My New Life is not what i expected

by Kevinhs11

After a tragic accident, our protagonist wakes up in a new world, only to realize that it is now part of his favorite novel, so he decides to take the role of an extra character, unfortunately for him, things never go as planned. Beta reader wanted.

52. Tiny actions yield huge changes

Some might say that wanting to have a monotonous life is dull. Well, they're partly right, but at the same time, it's quite comfortable. That's my opinion based on the years I've spent in this place.

What's better, the expected or the unexpected? A question I never considered until this moment.

I'm one of those who like to have things under their control, not in the complete sense of the word, but at least knowing what will happen or how things will unfold.

I've tried to handle what happens in this way, and I managed to do so to some extent.

I achieved most of the goals I set for myself when I was a young and tender child.

But as expected, things don't always go according to plan.

Many things happened, some my fault and others due to random chance, but even so, I just resigned myself and moved forward with them.

And now, that's my current situation.

Seeing three girls on the verge of killing each other isn't as pleasant as it sounds, especially when your teacher seems to be amused by the situation, as if this were the most surreal thing to happen.

I won't say something like this idea never crossed my mind, but when I thought about it, I only came to one conclusion: if this were to happen, I'd prefer to be as far away as possible.

Now, you might wonder about the reason for my situation.

Coincidence of life or was all of this already destined to happen? I have no clue, and I have no way to prove that.

So, how did this happen?

It's not as long as it seems, as it hasn't been even 20 minutes since everything began.

---

Flashback.

As usual, once classes are over, I gather my things and head to the service club. It's been over a month since this became my routine. In short, over a month of spending my afternoons with Yukinoshita.

If another guy were to hear this, he would curse me and wish to be in my position. Unfortunately, sometimes reality surpasses fiction, and if I say that Yukinoshita is a bothersome person, it's because she truly is.

The normal assumption would be that all of this would end next year, you know, when the events that are destined to happen occur.

Unfortunately, there's a small error, something insignificant. And that is, one of the members of the service club no longer exists.

It's not that she disappeared from existence itself, but she's now part of another club.

Yuigahama Yui is this person, the kind and energetic girl who used to come to the service club with the intention of seeking help to bake cookies to give to her pet's savior. A pleasant story.

But now Yuigahama has no reason to do that, since from conversations I had with her mother, I can infer that she already did it; she talked with Hikigaya and tried to get close to him.

Unfortunately for her, knowing Hikigaya, he probably didn't have the best impression of Yuigahama, more so due to her personality, so it all ended up going nowhere. But given the way Yuigahama is, I can say that she moved on from it, since in this case, she has three good friends who will always support her.

In fact, I started thinking if this really happened, shouldn't Yumiko have punished the person who hurt her friend? I'm even sure Kawasaki would have gone after him to make him suffer, but since none of that happened, maybe I'm getting carried away by my imagination once again.

Returning to the topic at hand, Yuigahama no longer has any reason to come to the service club. She seemed really happy with her new companions in the cooking club. I can confirm it.

Furthermore, Yuigahama and Yukinoshita bumped into each other and had a brief conversation, and I can tell you that Yuigahama isn't one of the people Yukinoshita usually tolerates easily.

We have things in common, but I got used to it; in fact, it's fun to tease her.

So, based on all of this, the likelihood of Yuigahama deciding to leave the cooking club to join the service club is 0%.

Now, I won't say I never thought about how things would unfold if Yukinoshita was alone with Hikigaya during everything that's going to happen. Maybe they'd become a couple sooner than planned?

A hypothesis that might not be too far-fetched. But I can't guarantee anything when it comes to other people, so I'll leave it to my future self.

And now that I think about it, maybe the three of us will end up being part of the same club. I know, that idea is way too cliché.

Before, this idea would have excited me, but nowadays, the same idea just feels tiresome. People grow based on how they solve and progress through their own problems. Giving them all the answers wouldn't benefit anyone, so if in the end the three of us end up in a club, my existence will be like that of a ghost just stealing some oxygen.

I'm not really a fan of the idea, but I'll leave it to my future self if it happens; there are still several months to go.

I stopped thinking about it and focused on the present, as I reached the door I've been accustomed to seeing for over a month. A door that I thought I wouldn't be lucky enough to walk through. But as I say, destiny seems to hate me.

I opened the door only to see the usual sight, the ice queen sitting calmly with a cat-themed book cover.

I suppose I should think of a long monologue describing her beautiful figure and refined features, but I know girls more beautiful than Yukinoshita, and well-endowed ones too. So, I'll leave that task to someone else.

The definition of beauty varies according to each person, and in my case, Yumiko and Kawasaki are on par with Yukinoshita, though they surpass her in a couple of aspects. And for a guy like me, that's enough points to put them at the top.

"Yo!" I greeted as usual.

"I think I told you that's not a greeting." She said, briefly lifting her gaze to focus on me.

As usual, she finds anything to start an argument.

"People have different ways of greeting, specifying that this doesn't count as a greeting is a form of discrimination."

Various existing cultures would condemn Yukinoshita.

"I didn't think you'd include yourself as a person, is that progress?"

She always has the right words to counter mine.

"Did you degrade me to an object again?" I suppose I slipped down the scale of how Yukinoshita views me.

"Objects have utility, and in your case, I doubt that's true." I see, she's turned me into something like a bacterium.

I must remember not to annoy her as soon as I enter the club. Of course, I could counter those words with the size of certain things, but that would only make her call me a harasser, and since I'm in a good mood, I'll give her the victory for now.

"Tch!"

I pretended to curse silently as I headed to my seat.

Yukinoshita, clenching and unclenching your fists isn't something a girl who's supposedly the image of Sobu High would do. But I'm not one to tell her that. Though, I do have something else to tease her with later.

With Yukinoshita, I've always been free in my behavior, not holding back on what I say, mainly because she's one of those people who speak their minds and act accordingly.

I took my seat and pulled out one of the novels I brought with me to have something to pass the time. The club involves reading and discussing with Yukinoshita, something that's become a part of my daily routine.

But not even 5 minutes had passed since I started reading, when I heard the sound of the door. The only person who comes to mind wouldn't knock on the door, so after several days, we had another client.

The last one was Nakamura.

"Come in." She said, placing a bookmark in her book.

I just put away my novel, as I hadn't even managed to get past the first page.

After a few seconds, a plainly-dressed guy walked in.

I'm not one to judge others, but if I had to describe someone as plainly dressed, I'd look in the mirror to reaffirm that.

This guy is a bit shorter than average, with brown hair and an average face. His uniform is neatly arranged. I have nothing more to say, that's the only thing I can point out, something I tried to appear as once, and I succeeded. Although, currently in my section, everyone gives me brief glances of hatred, but it's not like I care, since I was the only one who benefited.

"Good afternoon." The guy made a slight bow towards us, demonstrating good manners from the start, not bad. "Okifumi Toma, pleased to meet you."

"Okifumi-kun from the communication club, right?"

As always, it's to be expected that Yukinoshita knows everyone in Sobu High. That solidifies my theory that she's a secret stalker.

"You know, that just confirms my words from that day." I said mockingly, as I called her a stalker on Monday.

Yukinoshita just sighed and brought a hand to her forehead. "Your ability to reason is smaller than that of an animal. Tell me something, Tsurumi-kun, what led you to think that? But before you answer, let me tell you that when I helped the student council during the cultural festival, I also worked with members of the communication club. So, I'm waiting for your response."

Maybe I shouldn't have gotten out of bed today, she destroyed me with her argument.

"Then, Okifumi-kun, how can we assist you?" I completely ignored Yukinoshita's words and decided to focus on our client.

From the corner of my eye, I could see her expression of victory. This time, I'll concede the victory to her.

The new guy seemed a bit confused by our little exchange, but quickly regained his composure.

As he knows Yukinoshita and heard my last name from her, we skipped our introduction.

"Hiratsuka-sensei told me that you guys would help me with any doubts I have."

So far, Sensei has sent all our clients. Without her, I doubt any student would even know about this club.

"That's correct. We take care of helping others with any doubts or problems they have." Although most of the cases are simple things.

"We'll help you with anything, but we'll only provide surface-level assistance. You should be the one taking action on your own." Yukinoshita added, maybe not too pleased that I stole one of her lines; after all, she's the club president.

Okifumi seemed to ponder for a few seconds, and his expression went through slight changes, as if he had arrived at a quick conclusion.

"I'd like to know efficient ways to confess to someone, ways that would prevent that person from rejecting me." Saying that with seriousness, especially for a guy his age. I have to say he's better than the average guy, as others might have hesitated or stumbled while saying this.

"I see. In that case, the answer is to tell that person your feelings."

I thought Yukinoshita said it as a joke, but her serious expression as she said it makes me believe she wasn't joking.

Perhaps for Yukinoshita, the idea of confessing is as simple as saying what one feels, and she's not entirely wrong. However, if you're seeking a higher likelihood of acceptance, it's important to make the confession more impactful, whether through the location or the manner in which you do it.

How do I know this? The light novels I read aren't just fantasy; I'm very open to different genres of reading.

I'm sure many guys must have confessed to Yukinoshita, and it's likely they did it the way she mentioned, something simple like asking her to be their girlfriend. Logically, it's easy to deduce that she turned them down.

Okifumi's face displayed some reluctance, as if he's wondering if she was serious, considering he might have come to that conclusion himself. I don't blame him. Should I apologize on behalf of the service club for my president's innocence?

"Yukinoshita, I'm sure you never had problems with this topic, and as I suppose, the guys who told you that received a 'no' as an answer. Am I wrong?"

"You're not."

"I see." I turned my attention back to our client. "Coming to a solution will take us some time. Could you come back before the end of club hours?"

Yukinoshita mentioned that he's part of another club, so he probably just came for a few minutes to seek help with his query.

"I have no problem with that. Well then, if you'll excuse me." He bowed before leaving.

Once he left, I directed my attention to the president of my club.

"Does the great Yukinoshita Yukino really believe that just saying what you feel in a confession is enough?" I decided to question her light consideration of this matter, as from her perspective, being loved by men should be common.

"Did I get something wrong?" She asked, with an expression of not understanding why her answer is incorrect.

If things were that way, everyone would have a partner. But I have something else to say.

"For someone popular, it's surprising you're responding like an old woman."

I could see her raising an eyebrow at my words.

"So, how would you do it? In fact, can someone like you even try to correct me?" She didn't hold back and attacked me right away. A usual occurrence.

"Although it might not seem like it, some of the light novels I read cover those kinds of topics, so I'm well-versed in the subject." I said with pride.

And if that's not enough, I currently have a sort of girlfriend. My confession, so to speak, was quite elaborate. Even the confession I was about to receive from Yumiko was very well done; the place and the moment were perfect. So, I have much more experience in this.

"Can the trash you read actually be useful?" Her expression of disbelief at my words was quite evident.

"At least I know how to behave like someone of my age."

I'm not the best person to say that, but compared to Yukinoshita, I'm the definition of an average high school student.

"If that were the case, I doubt Hiratsuka-sensei would have forced you to join." Maybe the way I joined isn't the most suitable definition of an average student.

"I understand, I understand. I'm still someone who, in your eyes, shouldn't be part of society." There's no point in continuing this conversation, so I conceded.

"But with no other options, can you explain what you thought? It's better than having no idea."

It was a surprise that she chose to go with my idea; maybe she realized that something as seemingly simple as a confession is anything but simple, at least if you're aiming for the other party to accept it.

"In fact, it's quite simple. He's looking for a striking way to confess, something that ensures the other person will accept his confession. So, I suggest a kabe-don." I said confidently.

After reading several novels and watching anime, the optimal choice is to use a "kabe-don." The foolproof technique to connect with the girl, though it also depends on whether that person has some feelings for you at least.

"Kabe-don?" It's easy to understand why Yukinoshita has no clue about this. I doubt her books mention anything like that.

"It's easier done than explained."

In this case, a demonstration speaks much louder than words.

"Then show me." She said with an arrogant tone.

"As you wish, Ojou-sama~" I replied in kind, playing along.

Who says I should always be the target of her teasing?

I got up from my seat and approached one of the walls in the service club. Once close, I leaned my arm against it. The most striking part, I must say, is when you catch the girl off guard with the sound of impact.

"Is that a kabe-don?"

"Exactly." I nodded.

"I should remember not to have hope in your words."

As usual, she spoke encouraging words.

"It's different when you're on the receiving end, or so I believe."

Certainly, this varies for each girl, as humans aren't all the same, but it tends to work in most cases.

"Don't say things without a basis."

Technically, my basis comes from novels and anime, created by adults who think about how teenagers live their daily lives. Maybe it was a bad idea?

Before arriving at an answer, Yukinoshita got up from her seat and moved to stand in front of me, positioning herself against the wall.

"So, show me." She said confidently and teasingly. Our gazes met, and I couldn't detect any signs of doubt in hers.

"The great Yukinoshita volunteers herself? Looks like it's going to rain today." It's strange that she offered herself for this, but considering what she thinks of me, the result won't be the most optimal, but since we're here, there's no point in backing down.

"To say you're wrong without confirming would be a contradiction, so I'm going to prove you wrong."

I see, she doesn't mind including herself in this just to be sure I'm not right. This girl takes things way too seriously.

"I see." I simply responded.

I quickly leaned my arm against the side of her head, creating a loud sound due to the impact, but she still held the same expression. I suppose if I tried it with Yumiko or Kawasaki, I'd get a different result, but when it comes to the ice queen, expecting anything other than this wouldn't make sense.

"So, is that it?" She said with pride and mockery. She really knows how to get under my skin.

"Maybe it only works on normal people." I replied in a similarly mocking tone.

I'm sure a normal girl would at least be surprised or more nervous, things that are nonexistent in Yukinoshita.

"What are you implying?" She said in her usual cold tone.

"Who knows, ..."

Before I could respond, I heard the sound of the door opening, along with a familiar voice.

"Yukinoshita, I'm coming in!"

No matter how many times we scold her about manners, she still opens the door before getting permission, but that's characteristic of Hiratsuka-sensei.

I'm sure that if I tell Hiratsuka-sensei my idea, I'll have her support. She might even volunteer to experience being courted by a man, as I doubt that has happened to her.

Then the three of us will come to an agreement on how to handle this, and we'll give our final answer. Finally, we'll go home. That's what should have happened today.

But I noticed two other figures entering with our man-repelling teacher.

There are moments when you feel fear. I've gone through it many times, but right now, the kind of fear is different. Not fear of the unknown, but fear of what you already know.

What are the chances that out of all the students at Sobu High who could accompany Hiratsuka-sensei, it would be two girls with blue and blonde hair?

If someone were to ask me, I'm sure I'd answer with a one in a million chance. Yumiko and Kawasaki should be on their way home right now.

That's what it should have been, and as always, I'm wrong. The theory that I'm the guinea pig of some higher being grows stronger. As if I'm just a character designed for the entertainment of others.

Why do I think this, you might ask?

The reason is that the two students standing next to Hiratsuka-sensei are Yumiko and Kawasaki.

Probability of one in a million? To hell with logic.

I'm well aware of my situation, being alone in a room with one of the most beautiful girls from Sobu High makes me look guilty in Yumiko's eyes already, and I could easily explain that, but now I'm in a compromising position.

"It seems you're having fun, aren't you, Rai-den-kun?" Her slow tone when saying my name, along with her beautiful smile, sends shivers down my spine.

I'm beginning to think that maybe staying in bed today would have been the best option.

But since it's unavoidable, I surrendered and decided to face the situation. I have two ways to respond: either speak with a nervous and timid tone, stuttering as I talk, or respond in a monotone tone as if nothing happened.

Thinking about it, either of those options is terrible.

"Hiratsuka-sensei, I told you several times to knock before entering." Yukinoshita let out a slight sigh before moving to her seat.

Hiratsuka-sensei just smiled in response to Yukinoshita's words. From her expression, I can tell she'll be observing how this unfolds.

Since Yukinoshita was the first to speak, I decided to follow suit and take a seat as well. It's not that I'm avoiding answering Yumiko, it's just that I have no way to do so.

Once we both took our seats, it seemed as if the earlier incident hadn't happened, but Yumiko's expression tells me she wants an answer.

I didn't think this would happen, and even if I wanted to say something, I feel like each word would be a death sentence.

Am I exaggerating? Yes, but that's where the fun in these situations lies. Is it wrong to want to step into the protagonist's shoes for once?

Honestly, I've stopped caring much about how I act ever since I found out that Yuigahama is now in the cooking club, so I'll just go with the flow. Or to put it more simply, I'll be myself.

"Welcome to the Service Club." I said in my natural tone.

Acting like nothing happened was my most viable option. But for Yumiko, it wasn't the best response.

"Raiden, you didn't answer my question." Her terrifying and authoritative tone remained. Any other guy might have been intimidated by it, but I'm used to it.

The look Kawasaki gave me was as if to say that if I didn't answer, she would make me talk.

"Friends of yours?" Yukinoshita asked with a hint of doubt.

"A surprise that I have friends? Yes, that's the case." I responded as always. There's no point in denying this or acting like they're strangers to me.

The best approach is to give a clear and concise answer, considering my situation isn't the best, so to speak.

"It doesn't make sense to answer, as I'm sure you've already pegged me as guilty of a crime I didn't commit from the start, so I skipped the part of trying to excuse myself without a chance of convincing you." That's the truth; I know Yumiko, and I'm sure for now, she won't believe anything I say. She'll understand once she calms down.

"I see." She said firmly. "I'll take that for now. Kawasaki, Raiden! We're leaving." I was surprised that Kawasaki didn't object to Yumiko. Maybe she agrees with her, as she only nodded.

I must say her dominant queen attitude is quite cute, especially when you know she's tender on the inside.

Most likely, she'll make me invite them for a meal or go shopping while I try to apologize. After a few hours, she'll calm down. My wallet will suffer, but I don't have a choice.

I gathered my things and got up from my seat. It's best to accompany her before this really blows up. And even though if that were to happen, I'm sure it would be amusing to watch, but it might be a hassle for me.

"Tsurumi-kun, who did you ask for permission to leave the club?" Her tone of voice was anything but cordial.

I guess there are things that can't be stopped, like the clash between Yukinoshita and Yumiko.

"Why should Raiden ask you for permission to leave?" She said a bit annoyed, and I don't blame her; finding me in a compromising position next to Yukinoshita couldn't have pleased her.

The only thing on her mind is getting me out of this place.

"As a member of the Service Club, Tsurumi-kun can't leave without a valid reason, and fulfilling your whim isn't among them. So, Tsurumi-kun, return to your seat. We haven't finished our work yet."

Two options. Either one will be problematic, but in this case, I'll go for the more entertaining one. I won't deny that I want to observe it, even though I'll regret it later. I can be quite contradictory in my thoughts.

"Alright, alright, no need to tell me twice." I said with a somewhat exhausted tone.

Obeying Yukinoshita, I returned to my seat.

"So, if you don't have a matter related to the Service Club, I invite you to leave."

Yukinoshita, those polite words don't match that smug smile at all. And it seems Yumiko didn't take it well at all.

What happens when you put two queens in the same place? A battle to the death is what comes to mind. But in this case, a verbal showdown seems appropriate.

"I won't leave without Raiden, as he has nothing to do with you in this place!"

"Miura-san, didn't you hear what I said? Tsurumi-kun is a member of the service club, and we're currently busy, so if you're just going to complain and give orders, please do it after the club hours."

Yukinoshita used one of her hands to push her hair back, as if to demonstrate her determination not to yield her position.

"Is this even a club? I don't see any other members." Yumiko knows that I'm part of a club, and I doubt Hiratsuka-sensei didn't tell her where they were going before bringing them here. So, seeing that she won't be able to outdo Yukinoshita on this, she decided to take another approach.

"That's correct. For now, Tsurumi-kun and I are the only members."

"I see." Yumiko gave me a penetrating look. Is it just me, or is it getting warmer? "I've never heard of a club with only 2 people. In fact, is that even possible?" She placed a hand on her chin as she approached the table. "I doubt the school would approve such a club, unless they decided to make an exception, but that would be impossible since the school should treat everyone equally, don't you think, Yukinoshita-san?" The way she said this with an innocent smile was impressive.

At this point, Kawasaki, Hiratsuka-sensei, and I were relegated to mere observers. All the attention was focused on the encounter between two queens.

"Miura-san, what are you implying?" Yukinoshita's tone underwent a slight change. Yumiko indirectly suggesting that the school favored her due to her wealthy family had clearly irked her.

"I didn't imply anything, but if you understood something from a few simple words, perhaps you should ask yourself why you thought that."

Yumiko, telling someone that the school favors them because they come from a rich family with an innocent smile isn't right. Although I have to give her some credit for her subtle way of doing it.

With this exchange, both sides were tied. Not that I've been keeping score for each exchange of words they've had.

They stared at each other intensely. Tension began to build in the air.

"Miura-san, I'll overlook what you tried to say earlier, so if you don't have any business with the service club, I'll ask you to leave." I didn't think Yukinoshita would take it so calmly; I thought she would attack with something. "Perhaps you can use that free time to practice a bit so you won't embarrass yourself in another tennis competition." I see that I was wrong to think that Yukinoshita wasn't going to respond.

Yukinoshita delivered a critical blow. As far as I know, Yumiko is upset about losing in the tennis finals. So, Yukinoshita reminding her of it was like rubbing salt in the wound. Even worse, since Yumiko lost that competition against Yukinoshita.

I could see how Yumiko's expression slowly changed from calm to more furious.

"In the final, I wasn't in my best condition. If it weren't for that, I would have won." Yumiko said without hesitation.

"Miura-san, excuses are for people who don't put in enough effort, so don't try to make excuses." The calm tone with which she said this added emphasis and a touch of mockery.

A direct hit.

That slight change in expression became stronger; now Yumiko looked genuinely angry.

Just in case the situation could get worse, I stayed alert. Yumiko is impulsive, so I wouldn't rule out the possibility that she might try to lunge at Yukinoshita at some point. Of course, if that happened, she would come out on the losing end.

Yumiko slammed her hands on the table.

"What are you trying to say, Yukinoshita?"

"I'll repeat what you said a moment ago." She cleared her throat. "I didn't imply anything, but if you understood something from a few simple words, perhaps you should ask yourself why you thought that."

Game, set, and match to Yukinoshita.

One had the expression of total victory, while the other had an expression of anger. An expected outcome, but I won't lie and say it wasn't entertaining. They had some good exchanges, but in the end, Yukinoshita emerged victorious.

Now is a good time to stop this, as Yumiko's next move could be problematic. So, I prefer to let it end here.

"Yukinoshita, Yumiko, ..."

I intended to stop this, but the president of the service club interrupted me.

"Tsurumi-kun, I think you should learn not to get involved in other people's conversations."

It seems that Yumiko's words really bothered Yukinoshita. Being told that everything she has is because of her family, or that anything achieved through effort doesn't matter because she has the Yukinoshita name, was something that bothered her.

But before I could say anything, Yumiko jumped in.

"You have no right to talk to Raiden like that."

The conversation shifted from being about her to being about me, and now I doubt they will stop.

"Is that so? Tsurumi-kun is a member of the service club, so he's under my care, and I was assigned to correct him." Yukinoshita said without taking her eyes off Yumiko.

"And are you the right person to do that? I don't know much about you, but I know you have no friends and are always alone." I noticed Yumiko's smile. "How do you intend to help someone when you're so pathetic?"

A low blow.

Yukinoshita narrowed her eyes; those words were something she wouldn't let slide.

With both parties at their limit, they started to argue, insult after insult, as well as easily understood innuendos. They didn't hold back at all.

This reminded me of a certain pattern that happened in the cafeteria, and upon noticing the subtle signs from Yumiko, I knew that sooner or later, this would go down the same path, although this time her target wasn't someone as pathetic as Sagami.

Before this situation could repeat itself, and I had to intervene, Kawasaki stepped in, placing an arm in front of Yumiko, preventing her from doing what she was planning. I noticed how Yumiko moved her arm slightly, as if she were about to slap her. I also noticed that Yukinoshita was ready to act if anything happened.

This girl is very prone to antagonizing people she shouldn't. If this happened in a place where neither Kawasaki nor I were present, the only one who would come out on the losing end is Yumiko.

I recalled something from the original story, a situation where Yumiko also tried to attack Yukinoshita, but she blocked her attack and was on the verge of breaking Yumiko's arm if it weren't for Hikigaya calming her down.

"Miura, you're just falling into her provocations." Were Kawasaki's first words since entering the club.

Yumiko looked upset, but she still didn't do anything to surpass Kawasaki. It's good to know she listens to Kawasaki. It was a good idea to make their relationship closer.

Both are different, but they have a lot in common, so I thought it would be good for them to become friends. I also owe it to Ebina and Yuigahama.

"Well, someone has to stop you when you lose your temper. Is that friendship, or just an owner controlling their pet?"

I'm sure Yukinoshita didn't need to say that last part.

"Hey, Yukinoshita, that's enough!" Kawasaki's expression had a slight change; she's usually serious, but this time she looked somewhat annoyed. "I don't know what you think, but let me tell you, if you try to do something to Miura, I won't hesitate to intervene." If you know Kawasaki well enough, you would know that those words carried a lot of weight.

The tension in the air became much heavier than when Yukinoshita and Yumiko were arguing.

Unlike Yumiko, Kawasaki has no problem confronting Yukinoshita directly. And if that were to happen, I'm not sure which side would come out victorious.

Hiratsuka-sensei, I'm pretty sure a teacher should try to calm down their students and not wear an entertained expression.

Could this day get any worse?

End of the flashback.

---

And that's what happened up to now.

The three girls are about to start a war among themselves, well, at least Yumiko and Kawasaki are teaming up against Yukinoshita.

Should I support Yukinoshita to even the odds? That would be a bad idea no matter how you look at it.

"Kawasaki-san, I don't think I did anything to involve you in our conversation, so I would ask you to refrain from intervening in other people's conversations."

Unlike how she spoke to Yumiko, Yukinoshita was more cautious with Kawasaki.

As far as I know, during the basketball competition, Kawasaki was the only one who managed to stop Yukinoshita, while Yumiko just lost without putting up a fight, so it's normal for Yukinoshita to show more respect for Kawasaki.

"And what if I don't want to?"

Kawasaki's tone reminded me of a delinquent. What memories.

"I see, if you're friends, it's clear that a lack of manners will be common among you."

Yukinoshita, if I were you, I wouldn't confront both of them at once.

Yumiko tried to move forward, but Kawasaki stopped her.

She's more impulsive when people speak ill of her friends.

"Alright, you three, that's enough." To my surprise, Hiratsuka-sensei remembered her role as a teacher. "Yukinoshita is right; Tsurumi can't easily leave the club, especially since I was the one who asked him to take responsibility for becoming a better person."

Even with our teacher's words, Yumiko seemed reluctant.

"With time, you get used to this place. Plus, it's better than being suspended for several days." I said with a bored tone of voice.

I'm sure with the number of infractions I have, it's enough reason to suspend me or call my parents.

"Raiden, what did you do?"

Kawasaki also looked curious.

"In summary, Tsurumi caused the members of the kendo club to lose motivation, humiliated the president of the judo club, and, above all, showed no remorse when I asked him about it; he even seemed proud." Hiratsuka-sensei beat me to it.

"I couldn't have said it better myself." I nodded in agreement.

"I'm sure that's something you would do." Yumiko knows me well enough not to doubt it.

"I understand. That guy is an idiot; he even tried to restrain Miura." Kawasaki added, but among those words, there were some that caught my attention.

"I see." I began to crack my knuckles with one hand.

"Sensei, it's not a problem if I'm absent for a few minutes, right?" I said as I stood up.

"If you didn't exude that deathly aura, I would let you go."

"I'll just go buy something to drink, then slaughter that guy." I said with a big smile.

If they suspend me, let it be for a valid reason. Breaking a couple of bones might be a good option.

"Tsurumi-kun, I see you still haven't shown any progress in becoming a better person." Yukinoshita sighed as she said this.

They can't blame me; it's not pleasant to think of an idiot trying to restrain Yumiko.

"It's not necessary, as Kawasaki neutralized him before he could try anything."

Kawasaki nodded. "He can't even take a hit; he just knelt in pain."

Hearing that reassured me; it was really a good idea to have Kawasaki as a type of bodyguard for Yumiko.

Was this planned? 50/50. I just wanted to make sure Yumiko had someone to protect her.

"Wait, did you do that?" Our teacher exclaimed.

"When this guy approached Miura, I blocked him and then hit him in the stomach, which made him kneel and stay on the ground. It was self-defense." Kawasaki explained with a hint of movement in her eyes.

The term self-defense should have more regulation. Although I think I'm to blame for telling Kawasaki about it.

Hiratsuka-sensei let out a deep sigh.

"Tsurumi, why are the people close to you so troublesome?" This time, I don't think the Judo club advisor will come to complain, as it was a girl who defeated that idiot.

"No idea." I shook my head.

"If you're done talking, the service club has things to do, so I'd ask you to leave. That includes you, Hiratsuka-sensei." Yukinoshita said in her usual tone. At least, she calmed down.

For a moment, I forgot that we have to solve Okifumi's case.

"Is being so close to each other one of the things you have to do?" Yumiko questioned.

Her point is valid; anyone would misinterpret the situation.

To prevent further chaos, I decided to preempt my president.

"In summary, someone asked us for advice on safe ways to confess to someone, so I suggested a Kabe-don. And since Yukinoshita doubted my words, we decided to test it, but apparently, it only works on normal people."

"Tsurumi-kun, could you repeat that last thing you said? I think I heard wrong." Her tone turned cold.

"Too bad, I don't usually repeat things." I replied sarcastically.

I noticed that our exchange was being watched by Yumiko, who didn't have a particularly happy expression.

"If you need help, I can volunteer." She said with some nervousness and a blush.

I think Yumiko is misunderstanding my relationship with Yukinoshita, as unlike Kawasaki and the others, Yukinoshita is just the president of my club.

"This is something that concerns the members of the service club, but I appreciate the intention." Yukinoshita said with a smile; it's obvious she doesn't like Yumiko.

Those words could be interpreted as, "You can leave now; you're just wasting my time."

"Huh!?" Yumiko's expression returned to one of annoyance.

"This is the moment when, as a teacher, I will provide a solution!" Sensei said cheerfully.

It's as if Hiratsuka-sensei had been waiting for this moment.

"Miura, I know that you've caused some trouble on occasion, but since they weren't things deserving of punishment, I let them pass. Similarly, for Kawasaki, knocking out the Judo club captain is not normal."

"He started it." Kawasaki avoided looking at Sensei when she said this; I'm sure she enjoyed knocking that guy out.

"He was just trash, so he deserved it." Yumiko added.

Wait a moment, this conversation seems familiar.

"I see." Hiratsuka-sensei looked at me, and I noticed her smile. Is it just me, or is she attributing their responses as if it were my fault? I know I'm not the best influence, but the personalities of both girls are not decided by me, perhaps to a small extent yes.

"Yukinoshita, if I recall correctly, you want your club to become a formal one, right?"

She's not thinking about...

"That's correct."

"Then it's decided. Miura and Kawasaki will join the service club."

It happened as I feared.

"Huh?" x3

The three of them showed incredible synchronization.

Before anyone could say anything, I decided to speak first.

"Hiratsuka-sensei, could..."

"You don't have permission to leave the club."

"Since when can she read minds?" She guessed what I was going to say.

"I know you, Tsurumi, so it was easy to guess this." She said proudly.

"Hiratsuka-sensei," Yukinoshita was the next to speak. "I don't agree with it. Tsurumi-kun is already an exception, but having these two is a different case. Besides, I don't think we can come to an agreement, and that would hinder the club."

A valid point.

"I agree." I replied.

But after saying this, I realized the grave mistake I made.

I noticed Yumiko and Kawasaki watching me with narrowed eyes.

"I have nothing to do in the afternoons, so I wouldn't mind. Plus, I could meet up with Hina and Yui after school."

Kawasaki hesitated for a moment but then started speaking too.

"My younger sister's classes end in the evening, so I don't mind staying at school longer. Plus, Sobu is closer than going home."

As far as I know, Kawasaki is now the one in charge of picking up Keika; the times all four of them would kill time ended up with them going to Keika's daycare to pick her up.

Unlike Yumiko, I don't understand why Kawasaki agreed to this.

No, the reason is obvious; Kawasaki herself said it: if you try anything, I won't hesitate to intervene. If Yumiko wants to join, it's clear that discussions with Yukinoshita are just beginning. Nevertheless, Yumiko said something important; she could meet up with the others after school. It would be pointless for Kawasaki to be the only one going home alone. Plus, if I hadn't said this, I can guarantee that Yumiko would have provoked her into joining. She values her friends greatly.

"You've heard them; they're in agreement." Sensei said cheerfully.

"I maintain my position, and Tsurumi-kun also opposed this." Yukinoshita said seriously.

Before responding, I could feel Yumiko's gaze on me, as if saying I'd be dead if I supported Yukinoshita.

Why don't you want me to join? You must want to flirt with this girl, right? That's what I understood. Maybe I should become an interpreter.

Still, just for seeing me act that way with Yukinoshita once is too much for Yumiko to be so cautious, as if she already had a reason to believe that she shouldn't leave me alone with Yukinoshita. A certain fujoshi and energetic girl come to mind. I'll deal with them later.

There's no point in lamenting it, as I was the one who stayed waiting at the entrance that day.

"My response is neutral." Although Yukinoshita refuses, I'm sure Yumiko won't give up, and since I can't leave the club, she'll keep insisting.

"Come on, Yukinoshita, I don't think you'll find more people who want to join your club. This is a unique opportunity." Hiratsuka-sensei said as she walked around the clubroom.

"I appreciate the gesture, but I already have enough dealing with Tsurumi-kun to let two potentially troublesome people join."

Being treated as a nuisance is normal; I won't say I don't deserve it.

"Are you afraid I might do a better job than you? Pathetic." Yumiko brought her hand close to her mouth, as if making herself look like a queen in front of a commoner. "Don't you think the same way, Kawasaki?"

"It seems she's just someone who talks more than she acts."

I forgot that Kawasaki is competitive; losing to Yukinoshita must not have left a good taste in her mouth.

"I think both of you forgot that you lost to me in the sports festival. I have no reason to fall for your provocations."

Hiratsuka-sensei's smile tells me it's too late to turn back now.

"Admit it, Yukinoshita, you know that these two could outperform you." With these words, it was all over.

"Do you think I won't be able to handle them both regarding the club's work? I must tell you that you're mistaken." Yukinoshita said as she flipped her hair back.

"Then prove it." Sensei's arrogance was immense.

Yukinoshita let out a sigh and then looked at Yumiko and Kawasaki.

"You can rejoice; I've decided to succumb to your provocations, so I'll accept you as club members."

Well, now I can say that everything has gone to hell.

Hikigaya, I hope you're ready for the big surprise you'll have in a few months when they force you to join the service club.

---

After stating the basics and explaining what the service club does, Yumiko and Kawasaki decided to take a seat. Hiratsuka-sensei left the classroom, claiming she had things to do, but the final smile she gave us tells me that's not the case.

The table where the club members are sitting is large, and the seating arrangement hasn't changed much. Yukinoshita was on the far left, while I was on the right side. So, Yumiko sat to my left, and Kawasaki in the middle between Yumiko and Yukinoshita. In other words, from left to right, it's Yukinoshita, followed by Kawasaki, then Yumiko, and me at the end.

You might think this distribution is random, but I don't think so because having Kawasaki in the middle of the two of them makes it easier for her to prevent Yumiko from causing any trouble.

Now, you might be wondering what I think about the recent developments. I won't lie; at one point in my previous life, I wondered how things would be if Yumiko, Yukinoshita, and Kawasaki were all in the same club, how Hikigaya would react to that. But now, I'll be the victim of it. Maybe I could call in sick every afternoon? It wouldn't make sense.

I'm really strange because, even though this situation annoys me, a part of me finds it entertaining, looking forward to what will happen. I'm really strange. But putting aside my personality problem, I decided to stop thinking and focus on the present.

"So, what do we have to do?" Yumiko asked.

"We need to find a way to confess that ensures our client's success and avoids rejection." I replied.

"But wouldn't that also depend on the other party?"

"It does, but as I mentioned, the service club is here to lend a hand. Our job is only to suggest methods to help. Success and the rest depend on the individual." Yukinoshita said with pride, and rightfully so, as she is the club president.

"That makes sense. So, was what Tsurumi did one of the ideas?" Kawasaki joined the conversation.

"It was just a suggestion, as I don't have many ideas on the topic."

"Using the trash you read as a basis can't be called a great contribution."

"If you judge Raiden's idea so much, I suppose you must have a better one." Yumiko said with a mocking tone. I feel like I won't have a chance to contradict Yukinoshita anymore, as Yumiko is the first to defend me.

"My idea is for Okifumi-kun to meet this person and decide to tell her how he feels."

"I see, so do you know if this boy knows this girl, or are they complete strangers?"

Now that Yumiko mentions it, I hadn't thought about it.

"He didn't mention that." Yukinoshita tried to remember, but Okifumi didn't say anything about it.

"Then it doesn't matter which method we suggest. If he decides to confess to a stranger, they'll just reject him."

"We can't guarantee anything until that happens." At least the two of them can exchange words without fighting.

"Is there anything to doubt? If someone confessed to me and I didn't know anything about them, I wouldn't have a reason to accept them."

As far as I remember, several boys in middle school and also at Sobu High confessed to Yumiko, but she rejected them all. With how popular she is, it's no wonder that most guys want to date her, but Yumiko is in a league none of them can reach.

"I agree with Miura. It would be strange to date someone you know nothing about." Kawasaki added.

"You say that as if it happened to you."

I scoffed at the idea that anyone would be interested in Kawasaki.

"In fact, it did. After I started meeting with Miura and the others, someone left a letter in my locker, so I met this guy, and he confessed to me, but since I didn't know him and had no interest in dating anyone, I rejected him."

Kawasaki looked somewhat thoughtful when she recalled that. Although her tone was the same as always, I felt weird just learning about this.

For some reason, I feel like looking for that guy and having a chat with him. I cleared these thoughts before my expression changed.

"Leaving that aside, Okifumi asked us to provide ways of confessing that ensure a higher chance of acceptance; who he does it with is irrelevant."

"Apparently, you can say clever things at times."

"I can always do it, but in that case, I'd be doing all the work." I said arrogantly. We both stared at each other, but Yumiko interjected.

"So, is Raiden's idea the only one so far?"

"That's correct. Although I consider it a terrible and baseless idea, as I could verify, it's pointless."

"Raiden said it only works on normal girls." Yumiko said with a hint of mockery in her voice. It was too quick for me to assume they would behave like normal girls.

"Are you insinuating something, Miura-san? Because if what Tsurumi-kun said is true, then your help wouldn't be necessary."

"What are you implying, Yukinoshita?"

"I have to say it, or you might not be capable of thinking for yourself. Perhaps you need others to give you the answer to everything. If that's the case, I apologize for not considering your condition."

Yukinoshita will give back twice what they say; she's really terrifying.

"Really, you are...?"

Yumiko stood up from her seat, but Kawasaki restrained her.

"Let me go, Kawasaki. I'll teach this girl the necessary manners!" She struggled, but couldn't break free from Kawasaki's hold.

It was a good idea for Kawasaki to position herself between them, as Yumiko would have lunged at Yukinoshita a moment.

It reminds me of the first time Yumiko and Kawasaki met, although that time Yumiko didn't want to attack Kawasaki. Yukinoshita has a way of getting under her skin.

"You're the one who needs to learn manners. Losing control so easily is like acting like an animal." Yukinoshita said, looking at her with superiority.

"I suppose provoking others also falls into that category, doesn't it, Yukinoshita?"

Kawasaki knew exactly what to say.

Right now, it's as if I'm not even here. Should I start working on my novel in the coming months? I doubt things will take a different turn.

A situation where the three girls have a conflict, well, it's really Yumiko and Kawasaki vs. Yukinoshita.

This situation gave me a sense of déjà vu, so I got up from my seat and slowly approached the door. The girls fell silent as they watched me move. At least I got them to focus their attention on me and stop arguing.

Once in front of the door, I opened it abruptly and stepped aside.

"Ehh!"

Hiratsuka-sensei entered the club abruptly, stumbled for a brief moment but managed to recover before falling to the floor.

I heard Yukinoshita sigh.

"Hiratsuka-sensei, I'm sure we gave you a lecture about eavesdropping on other people's conversations."

Yumiko and Kawasaki's expressions showed they had no idea what was happening. It's something they'll have to get used to.

"It's not what it looks like. I was about to enter the club when the door suddenly opened."

A rather pitiful excuse, but if I didn't know her well enough, I'd believe her.

"Hiratsuka-sensei, lying is bad." I said mockingly.

She turned around, realizing my presence.

"Hey, brat, don't open the door like that! What if I ended up on the floor?"

"The first thing I would do is tease you, then I'd think about whether I should help you or not, but in the end, I'd lend you a hand." I said as I returned to my seat.

"I'll remember those words." She said, trying to regain her role as a teacher.

Sensei cleared her throat to get our attention and make us forget her little accident.

"It seems the three of you still have a long way to go." Sensei said expectantly. It's obvious she heard them arguing.

"Miura-san is someone who doesn't listen to reason and easily succumbs to anger. That's why I said her presence would be counterproductive for the club."

Yumiko had returned to her seat along with Kawasaki. But Yukinoshita's words made her stand up again.

"And whose fault do you think that is? Besides, you're the one who's unnecessary here. Raiden, Kawasaki, and I are enough to handle things in this place."

"Don't try to blame me for your childish behavior; it's in poor taste. Do you think with that attitude you could do a better job than me?" She said with a hint of mockery towards Yumiko.

"Although you're the first to try to infuriate Miura, do you think I don't notice it? By the way, you don't want to underestimate us." She said in a serious tone.

Kawasaki always had perfect timing to join the argument.

Yumiko is on the offense, while Kawasaki is on the defense. The way they complement each other is somewhat terrifying.

If Yumiko had Kawasaki's strength and ability, I would have had to restrain her a long time ago to prevent serious harm. Fortunately, that's not the case, and Kawasaki is the type of person who will use force as a last resort or when she deems it necessary. So I doubt she'll physically confront Yukinoshita unless Yumiko does something that prompts Kawasaki to intervene in that way.

"Come on, come on, you three, calm down." Hiratsuka-sensei cleared her throat after saying this. "In ancient times, when people had conflicts, they would resolve them through competition, like in shonen manga." The excitement in her voice makes me think she had already planned this.

I noticed how the three of them were somewhat confused by Sensei's words. You don't need to be a genius to guess where this is going.

The time they forced me to join the club, I thought Hiratsuka-sensei would come up with something like this, so I steered the conversation to a point where Yukinoshita and I agreed, but now, things are different.

"In simple terms, you three will compete to see who can effectively help others!" Hiratsuka-sensei stretched her arm and pointed at them. In her mind, she must have thought doing this would look cool. It's like she's the host of a battle where the protagonist and their nemesis will fight.

"That's ridiculous," Yumiko was the first to speak.

"I have no reason to accept that." Followed by Yukinoshita.

"Is our modern Japanese teacher really an otaku or something?"

Kawasaki's words hit Hiratsuka-sensei hard, but she quickly composed herself.

"Like in any competition, there will be a reward, and that is that the winner can give orders to the losers. Anything, that way they will be motivated to do their best job!" She said with excitement and motivation.

Now I understand more why she can't find a partner. Most adult men look for a mature woman to form a relationship and eventually a family. Having someone like Sensei would go against all of that.

"So, if I win and decide that Yukinoshita should leave the club, would that be viable?" Yumiko asked with some excitement.

"It is, as the loser will have no reason to refuse the winner's order."

It would be hilarious if the club's president and founder were expelled.

"If that's the case, then what I'm going to ask is for Miura-san to leave the club and apologize on her knees, admitting how immature and childish she can be." Yukinoshita said with her characteristic air of superiority.

Both of them can't stand each other; their very personalities repel each other.

"Why do you assume you'll be the winner?"

I thought Yukinoshita would be more reluctant to accept this, but being around Yumiko also makes her behave like someone her age.

"Because that's how things will be. I highly doubt I'll lose to you." And there goes the arrogant Yukinoshita I know.

"Don't underestimate me, and I'll also have Kawasaki, won't I?"

Yumiko's words fell on deaf ears with Kawasaki, as she looked thoughtful.

"Hiratsuka-sensei, will the orders to the losers only be for us three or for all the members of this club?" She asked seriously.

Yumiko thought Kawasaki would help her at all times, but she forgot something inherent to Kawasaki, which is that she's also selfish.

I told her before, there's nothing wrong with being selfish. If you want to do something, do it, and don't care about what others will say.

"Mmmm, why not?" Sensei looked at me with a big smile. "We'll also include Tsurumi as someone who will obey the winner's orders, though he won't participate as a competitor." I shouldn't have teased her earlier. If not, maybe she wouldn't have included me, but now my freedom has been condemned.

Yumiko's gaze focused on me. She wouldn't be thinking of ordering me what I think she's thinking, would she? Yumiko wouldn't be capable of telling me something like to be her boyfriend, right?

I started sweating internally; she might be capable of ordering that.

"Just to clarify, the loser won't be able to refuse and will have to obey the winner's order, right?" I was a really bad influence on Yumiko.

"That's right!" Sensei also nodded.

"In that case, I'll do it. I don't care if I have to defeat Kawasaki or Yukinoshita, I'll win." She's excited.

"Just because I held back with you all this time, don't think I'll go easy on you." Kawasaki said with arrogance.

"I'd like to see that." Yumiko replied in kind.

The flames that had simmered between Yumiko and Kawasaki exploded and burned like never before.

The same intensity they showed when they first met.

"You two are assuming you have a chance, but I'm sorry to tell you this, don't get the wrong idea, because I will be the one to win." Yukinoshita said, tossing her hair back with her hand.

They're not competing to see whose ideals are correct; they're not doing it to see who's right. They're doing it just to prove that one is better than the other. And knowing that all three are very competitive, this will be hell.

I remember that originally Yukinoshita competed with Hikigaya over a difference in their ideals, but now that doesn't exist; they're just behaving like girls their age. Which is not a bad thing, but it's strange to see them doing that.

"Hiratsuka-sensei, would this be a good time for me to resign from the club?"

"Submit all the paperwork you want, but you won't leave the club. I said it back then, you'll stay here until you become someone worthy and contribute to society."

Those were her words, but I understood something else.

"I told you, brat, don't provoke me, now prepare for the consequences and suffer my wrath. Hahaha."

She's getting back at me for all the times I teased her and made fun of her.

I'm starting to think that I'm the only one responsible for everything that happens to me.

"If you're so worried about what you'll be made to do, you can support whoever you want and ensure that what you'll be made to do is as minimal as possible, although I would prefer you to suffer a bit."

I don't think a teacher should say that to their student, but if I consider the times I stole her cigarette packs and snatched what she was smoking, I start to think she has a valid reason.

During my lunch hours, I usually go to bother Hiratsuka-sensei if I find her in the teacher's lounge. You can't blame me; having a conversation with someone close to my age is entertaining.

And since we share similar interests, we never run out of topics to talk about.

Leaving aside my sensei, the last thing she said doesn't seem like a bad idea.

I'm sure Yumiko could ask me something related to confessing my feelings, and from Yukinoshita, I don't think it'll be more than what we do during the club, maybe just admitting that she's better than me at everything. But I don't understand what Kawasaki could want, especially since she was the one who suggested the idea.

As I thought about it, I remembered something. If that's what Kawasaki wants, it could be the best option.

Unfortunately, this is a trap; if I were to choose to support anyone, it would only show favoritism, and I'm sure that would make Yumiko more possessive of me.

Glancing sideways, I noticed how Yumiko and Kawasaki were looking at me, while Yukinoshita, as always, ignored me. Her ego is so big that she thinks her victory is obvious.

"I'm one of those who prefer not to meddle in the affairs of others, and if I were to help someone, it would be unfair to the others." I said, showing disinterest in this.

"Are you saying that your help would guarantee one person's victory? I didn't know you were such a dreamer, Tsurumi-kun."

"You're not the right person to talk; in fact, you're the most aware of this." Saying it mockingly made Yukinoshita look at me coldly, but I ignored her. "So I won't support anyone; after all, I'm aware of each one's potential."

Kawasaki nodded enthusiastically at my words; she hates being underestimated.

Yumiko, on the other hand, looked determined; she's terrifying when she gets serious.

Unlike them, Yukinoshita had her usual expression. Her ego will be very counterproductive in the future.

"Very well, now that everyone agrees to the rules, I officially declare the competition between Yukinoshita, Miura, and Kawasaki."

Why do I think she planned this from the moment she brought Yumiko and Kawasaki? Is my modern Japanese teacher, who's an otaku and struggles to find a partner, much more than she appears to be? Adults have a different way of thinking; for my part, I couldn't consider myself one of them, as I'm not normal in that regard.

"So, if you're done with all your preparations, could we start working on solving Okifumi-kun's request? It's been over an hour since we were asked for this, but we haven't made any progress."

If I don't intervene by saying this, I feel like this day will never end.

"Now that you mention it, what request do they have to handle?"

Sensei must have found it strange how she found us while practicing kabe-don. I can't blame her.

"We need to find a confession method that guarantees that guy a successful confession or something like that." Yumiko said with some disinterest. Knowing her, she probably judged that it wouldn't be worth it if the guy didn't know the girl well.

Yukinoshita seemed to want to explain this, but Yumiko's vague explanation was enough for Hiratsuka-sensei to understand.

Sensei smiled as if she had an answer to our problem.

"Don't worry; I have an idea!" She said with a lot of energy and enthusiasm.

"If you mean a kabe-don or a variation of it, it won't work." I replied.

"Of course not." She looked away; she was really going to suggest the same thing as me. We sometimes think alike.

I'm sure Hiratsuka-sensei is the least qualified to give us advice on this. But for the sake of her mental well-being, I decided not to say it.

"So, Hiratsuka-sensei, what's your idea?" Yukinoshita looked at her with some doubt.

"Well... actually... it does have to do with what Tsurumi mentioned, but I can assure you that there's a high probability of success."

I lost count of how many times Yukinoshita has been disappointed today; she let out another sigh.

If we had more time to think, I'm sure they could come up with a better answer. Maybe we should tell Okifumi that we'll take a few more days. I doubt he'd have anything against that.

For example, bringing flowers, chocolates, and all that classic stuff, having a date, and confessing at the end. But since we don't know anything about the girl, suggesting this would be counterproductive. Besides, he only asked us for confession methods. In that case, the normal thing is to express one's feelings, or on the other hand, use a kabe-don and then confess.

"If there are no more ideas, let's hear what Sensei thought."

Since no one objected to Yumiko's words, we all accepted at least listening to her.

Hiratsuka-sensei cleared her throat before speaking. "My idea complements Tsurumi's because a kabe-don not only impacts the act but also saying what one feels and then acting on it."

I thought about it but doubted that Yukinoshita would accept those terms, so I went for the most basic.

"And how would that be?" Yukinoshita considered this method a failure, so she didn't have much expectation.

"I need two volunteers for this!" She pointed to us after saying this.

"Raiden and I will do it." Yumiko replied instantly.

I won't say that she was obviously jealous of Yukinoshita, but she could have at least disguised it.

"That's fine with me. It was also necessary for Tsurumi to be one of them."

"Let's go, Raiden."

Yumiko stood up and took me by the arm to one of the walls. Kawasaki and Yukinoshita stayed in their seats, watching.

"So, Hiratsuka-sensei, what are those modifications you mentioned?"

I have a vague idea, but I can't guarantee it's the same. Besides, Yumiko seems somewhat excited about this.

It's evident that she enjoys me being more proactive in taking the initiative with certain things. Since she's usually the one doing it, whether it's taking my arm when we walk or suggesting places we'll go.

It's not that I don't enjoy spending time with Yumiko, but if I take the lead, it could give her the wrong impression. But since this time, we're acting, I'll go with the flow.

I've thought about it since I met Yumiko; she's beautiful and sexy. Any guy would wish to be in my position, but unfortunately for them, I won't let anyone else have her.

Am I selfish? I won't deny it.

Even though Yumiko isn't the idealized definition of a Japanese person, it doesn't take away from her beauty. Beautiful, silky golden hair, her jade-colored eyes that give her an air of majesty, her smooth porcelain skin that makes her entire body stand out even more. These are just the most noticeable features when you look at her. But in my case, there's more to say. Yumiko is well-endowed, she inherited it from her mother, I'm sure of it. Yumiko has a large chest, but it's just the right size to look good on her body; I confirmed it the day we went to the beach, and I saw her in a swimsuit.

And that's not all, as her figure is too perfect when compared to other girls. Her stomach without excess fat that feels soft to the touch, along with her toned thighs. The day she dressed as a maid, I could tell. She's truly beautiful and sexy. I'm too lucky to have a beauty like Yumiko in love with me.

If it weren't for how I truly am, I would have asked her to be my girlfriend a long time ago. But circumstances make this unfeasible.

The downside is that having these thoughts every time I see her would be very counterproductive for me. So, most of the time, I ignore these thoughts.

I'm a teenager with active hormones; having an attraction to the opposite sex is normal, and I include myself in that, whether I'm spending time with Yumiko or she's holding my arm. It doesn't prevent me from feeling happy.

That's why I got Nakamura; with her, I can be more active and have fun. There's no problem being who I am because, in the end, she's just someone I can discard at any time. Whereas Yumiko is someone much more important than Nakamura.

And now that I have the opportunity to take the initiative without showing true interest, I'll seize it.

"They're simple things, like after cornering Miura, you'll hold her arm with yours while you say the typical confession words. After that, you'll use your free arm to lift her chin and bring her face closer to yours." She said with excitement.

"Don't tell me, you saw it in yesterday's anime, didn't you?"

"You saw it too?" Hiratsuka-sensei entered her otaku mode.

"After reading the novel, it was the only scene I was looking forward to seeing animated, so I've been waiting for it since the animation was announced."

"I never thought that an anime with romance as its main genre could be so good, especially since before that, the protagonist fought against other delinquents. It perfect."

For over a year now, I've been hooked on a novel with two somewhat different genres, street fighting and romance.

In summary, after a brawl where the protagonist rescued the girl, he decides to confess his feelings. Maybe it would be normal, but that guy was very injured, yet he didn't give up and decided to say what he felt before collapsing.

Unfortunately, before they could share a kiss, he lost consciousness. When he regained it, he forgot what he had done before passing out. They had to prolong the plot.

"I told you, never underestimate the romance genre, as there are hidden gems among so many school romance clichés."

She nodded in agreement.

Yesterday during lunch, I recommended the anime to her, and to my surprise, she caught up instantly since the episode we talked about aired yesterday.

"Raiden, how much longer do you plan to talk to Hiratsuka-sensei?" I noticed a hint of annoyance in her voice.

"My mistake."

I got so engrossed in the conversation that I forgot about Yumiko.

"Seriously, you..."

At this moment, I'm close to Yumiko, so I took advantage of her relaxation to mimic what I saw yesterday.

I turned around and closed the distance between us before she could react; my left arm landed next to her head, making a loud enough noise to startle anyone. Her face showed confusion at my sudden and unannounced move; that's the purpose of a Kabe-don, using it to surprise someone.

I used my left hand to hold her wrist and press her against the wall; she's completely immobilized right now.

"Rai..."

She's so nervous that she can't even say a word, except for the blush on her face. A surprise for someone who doesn't expect me to take the initiative.

I'm sure I've demonstrated how effective a Kabe-don can be with this, but I don't think I'll have this opportunity again, so I'll go all the way.

"Yumiko, you're beautiful, there's no girl more beautiful than you." I said this with a different tone than usual. And I started with the basics.

If her face was somewhat red before, it turned into a tomato now. But I wasn't done yet, so I moved my left hand towards her chin and made her look in my direction, our lips just inches apart.

"Every time I see you, you leave me speechless, breathless, and without words. Every time you talk to me, I go crazy, and I'm fascinated by the sound of your voice. And if you smile at me, then I can't explain everything I feel for you... But if I think about it, all of it can be summed up in one phrase: I love you."

Who says men aren't romantic? Well, that's a line I found on the internet just in case I ever cornered Nakamura.

By this point, Yumiko's face had turned red, and she seemed confused by everything that had happened. I don't blame her.

All it takes is moving a few centimeters to kiss, but if I did that, things would change.

Since I fulfilled the purpose, I stepped back, turning around to face the others.

"And that's a more advanced Kabe-don, or at least, that's what I think. What do you say, Hiratsuka-sensei?"

"A very cheesy line, but I'll give you half the points for imitating the scene from yesterday so well." She nodded slightly.

"I'm surprised you're good at acting; I didn't imagine that." Yukinoshita said. "I think it could be a good idea, and Miura-san's appearance suggests that."

"From what I saw, it was more about the element of surprise," Kawasaki is good at noticing these things.

"That's correct; the trick is to catch the other person off guard so they won't have time to react or gather their thoughts."

"Now I understand why it didn't work on me but did on Miura-san. I already expected it to happen, and I knew the trick from the start, while she fell right into your trap."

What she said is partially true, mostly because Yumiko is interested in me, whereas Yukinoshita couldn't care less. Maybe Hikigaya could make her blush?

"Correct, 100 points. Yumiko is easy to surprise in these cases, so it wasn't too difficult to do. That's why I..."

I knelt down due to the pain in my ankle.

"Idiot, idiot, idiot!"

If you say it blushing and happily, don't think I can take it seriously.

Yumiko kicked me in the ankle when she realized it was just an act, although she's happy with how I treated her.

After saying that, she returned to her seat to calm down. I can assure you I'll be forced to accompany her somewhere else for this. As for me, I got back on my feet and returned to my seat. I have a high pain tolerance, and Yumiko didn't use all her strength.

With everyone back in their seats, Sensei began to speak.

"That was a good example, that's the expected reaction." Hiratsuka-sensei said with a proud tone. Yumiko seemed to want to say something, but she kept it to herself.

"It might be an alternative, but in this case, it depends on how the person does it and whether the recipient expects it or is taken by surprise." Our club president, as always, is a keen observer.

"You're high school students, so this is the expected result. Of course, if you were adults like me, this wouldn't work." She said arrogantly.

I highly doubt that a teacher or another adult would bother to act like a teenager, so she's right, but it's hilarious to hear her call herself an adult.

"Isn't that a bit arrogant of you, Hiratsuka-sensei?" I said with a mocking tone.

"You're still too young to understand this; you'll get it when you grow up." Underestimating is a bad quality.

"I see. If you're so confident, how about we make a bet? The winner can ask for anything they want." I added a provocative tone to this.

"You sound confident, and since I never back down from a challenge, I accept!" Sensei said while pointing at me.

I can assure you Sensei never had an experience like this, more so in the way she suggested it and seemed excited to discuss it.

"Both of you are like children." Yukinoshita resigned herself, as we already have a possible answer, and everyone agreed, she didn't oppose our challenge.

"Hiratsuka-sensei, it might be best to back out." Yumiko said, calmer now.

"Miura is right; Tsurumi isn't the type to bet without thinking."

"In this case, I'll have to agree with them. That guy can get serious about meaningless things."

The three of them know me in certain aspects, well, they're right. I'm one of those people who never bet unless I'm 100% sure I can win.

"Don't worry, I can handle whatever Tsurumi does." Her prideful tone won't last long.

"Don't complain that we didn't warn you." Yumiko sighed.

"So, Hiratsuka-sensei, with the terms established, there's one small extra condition: you must look at the wall until I tell you."

"Planning something, eh? But it doesn't matter." She accepted this without hesitation.

With the challenge accepted, I decided to prepare.

Hiratsuka-sensei is right; this method is more feasible among people of the same age, so all I need to do is make myself look older than my age. I wouldn't have proposed the bet if I didn't have a way to achieve this.

And how do I know this, you may wonder? Well, after my mother bought me more fashionable clothes that boys my age wear, the following Sunday, we went out for lunch, and my mother chose what clothes I'd wear and gave me a bit of a makeover, so to speak.

I have a habit of taking off my contact lenses when I enter the club, but today, with everything that's happened, I forgot, so the first thing I did was put them away in their case.

I remember when Hiratsuka-sensei asked me about it; her reaction was amusing.

Once I removed the contact lenses, I changed my hairstyle, nothing too drastic, just used my hands to push my hair back. If I had to describe it, it's similar to a certain character who always plans everything.

My mother was the one who suggested this hairstyle, and even though I initially refused, I must say it makes me look more adult.

I could feel the curious gaze of the three, but I brushed it off for now.

Since it's already autumn, I'm wearing the complete Sobu uniform.

I used to leave the jacket at home, but with the temperature being lower, it was obvious that I would have to wear the full uniform.

I got up from my seat to take off the jacket and left it on the backrest of my chair.

I should be wearing an undershirt beneath my shirt, but I feel uncomfortable wearing too much clothing.

I walked toward Hiratsuka-sensei while unbuttoning my shirt. And since she's facing away, she doesn't know about this.

An exhibitionist? I don't have an issue with my body; in fact, it's one of the few things I'm proud of. But this is necessary for what I'm about to do.

I used to like walking somewhat hunched over, but a few days ago, my back started to ache because of it, so I stopped.

If I had a mirror, I'm sure my appearance has changed for the better. I'm not so narcissistic as to say I'm handsome, but I'm not below average either.

"Are you going to start or make me wait longer?" She said mockingly.

Now that I'm standing in front of her, it's time to do it. Making Hiratsuka-sensei owe me a favor is too tempting to pass up this opportunity.

"You can turn around."

What I'm about to do is just imitating one of the scenes that will be animated in a couple of weeks, but since I read the novels, I know things Hiratsuka-sensei doesn't.

I won't say that I don't feel somewhat embarrassed, but I'm also competitive in a way, especially if there's a bet involved.

She turned around as she began to respond. "It's about time..."

She stopped, not because my appearance left her speechless, but because I took her right hand and brought it to my chest. I could feel her hand on my skin.

This act left her confused. I noticed how her gaze shifted to the place her hand was touching.

Her face displayed total confusion, as if she didn't understand what had happened in less than 2 seconds.

Taking advantage of this, I pressed my free arm to the left side of her head, causing her to jump slightly in her position.

It's safe to say she was expecting me to do this, which is why I initially confused her to lower her guard.

Our gazes locked, and neither of us backed down. Hiratsuka-sensei is quite tall, even by Japanese women's standards. Even so, I am taller than her. It would be strange to attempt this if I were shorter.

"Shizuka." I said in a calm tone. She only opened her eyes when she realized it, but I wasn't going to let her clarify her thoughts.

"I think you were my love in another life because just seeing you makes my heart start to beat." I guided her hand to my heart. "You can feel it, can't you? Being close to you makes my heart beat faster."

By this point, Hiratsuka-sensei's face turned red. "So Shizuka, let's forget about everything because in my mind, there's only one thought, and that's you." I brought my face close to one of her ears. Saying the following aloud would be problematic, so I decided to whisper it. "Do you want to marry me? If you don't answer, I'll take it as a yes." I said in a seductive tone.

She withdrew her arm from my chest and used both arms to push me away. Her vision became erratic as she looked everywhere but at me. Her face had a crimson hue, and I felt a slight trembling in her arms. "You'll pay for this next time. Remember that!"

She ran out of the classroom and slammed the door on her way out. A sore loser.

In my case, it's a complete victory. Will this be problematic in the future? I don't know, but what I do know is that I have a free favor that I'll use when I need it.

"I guess, in the end, calling herself an adult was just to show off." I said in my usual tone as I buttoned up my shirt. I also returned my hair to its original style.

Already with my usual appearance, I decided to return to my seat. However, the first thing I felt was the looks of disdain from my three clubmates.

I took my seat and pulled out one of my novels to silently read it, as if I hadn't just proposed to my teacher.

"At least we confirmed that it's an effective method, right?" Yukinoshita was the first to sigh. "You're truly a lost case, but I'll give you credit for not giving up on your idea." At least someone recognizes all the effort I put in.

"Maybe I should have joined the drama club. I'm good at acting." I said with an arrogant tone.

Upon hearing this, Yumiko and Kawasaki also seemed to give up on questioning what I had just done, as it was all to win the bet. There's no way to prove that what I said was true. Although I noticed Yumiko pouting the whole time, how cute.

"By the way, Raiden, what did you say to Hiratsuka-sensei that made her run away?"

"Who knows." I responded in a casual tone.

After saying this, I redirected my attention to my novel. Yumiko started to look at me coldly, but I ignored her and continued reading. She'll get tired of it sooner or later.

---

With about 15 minutes left before the club hour ended, I heard the sound of the door.

I can assure you it won't be Hiratsuka-sensei, at least for a few days.

During this time, Yumiko and Kawasaki took out their respective cell phones to pass the time, while Yukinoshita and I devoted ourselves to reading.

There's no need to converse among ourselves, even though Yumiko and Kawasaki get along relatively well, they won't talk to each other unless they really need to. And, since they're competing against Yukinoshita, there's not much for the three of them to do together. I, on the other hand, decided not to provoke anything that would start an argument and interrupt my reading time.

"Go ahead."

Yukinoshita put her book away to welcome our guest, although there's only one person who would come just a few minutes before the end of the club hour.

Okifumi opened the door once he was given permission to enter.

His expression shows surprise as he notices two new girls who weren't there when he arrived.

"Kawasaki-san?" He said with surprise and doubt, a significant change from the boy I initially met.

If someone were to say that the girls in this club are the most beautiful in all of Sobu High, I can say they're right. But still, the fact that he immediately mentioned Kawasaki upon entering is suspicious.

"Hmm?" Kawasaki looked up from her phone to focus on the guest who recognized her.

"Someone you know?" Yumiko asked, looking curiously at Okifumi.

Kawasaki looked at Okifumi as if trying to recognize him.

"I think we're in the same section." She said with disinterest.

I don't blame her; she only gets along with Yumiko, Yuigahama and Ebina, the rest of the time, she's indifferent to others.

With Kawasaki's words, I noticed a certain dejected expression on Okifumi.

Could it be that he...?

"Okifumi-kun, welcome. We already have an answer to your request."

As it's related to the club, we all focused on our guest.

"I guess you'll let me say it, right? Since I came up with the idea."

"For this time, I'll grant you the honor. Aren't I benevolent?"

I ignored Yukinoshita's words and stood up.

"The answer we came up with, based on what little we know, is regarding a 'Kabe-don.''

"Do you mean that act I've seen in some anime?"

"That saves us a lot of time in explanation. You just need to do it and say what you feel, the rest depends on you." I said cheerfully.

Don't think I didn't notice those brief glances you gave to Kawasaki.

Based on the clues I noticed in less than 5 minutes since he entered, I was able to come to a brief conclusion.

"I'm sure it will be difficult without any practice, so Kawasaki will lend you a hand with it." I gave her a quick look as she appeared surprised.

"Huh? Why should I do it?"

"If I recall correctly, you're part of the service club, so it's the least you can do, unless you can't do it, in which case, I'm sure the pres..."

"You don't have to repeat it." She said in a bad mood.

She reluctantly got up from her seat and came over to us. Yukinoshita and Yumiko just watched in silence.

"If Kawasaki-san doesn't want to, I don't think we should force her." He said somewhat nervously, but it was subtle, hard to notice. I must admit, he's good at keeping his composure, especially in front of the girl he likes.

You don't have to be a genius to realize that the person Okifumi is going to confess to is Kawasaki, and as a result, he will be rejected.

And as I'm a person with a good heart, I'll spare you that suffering by helping you indirectly confess.

"It doesn't matter." She stood by the wall. "Just do it already."

Okifumi looked nervous for the opportunity I gave him.

"Okifumi-kun, do you want me to demonstrate it for you to follow, or do you want to go first?"

I noticed Kawasaki raised an eyebrow at my words.

"I think it's best to see how it's done correctly since I've never done anything like it before." He scratched the back of his head.

With everyone in agreement, Okifumi took a seat in front of the club table.

It seems today I'm the protagonist of a romantic comedy, doing a kabe-don to the three most beautiful girls in school as well as a teacher. If I were to tell someone, I'm sure they wouldn't believe me.

Now, focusing on the situation I'm in, if I do it the same way, Kawasaki won't show any reaction, and if I'm honest, I enjoy making her nervous.

I could mention the day we kissed, but if I do it carelessly, I'll have Yumiko on my case for the rest of the year, so I discarded that idea.

So, I opted for the other option and relied on her reflexes.

"I think it's better with Yumiko, as she fits better into the 'normal girl' category." I said teasingly as I moved away from Kawasaki's position.

"Hey, Tsurumi! What are you ..."

Before she could finish speaking, I sent a punch toward her face, and as always, she backed away, dodging it.

She counterattacked, but I grabbed her wrist and used my foot to make her lose balance and fall against the wall.

With this, I only needed to say a few words, but Kawasaki is not the kind of girl who can be contained so easily, so she broke free from my grip and tried to grab me, although I was the one who let her off easily.

With my free arm, I struck my fist against the wall near her head. Unlike other times, this time the noise was much louder.

Kawasaki doesn't fit into the 'normal' category.

The noise was loud enough to distract her, so I approached her face.

"I told you, with this, we're even."

Kawasaki's face turned a deep shade of red. Those were the same words I said after kissing her, so her mind must have recalled that occasion.

"Kawasaki, I like you. Will you go out with me?" I said with a serious tone.

For some strange reason, I feel a death stare coming from the table, but I doubt it's Yukinoshita.

Kawasaki's expression is in chaos; she looks confused, not knowing how to react or what to say.

"I... I..."

Before she could respond, I felt her fist in my stomach. At the last moment, she took advantage of the fact that I wasn't paying attention to punch me with all her might.

I stepped back before another punch could come my way. She didn't hold back.

"And that's what you should do... Of course, this time she'll respond instead of giving you a punch that could knock down an older man..." I said with a hint of pain in my voice. It really hurt.

Kawasaki looked at me with anger in her eyes, but as her face was so red, I couldn't take her seriously.

"Yukinoshita, take care of the rest. I need a break." I said with a pained tone.

I slowly moved to my seat and collapsed in it.

I noticed Yumiko seemed delighted by my condition. I don't blame her; at least Kawasaki's punch saved me from Yumiko's wrath.

"I'll skip the whole show you put on." Yukinoshita said.

I just watched from my position.

"Okifumi-kun, sorry for what happened earlier; some of our members are... special, so don't think we're all like that." She sighed. "With this, I think Tsurumi-kun demonstrated the method. And if Kawasaki-san is willing, you could give it a try."

It would be strange if Yukinoshita sent Okifumi-kun with just theory, so I trusted that she would suggest he tries it himself.

"I have no problem with that." Kawasaki had calmed down, so she decided to continue, and since they're competing among the three of them, it would be a waste not to contribute something today.

"This time, make sure to give a sincere response, as if you were really being confessed to." I said before resting my head on the table. Does she have adamantium bones?

She ignored my words and stared at Okifumi.

"Please, Okifumi-kun, don't worry. I think anyone would hit Tsurumi-kun if he acted like that."

I won't respond because she's right. I was the first to attack Kawasaki, as that's the way we have to speak more personally between us. The times we go to the academy together, we have our clashes. And as expected, I win every time. Although this time I will give the victory to her.

Okifumi stood up and walked to stand in front of Kawasaki.

The height difference between them is noticeable.

Kawasaki is taller than Okifumi. He seemed nervous about this. I should lend him a hand.

"Don't worry, this is just a performance, so if you want, you can show off, so to speak." My words gave him some confidence.

I sat up straight as I said this. Most of the pain had disappeared, and I'm quite resistant to it.

"Feeling better now?" Yumiko asked.

"Time heals all wounds." I said in my normal tone.

"I see." She looked ahead. "Maybe I should ask Kawasaki to teach me a few things."

She said this last part quietly, but I managed to hear it. I hope Kawasaki refuses.

I stopped thinking about it and focused on the two in front.

Okifumi reaffirmed his expression and proceeded to slam his arm as hard as possible next to Kawasaki, but she showed no reaction.

"Kawasaki-san, I like you." He paused for a few seconds. "Ever since I first saw you, I fell in love with you. Not only are you beautiful, but you're also charming. You may look tough, but I know you're kind and gentle on the inside. For all that, I wanted to ask if you'd go out with me."

It's strange; I somehow feel upset.

I started clenching my fist under the table. All I can think about is keeping that guy away from Kawasaki.

The image of me hitting Okifumi filled my mind.

Although I know Kawasaki's response, I feel too anxious.

I tried to clear those thoughts from my mind, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't do it.

Thoughts that Kawasaki is another guy's girlfriend, and while I have no right to complain if that happens, I really don't want it to happen.

I'm really a shitty person.

"I'm sorry, but right now, I'm not interested in dating anyone, so I can't reciprocate your feelings."

But upon hearing Kawasaki's response, it was like my mind returned to its previous state.

"I suspected as much." He said in a calm tone and moved away from Kawasaki. I noticed he looked somewhat sad about it.

"Don't expect a positive response from her either, as it's more likely she'll reject you or give you a punch, so we got the typical response." I said teasingly to lighten the mood.

Kawasaki gave me a terrifying look.

"I have to agree with Tsurumi-kun. I doubt anyone in this room would give a positive response."

We only helped him with a confession method and how to do it; the rest is a different matter.

"Don't worry; this was enough, so thank you." Okifumi gave us a brief bow.

After doing so, he said goodbye and left through the door. Kawasaki returned to her seat.

The atmosphere returned to its usual state once Okifumi was gone.

There are less than 5 minutes left before the club hour ends, but before that, I have something to do.

I got up from my seat and headed towards the door.

"I have something to do, so I'll be right back. In other words, nature is calling."

With that, I avoided any wrong thoughts about me.

As I walked through the hallways, I noticed Okifumi walking slowly and without enthusiasm.

Did I have some ulterior motive for suggesting going with Kawasaki first?

I do it, and it was to demonstrate how Kawasaki could blush and look more feminine, something that didn't happen with Okifumi.

"Okifumi, you seem somewhat down."

I matched his pace and walked beside him.

"I think I'm just a bit tired, that's all."

It's obvious he wouldn't tell a stranger like me the real reason, but that suits me.

"Don't pay too much attention to Kawasaki's words because her tastes are somewhat extravagant."

My words caught his attention.

"You know her tastes?"

You shouldn't trust strangers.

"I'm her friend, so I know some things. For example, she likes tough guys, you know, the ones who look like delinquents, those who often hang around the dangerous neighborhoods of Chiba and intimidate others. So don't feel down, it's just that she has strange preferences.'' I said with a friendly tone.

"I see." Okifumi responded a little more happily.

"But don't pay too much attention to me because I know her weaknesses, so it was easy to make her blush. I'm sure you could do it too."

I turned around after saying this. "See you."

I'm not the kind of person you should trust, as I could lead you down the wrong path without even realizing it.

I heard the bell indicating the end of the club hour, so I resumed my path back to the club.

---

Yumiko and Kawasaki left first, as they had sent messages to Yuigahama and Ebina to meet and discuss everything that happened. As it's going to be a girls' talk, I declined their offer.

I gathered my things and walked towards the door. But...

I stopped before leaving because I have something else to say. And as the club president hasn't left yet, it's a good moment.

"Hey, Yukinoshita, I know Yumiko can be somewhat troublesome, and maybe I've spoiled her to the point where she's too audacious when confronting others. So I'd ask that if she tries something, don't be too drastic." I said with a friendly tone.

I can't prevent Yumiko from eventually trying to confront Yukinoshita alone, but I want to make sure that Yukinoshita won't go overboard.

"In other words, are you asking me that if she tries to attack me for something as trivial as giving in to anger, I should just endure it? That's a tasteless joke."

I supposed that she might not accept this so easily, but it's my fault for spoiling Yumiko too much.

"I'll put it in different words. If that happens, and you go too far with her, don't think I'll stand idly by." Our eyes met, and I noticed some doubt in her face. "You know me; I'm calm, but don't think that will prevent me from retaliating against you." I put on a serious expression. "There are things I can't stand, and at that moment, I doubt I'll care who I'm dealing with, whether it's a man or a woman, a vagrant, or the Prime Minister of Japan."

If Yukinoshita did great harm to Yumiko, at that moment, I won't care about the consequences. I know several things about Yukinoshita, and I wouldn't hesitate to use them against her. Traumas are much more painful than physical blows.

"Is that a threat?"

"Perhaps. But keep it in mind because to me, you're just the president of my club, while Yumiko is my friend. And at that point, don't think I'll hold back when dealing with you." I said with my usual tone.

"Those words..."

She stopped speaking.

I'm aware of the expressions I can put on, and my face right now doesn't look like someone who's playing around.

"Anyway, I'll also tell Yumiko because it wouldn't be fair for her to use this to her advantage."

Yumiko is aware that if someone tries to harm her, Kawasaki will come to her aid, or in a serious case, I will. This blind faith in me is my fault.

After saying this, I turned around and walked towards the door.

"Tsurumi-kun, wait."

"Tell me." I stayed in my position.

"If you think that by speaking to me like this, you'd intimidate me, you're mistaken." She said firmly.

I think she misunderstood me.

There's a strange atmosphere between the two of us right now. I don't want to become enemies with her, but there are things that are better to clarify.

"I see."

I turned around and walked towards Yukinoshita; I stood very close to her.

"I apologize if you interpreted it as intimidation because I just wanted to communicate this to you. Perhaps a little warning for you to keep in mind." I returned to my usual tone. "Besides, if I wanted to intimidate you, you wouldn't be standing here so calmly." I smiled as I finished saying this. "I don't know if I told you, but I have no problem getting my hands dirty. I'm one of those who act first and talk later, and I think you know that very well."

She herself witnessed how I took care of those two guys and then threatened them.

I stepped back and turned around.

"See you tomorrow, Ojou-sama." I said with an animated tone.

I raised my hand as I walked towards the door.

"I'll keep it in mind." She said as I left the club.

Were those words an empty threat?

I have no idea, but I'll find out when it happens. I just hope things don't escalate to that point. The last thing I want is to break the club president.

I also need to remember to scold Yumiko later.

And speaking of that, I think I'm forgetting something. It was about unlocking someone, but since I can't remember it, I stopped thinking about it.

---

Omake: Who are you? Who I am?

These last few days have been a whirlwind of emotions. It's not that I didn't enjoy it; in fact, I found it somewhat pleasant. However, I also longed for moments of peace in the service club.

How the heck does the service club now have 4 members? Come to think of it, I'm the one to blame. But they can't blame me. Even in my wildest thoughts, I could have never imagined this would happen.

Can Hikigaya handle those 3? I wish him all the luck in the world.

As for me, maybe I'll figure out a way to get out of this, or maybe not. But if it's not possible, I have no choice but to face it. I'm one of those who give up on bothersome things if there are no other options. Of course, this is only for everyday things, like being in a club with those 3.

After seeing it, witnessing it, experiencing it firsthand, I'm sure things will be much more interesting. I won't lie.

The order of factors doesn't alter the product, in this case, we're changing the factors for others, so the product could be different.

I wonder how things will be in the second year. After all, some events won't happen.

It's not very hard to figure out; one of them is when Yukinoshita faces Yumiko and Hayama alongside Hikigaya. Currently, that won't happen. Another is the case of Kawasaki. She stands with Yumiko and the others; her grades shouldn't be below average, and if they are, I'll make sure she gets a scholarship. And if she still needs money, I can get it for her. I'm sure I can find people who will be kind enough to offer it.

The methods don't matter, only the result. Something I always keep in mind.

My attitude and way of thinking are far from the average student, I know, but I can't do anything about it, that's just the way I am.

Another common event that won't happen, given that I'm a good brother, is the summer camp event. Rumi without friends? She has her own gang to back her up, so it doesn't make sense to think about something that won't happen.

I could try to remember more things, but I didn't give them much importance. Another way to say that I forgot them.

It's been more than 16 years that I've been in this place; my mind is not a safe.

Seriously, things have changed a lot since that time 10 years ago.

My 6-year-old self planning how to steer my life; well, I have to thank him for something, as even though everything else didn't serve me much, the only thing that proved useful is training and staying in shape.

Both physically and mentally, it was useful to me. It helped me simply stay true to myself. It's not something highly relevant, but it is to me. I'm sure that without it, things would be different right now.

Thinking about it wouldn't make sense since I don't even think I could have made it to 16.

I stopped thinking about it and inserted a coin into the vending machine.

Wasn't I thinking about the comfort of my bed or during my trip home?

The answer is a double no, as just by looking at the sky, I can notice the moon. And by checking my watch, I realize it's 3 am.

So, did I go out in search of a nearby vending machine and then return home?

I still have several cans of Max Caffe in my fridge, so my reason isn't to get something to drink.

I just wanted to go for a walk. I couldn't fall asleep, so I gave up and set out to walk wherever my feet would take me.

I'm currently in one of the less bright areas of Chiba. Even the vending machine doesn't look its best, but it works for me.

The alleyway walls are covered in graffiti. It must be a group of young delinquents with nothing better to do.

After finishing my drink, I threw my can in a nearby trash can and closed my eyes to remember the taste I had enjoyed just moments ago.

It's good to enjoy life's fleeting pleasures.

You never know when all of this could disappear, you don't know when you'll regret your lifestyle and how you chose to waste it.

Just by looking at the state of this area, I can tell.

If I had to say something, it's that anime, in general, never show you the rest.

What do I mean?

You see, if an anime is about comedy and romance, do you think they would show the protagonist walking through the shady areas of the city? In fact, such places may not even exist.

If an anime is about fights and gangsters, things change; it's all about the protagonist visiting these places, fighting anyone who gets in their way.

Two sides of the coin, but in reality, both coexist.

Things are very different when you step away from the main character's perspective.

With the information I had initially, I never would have thought that in Chiba, there could be places like this, where the police aren't always patrolling, so gangsters can do as they please.

Red zones, or pink ones. Places a guy my age shouldn't visit unless they want to get into trouble.

Not that I've been to one. Is it really worth paying for it?

Leaving that aside, I kept walking.

In one of the alleyways, I noticed a guy being beaten up by three individuals.

The guy's appearance is ordinary, so I wonder what reason he had for being out at this hour.

Maybe he thought joining a gang is fun? So his first mission was to go to the rival area and threaten them or something like that.

I have no idea, but I also don't care. So I continued on my way.

Am I a cruel person for ignoring this?

I'm sorry, but I can't think of a valid reason to intervene.

I would help him, he would improve as a person, we would both become good friends, you know, the classic cliche.

I'm not interested.

One must know what they can do.

It's never good to improvise with what you do.

That's something I always keep in mind, although in some situations, I have no choice but to improvise.

I'm not perfect, no one is. And if that were the case, things would be boring. There would be no excitement or pleasure in doing things.

A hedonist?

Not really.

I don't seek all the pleasures life can offer; I just do what allows me to enjoy my life.

But with the somewhat twisted way I think, perhaps enjoying it doesn't always apply, but at some point, one starts to do so.

What is enjoying life?

Studying, working, starting a family, and dying of old age?

Working, having money, buying everything you've ever wanted, to end up being surrounded by all the money you managed to get in your life when you're old?

Or simply enjoying every moment of life you have, so that when life ends, you have no regrets and can die in peace.

I guess I'm going for the third option.

I don't know what you can call that kind of thinking; I just define it the way I want to do things.

A huge change from my thinking from years ago?

It's not, since at that time I was planning on living my life out of the public spotlight, but whether I wanted to or not, I ended up getting involved.

I want to enjoy this new opportunity, have a good time, entertain myself, and actually, I'm doing it. But there are moments when all of this isn't always like that.

Because if you're dead, can you enjoy life?

I'm sure the dead can't do anything, so the answer is no.

Then, is it worth putting oneself in danger in situations where one risks their life?

Don't get me wrong; I'm aware of my limits.

If I were to face an armed individual with a gun, I'd be a fool to attempt anything. It would be best to run. Of course, it depends on the situation. That's why I'd never do something as foolish as getting into a situation where I'm sure I can't win.

Life isn't as easy as one thinks it is in another world.

Accidents, murders, thefts, all of this is part of society, no matter where you live.

Living in a fantasy world? I'm sure you wouldn't want to be born as a simple peasant who'll die at the hands of the demon king's army or thieves.

A futuristic world? Who says your world won't go to war with another, resulting in the destruction of your world?

A world without any evil? That doesn't exist; everything is part of the balance of life.

There's no utopia where one can enjoy life. So, if you want to ensure you do, don't do something foolish that puts your life in danger of death.

Unconsciously, I brought my hand near my shoulder, where I have a certain scar.

What's more important, your life or someone else's?

I'm sorry to tell you this, but one's own life is the most important, no matter how you look at it.

After all, how do you plan to do anything if you're dead?

This chance at a second life, I don't intend to waste it; that's what I decided. No matter what, I want to live.

Unfortunately, he doesn't feel the same way.

But I can't do anything; after all, it's his life.

No matter what happens, I want to protect the people I care about.

It's something ingrained in me, and even if I don't want it to, he'll always be there.

My body moves on its own, like that time when Rumi got lost, I didn't realize when I hugged her and used my body to protect her when I should have stayed away from danger.

I suppose I can't do more.

Most of the time, my thoughts are different; I don't know when I'm myself. I've been through so much that I consider this normal; I can't understand my own thoughts, but as I get used to it, it becomes a part of me.

Who am I?

It's something I wonder about, but when I think about it, only the name Tsurumi Raiden comes to mind.

My mind is in chaos; contradictions happen constantly, but at this point, it's as normal as breathing, and I don't even pay attention to them.

No matter what I do, things won't change; I'll just stay firm in what I want.

But I'm sure that when it's necessary, that guy will come out of the small corner where he's hiding. That safe place where everything is fine, where nothing happens, where he can still be at peace with himself.

I don't know how things will unfold from here to the future, but one thing I'm sure of is that I'll keep doing what I believe is right. Even though to some extent, these decisions will involve those I care about. But still, I'll always seek the best for them.

"Don't you agree with me, Desmont?"

There was no response as usual.

Maybe I'm going crazy?

I have no idea.

Is it just a dream from which I'll wake up and realize that nothing makes sense?

Sometimes I wish I knew where I'd be right now if things had been different.

In a wooden box several meters underground?

Or living a normal, everyday life, experiencing everything a regular person should?

Well, I'm sure I'll never have an answer to that.

Is what I feel really what I truly feel, or are they just remnants of what he feels?

It's pointless to ask myself that; after attempt 100, I gave up.

I sighed when I reached a dead-end alley; being lost in your thoughts can reflect on the path you take.

I guess I feel better now. I cleared my mind of the doubts I had, and apparently, there were more than I thought.

Even the idea of seeing how things will be when I return to the service club puts me in a good mood. Besides, I might invite Nakamura on a date next Saturday. My life is truly busy.

For now, I should head back home; it'll probably take me a while.

I didn't measure the distance I walked, my mistake.

Perhaps I should try not to get too distracted while walking. Although the distraction was me.

Hilarious. I sighed to myself.

What will happen from now on?

I don't know, and as strange as it may sound, it genuinely excites me. Although, of course, a part of me knows it will be tedious and annoying.

With that, I began to walk home.

"Hey, hey, what's a high school kid doing around here at this hour?" I focused my attention on the voice.

If I remember correctly, these are the same three guys who beat up that kid when I passed by one of the alleys. They must easily be in their 30s to 40s.

"One goes out for a walk and to contemplate life."

"It's the first time someone's given me an answer like that, hahaha, you're funny, kid!"

After a brief exchange of glances, I ignored them and continued on my way. I'm in a good mood, so I'll pass them by. Although the voice of that guy stopped me.

"We're having a nice chat; why don't you join us and have some fun? Maybe have some beers and talk about women, of course, you're buying."

"Like that guy?" I said raising my eyebrow.

"You saw us? That makes things easier. You see, that idiot refused to buy us a drink, so we left him a little gift he'll remember for the rest of his life. Hahaha."

"If you put it that way, I suppose there's not much to be done."

I noticed how the second guy had one of his hands in his pocket. They're just drunk idiots who rob unsuspecting people, so at most, they must have a knife.

In Japan, the penalty for having a firearm is much higher than that for a knife, so it's common to encounter people who carry them out and commit their misdeeds. How do I know this? Well, let's say my senpai gives very well-explained lessons. He may be a womanizer, but I won't doubt his reasoning ability.

The one who spoke to me approached with confidence.

"But you know, I'm currently short on cash." I said in my usual tone.

"That's a shame."

After saying this, he tried to hit me, but I moved my head to avoid it. Delivering a strong blow depends on many things: position, strength, and location. Of course, I could choose to just hit with brute force, but sometimes it's good to practice. So I focused on my stance, centered my strength in my right arm, and then smashed my fist into his stomach.

"ARGH!"

A characteristic sound of losing all the air from one's body, and pain. The guy got down on his knees while holding his stomach. Right on target.

"I'm in a good mood, so I'll make it easy for you." I said in a calm tone. I lifted my leg over his head, and the result: an axe kick. I think this is part of a discipline's technique, but I don't remember which.

That guy stopped making any sound. Perhaps I hit my foot too hard on his head, or his head hit the ground?

I heard some obscenities from the second guy and saw him take something out of his pocket. I stepped back to dodge the knife he pulled out to try and stab me.

Am I in danger? I don't think so. You see, my Sensei taught me many things, and one of them is disarming someone. Is this something a kid my age should learn? I don't think so, but it's always good to know extra things. Besides, being stabbed isn't a pleasant way to die, so I've been told.

As I dodged his attack, he moved his arm to try to cut me, but with skillful footwork, I avoided it, and he became vulnerable. Without wasting any time, I held his arm outstretched.

"You know, doing this leaves you very vulnerable." I said in a friendly tone. I lowered his arm and raised my knee.

"ARRGHGHHG." The guy just screamed as his arm was broken. His arm points unnaturally in another direction; well, it does it on its own since the ligaments and muscles are broken. Did I go too far? I doubt it.

Without wasting any time, I gave him a kick right in the head, rendering him unconscious.

"You know, I was in a good mood, but you reminded me of a certain idiot, and since I couldn't do anything to him, I guess you'll take his place."

Although Kawasaki took care of that idiot from the Judo club, I won't deny that I wanted to go and hit him for trying to attack Yumiko. But that would just give me more trouble, and since Kawasaki humiliated him, I let it slide. But now, those feelings are back, and what better way to play with some sacks of meat.

I started smiling unconsciously.

I could see the other guy standing there, there's always one of those in groups of bullies, the one who only joins when everyone is attacking one, but when they see they're losing, they freeze.

"What should I do with you?" I said with a very unfriendly expression.

Did he freeze out of fear? Pathetic. I guess it's normal when you see your friends incapacitated in a matter of seconds.

"You can go." I said emotionlessly.

"Really?" He reacted upon hearing my words. His voice tone showed fear, but he still spoke.

"Of course." I smiled.

He hesitated for a moment, but then turned to leave this place.

An important rule: never turn your back on someone, let alone believe what they say.

"If I didn't promise it, you should never believe me."

Since I'm in this, it would be boring to let him go. So, I gave his ankle a kick, making him lose balance and then I got on top of him and started hitting him.

Using brute force can be entertaining, too.

He tried to defend himself by putting his arms up, but I quickly overwhelmed him, with nothing but his face taking my blows.

Seeing that my fists were stained with blood, I decided to stop. There are limits one should not cross, especially when it could affect your life.

So, I stood up and focused my attention on the other guy.

"You're quite interesting, I must say you must be the leader." I said as I walked slowly, increasing the tension in the atmosphere.

The guy whose arm I had broken tried to move towards the knife.

I approached him, just to kick his hand that had managed to retrieve the weapon.

"You know, weapons like that can be dangerous." I had an idea.

I used one of my hands to hold his head, making him look in my direction.

"A study showed that weapons like that can also be used to destroy eyeballs." My other hand went to his face. "But I also read something interesting, fingers can be used instead of a weapon," I said with a cheerful tone.

I could see the fear in his face, as if he was looking at a monster. I don't blame him, even though my tone of voice is cheerful, I'm sure my expression isn't.

"How about we put that to the test?" I said with a big smile.

"Wait, stop... Please... Stop... Arhgahga...!" He started to scream, but after a few seconds, he stopped.

"You're lucky I'm in a good mood."

I simply limited myself to strangle him, causing him to lose consciousness due to lack of oxygen.

I have limits, and I don't intend to cross them unless it's necessary.

Am I a monster for doing this?

I don't think so; after all, I was just defending myself.

I looked at the mess I had made, and I guess I might have gone a bit overboard.

One of my favorite moments after finishing some exercise.

"You know what they say, a thief who steals from another thief is forgiven for a thousand years."

I rummaged through their pockets and took everything of value.

Once I took the money they had, I began to move away from their bodies.

Did I really come to this place just to clear my thoughts?

There are moments when I don't even know what I'm really thinking. At some point, it can be frightening, but you get used to it.

With nothing else to do, I began my journey back home.

But before that, I decided to pass by the alley where those three guys beat up that kid.

I approached his body, which looked very battered, and he was still unconscious. It must have been a severe beating.

"I see, was this your response to my words? You really are an idiot."

Who would take those words seriously?

Well, it seems he did.

Thanks to his request, things changed in the service club, but it's not entirely his fault. Although I believe I have some responsibility for how it turned out. (Kawasaki likes strong and assertive guys; someone weak who seems vulnerable will never have a chance with her. I'm her friend, so I know her well enough to say that)

Did he think he'd be like a protagonist who can fight and become strong by fighting others?

Or maybe he just came to these places to see what they're like, where you can easily find yourself in danger. But for his bad luck, he was attacked by those three idiots.

From what little I know of him, it seems to be the second option. It's a bad habit to create unrelated hypotheses. It's not my fault; I'm naturally pessimistic.

Looking closely, I noticed cuts on his body, as well as several bruises. He has several wounds all over his body. I'm not a doctor, but I'm sure these wounds are not minor and easy to ignore. Although he's not in danger, as I didn't notice any stab wounds on his body.

"You're lucky, eh."

I'm responsible for this, perhaps.

Did I have a reason to say that? Not at all.

I think it was the first time I felt jealous, so a small part of me wanted to smash your face into a wall, but it was just a passing thought.

The guy on the ground is none other than Okifumi.

After receiving advice from the club, he indirectly confessed to Kawasaki but was rejected.

Seeing him do it gave me a strange feeling. What if Kawasaki had really accepted him? It was a fleeting thought, and in that moment, I didn't even understand why I wanted to hit him.

I'm sure she would have rejected him, but I still felt jealous.

Jealous of what?

I guess of being able to say those words, to gather the courage and express your feelings to someone you care about, while I can't. Well, it was indirect.

"Even though you knew she would reject you because of how she acted during the club, you still decided to do it. I really don't know if you're a fool or just very brave." I said to myself, as he didn't seem conscious.

It doesn't matter that I feel envious of others' decisions; I made a decision a long time ago. I'm a selfish bastard, I know that very well.

I want to have it all and not lose anything.

I'm not a good person, I'm far from what some people believe I am.

But none of that matters, as in the end, all that's left is to maintain this status quo until it becomes impossible to maintain. At that point, all that remains is to continue on my path, regrets or past emotions won't matter.

I shook my head. I gain nothing from trying to predict the future, as in the end, nothing ever goes as planned.

The normal thing would have been to call an ambulance or move him to a more visible place, but since his condition isn't life-threatening, I decided to leave him. Maybe the paramedics will find him by chance, or maybe not.

Who knows.

That small part of me that felt strange during the confession feels satisfied. I'm weird.

With nothing else to do, I decided to head home.

"Maybe I am a monster?" There was no one to answer this.

With that in mind, I continued on my way. At least I'll be able to sleep soundly for the rest of the night.