The cultural festival was an entertaining day, some unexpected things happened, but nothing big.

Maybe the good thing was that I won some points with Shiromeguri-senpai, since she was very grateful to me for taking the role of the villain in the last show. Also, the attendees mentioned that they liked that ending better than the original one, seeing the hero being defeated and framed was a good plot twist.

So, you could say that I became closer to Shiromeguri-senpai. Of course, it's also just me being very arrogant, but it doesn't hurt to be arrogant sometimes.

After the cultural festival, it's time for the sports festival.

In my previous school we had these competitions but in Sobu High. Each student council does it in their own way, for example, the competition that will be held on Saturday is based on points for each section in their respective grades. In short, my section will be competing with the rest of the first year, and, to be honest, I do not think we will be able to occupy even the third place.

Why I say that you may ask. It's simple, in the tests we did during gymnastics, most scored average. Besides, in my section there are only 2 athletic people, one is the class delegate, and the other is me.

In my section there are no students who are in sports clubs, so expecting to get the first place is very greedy.

Even the most clueless person would realize that, but apparently my class delegate doesn't think that way.

Since we are currently deciding on the shifts, we will take for the various competitions.

If I say, we are, I mean that the delegate has already prepared a list of participants beforehand.

Maybe if her plan had been more accessible, the whole problem would have been avoided, but before this she gave a great motivational speech that ignited everyone's competitiveness.

I don't know much about her, but from what I've heard from other classmates, she's very competitive, she likes to win.

Who doesn't? It's something we get used to from a young age, from the beginning we compete based on our grades.

The delegate is not an idiot, she knows that in our conditions, wanting to opt for the first place is impossible.

So, what was her best answer to this in order to win?

It's simple, in the list she showed on the board, there were only two names registered in almost all the competitions, mine and hers.

Since I smashed all of her marks, it wasn't impossible to think that she would enter me as a participant, but putting me in almost every event is a bit far-fetched.

I'm not saying this because it's impossible for me, in fact, I can do it with ease. So many years of training are not in vain, but being forced to do it against my will is another matter.

Perhaps if the delegate had spared her motivational speech and opted for a few words of consolation for the slim chances of winning, this would have a different development.

I'm not someone who stands out in my class. In fact, I think most of the men dislike me because of the times Yumiko came after me and how Yukinoshita did the same thing, but since it wasn't repeated, they sure think that bastard got lucky.

And as for the women, all interested in Hayama.

So, seeing how my name like hers is in almost every competition when the sports festival is supposed to be an activity in which the section is meant to unite and manage to face challenges as a team, just made them raise their voices in protest.

Normally I would pass on this and dedicate myself to reading my novel. In fact, that's what I was doing during all her initial talk, but I froze when the delegate showed the list with the participants. So, as everyone else joined in protest, I decided to do so as well, I have no reason to compete, I just don't want to.

Maybe I should opt for a subtle and calm way of referring to her, but I don't have a need to do it that way either. Since a part of me gets pissed off when she mentions me as if I were an object.

In all the noise in my classroom from the voices of my other classmates, it would be a nuisance to have to raise my voice to be heard. So, I'll opt for my more classic way of doing this.

Everyone looks in my direction as I pound my fist on my desk. I guess I'm good at getting attention.

I really don't like to be the center of attention, but in this case, I have no choice.

''Delegate, I think I speak for everyone, but your idea is terrible since the sports festival is designed for the whole section to integrate as a team, not to just select a couple of people with the intention of winning at everything since, in that case, what good would the sports festival be?''

There's no point in me joining the others demanding and shouting that I don't like the idea.

''Tsurumi is right.''

''Why only a few will participate in the competitions?''

''I'm good at tennis, why didn't they include me in the list?''

As well as these opinions, several of my classmates joined my words.

''Be quiet! I told you this is the best way to get the first place because there is no point in participating if we don't secure the victory.''

I can understand her, the normal thing is to want to win in every competition although for my part, I only do it if it interests me, but at present, I couldn't care less about the sports festival.

''So, you're saying that I have an obligation to win in all the competitions you put me in?'' I replied with a tone of disinterest.

''That's right, with your previous results, it should be easy to take first place.''

The gazes of my classmates turned to me, seriously, how annoying can that girl be.

''I see.'' I picked up my novel while turning my attention to this one. ''Then I have no reason to win in those competitions. In fact, why should I when you order me like that?''

''Why wouldn't you want to win? Are you an idiot or something?'' She said with some doubt.

''I'm a simple man, I'm not the type to obey something because I'm ordered to, so Delegate-chan, why don't you use that brain of yours to rethink that list?'' I said with a mocking tone.

Hopefully, I will put up with the things Yumiko orders me to do, so I'm not going to be obeying someone who has no relation to me.

And after I spoke, several of my classmates supported my idea, the noise reigns again in my classroom.

I guess that should do it.

As I returned my attention to my novel, I could feel the delegate's look of hatred.

In the end, yesterday by a majority vote it was decided that everyone should be included in the sports competitions, which did not please the class delegate, but it's not as if she can do anything against all of us.

The delegate also tried to register me in the heaviest competitions, the ones that give more points for victory, which I refused. Besides, I told her that even if I register, I will lose on purpose, so it makes no sense to do it. Which is why we argued again.

Leaving that aside, like every day, I arrived once again at that door that with the passage of time became familiar to me.

Fate is a curious thing.

I opened the door like every day, and, as usual, Yukinoshita was reading quietly in her seat.

Yukinoshita gave me a brief glance as I made my way to my seat.

Once settled, I took out a novel to start reading.

It might seem that the novels I have been reading have been the same, but if I finish one, I buy others, even my bookshelf in my room is already full. That reminded me to buy more.

Time passed as we both concentrated on our respective reading.

There wasn't much to do per se, sometimes we talk about various topics, but only when one of us starts the conversation, and at least for today I have no reason to. We talked about the sports festival, how our sections would compete against each other, and it is more likely that the winning section will be the one with the most students enrolled in sports clubs.

In itself, the sports festival is an event where the whole section joins together to compete in the various events, of course not all events are to show strength, but to show skill. Yukinoshita mentioned that she would also participate in some games that do not require constant endurance. For my part, I simply mentioned that I argued with my homeroom delegate and would not participate in any event, which earned me several ''compliments'' about how I am being arrogant, plus I would not always win in everything, which Yukinoshita boasted that she would win in her competitions.

If I wanted to, I would also participate and win by bragging, but it would also make me the center of attention for a while, of course currently I don't care about that, but it's still annoying.

There's no point in thinking about it when I've already said I'm not going to participate.

The time must have passed in silence, but as usual, I was wrong as I could hear the sound of the door.

''Come in.''

Yukinoshita closed her book to welcome our customer.

The person who entered is a girl, she has long hair of a orange color, a rather striking figure, as she is slender with an abundant chest that has no comparison against Yukinoshita's. She is dressed in a gym uniform although the most striking thing is the serious expression she has. In a nutshell, the girl who came is my class delegate.

''Hiratsuka-sensei told me that if I needed help with anything, I could come to this place.''

I already have an idea of the reason why she came, but I'll let her be the one to say it.

''That's right, welcome to the service club.'' Yukinoshita said with her usual tone.

The delegate's gaze shifted from Yukinoshita and focused on me.

''Tsurumi? Are you a part of this club? Well, never mind, I guess that makes things easier.'' Her way of speaking towards me was dismissive. If we think about it, after what happened in the classroom, it makes sense.

''You know the proper thing to do is to introduce yourself when one comes to ask for something, right?'' I said while putting away my novel, since something tells me that she wouldn't be leaving this place quickly.

''Nakamura Kazumi, a member of the volleyball club and a representative of class E. Why the hell am I telling you this if you already know me?'' Her first words were spoken with pride though she then changed to an annoyed expression.

''So, Nakamura-san, what do you need?'' Yukinoshita as always was direct.

''I want Tsurumi to sign up and promise to win in the sports festival competitions.'' Shouldn't she at least be nicer to the person who's going to help her? I don't really care though.

In the end, the idea, I had turned out to be true.

''I see.'' Yukinoshita put her hand to her chin as if she was thinking about it. ''Tsurumi-kun, do you want to participate and promise to win in the competitions ordered by Nakamura-san?'' Yukinoshita asked, though after spending so much time with her, I could notice a certain something in her tone of voice.

''I refuse.'' I said with a tone of disinterest.

''You heard his answer. So that's all we can help you with.''

I didn't expect Yukinoshita to solve her request like this, I thought she would force me to obey Nakamura.

''What? Sorry, I didn't understand what happened.''

''You came looking for Tsurumi-kun to obey you, so I asked him, he refused, so that's all we can do.'' Yukinoshita said.

''Isn't this place supposed to help students with their requests or something?'' There is some annoyance in her voice.

''That's right, the service club helps students with their problems, we take care of showing them the ways how they can get the result they want, but we don't do it for them. In your case, you want to oblige someone you have not treated with respect since you joined the club. Tsurumi-kun may be someone unfit for society and be more of a pest, but he is part of the service club, and as the president I can't allow one of the members to be talked to in that way.'' Yukinoshita said with a serious tone.

If we omit the part where she openly insulted me, I must say that I didn't expect Yukinoshita to say that, more because she defended me somehow, of course it's not as I needed it either.

''Thank you for defending me like that, I really appreciate it.'' I said as Yukinoshita gave me a teasing smile.

I looked towards Nakamura. ''You already heard my answer, but I'll tell you again, I am not interested in the sports festival.''

There was no point in keeping repeating this, but from what I see, Nakamura doesn't plan to give up, is it really that important for her to win?

''Why don't you want to take the competition seriously? Are you so arrogant to think that you could win so easily?''

''I do because that's the truth. I'm just not interested in doing something I have no interest in.''

''Aren't you being too arrogant to say that you're better than others, Tsurumi-kun?'' Yukinoshita turned her attention towards me.

''I doubt losing at something I'm good at, that's all. Besides, I think you're aware of it, right?'' I said mockingly.

The first time we met, I defeated Yukinoshita at her own game, so I used that topic to tease her.

''Tsurumi, if you're sure about that, let's compete now!'' Her voice was full of determination.

While Yukinoshita and I were talking, Nakamura interrupted us, and from what I see, this is her latest strategy.

''Nakamura-san, there is a limit to how insistent one can be.'' Yukinoshita isn't a big fan of this idea, but I for one don't care.

''I have no problem, if you stop being a bother, I'll do it.'' I highly doubt losing, so I said it in an arrogant manner.

I wanted to at least spend the club hour relaxing, and Nakamura doesn't make it easy.

''Then let's compete, let's have a race, if I win, you'll listen to me.''

''You trust yourself too much, don't you?'' Nakamura must know the difference between us, but she acted too arrogant just the same.

''I know my capabilities, that's why it infuriates me that you squander it, seriously, you're annoying.''

She must have some complex with it, but so little is it that I'm interested in hearing from her.

Yukinoshita cleared her throat to get our attention, for a moment I forgot that decisions were made by my president.

''What do you think, Yukinoshita?''

''If you agree with it, I'm not opposed to the idea.''

Once Yukinoshita gave her approval, it's time for some exercise.

We met at the athletics track; the members of that club had no problem giving us a few minutes for our competition. Although I think what influenced it was that the person who asked for it was Yukinoshita.

We had gymnastics today, so it was no problem to change from my Sobu uniform to sports clothes. Of course, I could compete in uniform, but it would be annoying to do it that way.

With all the preparations in place, Nakamura and I got into position, while Yukinoshita took the role of referee.

Should I win quickly or give her hope that she can win? I guess the best thing to do is to give her a few seconds' head start.

''The race consists of one full lap, the winner will be the one who reaches the finish line first, if everything is ready, start!''

Yukinoshita started the race, Nakamura was the first to take the lead while I stayed in my place, as a gentleman, it's good to give him a few seconds head start.

''Don't you think it's very arrogant of you to give her a head start? Although if we're talking about your person, maybe that's the most common thing to do.'' Yukinoshita said while holding her hundred, as if referring to my decisions were always strange things.

''You know, I'm quite the gentleman.'' I said with my usual tone.

''Tsurumi-kun, I don't think the gentleman have done anything to you for you to insult them like that.'' And as always, Yukinoshita was ready with a countermeasure for anything good I tell about myself.

That earned me for teasing her.

I guess this time was enough, so I started to run.

So, several seconds passed until I managed to match Nakamura. We are already more than half way through the course, so my decision to give her a head start was the right thing to do. Of course, I could be taken as an arrogant bastard who just wants to humiliate a girl who treated him badly, but that's part of my nature.

At this point we are evenly matched, and there should be less than 100 meters to go.

Like any athletics track, it has a length of 400 meters. According to information, I got from Yukinoshita, she has knowledge of even somewhat irrelevant things.

I quickened my pace to take advantage of her, which was to be expected since I had improved my endurance as well as my speed since I was a child, and since I was currently running every day, I didn't lose my touch.

I slowly left Nakamura behind as I crossed the finish line with a few meters of advantage.

Once I stopped, I headed towards Yukinoshita, as the delegate also met up with her.

Nakamura was breathing heavily, as before I overtook her, I noticed how she accelerated her speed even more, but it wasn't enough.

If you're going to be arrogant about something, make sure you're the best at it. A hard lesson I learned the hard way.

''So, delegate, I guess you got your answer.'' I said in an arrogant manner.

She just cursed under her breath.

''Nakamura-san, with this there's no reason for you to be pushy anymore.'' Yukinoshita finished her off.

Maybe it wasn't necessary to do all this, but she was the one who proposed it in the first place, so she must accept the consequences.

''Tsurumi, answer me something, why is it that if you're good at something, you refuse to be the best at it?'' Nakamura ask with some annoyance in her voice, what a sore loser.

''Your question is poorly phrased. Maybe you meant because if you're good at something, you don't show it to others, right?'' I emphasized these last words.

I don't have anything to show anyone, I'm not someone who seeks attention from others. So openly bragging that I'm good at anything I see it as meaningless. Of course, it's different when I use it to annoy someone, but as for people who aren't close to me, I have no need to do it.

''I'll answer that question.'' Before I could say anything, Yukinoshita beat me to it.

''From the time I knew Tsurumi-kun, I can be sure of one thing, he's strange.'' Even I couldn't have described myself better. ''That's why looking for any sense in his actions is impossible, he's the kind of person whose decisions you will question, it's hard to figure out what he thinks, and, above all, the way he does things. He may say something, but he does the opposite. In short, he's an idiot.'' And here I thought Yukinoshita was describing me perfectly, though I won't completely deny the latter.

''I'm sure the latter wasn't necessary.'' I said as I let out a sigh.

''It was the most important thing.'' She put a smile on her face. ''But, in answer to your question, Tsurumi-kun doesn't have the need to prove anything to anyone, he may be arrogant, but he only does to annoy, he's the type of person who doesn't care what others may think of him, so expecting him to take seriously something that doesn't have his interest is too much to ask, that's why he can't be considered as someone who can contribute to society, he's too selfish and only cares about himself.''

''I wouldn't have said it better myself.''

During the time we shared in the service club, we both got to know each other better. Of course, we never talk about ourselves, but based on our discussions and banter, we can both intuit what the other person is like.

Nakamura only sighed upon hearing Yukinoshita's reply.

''Now I feel like an idiot, but you might as well try to take it seriously, even if you don't need to prove it to anyone, you can prove to me that you're not just an arrogant bastard.'' She said with a tone with which she sought to provoke me.

''I can live with that.'' I had nothing to prove to her, so I accompanied these words with a mocking smile.

''I shouldn't have asked.'' She said with annoyance.

Nakamura left once she heard my answer.

''You could say we completed another successful application.'' I said proudly.

''If you call that a success, there's a serious problem with your understanding of the meaning of words. But technically, it was never an application.'' She just merely started addressing our club as she said this.

It was to be expected that Yukinoshita would respond that way, and without any more pending, I also headed to the service club.

Once we arrived at the club, we took our seats in our respective places.

Since there was little time left before club time was over, I decided to stay in my sportswear. Since it would be counterproductive to change only to get home and change again. I am lazy about some things.

Before I pulled out my novel, I thought I would first buy a can of Max coffee since I had earned it for my previous performance.

I decided to get up to head towards the vending machines. It makes things easier just to go to the machines to get anything. Long live technology.

''Tsurumi-kun, club time isn't over yet.''

Yukinoshita looked up from her book to notice me.

''I was thinking of going to buy something to drink.''

''You sure are going to buy that sweet coffee crap.'' Yukinoshita said as she shook her head.

''I don't insult the things you like; you know?''

It was common to see me drinking Max coffee during club hours, something Yukinoshita didn't seem to like.

''You should be thankful that someone cares about your health, though I doubt anyone did in the first place, so the experience must be new.'' Her face formed a mocking smile after saying this.

''I understand, I understand, no one cares about me, and I'll die alone, but leaving that aside, it's not as if I have a better option either. Besides, there's no law against me drinking it.'' I said with my usual tone.

''You have a good point there, but just the same, if you keep consuming that crap, you'll only end up getting sick.''

''Life is for enjoying, so I don't see the problem with it.''

Of course, I'm aware of it, but I burn calories every day, so ingesting more sugar isn't a problem.

Yukinoshita shook her head, as if understanding me was an impossible task.

''I don't understand why Nakamura-san was so insistent to make you participate in the sports festival when you're a hopeless case.''

Yukinoshita put her hand to her temple, a trait that became common.

''I guess it was because in gym class I was snooty to her by breaking all her marks that she was proud of.'' What memories, her frustrated face was amused.

''Now I understand why she wanted you to participate.''

''What do you mean?'' I didn't expect those words from Yukinoshita, as I thought the delegate just wanted to win.

''Don't you know what happened in the volleyball tournament?''

''I don't have the slightest idea.'' I said with a tone of disinterest.

''My mistake was expecting you to be interested in someone other than yourself.''

''Then, Ojou-sama, enlighten me with your coarse wisdom.'' I said with a mocking tone. I also went back to my seat to listen to her, I guess the Max coffee can wait since I'm a bit curious.

''I'll do that.'' Yukinoshita used her hand to throw her hair back, showing arrogance. ''Two weeks ago, there was a volleyball tournament between different schools in Chiba. Sobu's team made it to the finals, but, unfortunately, they lost.''

''What does that have to do with Nakamura?''

''Patience is a virtue, Tsurumi-kun, but I see that you are still incapable of possessing it.'' She doesn't hesitate to tease me at every opportunity.

''Nakamura-san is someone who was labeled as a promising youngster. She is smart and very sharp, she is even among the top 5 freshmen, she is also very skilled and athletic, so her performance in the volleyball club earned her a spot in Sobu's main team. On the day of the final, both teams were evenly matched, only one more point was needed for one of the two teams to win. The ball went to Nakamura-san, she was to receive the ball and her teammates would score the point, as they had created an advantageous situation, so victory was already in their hands, but at that moment for some reason Nakamura-san failed to receive the ball, giving the point to the opposing team.''

''In short, even if she were very skilled and so on, she failed at the most important moment at something she should have already been an expert at, nerves can make people behave clumsily in an action they have performed more than a thousand times.''

''Of course, her team. I don't blame her for it, after all, it's, it's a mistake anyone can make.''

''A mistake that made her regret and curse herself for failing at something that should have been like breathing?''

''That deranged mind of yours is very adept at deducing things.'' I've already lost count of how many times she insulted me over the course of the week. ''But you're right, failing at that time must have created some kind of complex for Nakamaura-san, having the ability to perform something, but failing, can be interpreted as being good at something but not demonstrating it, so I can understand her getting angry at you for disinterest for not taking things seriously.''

I think I managed to understand why Nakamura wants to win at the sports festival, a form of atonement for making her club lose.

''I think it depends on everyone, if I fail at something I'm good at, it just means I'm not capable enough, or maybe I was too arrogant to take it seriously. So next time I would take it upon myself to take it seriously or train hard enough to pass that test.''

I'm the most apt to say that, after all, during the summer vacation they took it upon themselves to bring me down from my little fantasy that I was invincible, after all, I'm still just a 16-year-old boy. Nothing to do against someone with many more years of experience.

''Apparently, you can say things that make sense.''

''Thank you for the compliment, but I just said the first thing that came to mind.''

After saying this, the bell rang, signaling the end of all activities in Sobu.

''Now I guess I'll go buy myself a can of Max coffee.'' I said with an animated tone.

''I already complied with warning you, so what you do after this is already your responsibility.'' Yukinoshita sighed as she said this.

''It's not as if I have any other choice.'' Maybe I could buy other cans of coffee, but Max coffee tastes addictive.

With nothing more to say, I grabbed my things and started heading home.

As I made my way to the door, I could tell that Yukinoshita seemed to be thinking about something. But it's not something I should worry about, so I walked out of the club while raising my hand in farewell.

Once I grabbed my shoes from the locker, I continued on my way home.

On the way home, I couldn't help but think about what Yukinoshita said.

I didn't expect Nakamura to have failed like that. Now I understand why she was too insistent with me, the need not to want to fail again, at the same time that maybe her nerves played a trick on her in a moment of utmost importance.

All this created a great need to want to win, and in turn she found someone who is capable or better than her, this made her consider that if she had someone like that with her winning would be easy, but all this collapsed when I refused to participate, The bonus of this was when I told her that, even if I participated, I would lose on purpose. For someone who lost something important because of an oversight, to hear someone capable of giving up without even participating was like receiving a slap in the face.

But unfortunately, that's the way things are, I have no interest in doing things that don't appeal to me. After all, I'm satisfied with my life. Of course, the issue of going back to being a teenager is a hassle, but starting something with Yumiko or Kawasaki would ruin things.

I stopped as I was walking, I can't believe how far I can go just to make things easier.

I came up with an idea, maybe it's not something to be proud of, but I'm not someone who follows ethics like morals either since, if it works in my favor, I have no problem being a bastard just as Nakamura said.

It seems that there was a change of plans.

Nakamura should be happy since I will finally participate in the sports festival, but I will do it my way, and as things progress, I will decide whether I will continue with my plan or leave it, but with the information I have, I think everything will turn out as I hope.

My eagerness for the sports festival to begin grew, now I have a clear purpose.

I couldn't help but put a smile on my face.

I don't have a mirror nearby, but I'm sure it's not a smile that is well-seen.

The long awaited day finally arrived. The sports festival began with the speech of the student president.

Today it is the turn of the first year students, and tomorrow it is the turn of the second and third year students. .

As for the idea I had, I developed it normally, I told the delegate that I would only participate in 3 competitions, she could choose one, and I could choose the other two.

But to her discomfort, I chose two competitions that are insignificant, tug of war and treasure hunt. Not that I'm really looking forward to competing either.

And just as I assumed, she entered me in the relay race, which consisted of two participants from each section, one male and one female. And as the name implies, it consists of carrying a bar to the finish line, the winning team will get a lot of points.

But leaving aside all that, the competition had already started, the whole of Sobu courtyard was used for different competitions, there was also volleyball, soccer and basketball competitions. Each hall assigned different members for this, and so that there would not be a backlog in the events, or the participants would run out, a very good time was set for each event, so there would be no problem with it.

I'm sure Shiromeguri-senpai must have thought this through.

I went through the various events since the first event, which is the treasure hunt, is still a few minutes away.

If I remember correctly, Yumiko is in the tennis competition, so her section can already count on victory in that event, I doubt very much that she can lose.

Kawasaki is participating in her section's basketball team, so I doubt she will manage to lose. Of course, it also depends on the performance of her teammates. One of the bad points of team competitions is that if there are one or more members who are a drag, it will be difficult for one to win. Although considering the advantage Kawasaki will have over the others, I don't rule out the possibility of a win.

Yuigahama and Ebina are in some single events, so there's not much to say.

I pulled out a paperback novel I brought with me and started reading it until the start of my first event.

I should be with my section, but there's no point, plus I'm not one of those people who is close to his section. And if things go as planned, things won't be so easy between us after today.

I put my novel away when I heard over the loudspeakers that the scavenger hunt event would begin.

The event consists of finding what is written on a piece of paper, the first one to do it will be the winner, something simple. Of course, you will not always get what is asked for, in that case you should look for something similar.

Knowing my luck, I am sure that I will take the paper that asks for something like the philosopher's stone or a dragon.

But there is no point in being pessimistic either, so I headed towards the area of such an event.

Once I arrived, I noticed that the teacher in charge was Hiratsuka-sensei.

I guess that makes things easier.

I approached her before the competition started since it's not as if I have anything better to do either.

''Sensei, I thought you'd be doing something more your style.'' I said with a flashy tone to get her attention, and it worked, as she quickly looked in my direction.

''Don't mention it, I wanted to be the one in charge of the competitions that are inside the school, but I was chosen to be a judge for this kind of competition.'' She sighed as she finished saying this.

''To be the narrator of the competitions as if it were a shonen anime?''

''Exactly! I'm glad to know that you're someone who is cultured as well.'''

I highly doubt that knowing about anime can be interpreted as culture, but for Sensei to be able to chat with someone about her anime tastes must be entertaining, sometimes she goes to the service club to chat with me, since Yukinoshita finds anime of this kind boring, but when I changed the topic to Pan-san's anime, Yukinoshita became an expert on the subject.

''That's a pity, good luck for the next year.'' I said with a mocking tone.

Hiratsuka-sensei could only surrender to her fate, but quickly changed her expression. ''By the way, Tsurumi, will you only participate in this competition?''

''I will also participate in the rope competition.''

''That will be entertaining since there will be a small competition in that event. And luckily, I'm also going to be in charge of that event, so I expect a good performance from you.'' Said Sensei full of encouragement, at least I will help her to make her job not so boring.

''I'm counting on you.'' I said with my usual tone.

''Don't worry.'' She put on a smile though after a few seconds her expression changed to a thoughtful one. ''In case you were trying to gain my favoritism so that I would give you an easy victory here, let me tell you that you just wasted your time.''

''At least I tried.'' Hiratsuka-sensei as always is well-perceptive. ''I did get to talk to a beautiful girl though, so I guess it was worth the effort.''

After saying this, I turned towards the other participants, I could tell how I left Sensei a bit confused.

Once she calmed down, she explained the basic rules of the event, you could only bring things that were in the school, and it is forbidden to take things by force.

With the basic rules said, HIratsuka-sensei started the competition.

All the participants approached each other to take a random piece of paper.

Maybe if I want it to be something difficult, I will get something easy?

As I opened the paper, I knew this idea hadn't worked.

It's not that it's impossible to achieve, it's just that the idea is very abstract since it depends on everyone's interpretation.

I would have preferred it to be a more concrete idea, but I guess this will do as well since I'm sure Hiratsuka-sensei will validate it for me as long as it's something that matches the meaning of that word.

Now the question is where I can get that.

I could also notice how the other participants also went to look for their targets. So, it's not as if I had much time to think either.

Without a concrete idea, I decided to go with the first thing that came to mind when I thought of that word.

I quickly started looking in all possible directions as I moved around Sobu's courtyard.

Just when I thought I wouldn't manage to find this, I could see my target, apparently, I'm in luck.

''Yo, Yuigahama.'' After the cultural festival and after dinner at her house, we became closer, so I stopped adding the san to her surname.

Yuigahama was in her gymnastics uniform like the other girls, surely she must be on her way to Yumiko's competition since it started half an hour ago. Once I'm done with this, I'll also go to see her.

''Tsurumi-san, are you also on your way to see Yumiko?'' As usual, Yuigahama is lively. Besides, I was right. But it's not time for that.

''You could say that, but before that I have something to finish, and you're just the person I'm looking for.''

''Really!?'' She replied with a very animated tone. ''If I can be of any help to you, I'll gladly help you.''

''I'm glad to hear that, though I was thinking of taking you with me anyway, but that works too.''

''Huh?''

Before she could wonder what I meant by this, I took her by the hand and led her towards Hiratsuka-sensei.

To prevent others from overtaking me, I quickened my pace, which Yuigahama also had to run with me.

''Is it that far?'' Yuigahama's breathing was a little short.

I took a long distance to find her, so it's obvious that we're far away from Sensei.

''We are already close.''

Once we arrived, we approached Hiratsuka-sensei, and from what I see, I'm the first.

''Sensei, I already brought what I was asked for.'' I said with an animated tone.

Yuigahama is catching her breath, so I let her rest while handing the paper to Sensei.

Hiratsuka-sensei's expression changed as she read the content of the paper.

''Tsurumi, you really are...''

''As far as I know, I have fulfilled what is stipulated in that paper.'' I pointed towards Yuigahama as I said this, though it was towards a specific part.

''Yuigahama, do you agree to this?'' Sensei asked as she gave me a look of unfriendliness.

Yuigahama managed to recover after running halfway across the school.

''Tsurumi-san asked me for that favor, so I agreed.'' She replied with her cheerful tone as she managed to recover. I can rely on Yuigahama for things she doesn't understand.

''Remind me to punish you once the sports festival is over for this.'' Sensei only sighs at my great ability to interpret words, though I'm sure Yukinoshita wouldn't approve of my idea.

Yuigahama has a face of not understanding Sensei's words very well.

''Tsurumi, you are the winner of the treasure hunt event.'' Once Sensei proclaimed this, I noticed how the other competitors had already arrived, but it was already too late.

With my victory in this, I already fulfilled one of the 3 assigned events.

''I guess I'll see you later Hiratsuka-sensei.'' I said goodbye to her to head towards the place where Yumiko is competing. ''Yuigahama, shall we go?''

''Sure!''

With everything finished, we started to move.

''By the way, Tsurumi-san, what did it say on the paper you picked?'' This must have made her curious, more so because of Sensei's words.

''Bring a nice and quiet girl. And I guess from your appearance you don't give off much of that image.'' Yuigahama is someone who at a glance you can describe as lively and flashy.

''Hiratsuka-sensei was very cruel.'' She said this with an amused tone.

I don't think she likes to hear the real reason, as I myself was surprised when I opened that paper.

(Something big)

That word has many meanings, so the first thing that came to my mind was breasts, curse my hormones.

Maybe it's my genes, but I feel as if adolescence was stronger in me than it should be. And being around women doesn't make it any easier.

That was the answer I got when I thought of those words, so I chose to look for Yumiko, Kawasaki or Yuigahama. Since I get along well with Sensei, I knew she would understand.

Anyway, with all 3 I have a lot of confidence, although I doubt that Yumiko or Kawasaki will make it easy for me, but with Yuigahama it makes it easier.

And if you think of it that way, it would have been hilarious to look up Yukinoshita, her big ego might also fit the definition of the word. Since the other thing is too small. You can't blame me, I'm a big boob-loving man.

Those thoughts aside, we arrived at the tennis courts.

As we approached, I could see Yumiko playing against another girl.

Yumiko is wearing a blue-colored t-shirt with a white mini skirt, as well as thigh-high black stockings, that outfit suits her very well.

''Yumiko is winning!'' Yuigahama said with much excitement.

After Yuigahama's words, I fixed my eyes towards the scoreboard, and just as she said, Yumiko is winning, but it looks more like a massacre. She should at least let her rival get a point.

The event consists of 1 single round match where whoever reaches 6 sets won, moves on to the next round. And the current score is 5-0 in favor of Yumiko. 1 more set, and it's Yumiko's victory.

''Tsurumi-kun, Yui, over here.''

I fixed my gaze towards Ebina who had called out to us.

I greeted her as we approached her.

''You have just arrived to watch the last set of the semi-final.''

''If this is the semi-final, I don't want to imagine what the previous matches were like.''

Yumiko is easily dominating her opponent, and if she were one of the ones who made it to the semi-final, the previous matches must have just been a joke for Yumiko.

''That's right, Yumiko easily dominated her opponents.'' Ebina said as she continued to watch the match.

''Yumiko is great!''

Yuigahama is happy about Yumiko's landslide victory, For my part, it's the same, though I'd be lying if I said I didn't expect Yumiko's landslide victory.

The 3 of us continue to watch the match, the other students who are also watching must be Yumiko's classmates, and the others will just be third parties who stopped to watch. After all, it's not every day that you get to observe one of the most beautiful girls at Sobu High wearing a rather revealing outfit.

Yumiko was getting ready to start the last set, as apparently there are a few seconds of rest after the end of each set.

Yumiko's gaze was fixed on us, bringing a smile to her face. She got ready to start the last set.

With the first serve Yumiko got the first point, I guess seeing us made her want to get it over with quickly. I felt sorry for her opponent.

Already knowing how this would turn out, it would be better to go buy something. And since Yuigahama and Ebina were very focused, I easily moved away from them.

During this time, I already know Sobu like the back of my hand, of course, I don't know which club is exactly in which classroom, but the important places I have located.

Once in front of the vending machine, I bought a bottle of water for Yumiko and a Max coffee for me. And since I was thirsty, I drank it right there.

I'm sure I'll need those doses of sugar for the next event, and looking at the time, it's still about 20 minutes away, so I'm on time.

After tossing the can into a nearby trash can, I started heading towards the tennis court.

As I approached, I noticed that Yumiko's match had already ended, it was to be expected, I feel sorry for the girl who will face Yumiko in the final.

''Raiden, I found you.''

Yumiko clung to my left arm.

''Good job on the competition.'' With my free arm I extended the water bottle to her.

''Thank you.''

Yumiko opened the bottle and drank the content. And even if it was a relatively easy competition, it doesn't mean she didn't try hard, so it's normal to feel thirsty.

''What about the others?''

Yuigahama and Ebina should be with Yumiko, but I can't manage to see them anywhere.

''They went to see Kawasaki.'' If I remember our conversation by Line correctly, Kawasaki is also participating in small events.

But it was strange that they didn't go together, in fact, Yumiko must have accompanied them, but if I think about it another way, this makes sense.

''Would it have been their initiative or someone else's idea?'' I said with a mocking tone.

''Who knows.'' Yumiko put a finger to her cheek, making her look innocent.

Yumiko could have told them that she wanted to spend time alone with me, but I am not opposed to this idea.

As Yumiko finishes hydrating, I could feel several glances directed at me, the perpetrators, several boys watching me enviously.

Even if they want to be in my position, I would not recommend it as it looks easy, but it is much more complicated than it looks.

Anyone in my position would think about taking the next step with Yumiko, but there's more to it than just being driven by hormones.

''By the way, you still have time until the finals begin, shall we go somewhere else to be more relaxed?''

Saying this, Yumiko also noticed the gaze of the others, but it's not as if she cares about this.

''IF you say so.'' She took my left arm again, though this time she got stuck even closer. ''Lead the way, Raiden.'' She said with a flirtatious tone.

If they were looks of envy before, now they turned into looks of death.

But I can't oppose this either, more because I enjoy it.

So I directed a look of arrogance and mockery at the guys watching me, as if telling them to go to hell.

I remember passing by an area with benches that weren't occupied, so I started heading that way.

Once we arrived, we proceeded to sit down. Not that far away but not close either.

Yumiko started stretching, as if to lighten up her muscles.

''Good job there, though the other girl has never stood a chance from what I could see.''

''It must have looked like a landslide victory, right?''

I nodded my head.

It was an interesting match, but after the first set, I think she lost her motivation''.

When you realize that your effort is nothing against your opponent's skill, it's common to give up. Of course, you can also choose not to give up, but that depends on your attitude.

''Rumi told me that you were very good at tennis, so it must be true.'' Rumi told me about how they went together with the Miura family to a club where Yumiko showed great skill in tennis.

''I have just started practicing since last year.''

When you are born with talent, it's easy to make great progress in a short time, while when you don't have it, you just need to work twice or three times as hard to see improvements.

People who don't work hard have no right to envy talented people.

For some reason, those words came to my mind.

Of course, if you are stubborn like me, you will end up becoming good at something by forcing yourself to do it. That's why I don't look down on people who strive to achieve their goals, of course it differs in how you do it.

''That doesn't take away from what a great job you did.''

I brought my hand to her head and started stroking it.

''For some reason, it bothers me the way you say it.'' She doesn't like it when I treat her like my little sister.

But even though she said this, Yumiko had a smile with her.

''I don't see you pushing my hand away.'' I replied in a teasing manner.

''I'll let you do it since we couldn't spend much time together during the cultural festival.''

''Oh, is that so? Then there's no problem if I do this. right?''

After saying this, I pulled my head towards her lap.

Since Yumiko is wearing a short skirt that is part of her uniform, a part of me could feel the softness of her thighs. It feels so comfortable.

The normal thing would be to pull away, but Yumiko has just put on a smile while using her hands to stroke my hair.

''It's weird for you to act so childish.'' She only accepted this with a smile.

The way our relationship is, there's no problem doing this as long as it's just the two of us.

''Just like anyone else, there are times when I want to be pampered too.''

Receiving support and affection from another person is one of the most rewarding experiences there are. And this effect is even greater when one is having a bad day.

''When I first met you, I didn't think you could say something like that.'' She continued to play with my hair.

The feeling of her fingers in my hair is comforting, plus my head has never felt in a better place. I'm sure that, with a couple of words, I can make this situation commonplace, but because of how fond I am of Yumiko, I know that doing that will only cause her harm.

In less than two months it will be the date we met for the first time, so it is also the anniversary of her grandmother's death.

Time passed quickly since I met Yumiko, and from that moment on my monotonous days changed. But even so, I don't regret everything that has happened since then.

If the me of 10+ years ago could see me, I'm sure he would be in disbelief at all that has happened in less than 1 year.

But the amazing thing about this thing called life is how things can happen which you never planned for. Having this relationship with Yumiko is something that never crossed my mind since, originally, she should be madly in love with Hayama. But the reality is different.

Besides, this proved that a simple act like talking to her caused a lot of changes.

At first, being just a kid and realizing my situation, many things went through my head. I can't be blamed, as the excitement was much more than it should be. But as time went by, I was thinking it through clearly.

Aside from being arrogant about myself, the other aspects are just the opposite, hating myself is something that is engraved in my soul. Maybe if I had not had that call before I died, I would have done things differently in this world.

But the reality is one, and that resentment, hatred, fear and more emotions will always be with me. After all, no matter what I do or how much I regret it, I will never be able to apologize to her.

There is no one who knows you better than oneself, that's why I can say it, if I were in a relationship with a person I love, in the long run it would only bring problems, and now, the last thing I want is to affect the people I esteem, even if I have to lie to them or play with their emotions.

I wonder if I had been reborn in this world without regrets, how would things be?

But no matter how much I think about what I would have, things won't change, living in a fantasy where everyone is happy is just stupid, I know that, but as long as I can maintain that fantasy situation, I don't see the problem.

I'm seriously a shitty person, the kind of person I always hate, how ironic.

''I'm just not the type to show this.'' I said while enjoying her warm touch.

Yumiko used one of her fingers to press my cheek.

''Then should I interpret that as a part of you that you haven't shown to anyone else?''

''Who knows.'' I could only reply without giving an answer.

''You really are like a little kid, even though I know you're not.'' Yumiko said with a calm tone.

Like a little kid, eh, maybe that would be the best description of myself. A little kid who can't get over his own death.

''If that's the way you'll keep spoiling me, I guess I can be one.'' I replied in a monotone.

''That part of you is what I like most about you.'' I could see how Yumiko's face had a sincere smile on it. Seriously, I don't know who to thank for being able to be Yumiko's friend.

If things had gone according to history, I could have taken her away from Hayama myself. That guy doesn't deserve someone like Yumiko, although I'm not that different.

''I feel the same way, that's what I like most about myself.'' I said with a playful tone since the conversation would take another turn if I didn't do something.

''That sounded very narcissistic to you.'' She increased the force on her finger.

''I'm not perfect.'' I turned my head in her direction, our gazes meeting. Those jade-colored eyes are mesmerizing.

''I know.''

Yumiko started to slowly bring her face closer.

I did nothing at her approach. A part of me wants to be something more with Yumiko although everything else is against it. Right now I just want to enjoy the now. I might regret it later, but I'll leave that to the Raiden of that moment.

''Yumiko, we were looking for you.''

At Ebina's sudden voice, Yumiko pushed me away from her lap.

The floor definitely doesn't feel comfortable.

Being caught during the attempt of a kiss, she pushed me away due to nervousness.

I can't blame her, of course I would have preferred not to kiss the ground, but not everything can be achieved in this life.

''Girls, what are you doing here?!''

I'm sure that, if she says it so nervously, it will only make the situation worse.

''Did we interrupt something, Yumiko?'' Said Ebina in an innocent tone, and although I can't see her, I'm sure she has a smirk on her face.

''Tsurumi-san, what are you doing on the floor?''

Out of the corner of my eye, I could see Yuigahama squat down beside me.

''I'm seeing if the floor is dirt, and after checking it closely, I can say that it is.'' I said with a sarcastic tone.

''Raiden, excuse me.''

At least Yumiko cares about me after indiscriminately throwing me to the ground.

I raised my hand. ''I'm fine.''

I turned around and jumped up.

''Tsurumi-kun is so agile, that gives me a lot of ideas.'' Ebina put on a strange expression that I've grown accustomed too.

''Leave that for later.'' I've already given up on this. ''Then why are you in a hurry?''

''That's right, Yumiko, the finals are about to start, we should hurry up.'' Yuigahama said excitedly.

''That's right, I completely forgot about that.''

''Well, if they're flirting...''

''Let's go quickly, I don't want to get disqualified!'' Yumiko interrupted Ebina before she finished speaking. Of course, her act would be more believable if she didn't say it nervously and at twice her normal speed.

''I'm running late too, so I guess I'll see you later.''

After our little goodbye, I watched the 3 of them leave for the tennis courts.

I should go to my event area, but first I decided to go to the spouts to wash my face, which was smeared with dirt.

Once at the wash basins, I made sure to scrub my face well.

Seriously, for a moment I got carried away, I almost made a mistake. Since that kiss from Kawasaki, my mind has only thought of one thing, I hate being a teenager again.

''I thought you said you wouldn't participate in the sports festival, but I guess it was a lie, so Tsurumi-kun, what more lies have you told the world?''

My thoughts were interrupted by that girl I have to endure 5 days a week.

Looking in her direction, I noticed Yukinoshita holding a racket. She is dressed in a pink t-shirt besides wearing a short white skirt, black stockings are something usual for her, but with her current outfit it gives her a plus in her appearance. And above all, that ponytail looks great on her. She doesn't have big breasts, but her slender figure makes her pleasing to the eyes.

''Was your need for me to engrave that image in my mind so great that you came to me yourself?'' I said with a mocking tone.

''If that's the first thing you manage to think of, I'm worried about your grades.'' She replied without hesitation.

''And here I thought that at least on Saturday I wouldn't have to put up with you.'' I said as I finished washing.

''That's your answer? I guess in the end your ideals don't carry any weight.''

''I'm someone free, changing decisions is common.'' I said I wouldn't participate to show anyone anything, but this time I'm participating for my interests, rather, for what I would get at the end of the day.

''That can also be understood as you have no will.'' She said with a mocking face.

''Maybe.''

I'd like to stay and chat with Yukinoshita more, but I'm also running late for my event.

''Then Yukinoshita, if that's all, I have things to do, so I'll see you. And, by the way, break a leg.'' I said with my usual tone.

''I don't need your attempts at well wishes.'' She said arrogantly, seriously, her ego is gigantic, I wish another part of her was that big.

''No, they're not, seriously go and break a leg, so I'll have the club to myself for a while.''

She brought a hand to her hundred.

''I must have thought that gesture was too much for someone like you, it was my mistake.''

''We humans don't change overnight, so keep trying.'' After saying that, I started heading towards my event. ''See you later.'' I raised my hand.

Maybe it's because there are so many things on my mind, but I feel like I'm ignoring something.

''You're the worst.''

The delegate said this before leaving in annoyance to the other events.

You can't blame me, can you?

If you're wondering what happened, it's very simple, I'm currently in the first round of the rope's competition, which consists of two students using their strength to drag each other over the line.

And as I noticed, the delegate came to observe my performance, by the way, I was on the edge, about to lose. And to get more into character, I said phrases such as: I'm losing, or my opponent is too strong.

She gave me a hateful look before leaving, it's funny in its own way.

And another funny thing is to watch how the guy I'm competing with is pulling the rope with all his might, but he can't move me, even though I'm at the edge of the line.

''Oi, Tsurumi, will you just stand there?''

The events are timed so that there is enough time and teachers to supervise them all, that's why my fooling around is annoying to Hiratsuka-sensei.

''I'm taking it easy.''

''Make up your mind whether you're going to lose or not.''

''You know patience is a virtue, I can see why you're still single.'' I said with a mocking tone.

''Say that again ¡I dare you!''

Sensei started thundering her fingers.

During our conversation, that guy looked at us in disbelief, I guess it's rare to see someone conversing so relaxedly in this situation.

And it's not because I'm exerting too much force, it's because the other side is not pulling hard enough. It may sound very presumptuous, but if another guy of my height and build were in my situation, the result would be the same.

I don't know who your delegate is, but selecting a somewhat small and thin guy for this competition doesn't seem like the best idea.

With no more time to waste, I slowly backed away, dragging the boy in my direction.

''It's about time, Tsurumi wins.'' Said Sensei somewhat relieved. Not because I won, but because it's the last competition left for the next round.

With this, I passed to the next round, which was easy, this time I dragged my opponent quickly, so as not to make it so long.

In this way I made it to the final.

My opponent was an orange-haired guy, he looked familiar, but I don't remember from where.

''Let's give it our best, but I will win.'' Those were the words this guy said, it's weird.

''Okay.''

If you want us to give our best, I guess I'll do you that favor.

Sensei started the final.

As soon as it started, I pulled the rope with all my strength, not in a way to gain an advantage, but with a strong pull, and that way that boy was surprised with no way to oppose, so his body flew out, passing the line.

At least I wasn't the only one who hit the ground.

''Tsurumi wins.'' Sensei said.

I did a few small stretches as I watched that guy getting up.

''Man, you're really strong, I even feel as if I just made a fool of myself.''

I have no interest in conversing with him, so I just ignored him.

''Tsurumi, come, there's a prize.''

I didn't know that in this competition there was a prize, but I don't have anything against this either, so I approached Hiratsuka-sensei while the other participants and observers were leaving the place.

Sensei looked to the side once I was in front of her.

''They've all left already, haven't they?

''I guess...'' I couldn't finish speaking.

I understood why Hiratsuka-sensei doesn't have a boyfriend. In fact, I highly doubt that a man's ego would support having a girlfriend much stronger than one.

She withdrew her fist from my stomach while wearing a smirk.

''The next time you make fun of me, I'll apply my dragon fist.'' She said proudly.

''Don't name your punches after hitting your student.'' I said with some pain.

''You're not fooling me, I felt you stiffen the stomago, so you could react to my blow.'' She sighed, as if she would have preferred to connect a hook that would have left me on the ground.

She's right, before her punch connected against my stomach, I stiffened that part to cushion her fist. Of course. it would have been better to block it with my hand, but she was quick.

If it had been someone else, she would have incapacitated me.

"In fact, don't you have much strength?

''Did you notice? I've been training against a sandbag.''

Don't say that with pride, that will only make getting a husband more difficult.

''Sensei, I'll be honest, not knowing how to cook detracts a lot of points, and now that you can cripple a man with one punch, don't you think it only reduces your chances of finding a husband?''

''No way, ...''

As she said this, Hiratsuka-sensei paused, as if she had thought about it more deeply.

Her face had an interesting change, first it was one full of pride, then a thoughtful one, and at the end it became a dejected one.

There are things that hurt much more than a punch.

''Don't worry, Sensei, I'm sure many girls will like it.''

I put my hand on her shoulder. She looked a bit confused by my words.

''I won't judge you if you choose the other path, so you won't be alone.''

I gave a thumbs up as I put a sincere smile on my face.

This time I caught her fist.

''Looks like you want to try my dragon fist.'' She said with determination, I even felt some flames appearing in her eyes.

At least her expression returned to the same, though now I'm worried about my integrity.

One of the main events is the freshman relay race, an event I'm running late for.

The reason was that I invited Sensei to lunch to lighten her mood.

And since I was hungry, I went out with her to a nearby ramen stand to eat. Of course, I had to pay. I'm glad I brought my wallet.

Hiratsuka-sensei objected to me paying for everything, but after telling her that I have a part-time job, she accepted it.

It was quite fun to hang out with her. Mostly because Hiratsuka-sensei should be my senior by about 2 or 3 years. So, this experience is the closest I'll get for now to dating someone my age.

Putting those thoughts aside, I hurried to the track.

As I arrived, I noticed several of my classmates along with the class delegate, and from their faces, it seemed as if the other events were a disaster.

''Tsurumi, where were you? The competition is about to begin.''

''It was you who registration me in this event, be thankful that I showed up.''

''You're really annoying.''

After our little exchange of words, we met up with the other participants that in a few minutes we would begin.

It's time to put things in place.

''By the way, Nakamura, how did the other events turn out?''

''We lost in all the events except for the ones I participated in.''

She didn't look at me as she said this.

''So, we're last on the scorecard, huh.''

As expected, there was a table with the score of each section. And this being the last major event, it gives the most points.

''That's why we have to win in order not to be at the bottom.''

''Is that so? In fact, I agreed to compete in this event, but I never said I would try hard.'' I said mockingly.

''You're such an idiot.''

I couldn't help but laugh at her insult.

''Then let's do something, if you come first, I'll take it upon myself to get the first place, but if not, I guess coming last wouldn't be so bad.''

Since it's a relay race, the women will compete in the first half, the men will take care of the rest.

So, no matter how fast you can be, if the other party is slow, the result is obvious.

"I accept! You'll regret it for underestimating me.'' Nakamura said with determination.

You're wrong, Nakamura, in fact, I never underestimated you since I'm counting on you.

With our little deal done, she headed to her position while I did the same.

''Tsurumi-kun, I didn't think I'd see you at this event.''

It was to be expected that each section would select its best students for this event, so Hayama's participation was somewhat expected.

''I was forced, so I had no choice.'' I said with a tone of disinterest.

I could tell how somewhat reluctant the other guys faces were. Knowing that you will be competing with someone as Hayama can lower your spirits.

I don't care. Since I'm only aiming for one result, and I'm sure Nakamura won't let me down.

''The freshmen competition is about to begin.''

This event has a commentator because of its importance. The members of the communication club fulfill this role.

Once we all got ready, the teacher in charge started the relay race.

All the girls picked up speed instantly, but among them, Nakamura was the one who started to gain an advantage.

It was to be expected, as Yukinoshita said, she is agile and athletic, I know that.

Nakamura created a big advantage over the others, I could even see a smile on her face as she approached me.

''Unbelievable, a few seconds into the race we already see someone taking the lead, and, as I am informed, it's Nakamura from class E, a member of the volleyball club, one of the new promises.''

Just as I told her, I would take it upon myself to win as long as she came first, so it would create an obligation on her part.

Maybe this may not have any relevance, but for someone like Nakamura it does.

She doesn't want to lose, that's why she's putting effort into this.

If I had not told her the above, she would have been confident that with my help we would win without difficulty, but by conditioning her for victory, it made her create a need to achieve it.

Her goal is to arrive first to ensure our victory.

''But what happened, having a big lead, Nakamura stumbled.''

And just as I expected her to do. She tripped and fell face first into the ground.

Having something close but failing to do so was something that happened to Nakamura. But why would someone like her make such a common mistake?

It's simple, being conditioned as the person with whom victory will be obtained can make completing a common task impossible. In this case, failing at something easy.

During the volleyball final, Nakamura just had to receive the ball and her senpais would take care of winning the match, all of which created a great burden on her, what would happen if she failed? Those thoughts must have flooded her mind, being the one responsible for the victory only made her nervousness take over her mind.

And in this case, I made sure to create the same situation.

First, her defeat against me in this very place, I proved that I could beat her easily.

Second, by telling her that I was going to participate in the sports festival, it only made her feel more relaxed.

But seeing me during the previous competition only made her feel like an idiot for trusting me.

And finally, the need to come first for me to win this competition.

Something as simple as giving her a condition for me to cooperate just made her feel like the key to everything. If she gets there first, it can be interpreted as her victory since I proved that I could do it with utmost ease.

So, I trusted her, I trusted her to fail at this. And I was not disappointed.

Quickly the other girls overtook them while she was still on the ground.

Now Nakamura, what will you do?

Depending on how you act, I'll decide what to do, so don't disappoint me.

Slowly Nakamura stood up and started to trot towards me.

''It's a pity, although Nakamura managed to stand up to continue the race, it seems she has an ankle injury.''

Nakamura is walking towards me, but because of her injury, it must be painful to do so, but she still didn't give up.

But it's already late, the other men in the competition departed, leaving me last.

At this moment I no longer need to keep my promise, she only had to do one thing but still failed.

''As expected, Hayama from Class C and a member of the soccer club takes the lead.''

After a few seconds Nakamura managed to reach me.

She extended the bar towards me.

''Do whatever you want.'' Her self-deprecating tone was easy to understand.

''I will.'' I said with an arrogant tone.

Now that Nakamura did her part, it was my turn.

I turned around and started running.

There are times where things don't matter to me, just as there are times where I take things seriously, and this is one of those.

''What is this, Nakamura's partner who started last started to catch up with the others, how is that possible?''

I quickly caught up and over passed the other participants.

Although a certain blonde was still ahead of me.

''It's amazing, according to the list of participants, Tsurumi from class E is about to catch up with Hayama. Could it be a comeback on his part?''

I could hear the spectators shouting, I even noticed my classmates supporting me.

There were only a few meters to go, so I gave it my all to run even faster.

''It's going to be a heart-stopping finish, Tsurumi is just a few meters away from catching up with Hayama, either of them can win!''

Once I caught up with Hayama, our gazes met for a brief moment.

The finish line is less than 10 meters away from us. At this point, neither of us gave way.

There was silence as we both crossed the finish line.

''The winner of the first-year relay race is, is. Class C's Hayama! After an impressive run by both of them, Hayama takes the victory!''

After the winner was announced, Hayama's classmates came up to him, as well as other students to congratulate him on his victory.

How long has it been since I ran like that? Since, even in the race against Nakamura, I didn't try that hard.

My classmates also approached me although I couldn't see Nakamura among them.

-''Tsurumi, you were amazing.''

-''You almost beat Hayama, that's something.''

-''You managed to come back from what seemed lost, it was really great.''

Several of my classmates said this although from the way they all spoke at once, it was the only thing I could understand.

-''But seriously, so much that Nakamura was bragging, in the end, if she hadn't stumbled, we would have won.''

-''It's true, so much arrogance to fail like this, she really deserved it.''

This result was to be expected, a result that would only be achieved if she lost the race.

For no matter what happened during the race, if I had won, only the victory would matter.

But to achieve this effect, it had to look as if the victory was in my hands, but I could not get it, and in this case, it is Nakamura's fault since, apparently, I would have won if everything had gone smoothly.

Things will now be very different in class, our classmates will not hesitate to rub her nose in her failure for the rest of the year, more because of the authoritarian way she is.

Sure, this should happen, but it will not.

At the time when I saw it, I thought that sacrificing yourself for a stranger was stupid, and indeed it is, but in this case what I'm going to do has another meaning.

''Excuse me.'' I spoke kindly towards one of the girls who insulted Nakamura. ''Would you shut the fuck up?'' I said with my usual face with a big smile.

Saying this, all my classmates fell silent focusing on me.

I am amazed at my ability to become the center of attention.

The result I seek is to become the bad guy in the movie. Since there is only someone I care about, and she is not here.

''How can you blame Nakamura when you guys couldn't even win a competition?''

My words were like a bucket of cold water to all of them.

-''That ...''

''What pathetic excuse will you tell me?'' I said arrogantly. ''As far as I know, Nakamura and I were the only ones who managed to win in our respective events, while you useless bunch of useless people didn't achieve anything.''

My words made everyone put on an annoyed and angry expression.

''As far as I can see, she was right, it was enough for the two of us to participate to make our section win, but unfortunately, we had to bear the burden of useless people who did not achieve anything, so whose fault is it? That girl who tried hard to win in everything but had a small mistake, or her useless teammates who are useless?''

My tone of voice was mocking throughout to let them know that they were nothing but a liability.

-''By what right do you say that if you didn't manage to win here?''

-''Even if Nakamura had come first, how would we know that you still wouldn't lose to Hayama?''

Quickly all my teammates objected against me.

Humans are simple in this area; they always look to put the blame on someone. In this case, it was Nakamura who was to blame, she must know this, that's why she's not here. So my job was to redirect that hatred and mockery towards me since in the end it's not as if I care about this.

What happens to this bunch of jerks who couldn't care less about me.

''Is that so? I hope you remember. In the end, all of you were just a bunch of useless people since, even if Nakamura had come first, we would end up losing, and that wouldn't change the result, we lost because of you, so why don't you go cry like a bunch of children who can't do something as easy as winning a fucking event?''

With my words said, I started walking towards a certain direction.

I could hear several insults towards me, plus how they mentioned that Nakamura also had to put up with a jerk like me. In the end, everything turned out the way I wanted it to.

I continued on my way to a certain part of Sobu High.

The good thing about knowing the school is that I know the directions to important places, in this case, the direction from the athletic field to the infirmary.

She injured her ankle, so it's obvious where she would go, plus, she's sure to blame herself for my defeat.

Already as I predicted, I found Nakamura using the wall to help her stand up while walking slowly.

From now on, things will flow in my direction.

I walked towards her, standing in front of her.

''Apparently, you're the type who doesn't like to ask for help.''

''What are you doing here?'' She is a little upset.

''If I told you that I got lost in the ways of life, would you believe me?'' I said with an innocent tone.

''¡As if that's possible!''

I just laughed at her little outburst, but there's no time for this.

I turned around and knelt down, turning my back to her.

''Get in, I'll take you to the infirmary, it must be a pain to walk around like that.''

''Since when do you care about me?''

Her being reluctant with me is normal. In fact, it would be strange if she didn't.

''Go upstairs at once, don't make it so that arguing with the others was in vain.''

''What do you...''

''Unless you want me to carry you like a princess, if that's the case, it would make things easier for me.''

I decided to interrupt her since I managed to catch her interest.

''I'll go upstairs.'' She only sighed at this.

She slowly climbed on my back, though before that I could feel two large things pressing against me.

I lifted her up and started walking with her on my back.

''Why do I feel as if you're making a strange face?''

''It's just that, since you're heavy, I have to make a double effort or rather, a triple effort.'' I said this in a mocking tone.

''You don't say that to a woman!''

She used her fists to press them against my head.

''I understand, I understand, stop doing that.'' I groaned from the pain.

With our little act over, I continued walking towards the infirmary.

Maybe before it would have been difficult for both of us to interact in this way, but in just a few minutes, things had a little change. By this I mean the guilt she feels towards me.

The basis for everything was the feeling of guilt for failing.

Something that is easy to exploit when you are aware of it.

Once in front of the infirmary, I opened the door, and, as I expected, the nurse was not there.

Upon entering, I closed the door but not before locking it.

I took Nakamura to one of the beds where I laid her down, and then went to one of the nearby shelves to look for some bandages, as well as cream for the swelling.

''Thank you for bringing me all the way to the infirmary.'' At least she can say thank you.

''It's nothing.''

Once I found everything I needed, I approached her.

''Wait, I can do it, or I'll wait for the nurse to come back.'' She moved her leg as soon as I tried to grab it to heal it.

''It could get worse if it's not treated quickly, plus you made the situation worse yourself by overexerting yourself.'' She should have asked for help to accompany her to the infirmary, but the situation was not the best.

''I know, but it doesn't hurt so much anymore, so...'' With one of my hands, I grabbed her ankle. "That hurts!''

''There's your answer, so let yourself be treated.'' I couldn't help but scoff at this.

She just nodded reluctantly.

I took a seat and positioned myself near the bed, she stretched out her injured leg and placed it over my knee.

When I pulled up the bottom of her gym clothes, I noticed her ankle swelling.

I used the cream to rub that part, and once I covered her ankle, I used the bandages to wrap her ankle. Also, use some band-aids to put on her face as she had several scrapes from the fall.

''That should be enough, just don't overexert yourself, you should rest for at least an hour before walking again.''

I put the materials on the table on the side.

''Thank you for treating me.''

''Don't thank me, after seeing how you didn't give up, I guess it's the least I can do, plus I wanted to apologize for everything.'' Bullshit. ''Since I was always good at doing things, I never considered putting in the effort.'' As if that was true. ''That's why seeing how even though you failed, you decided not to give up surprised me.'' I had doubts about this, but I'm glad you did.

''I didn't think you could apologize.'' She said with a mocking tone.

''You know, there's a first for everything.'' I put on a smile as I said this.

Silence reigned for a brief moment.

''You were amazing in the finals, even though you started at a big disadvantage, you were able to catch up to Hayama.'' Her expression changed for a moment but she was back to her usual self ''If I hadn't stumbled, you would have won.'' Even now, the self-deprecation is still present.

''But thanks to that I got to see a side I didn't know about you, and if we compare that to winning, I think it's better.''

''What are you saying, are you an idiot or something?''

''Who knows.'' I replied with my usual tone.

There was no more to say, after all, things are already as I want them to be.

''You're weird, by the way, what did you mean you argued with the others?''

I told her everything that happened while she was gone. Of course, I changed some parts, but in the end the result was the same, our classmates who mocked and insulted her directed that frustration towards me.

''Why would you do something like that?'' I noticed some annoyance in her voice.

''I don't like it when they make fun of and look down on someone who tried their best to the end. Therefore, it was the only thing I could do.''

All for my own benefit.

''But that will make others direct their hatred towards you, we should clarify be...''

''It was hard, wasn't it?'' I said while looking at the ceiling.

Nakamura just remained silent at my words.

''I only know a part of the story, but I don't think they all felt the same after losing in the finals, am I wrong?''

Unlike this competition where our victory didn't matter at all, during the volleyball match, both teams were playing for the championship, so I doubt Nakamura's teammates would take it easy.

If there's one thing we're both alike in, it's that we won't open up to each other.

''If you're going to mock...''

''I'm not.'' I stared at her.

I could tell her eyes were getting shiny. I'm sure remembering those feelings and emotions after losing because of her isn't pleasant.

''You're right, you only know part of the story. After the loss we went to change, I wanted to cry, I wanted to apologize to the others, but my third-year senpai said it wasn't my fault, she comforted me, I never met someone so strong, or so I thought.''

Nakamura looked up at the ceiling.

''You know, ever since senpai became the captain of the volleyball team, she has always wanted to win the championship. Last year they made it to the quarter finals.'' I could see her clench her fists. ''The only thing she longed for was to win as the last memory.''

Nakamura started to cry.

''I didn't know this, I only found out when I went back to the locker room because I forgot something. At that moment I saw Senpai crying, her friends tried to comfort her, but they couldn't. How do you think I felt I snatched her dream away from her because of my mistake? I just had to do something, something I had practiced many times, but I failed miserably.''

Nakamura looked down.

''I tried so hard, and even though she was the one who recruited me and opened the doors of her club for me, I couldn't do something as simple as responding and giving them the victory. Even though I was the one who took away their dreams, she said it wasn't my fault.'' Her face showed slight determination.

''From that moment I made up my mind never to fail like that again, but today I proved it, I'm good for nothing.''

Tears were slowly falling from her face.

''Tell me something, do you know what it's like to lose everything because of a simple mistake?'' Her tone lacked any emotion whatsoever.

I stood up and pulled her head to my chest, using my right arm to hold her close to me.

''As hard as it is to believe, I am someone who knows how it feels, but in my case, what I lost can never be regained, no matter how much I regret it or want it, I can never have it back.''

Nakamura didn't put up any resistance because of the way we were both.

''Tell me, how did you get over that, how can you go on with your day-to-day life after losing everything?'' Her tone didn't change.

''I don't, there isn't a day that goes by that I don't regret it, I would even give my life to be able to get back what I lost.''

At this moment it's not my current self-talking, but the part I always keep inside me.

There is no one I can talk to about this, that's why I can understand it, but, still, dealing with these emotions is what keeps me going.

''That's why I make sure I do things the way I want. And you should do the same, this time you lost and took the opportunity away from the president of your club. There is nothing you can do to change this, but next year you can dedicate your victory to her.''

''I already failed twice; nothing assures me that I won't do it again.'' Her tone was low.

''Life is a mysterious thing, we don't know what the future holds, so the only thing we can do is to face this, but today you proved something, even after failing you didn't give up, you could have stayed on the ground until the end of the event, but you got up to continue, even if there is nothing left to win.'' I started stroking her head. ''If you use that same strength to do everything you set your mind to, I'm sure you can achieve anything you want.''

Human beings continue to evolve with time, in ancient times there were people who were called crazy, but now they are known as great geniuses and contributors to humanity.

''Thank you.'' She fell silent after saying this.

In the end, everything turned out as I planned. People are more vulnerable when they have someone to listen to them and comfort them. And for Nakamura, she couldn't have picked a worse person to say this to

Once Nakamura calmed down, I returned to my seat while she sat on the bed.

''I didn't think you could be someone nice.''

The atmosphere between the two of us changed drastically.

''There are things you don't know about me, so I don't blame you.'' I said with an arrogant tone.

''What does that mean?''

''Who knows?

She started laughing.

''By the way, you put in a lot of effort during the finals, didn't you?''

''Did I give that impression?'' I responded with a calm tone of voice

''Aren't you frustrated that you lost to Hayama?''

''Indeed, I do, but there's nothing I can do about it, plus it's not as if there's a reward involved either.''

Guilt and retribution, the two go hand in hand.

''I should at least give you a reward for your effort. Besides, you were very kind to me, you even made the others direct their frustration against you.''

''I never do things expecting a reward.'' Only sometimes. ''But if I could choose something, I guess the first thing would be to be pampered, it would be interesting.''

''Pampered?'' She was somewhat surprised.

I got up from my seat and sat next to her, then lay down and put my head in her lap.

''Something like this?'' I said while smiling at her.

''You're weird for asking that.'' Although the normal thing would have been for her to push me off her lap, she didn't.

Nakamura started stroking my head.

In her eyes, I'm a person she started off getting along with badly, but I proved that there is more to me than she managed to see at first.

In addition, I made her feel comfortable and protected, to the point that I got her to tell me something as important as her current situation.

So any feelings and emotions of rejection towards me are no longer there.

''If this is what you ask for us a reward, I guess, it's okay.'' She nodded without stopping caressing me.

''For starters it would be fine.'' I replied while enjoying the sensation.

Maybe now the situation is already the best, but something is still missing, and that's the reason why I did all this.

My own toy to de-stress myself.

I am someone who cares for and cherishes his friends, but at the same time, I am someone who is totally disinterested towards people outside of me.

One of the thoughts I haven't changed since I was a kid was to have a relationship with a girl just to hang out. After all, doing this with someone I cherish will only destroy our relationship.

Maybe it may seem a little silly, why don't I just forget about it or get over it?

Saying it is easier than doing it. Those things that are ingrained inside me are something I can't change.

Things that, even if I want to, I can't get back, no matter how hard I try or try, I will never get it back.

How could you live if you had so much self-hatred?

Ending my life crossed my mind more than once.

The hardest time for me was until I was 3 years old. As a baby, how could I deal with this?

In the end, the scariest time was being alone with my own thoughts.

But thanks to that, being unable to communicate and not being able to do anything, I managed to adapt to it.

I decided to keep all those emotions deep inside me, a place where they wouldn't tear me apart, but at the same time generate the self-loathing I have to become close to someone.

And because of my trauma of losing my mother, it only made me overprotective of my family.

No matter what happens, your family will always be there for you. A saying that doesn't always hold true, but if you're that lucky, you'll never feel alone.

But regarding relating to others, I didn't want to do it, I never considered it or gave it relevance.

Even now I do it, but, apparently, destiny itself refused to do so. Forcing me to relate to people who after time passed became important to me.

Maybe this should have helped me overcome all that hate I have, but it was the opposite.

It only made me afraid of losing it, of losing those people I started to consider important to me.

Even if I thought about being closer, getting into a relationship with someone is not an option. Part of me knows that, knows that in the end I will cause our relationship to fall apart, earning the hatred and repudiation of the person I once loved.

That's what I thought back then, but having so many girls around doesn't make it easy for me, as a teenager, how do they expect me to have enough self-control?

So, I came to a conclusion, to find someone I could relate to in that way, just to satisfy my desires.

And in Nakamura I found that person.

It's time to put the final piece together.

I got up from her lap and started to stretch.

''Being pampered by a pretty girl is the best.'' I said with a cheerful tone.

''I'm glad, although you calling me cute is kind of embarrassing.'' She looked away.

Nakamura is very cute, plus she has an excellent figure, but her temperament as well as her attitude makes her hard to deal with, the other guys know that, and that's why they avoid her.

She only focuses on her club and her responsibilities as a delegate, but inside she is a girl like any other.

For some reason, I am reminded of a certain teacher.

''It's the truth, I have no reason to lie.''

''You really are weird. That'll be all you'll ask for, since you said it was the first thing?''

''I'm glad you reminded me.'' I said with a certain mischievous smile.

''You did a lot for me today; I feel like it'll be hard to repay you for all of it.'' She said while scratching her head.

Sometimes all we need is someone who will listen to us and give us advice, someone who will put himself in our place, who feels the same way we do.

Once we find that special person, the debt we owe this person will seem like it cannot be repaid.

And this feeling is even greater when it happens after having a bad day.

''So, if I get the chance.'' I quickly approached to get inches away from her face. ''Maybe a kiss from a pretty girl.'' I said with a teasing tone.

She froze at my words.

''Don't joke about it...''

''Is that so?'' I interrupted her.

Our faces are too close, and although she had the opportunity to turn away, she did not.

I closed the null distance between us, our lips made contact for a brief moment, she didn't push me away or pull back.

Once I did, I slowly pulled away.

If I rushed it, there would be no point, so I started with something normal.

She blinked a few times as if she didn't believe what happened.

''I guess I'm already satisfied with it.'' I said in my usual tone of voice.

She woke up from her trance, picked up a nearby pillow and started hitting me with it.

''That was my first kiss, who told you that you could have it!''

Even though she says this, her face is red in color, plus she has a smile on her face.

Emotions influence a lot in certain moments, I took advantage of it.

I stopped one of her blows by holding her wrist and pounced on her.

As I did this, I positioned myself on top of her.

Her face turned redder because of the position we were in.

''From what I see, you could have pushed me away on several occasions, but you didn't, even at this moment you can do it.'' I said in an arrogant manner.

Nakamura has a free arm, but did nothing to prevent this,

''I just couldn't react in time.''

She avoided looking me in the eyes as she said this.

''Is that so?''

I closed my face to hers again, but now I released my grip on her arm.

''I intend to do it again, then you are free to pull me away from you.''

She moved both arms, but they went around my neck.

''You're an idiot, did they tell you that?'' Nakamura said as she stared at me, in her eyes I could notice several emotions, but rejection was not one of them.

''More times than you think.''

I closed the short distance between us, this time the kiss was deeper and longer, she showed no sign of resistance.

After a long moment, we separated but quickly resumed our kiss, now I was not the only one doing it, she moved her lips to match my movements.

Even a girl who has never had experience in this can get carried away by her instincts and emotions.

Likewise, I am not a master at it, I am just letting myself go.

This time we separated due to the lack of oxygen, apparently, we got too excited.

For Nakamura, feeling loved and desired by someone must be new, especially when Sobu's guys are reluctant to deal with her. They really are jerks, but I have to thank them, it made things so much easier for me.

It would be boring if we just did this.

I approached her and put my face on her neck, I started kissing her like that.

''Hhmmm~''

And from what I hear, she's enjoying it.

I kissed her slowly, enjoying every second.

My right hand moved nimbly and went inside her t-shirt. Her skin is so soft.

''Wait, if we continue this...''

I used my hand that was inside her t-shirt to lightly caress her belly. With this, I managed to interrupt her. The pleasant sensation she must have felt made her disconcerted.

Being in full control of the situation, I was not going to stop.

''I can't help it, you are so beautiful you just make me not want to stop.''

I stood in front of her to tell her this.

Now her face was in chaos, many emotions in between overwhelmed her being.

But I am aware that if I continue with this, the other party will assume things that are not, and this could get me into trouble. This is exactly why I made my salon hate me.

''The way things are in the classroom, it would be bad for you if you were seen interacting with me in school, the last thing I want is for you to be harmed because of me, and knowing that things will be difficult, I at least want to enjoy this for now.'' I said it full of confidence.

She looked at me full of intrigue, as if wondering how far I would go in worrying about her.

''If you put it that way, and...''

I took her lips again before she finished speaking.

This time we both kissed with desire. Likewise, my hand slid leisurely down her chest. The sensation was pleasurable.

And just as I was thinking of going further, I heard the door to the infirmary being forced open.

I was glad I had locked it, and without further ado, I separated from Nakamura.

A few seconds later the nurse came in.

''I didn't expect to see students in here.'' The nurse stared at us.

''She hurt her ankle, so I brought her in for treatment from you, and since we couldn't find her, I went about treating the swollen ankle.'' I said in a calm manner.

During the time it took for the nurse to arrive, Nakamura fixed her hair, as well as her t-shirt, which was half uncovered because of me.

There is no rule against having a partner in Sobu, but it is forbidden to do indecent things in the facility.

The nurse came over and checked Nakamura's ankle, she was still nervous and a little red in the face. But thanks to the band-aids on it, it's not so easy to notice with the naked eye.

''I see you did an excellent job. But you should rest anyway.''

Nakamura nodded her head. I doubt very much that her mind because of everything that happened would allow her to speak normally.

''Then I will leave her in your care.'' After saying this, I shared a glance with Nakamura.

I said goodbye to both of them and left the infirmary.

In the end, things couldn't have turned out any better. It was the best possible outcome.

It is not good to quickly trust strangers, as this may be the worst decision you will ever make.

With nothing to do at school, I started to head home.

Now I regret not asking Nakamura for her number, but there's no point in rushing, in the end I have plenty of time to enjoy her.

Am I a bad person for doing this?

Maybe.

Was it necessary to do all this to achieve this result?

Who knows.

Am I a shitty person for using someone who has done nothing to me to satisfy my desires?

I am.

With these thoughts, I continued on my way home.

The end of chapter 2. No matter what I have to do, I won't let it happen again.