Chapter 19

As they neared the faculty meeting room, Hiroki's nerves spiked, though he tried to mask it. His grip tightened around the book, fingers pressing so hard against the cover that he could almost feel the ridges of the embossed title. A quick glance at Miyagi revealed his colleague's amused grin—a look Hiroki recognised well. For Miyagi, this was just another thrill, an opportunity to enjoy the tension while Hiroki squirmed.

Professor Sato, walking alongside them, gave each a warm, encouraging pat on the shoulder. "Good luck, boys," she whispered with a grin. "I'll be eagerly waiting to hear about your daring mission." With that, she slipped into the meeting room, leaving Hiroki and Miyagi to face the challenge independently.

"Alright, Kamijou," Miyagi said, eyes gleaming with a mischievous glint as he clapped his hands together. "This is it—our mission awaits."

Hiroki sighed, rolling his eyes. "This isn't a drama production, Miyagi. We're just handing over a book." But the excitement in his voice betrayed him. Despite his attempts to stay cool, he couldn't help feeling a surge of anticipation as they rounded the corner, nearly colliding with none other than Dean Takatsuki himself.

Startled, the Dean took a step back before his face broke into a warm, welcoming smile. "Ah, Miyagi, Kamijou," he greeted, nodding to them. "What brings you both here so early for the meeting?"

Hiroki took a steadying breath, preparing himself, and was about to speak when Miyagi, always quick on the uptake, stepped in first. "Actually, Dean, we've got something special for you," he began, voice smooth and practised. "Kamijou here stumbled upon a little gem over the weekend and immediately thought of you."

Dean Takatsuki's curiosity sparked as he looked between them. Hiroki felt his heart hammering as he stepped forward, holding out the book with both hands. "I was at a literary festival," he said, his voice betraying a touch of nervous excitement, "and I came across this title. I remembered you mentioning it once during one of our meetings."

The Dean's eyes widened as he read the title aloud, "The Crane's Lament!" He gasped, reaching out for the book with a kind of reverence. "This has been out of stock for months! How on earth did you manage to find a copy?"

Hiroki shrugged, trying to seem casual as he exchanged a look with Miyagi. "Just a lucky find, I suppose. The title stuck in my mind," he replied, omitting the fact that he'd spent hours scouring the festival until he found it.

"Serendipity," Miyagi added, gesturing dramatically. "What are the odds, right?"

"But…" Dean Takatsuki hesitated, clutching the book to his chest with a mixture of awe and reluctance. He glanced between them, his expression shifting into a playful frown. "You're teasing me with this, aren't you? What's the game?"

Miyagi interjected quickly, raising a hand in mock surrender. "Teasing? Hardly. This is for you."

Hiroki nodded in agreement, his expression softening. "Absolutely. As lovers of the written word, as we all are, we knew it belonged in your hands."

Dean Takatsuki's frown melted into a look of touched disbelief. He glanced down at the book once more, the reverence in his gaze deepening.

"Gentlemen," he began with a slight frown, "this is beyond thoughtful. But I really can't accept it without compensation. A book like this must have cost a small fortune, and, well, I don't want it to appear as though I'm showing favouritism."

Hiroki's brow furrowed—he hadn't anticipated this reaction or stir up concerns about ethics.

"I didn't think of that, I didn't realise it could be an issue for you.' Hiroki pondered as he shot Miyagi a worried glance.

The Dean chuckled softly, his discomfort evident as he shifted on his feet. "I just don't want anyone to think I'm accepting gifts from my staff; the previous Dean of Creative Arts got into an issue when he was found accepting paintings from faculty members, and those members got quick promotions," he said, his voice thoughtful.

Sensing Hiroki's unease, Miyagi, ever the diplomat, stepped forward with a knowing smile. "Come on, Dean," he cajoled. "Think of it as a gift from family. You know you're practically family, right?" He shot Hiroki a playful look, as if to say Trust me on this. "After all, we both know you and I go way back. Besides, we aren't buying your favour, Kamijou merely found a book. No shady business here."

The Dean softened visibly, his shoulders relaxing as he laughed. "Well, Miyagi, when you put it like that… Fine, I'll take it. But now that this means more to me than you probably realise." He shook their hands firmly, his grip warm and sincere, as a smile of genuine gratitude spread across his face. "You two have truly made my day."

As they filed into the meeting room, Hiroki shot a triumphant glance at Miyagi, who grinned back in shared victory. The Dean's newfound enthusiasm for the book played perfectly into their plans, and his eagerness for the meeting to end was already evident as he glanced at the clock.

Once everyone was seated, the Dean stood at the head of the room, practically radiating energy. "Alright, everyone, we'll keep this short. Something urgent has come up that requires my immediate attention." He winked at Miyagi and Hiroki, clutching the book protectively as if unwilling to part with it for even a second. Around the room, a murmur rippled, and Hiroki noticed Sato casting a sly, knowing glance their way, eyes alight with amusement.

The Dean launched into his updates swiftly, eyes dancing with excitement. "Important dates—next Wednesday, the class schedules for next semester will be released to us. Be sure to check them carefully before they're finalised for student registration," he said, scanning the room. "And, for those using Lecture Theatre 3, there's an issue with the projector. Let us know if it's a problem, and we'll relocate you."

The Dean continued; his efficiency unusually sharp as he ran through updates quickly. "Professor Ito," he said, nodding toward a professor at the back, "your office move has been approved, the movers will start relocating your furniture on Friday. Professor Sato," he added with a grin, "I have a stack of teaching assistant applications here for you to sift through. Quite a number of eager candidates this semester I've been told."

Sato gave a grateful nod, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"And," the Dean continued, turning to Hiroki and Miyagi with a conspiratorial smile, "Kamijou, Miyagi—I need you to cancel your morning classes tomorrow. History needs your rooms for an impromptu seminar. Since you both have intro classes, it'll minimise the disruption."

A wave of near-celebratory relief passed between Hiroki and Miyagi, both grateful for the unexpected break. They could practically taste the free time, a rare treat in their tightly packed schedules.

The Dean wrapped up his updates with a final note on moving to digital submissions next semester. "Starting next term, no more paper assignments. I know it's a bittersweet transition—no more red-pen marking," he sighed, reminiscing. "But think of your wrists. They'll thank you."

The Dean gave a last, contented glance down at his new book. "Now, if there aren't any pressing questions, I really must dash. Thank you for your hard work, everyone, and if anything urgent arises, drop me a message."

As the Dean exited the room with a pleased smile, murmurs of disbelief erupted among the faculty members. Hiroki and Miyagi were soon enveloped by the bubbling excitement. Professor Arai leaned over, rubbing his eyes as if he'd just woken from a dream. "Is it over already?" he whispered, almost reverently. "I've never seen the Dean wrap up so fast."

"Same!" Professor Ito responded, her tone laced with wonder. "I was prepared for a two-hour marathon. But now…" Her face lit up, "I'll actually make it in time for my daughter's recital!"

Professor Arai chuckled, gathering his things. "It feels like a blessing, really. I'm going to have time to beat rush hour and enjoy dinner for once."

Another professor, Tanaka, chimed in, shaking his head in disbelief as he stuffed a notebook into his bag. "Somebody pinch me; I'm not convinced that just happened! This almost never happens around here. Usually, it's just us and our coffee mugs battling it out through the last round of updates and the Deans long winded side stories."

From the back of the room, Professor Murata, a notoriously serious member of the faculty, even cracked a smile as he glanced up from his laptop. "I can get my marking finished at a decent time."

Professor Sato, who had been watching the scene unfold with a gleam in her eye, finally came up to Hiroki and Miyagi, practically glowing with appreciation. "Thank you, gentlemen. Truly, my heroes. Drinks on me next time, all right?" She gave them both a playful salute, hurrying off with a satisfied smile.

As the faculty members gradually filed out, exchanging animated plans for the extra time they suddenly had, Hiroki and Miyagi lingered in the room, sharing a moment of mutual satisfaction.

Hiroki let out a slow breath, watching the last few people leave, before turning to Miyagi with a smirk. "I can't believe that worked," he finally said, shaking his head.

"When you suggested giving him the book, I thought you were joking." Miyagi responded, but then grinned, crossing his arms and leaning back against the table.

"When have I ever joked?" Hiroki stated

"It's a good job the Dean's a sucker for books. The man looked like a kid in a candy store when he saw that title."

Hiroki shrugged, his lips quirking up despite himself. "Yeah, but he almost didn't take it. I thought for sure he'd hand it back."

"True," Miyagi agreed, chuckling. "He was about to get all ethical on us, as usual. Luckily, I could pull the family card on him; that always gets him. You saw how fast he caved?"

Hiroki laughed, shaking his head. "It's a bit shameless, but… well, I guess it did the job."

Miyagi nodded, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "You know, Kamijou, we make a pretty good team when it comes to quick-thinking. Maybe we should start strategising these things more often. Think of the possibilities—there could be whole days of freedom ahead."

Hiroki snorted, amused. "Please, I can only handle so much of your 'strategies.' You'd probably get us roped into more trouble than we're already in."

"Oh, ye of little faith," Miyagi replied, feigning offense. "One day, Kamijou, you're going to look back and realise I'm a genius. But, until then…" He patted Hiroki's shoulder with mock solemnity. "I suppose I'll have to content myself with small victories like this."

Hiroki rolled his eyes, though he was smiling. "If only you applied this kind of effort to your actual work, Miyagi."

Miyagi chuckled, giving a dramatic sigh. "You're right. And that would be such a loss for the world of campus office politics, wouldn't it?"

They both laughed, and a comfortable silence settled between them as they took in the rare quiet of the now-empty meeting room. After a moment, Hiroki spoke, his tone a touch softer. "Seriously, though… thanks. That little intervention saved us hours of sitting around listening to announcements."

Miyagi shrugged, flashing a warm, genuine smile. "Hey, you're the one who found the book. Besides, I think it's the least we deserve after the last few faculty meetings. I'd say it was well-earned."

Hiroki looked around, enjoying the stillness before the bustle of the day resumed. "Let's just hope it holds up. Knowing the Dean, he'll probably drag us back in next week for updates."

Miyagi waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, don't jinx it. Besides, maybe we can find a new 'gift of appreciation' for him if that happens. Just imagine the look on his face."

Hiroki chuckled, standing up and grabbing his bag. "You'd better keep an eye out for more rare books, then. And don't expect me to play delivery boy every time."

"Deal," Miyagi replied, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "But fair warning, Kamijou—I might get used to this 'hero' treatment. Today could be just the beginning."

Hiroki rolled his eyes, but there was an undeniable hint of warmth in his gaze as they both left the room.

Miyagi chuckled, clapping Hiroki on the shoulder. "How about a celebratory drink? Feels like we've earned it!"

Hiroki hesitated, picturing a quiet evening with Nowaki. "As tempting as a drink sounds, I actually have plans tonight," he said, already envisioning the lazy morning that awaited him due to the unexpected class cancellation.

"Plans already?" Miyagi sighed dramatically, feigning disappointment. "Such a shame, Kamijou. With classes cancelled, we could've made it a night to remember." He grinned, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Don't tell me you've got a date with 'lover boy.'"

Hiroki shot him a deadpan look. "Some of us prefer better company," he replied, though the faintest smile played at his lips.

Miyagi cast Hiroki a long, appraising look, one eyebrow arched in amusement. "Well, well, would you look at that," he said with a knowing grin. "If I didn't know better, I'd say you were practically glowing, Kamijou. Looks like you got your 'fill' over the weekend, huh?" He leaned in a bit, as if examining Hiroki for further signs of his indiscretions. "You know, you're not exactly the young professor who started here. Don't want to pull your back out with all these…home workouts."

Hiroki's mouth pressed into a thin line as he fought back a retort, but Miyagi wasn't finished.

"Getting your fill, or should I say filled, in your case—can't be healthy, Kamijou," Miyagi continued, barely containing his laughter. "One of these days, you'll end up hobbling into work, and everyone will know exactly why."

Hiroki shot him a glare. "And you're one to talk, cradle-snatcher," he countered, a smirk forming. "Surely a respected, older professor like yourself should know better than to go around corrupting the younger generation. The Deans' son— I'd be impressed if it wasn't so twisted."

Miyagi let out an exaggerated gasp, clutching his chest in mock offense. "Corrupting?" he scoffed. "Kamijou, please. I'm not the one limping around after a weekend of…enthusiastic activities." He tilted his head, eyes twinkling with mischief. "Actually, is that a bit of a limp I see right now? Shouldn't you be keeping that puppy of yours on a leash?"

Hiroki rolled his eyes, unamused. "I'm not limping, Miyagi."

"Oh, come on," Miyagi pressed, leaning against the doorframe of their shared office with a sly grin. "Just admit it—you enable this behaviour! That giant doesn't look like the type to make a move without your say-so. Honestly, Kamijou, it's you all along! You're the real wild one here."

Hiroki's gaze turned icy. "I'm not dignifying that with a response," he said coolly, adjusting his bag on his shoulder.

"Uh-huh, sure," Miyagi shot back, laughter in his voice. "Just try not to wear yourself out tonight, Kamijou. Someone around here has to be the responsible one."

Hiroki sighed, his patience thinning. "Miyagi, as the actual responsible one, I'm sure you'll manage to meet all the grading deadlines without sneaking half your workload onto my desk."

That shut Miyagi up for a moment, but Hiroki wasn't done. He crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow. "And as for giving advice on 'overdoing it'—coming from the man with a literal teenager at home?" Hiroki's voice dripped with irony. "Please. Spare me the wisdom. I'll keep my 'enthusiasm' if you can manage not to get completely worn out by your little guy's 'young, insatiable energy.' Frankly, I'm surprised he hasn't eaten you alive already."

Miyagi's laughter cut off abruptly, and he shot Hiroki an exaggerated scowl. "Touché, Kamijou. Touché." Miyagi put his hands up in mock surrender. "Fine, fine, I'll stop with the teasing. It's no fun when you bite back like that," he said, flashing a grin that didn't quite hide his amusement.

Hiroki huffed, crossing his arms. "Good," refraining himself from saying anything else in case he gave more ammunition.

Miyagi smirked and gave Hiroki a playful salute. "Have fun tonight, then. Don't do anything I wouldn't do."

Rolling his eyes, Hiroki shot back, "That doesn't leave much, then, Miyagi."

Miyagi chuckled, reaching into his coat pocket for a cigarette. "Touché. Speaking of which, I best get home to my own youthful 'enthusiasm.' Can't let you have all the fun."

Hiroki made a face, mock groaning. "I really don't need to know what you're getting up to this evening, thank you very much."

With a laugh, Miyagi paused, giving Hiroki a cheeky wink as he lit his cigarette. "Well, Kamijou, I will, in fact, get in. But I'll spare you the details this time."

Hiroki narrowed his eyes, "Miyagi,This conversation is over."

"Take care, Kamijou!" Miyagi called after him with a grin. "And say hello to lover boy!"

Hiroki didn't look back, though he fought the small smile that threatened to break through. As he walked, his thoughts drifted to the evening ahead with Nowaki—the peaceful moments they'd share, the laughter, and the warmth of being together. But with every step, his amusement grew, laughter bubbling up inside him as he disappeared into the evening.

AN—Apologies for the long wait. Life and work have been crazy! 2025, and I have never been so busy. Thank you for your patience if you have been waiting for an update.

The end is nigh! Maybe one more chapter, and then a little Epilogue, and we're done! I didn't think I'd get this far, but I have enjoyed this! My first multi-chapter story has turned into this wild creation. A very adventurous first foray into writing more than one-shots.

I rewrote Miyagi's teasing multiple times, there were so many avenues I could have taken it, and I'd always get a new retort each time I went back to it. Hopefully I've done Terrorist fans justice and not offended them with Hiroki's comebacks!

Anyone else missing Nowaki? Because I am. Lets get back to my egoists!

As always, let me know you stopped by, see you soon.

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