Oi! Hikitani-kun!" Tobe shouted to get my attention.

"What? Who is that? Someone you know? I certainly don't know him."

Seriously, just who is Hikitani-kun?

"Hmm, how should I put it? What'cha think Hikitani-kun?"

"I don't understand your question." I gave a curt response to his sudden question which actually doesn't seem like a question.

"Ya know... I mean you and Yumiko... Did ya become friends now or somethin'?"

"Yeah, yeah, tell us!" said the two unknowns. Just who are you people?

Ebina sighed "Well I might be interested a bit too, but not as much as something else hehe..." then a bit of blood came from her nose.

Please, someone tell her that having nosebleeds this often is really bad...

"I'd like to know as well." said Hayama as he gave me even brighter than his usual smile.

Was he trying to pick a fight with me or something?

A bit unsure of how I should say it I thought for a bit before answering.

"No...we are just acquaintances."

That is a fact. I mean, did they actually classify me as her friend just by spending lunch once with her?

Tobe gave me a strange, lukewarm and gentle smile.

Then he smacked my shoulders. ...Ah, seriously annoying.

The others laughed at this.

The atmosphere in the classroom was no longer as tense thanks to Tobe's annoying behavior.

At least I clarified to them that we are not friends so people would not misunderstand. I could now return to my so-called miserable and unchanging life.

Everyone then sat at their seats since class is about to start.

Satisfied with my unchanging self I glanced at the time. It seems like there are just a few minutes left so I decided to go back to my seat.

But before I could go, I found my eyes subconsciously looking in Miura's direction.

She was silently looking at my face from the side then quickly removed her gaze and stared down at her feet.

Suddenly, she looked up and turned around as if making a spin. The hems of her unbuttoned blazer and her glossy blonde hair lightly danced.

"...See you later, Hikio."

Her body still turning in motion, she said that as she wore a slightly embarrassed grin.

I couldn't help but be in awe when she said that with such a nice smile.

"Y-Yeah..."

For a short while, I watched that smile in a daze. Then she retracted her smile and briskly began walking back to her seat.

She is seriously going to create more misunderstandings... also I had already told her my name is not Hikio! Well, whatever...

"Stupid Hikki..."

When I turned around to the muttering voice, Yuigahama was looking displeased and was already walking back to her seat.

Without managing to say anything I went back to mine as well.

I silently waited for class to start.

As the last few classes ended one by one, I could feel my body getting increasingly sluggish.

I grabbed my bag that had nothing important inside and stood up.

People headed for their clubs and headed for home quickly shuffled out of the classroom.

I could feel someone's stare pricking at my back but that was eventually cut off when I closed the sliding door behind me.

The hallway was submerged in a relaxing atmosphere. Students were running back and forth heading in different directions. They showed no signs of stopping despite walking so leisurely.

I chose to walk down the side of the hallway that wasn't lit up by the sun which didn't feel as warm as the other side.

I descended down the stairs. Not a single person called out to me or questioned my actions as I continued on to the front entrance. I arrived without a hitch.

Starting from here I changed my shoes and headed for the bike parking area. After unlocking my bike, I started riding home while spacing out.

Why did I go straight home?

That is because since a few days ago...

...I am no longer part of Service Club.

Hello everyone, I wanted to thank you for all the reviews and many favorites and followers on this story. I really didn't expect this much for my first fanfic.

I decided since the beginning that chapters will be about a thousand words long. I guess that is my style.

You might've forgotten, but in the first chapter Hikigaya was tired and said that he felt burdened by what happened to him a few days ago. Now it was revealed that he is no longer in the Service Club. Miura Yumiko wanted to help him in her own way.

Now, what could that lead to, I wonder?