"You said something really interesting, Ayanokouji-kun. Out with it." said Horikita, raising her eyebrows at Ayanokouji. Horikita seemed to be intrigued by Ayanokouji's statement and waited for him to elaborate further.
"Are you really okay with how the study group went?" asked Ayanokouji, bringing up the thorny topic. Ayanokouji noticed that the study group with Kushida and the three idiots is still continuing. Kushida is a capable student, but she needs more help and has a lot of topics to cover so the three idiots won't be expelled.
"Why are you asking me? I was the one who proposed holding the study group in the first place. Besides, I got the feeling that you considered it
a hassle. Am I wrong?" replied Horikita.
"I think things are going to get worse with the others."
"I don't care. I'm used to it. Besides, Hirata-kun picked up most of the failing students. He knows how to study, he seems to get along with others, and, unlike me, he'll be a good tutor. At the very least, they should all pass. It was pointless to try teaching the failing students myself. We would go through this same scenario for every test until graduation. It would be pointless to try making up for their failure every single time."
"Sudou and the others don't much like Hirata. I doubt they'll participate in his study group. Most likely, Kushida can't tutor and cover all of the material on the midterm by herself. They will most likely fail."
"That's their decision, which has nothing to do with me. Besides, if they're facing expulsion, they shouldn't grumble about trivial nonsense. If they don't get closer to Hirata-kun, then they'll be expelled. Of course, my goal is to have Class D reach Class A status. However, that's for my own sake and no one else's. I don't care about anyone else. Really, if we dump the failures on this next midterm, then the better students will be left. That's what I need, correct? In that case, attaining a higher rank will be simple. Everything will work out perfectly. Besides, Kushida-san insists that we save them and I disagree. We have opposing views, so if she wants to save them, then she should do it herself."
"Horikita, isn't that way of thinking flawed?"
"Flawed? What's flawed? You're not going to give me some gibberish about how there's no future for someone who would abandon her classmates, are you?"
"That kind of talk won't work on you, anyways. At any rate, I'll have to agree with you."
"I'm glad that we agree on one thing, but why? There's no strategic advantage to helping failures."
"There are probably very few advantages, certainly. However, it does help prevent a setback."
"Demerit?"
"Do you really think that the school hasn't considered this? They've deducted points for students arriving late or playing around during class time. Let's say these students are expelled because no one helped them. How many points do you think they'll deduct from us then?"
"That's—"
"Of course, we don't have any proof that's how it works. However, isn't it possible? 100 points? 1,000 points? They might even deduct 10,000 or 100,000 points. If that happens, it'll be very difficult for you to reach Class A."
"We've gone down to zero points because of our infractions. We can't go any lower. If we're currently at zero, don't you think it's best to eliminate the dead weight? That would be the same as taking no damage."
"There's no guarantee that'd be the case. There could be penalties we just don't see yet. Do you really think it's okay to take such a dangerous risk? Well. I'm sure that someone as smart as you must have thought about that already. Otherwise, you would never have suggested creating a study group
M in the first place. You would've just abandoned the failures from the very beginning."
"Even if there are potential unknown negatives, it's better for the future of our class to abandon the failing students. Wouldn't you regret not abandoning them when we do finally increase our points? Right now, it's a risk that we should take."
"Do you really think so?"
"Yes. Really. I'm at a complete loss as to why you're so desperate to save them."
"I don't throw any assets away even if those assets are minor and insignificant."
"Assets?"
"Think about it. Your classmates are your assets and key to Class A."
"Those defects? Doubt it."
"Even defects can have their uses."
"Perhaps. But, they present more negatives and positives."
"Merit, huh? I suppose that you think only in terms of gain and loss."
"Is that bad? People are calculating creatures, for the most part. If you sell goods, you receive money. If you do someone a favor, that debt of gratitude will be repaid. By giving up a seat, you gain the joy of contributing to society. Am I wrong?"
"No, I don't think you're wrong. I think the same thing."
"So then—"
"If you keep to that belief, you'll need to maintain a broad perspective on life. You're so angry and dissatisfied, you can't see what's in front of you."
Horikita wanted to snap back at Ayanokouji, but she couldn't do it. Her mind began to race as she stared at what Ayanokouji was saying.
'Hmm... Ayanokouji-kun could be right. Am I so foolish and tied up with my views? What am I missing? I normally won't listen to anyone, but Ayanokouji is a special case. I can't understand him at all, his entrance exam scores are all 50s, and he managed to hold his own against Nii-san. He also seemed to figure out some key points of the S-system during the first month. He's hiding something and seems more intelligent than he lets on.' thought Horikita.
"Hmm... Any proof of that?" said Horikita, still not convinced by Ayanokouji's statement, but is willing to hear him out.
"I don't know what abilities I have, but I see what you don't. It's the one flaw of the seemingly perfect person known as Horikita Suzune." said Ayanokouji.
"What is it?"
"Your flaw is that you think of everyone else as a burden, and so you detach yourself and never let anyone come close- a superiority complex and will become a liability for others. Isn't it possible they placed you in Class D because you consider yourself superior to everyone?"
"It's almost as if you're saying I'm the same as Sudou-kun and his group."
"Are you saying that you aren't equal?"
"Yes. It's obvious if you look at our test scores. That's proof enough that they're mere baggage for our class to carry."
"If we're talking about studying, then Sudou and the others are certainly two or three steps behind you, Horikita. No matter how hard they worked, they likely couldn't overtake you. However, we know that this school doesn't only focus on intelligence. Suppose that the next exam was related to sports. The results would be different then. Am I wrong?"
"That's—"
"You're physically capable. From your swimming, I can tell you're one of the most capable girls in the class. Superior. However, we both know that Sudou's physical abilities far exceed yours. Ike has better communication skills than you. If the test took the form of a discussion, Ike would certainly be useful. Really, you'd most likely bring the class average down. So, does that make you incompetent? No. Every individual has his or her own strengths and weaknesses. That's what it means to be human."
Horikita froze and started to think about Ayanokouji's explanation.
'I never heard Ayanokouji talk so much before. He must be really passionate about this. Weaknesses and strengths? Assets? I'm beginning to understand what Ayanokouji is saying. But, there's something missing from the puzzle.' thought Horikita.
"This is all pure conjecture. It's nothing more than armchair speculation. There's no proof of such things, but I'll keep in mind what you said." said Horikita.
"Think back on what Chabashira-sensei said. When she called us into the guidance room, she said, 'Who exactly decided that smart people are categorically superior?' From that, we can draw the conclusion that academic ability doesn't solely determine the rankings. Remember also, what your older brother said: the school is not like what it seems. He also pointed out your lack of change. From that, he's subtly warning you about your flawed and fixated view on test scores determining superiority and class rank." said Ayanokouji.
'Nii-san and Ayanokouji-kun... Both people that I see fondly. His presence and words are similar to Nii-san, soothing and reassuring me. I don't know when or how , but I think I'm feeling a sense of fondness for Ayanokouji-kun. His words... I feel like they're the truth. No. It's the truth I believe.' thought Horikita.
"Interesting. I suppose it wouldn't hurt to see if your words hold water." said Horikita.
"Does that mean you'll-" asked Ayanokouji.
"I'll borrow a bit of your advice and keep my assets. I'll look after Sudou-kun and the others, but for my own sake. I'll make sure that they don't get left behind, but only as a strategic means of securing an advantage for our future. Okay?"
"Don't worry. I didn't think you'd do it any differently. That's just like you, Horikita."
Horikita blushed a little bit and gave a little smile when Ayanokouji said that. Ayanokouji noticed how beautiful Horikita was when she smiled and realized that he just saw a rare sight. A smiling Horikita: a smile that displayed her trust that is slowly building for Ayanokouji. That trust is what caused Horikita to accept Ayanokouji's words.
"I hope you're ready to work. Because I'm going to work to death." said Horikita.
"Come on. Don't do that. Workers have rights." Ayanokouji.
"A slave has no rights."
"I revoked my partnership with you."
Horikita gave out a small giggle before retaining her serious and stern expression, "Ayanokouji-kun, are you my ally or friend?"
Horikita asked Ayanokouji directly. Horikita seemed confused on the definition of a friend and what constituted one.
"Horikita, as you said earlier to your brother, I'm your friend and ally." said Ayanokouji.
"I-I only said that at the spur of the moment." said Horikita, blushing a little as she was reminded of that.
"Yes. But, you considered me a friend and an ally. Someone that you can trust. It's something that only you can decide." replied Ayanokouji.
"I-I suppose... Y-you're my first f-friend and ally, Ayanokouji-kun."
'Horikita is a strong girl that doesn't show weakness. But, that doesn't mean she doesn't have any. She chooses not to show it. Her flaws... I wonder what kind of person Horikita would be if she didn't have it. She mostly likely would've been placed in Class A.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Likewise. You're my first friend, Horikita." said Ayanokouji.
"R-really?! Not Kushida-san?" asked Horikita.
"You're the first person that I met."
"Yes, I remember." muttered Horikita, blushing a little bit as she remembered what happened on the bus and how her feelings changed.
"We must inform Kushida tomorrow about your changed mind." said Ayanokouji.
"Yes. Don't remind me. I will work with Kushida to ensure that Sudou-kun and the group won't fail. But, remember what I said about her."
"Yeah. But, her cooperation is necessary for our success."
And with that, Ayanokouji extended his hand to Horikita and both parties shook their hands, signaling the start of a partnership.
Manabu POV:
Manabu is standing nearby and is watching Ayanokouji and his younger sister from a distance. He couldn't hear the conversation, but could see them clearly.
Manabu watched on proudly as Suzune blushed a little bit and averted her eyes from Ayanokouji. From Manabu's perspective, he could tell that his sister was changing significantly the last time that he saw her and it was caused by Ayanokouji. He watched as Suzune blushed even more as she shook hands with Ayanokouji.
He remembered the words that Suzune told him a few minutes ago: 'I suppose he's my friend and ally.' He couldn't believe that Suzune had said that. It's been years since she called anyone a friend.
'Suzune... you're changing finally. Fight hard and struggle to Class A. It's the perfect way to get to your goals and dreams. Fight for it. I'll be watching you from now on. Show me your growth and potential. Of course, the road to Class A is a long and painful fight. And... your fight for Ayanokouji is going to be equally difficult especially having so many rivals. Even though you don't know of it. I have the feeling that Ayanokouji will be the one with a lot of attention in the future. So, this is the boy that Tachibana trusted. I figured as much from someone like him. What an interesting young man. Go, Suzune. Fight for him and yourself.' thought Manabu.
From here on, Manabu became the captain of the Suzune and Ayanokouji ship. He watched in amusement and smirked as his sister blushed wildly when she shook hands with Ayanokouji.
Ayanokouji POV:
Ayanokouji was at the vending machine with Horikita. They had bought some drinks and stood by the wall, sipping their drinks silently. Horikita seems to be silently thinking about something while Ayanokouji is busy reading the nutrition label of his drink.
"What are you thinking about?" asked Ayanokouji, breaking the silence.
"Plans... about how to tackle the midterms with the study group." replied Horikita.
"I see. Let me know if you have some ideas. I may be able to provide some assistance."
"T-thank you, Ayanokouji-kun."
Horikita's face seemed to be a little red and Ayanokouji turned towards her. She averted her eyes and started to chug down her drink in a hurry. A few moments later, Horikita finished her drink, "I'm going back to the dorm. Are you coming?"
"Not yet. You go first. I don't want to see us together and start rumors about us." said Ayanokouji.
"Good point. Good night, Ayanokouji-kun."
"Good night, Horikita."
Horikita walked into the darkness and rounded the corner. Ayanokouji waited for a few moments, finishing his drink before leaving. He decided to walk over a trash can to throw away his empty drink bottle. Ayanokouji threw away the bottle and noticed a lone figure sitting at a bench. The figure is facing the empty road that leads to the Keyaki Mall and their back facing Ayanokouji. Ayanokouji wondered what someone is doing late at night by themselves, especially near curfew. It's not like he's doing the same thing as well.
Ayanokouji approached the figure and the figure seemed occupied by something. They were hunched over and staring at something on their lap and didn't seem to notice and hear Ayanokouji's footsteps or presence. Ayanokouji decided not to speak yet and make a little noise, so as not to spook the person.
Ayanokouji intentionally took a loud step and the figure shot up in alarm and turned around. It was Inogashira Kokoro, Ayanokouji's classmate.
'Inogashira. She's quite shy and reserved. That looks like some yarn, needle, and sewing kit on her lap. Most likely, she's sewing something.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Hello, Inogashira." said Ayanokouji.
"E-eh?! A-Ayanokouji-kun... I-is that you?" asked Inogashira, a little hesitant and nervous when she saw Ayanokouji in the dark. Ayanokouji decided to step into the light and revealed himself.
"Sorry for scaring you. I was taking a walk and thought I saw someone."
"I see."
Ayanokouji noticed that Inogashira seemed to be more quiet and reserved, most likely a little shy and insecure about herself and her hobby.
"Mind if I stay here and talk for a bit?" asked Ayanokouji .
"Yeah. You don't really have to ask for my permission." said Inogashira.
"It's common courtesy."
"Okay..."
The duo fell into silence as they watched the empty dark road that eventually led to the Keyaki Mall. Ingoashira is running her needle through the yarn aimlessly as she watches the empty road.
"It's been a while since we last talked, Inogashira." said Ayanokouji.
"Y-yeah. I-i'm sorry that I'm not good at socializing." said Inogashira.
"So am I."
"T-that's not true. You get along with lots of people. Kushida-chan, Horikita-san, and other girls from the class."
"I suppose. But, it doesn't mean that I'm good at socializing. It just means I get along with them."
"I-i think y-you're doing fine talking. E-especially to me."
"Really?"
"Y-yeah."
"I suppose you're right. We're both bad at socializing and not comfortable in huge groups. It's not strange for us to be comfortable with each other."
'I mean at this rate, I need to be comfortable in a huge group. The number of soulmates is increasing.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Y-you seem good at talking to a huge group."
"From an outside perspective, yes. But, trust me. I rarely take the lead with conversations."
"W-why don't we-"
Inogashira stopped mid-sentence and seemed to be having a hard time finishing what she's saying. She seemed to have second doubts and was nervous to bring something up similar to her first introduction.
"Take your time. I'm here." said Ayanokouji. Ayanokouji told her to take her time and not force her to say something that she's not comfortable saying. After a few moments of composing herself, Inogashira took a deep breath to steady herself before speaking up.
"S-since we're both socially awkward. W-why don't we practice with each other?" asked Inogashira, shyly.
"That's not a bad idea. I'm okay with it." replied Ayanokouji.
"O-okay."
"Do you want to practice right now?"
"S-sure. U-uhh... I don't know what to talk about."
"So do I."
"..."
"This is probably why we are socially inept." said Ayanokouji after a brief moment of silence.
"Y-yeah. S-sorry about that." said Inogashira.
"You seem pretty good at sewing."
"U-uh.. I don't think so. It's just a little hobby of mine."
"You say that, but it seems that you made something already."
Ayanokouji pointed at the object that Inogashira is knitted and sewed. It looked like the end of a baby blue colored scarf and the base is formed with some engravings on the base. Inogashira had knitted a scarf and sewed some designs while she was busy talking to Ayanokouji. Inogashira blushed a little bit as she realized what she did unconsciously.
"I-it's nothing." said Inogashira.
"Pretty impressive. Can you make things with your sewing?" asked Ayanokouji, deciding to keep up the conversation.
"Y-yeah. Some of my stuff is created by me."
"That's cool."
"Do you have any hobbies?"
Inogashira decided to go on the offensive and start a conversation.
"Not particularly. I did calligraphy and tea ceremony when I was younger, but it wasn't because I liked it." said Ayanokouji.
"Your parents must be strict?" asked Inogashira.
"To a certain extent."
"I see. Sorry for bringing it up."
"It's no problem."
"Ayanokouji-kun... you're really easy to talk to."
"Thanks, I guess."
"If you want, we can talk to each other if we meet coincidentally. You know, to practice our social skills." said Ayanokouji. Inogashira looked shocked and surprised by Ayanokouji's sudden proposal .
"You don't have to agree if you don't like my company and want me to leave you alone." said Ayanokouji.
"N-no! It's not that. It's just you're going out of your way to talk to a person like me..." said Inogashira.
"Think nothing of it. We're both the same type of people: socially awkward and shy."
"Y-yeah. I guess."
"Sometimes it's nice to be by yourself. To enjoy the peace and quiet."
"I-i like peace and quiet... I-if we somehow meet up, l-let's chat for a bit."
"Yeah. Thanks for that Inogashira."
"F-for what? You're the one that made the suggestion, Ayanokouji-kun. W-why are you thanking me?"
"For being there. And for being a breath of fresh air."
Ayanokouji was grateful to be talking to Inogashira. It was different from talking to Horikita, Kushida, and his other soulmates. Most of them are outgoing or troublesome like Horikita, so a shy and reserved girl like Inogashira is a fresh breath of air for Ayanokouji. He also enjoyed having a slow-paced conversation without anyone glaring at him or any troubles brewing in the near future.
'It's not like Inogashira is going to fall in love with me.' thought Ayanokouji.
Inogashira blushed a bit when Ayanokouji said that and averted her eyes, staring at her needle and her knitting supplies on her lap.
"T-thank you. H-honestly, you're the first boy in the school to talk to me face to face." said Inogashira.
"Hopefully, I didn't spoil it that first experience." said Ayanokouji.
"N-no! You did good."
"T-thanks for that."
Ayanokouji turned around and stared towards the direction of the dorm.
"Inogashira, I'm going to leave now. Are you coming with me?" asked Ayanokouji.
"N-no. I'll be leaving in a few minutes." replied Inogashira.
"Okay. Don't forget about curfew and not to stay out here for too long."
"I-i will. Good night, Ayanokouji-kun."
"Good night, Inogashira."
With that, Ayanokouji left Inogashira sitting in the dark and headed to the dorms.
'What a long day. So many soulmates today. Things are definitely going to change from here on out.' thought Ayanokouji.
*Timeskip (next morning)*
Ayanokouji just finished eating his breakfast. Earlier this morning, he went to the gym and spent some time with Onodera. They worked out together although Ayanokouji noticed a few things about Onodera. She was blushing at certain times during the workout and stared at Ayanokouji's body in admiration and embarrassment. It turns out that Onodera is staring at Ayanokouji's well-muscled and impressive body which she can see through his sweat-soaked shirt. Onodera was having an internal battle, questioning why she's feeling this way towards Ayanokouji when previously those feelings did not come to her. The feeling of embarrassment and love. Those feelings were not presented when they were alone together and it all changed yesterday. Ayanokouji decided to ignore it and act normally to Onodera.
Ayanokouji washed the dishes and placed them on a drying rack, to be dried. He changed into his school uniform and grabbed his school bag. Ayanokouji noticed the keychain that Eiichiro had given him before he went to ANHS sitting on the bedside table. Ayanokouji decided to attach it to his school bag to add a little flare to his boring school bag. Ayanokouji grabbed the key chain and clipped it to his school bag. With that, Ayanokouji left his dorm room and headed to school.
Ayanokouji immediately noticed that none of his soulmates were waiting for him and wanted to walk with him to school. He was surprised that Horikita or Kushida was waiting for him in the lobby. Ayanokouji started walking to school by himself. He watched the surrounding background and the beautiful morning scenery as he walked towards the school building.
Suddenly, Ayanokouji heard someone running behind him and a voice calling to him.
"Hey, you! My fellow comrade!" shouted a voice. It was a girl's voice and Ayanokouji felt the girl slap him enthusiastically on the back. Ayanokouji recoiled a little bit and was propelled forward eighth by the sudden force asserted on his back. Ayanokouji turned around to see a girl with shoulder-length black hair tied in into pigtails, one on each shoulder. She has blue eyes and has a passionate smile.
"U-uhh... Sorry. What?" said Ayanokouji, confused by the girl's sudden introduction.
"That's Nakano Nino from Quintessential Quintuplets! You like Nino too?" said the girl, excitedly.
"Sorry. I didn't watch that show. I got this from a friend of mine."
"Ah... I see. I'm sorry for bothering you." said the girl, pouting cutely. She seemed to realize that she overreacted and acted without thinking. She seemed to be very passionate about anime and it's something Ayanokouji has dabbled into lightly.
"No worries. I watched a little bit of anime. Sorry for not knowing about the show. I heard of it from a friend." said Ayanokouji.
"No... no... I'm sorry for jumping the gun. You watch anime?" asked the girl.
"Yeah."
"Cool! What did you watch?"
"I watched the Great Pretender, Demon Slayer, Nichijou, and a few others."
"I watched those too! What did you think about it?"
"Personally, I like the slice of life genre."
"Slice of life? Well, I watched a couple! You're new to anime right?"
Ayanokouji nodded to confirm. The girl looked excited.
"I'll give you some recommendations! U-uhh... sorry what's your name?" asked the girl.
"I'm Ayanokouji Kiyotaka from Class D." said Ayanokouji.
"Yamashita Saki from Class C. Nice to meet ya!" said the girl.
"Sorry about that, Ayanokouji-kun! But, I finally met someone who watches anime and can talk with." said Yamashita, excitedly.
"I only watch a little bit."
"That means I can educate you, my fellow student."
'Apparently, Yamashita had decided that she's going to be my anime teacher without asking for my permission.' thought Ayanokouji,
"Are you sure about this?" asked Ayanokouji.
"Yeah! From here on, I'm your teacher and your fellow comrade on arms. Let us walk the path of anime and 2-D!" said Yamashita, excitedly.
"Okay." said Ayanokouji, bluntly.
"I'll give you some recommendations for you to have a look. Got any preferences?"
"Not really. I'm fine with anything."
"Okay! Gimme your number so I can send them to you."
"Do I watch it on DVD or online?"
"DVD obviously. You gotta get the full experience, but if you want the stuff that's airing, I'll give you the channel number on the TV!"
"I see. Here's my number."
Ayanokouji pulled out his phone, opened the phone app, and pulled up his number. He showed it to Yamashita who typed into her phone. A message notification popped up in Ayanokouji's phone and he opened it.
Yamashita: :)
Yamashita: Let the lessons begin!
"Did you really have to type that when I'm in front of you?" asked Ayanokouji.
"Don't be like that!" said Yamashita, pouting cutely. "Now my student, let me show you a brand new world!"
Yamashita began talking about the world of anime to Ayanokouji. Ayanokouji noted that she's similar to Eiichiro to a certain extent and seemed passionate about anime. She talked in the same way that Eiichiro does when he's talking about anime and brought up some familiar anime titles that Eiichiro tried making Ayanokouji watch. Ayanokouji tried to follow along, but failed due to his lack of knowledge and he decided to nod along.
"Well, this is my class. See ya later, Ayanokouji-kun!" said Yamashita, waving to Ayanokouji as she ran towards his classroom. Ayanokouji waved back and watched Yamashita' retreating figure for a few moments before heading to his own classroom.
He entered the classroom and noticed Azuma, Onodera, and Shinohara were already there and chatting with each other. Ayanokouji noticed that his soulmates are getting closer and socializing with each other. Of course, Horikita is the only exception, but because she doesn't actively seek out people to talk to, only if people talk to her. Ayanokouji can see that some of the classmates look at Ayanokouji's soulmates quizzically as if they wondered why this unlikely group was formed. They waved at Ayanokouji and gave him a smile when Ayanokouji walked by them. Ayanokouji gave them a quick greeting before sitting down at his desk.
'No. Horikita or Kushida. Perhaps Horikita talked to Kushida about the study group.' thought Ayanokouji,
Suddenly, the classroom door slid open and a group of students entered the classroom. The classroom fell into silence and stared at the new arrival. They couldn't believe what they were seeing. It was Horikita with Kushida, Mii-chan, Mori, and Ichihashi. The entire class believed that Horikita is a loner that doesn't associate and talk to anyone except Ayanokouji, who happens to sit next to her. In the first week, she had rejected anyone that came to talk to her or invite her to hang out, even Kushida. So, that gave Horikita a reputation of being a loner and an ice-queen. People were shocked when they saw Horikita engaging with a group and Ayanokouji was one of them.
Ayanokouji watched as Horikita and Kushida approached Ayanokouji. Mii-chan and the other girls waved goodbye to them and sat together, talking.
"Good morning, Ayanokouji-kun!" said Kushida, cheerfully.
"Good morning, Ayanokouji-kun." said Horikita, taking her seat.
"Good morning, Horikita and Kushida. It's strange seeing you two together." said Ayanokouji.
"What are you implying, Ayanokouji-kun?" asked Horikita, giving him a glare. Kushida giggles cutely.
"Nothing. Did you tell her?" asked Ayanokouji.
"Yes." replied Horikita, even though she doesn't look too pleased.
"Yay! I knew that Horikita-san wouldn't happen to Sudou-kun and the others! Are you joining us, Ayanokouji-kun?" asked Kushida.
"I'm only doing this for my own benefit."
Kushida smiled at Horikita and didn't say anything. Horikita looked annoyed by Kushida.
"I'm joining. Is it still the library?" asked Ayanokouji.
"Yeah!" said Kushida.
"That concludes your business. Now kindly leave us." said Horikita.
"But... Horikita-san." pouted Kushida. Horikita scowled and gestured for Kushida to leave. Kushida reluctantly agreed and gave the duo a wave before leaving.
As soon as Kushida left, Horikita let out a sigh of relief.
"Whew. Thank goodness that she's gone." said Horikita.
"You don't like her?" asked Ayanokouji.
"Don't let her fool you, Ayanokouji-kun. As I said before, Kushida-san is not what she seems like and she's dangerous. It's best to stay away from her."
"I know. But, if what you said it's true, she has extremely good acting skills. To deceive everyone."
"Yes. Just be careful..."
"Did Kushida do something to you? You knew her before entering ANHS?"
"How did you know?"
"Just a hunch. You spoke like you knew her from before. There's no way you'll make such claims about Kushida and her being a danger if you didn't know her prior hand."
"Yes. I know her, but I heard some bad things regarding Kushida-san."
"Things?"
"Just some rumors surrounding her from my old junior high. Don't worry about it. You don't want to become her target."
"I see. I'll keep that in mind."
'Target? Kushida is hiding something? Something so important to her that she's willing to target someone if they found out. Does that mean Horikita is a target? Does she want Kushida to focus on her instead of me?' thought Ayanokouji.
"Unfortunately, I have no choice but to team up with her. Without her, the study group will surely fail." said Horikita.
"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer." said Ayanokouji.
"Well said, Mr. Philosopher. Please grant me your infinite wisdom and knowledge." said Horikita, sarcastically.
"..."
'Horikita seems to be changing a little as she realized that she can't reach Class A by herself. Normally, she would refuse to cooperate with Kushida.' thought Ayanokouji.
"What is it, Ayanokouji-kun? You seemed to be looking at me." said Horikita.
"Nothing. It's just that you've changed." said Ayanokouji.
"I-it's because of you..." said Horikita, blushing a little bit. She seems to be a little embarrassed that she had changed from her late night encounter with Ayanokouji yesterday and has a different mindset than what she had yesterday .
"It's not a bad thing, you know."
Horikita nodded shyly and averted her eyes from Ayanokouji. A few minutes later of silence m, Chabashira-sensei entered the classroom and homeroom began.
*Timeskip (lunchtime)*
Ayanokouji decided to invite Kushida out for lunch with a single objective and idea he had in mind.
'Only Kushida can pull something off like this.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Hey, Kushida." said Ayanokouji, walking up to Kushida and her friend group. Mii-chan looked a little nervous and suspicious when Ayanokouji approached them. It's like she can tell Ayanokouji is up to something.
"What is it, Ayanokouji-kun?" asked Kushida. Her group stopped talking and looked over to Ayanokouji.
"Yeah. Do you mind having lunch with me? "asked Ayanokouji. Kushida froze when Ayanokouji asked her and Mii-chan looked a little shocked and hurt by it. Her friends began whispering and elbowing Kushida, prompting her to agree quickly.
"I'll make it to you later." said Ayanokouji to Mii-chan. The girl blushed a little at Ayanokouji's response and nodded shyly. With that, Kushida followed Ayanokouji to the cafeteria. The duo entered the cafeteria and reached the meal ticket machine. The duo bought their meal tickets and headed to the counter to exchange it, but Ayanokouji stopped Kushida and pulled her off to the side.
"Ayanokouji-kun... what's wrong?" asked Kushida, a little confused by Ayanokouji's bizarre actions. Ayanokouji put a finger to his lips and Kushida closed her mouth. Ayanokouji started observing students as they bought lunch sets from the ticket machine. After Ayanokouji observed about twenty students, his target appeared. He purchased his meal ticket and walked to the counter with heavy, plodding footsteps.
"Okay, let's go," Ayanokouji said.
"Hmm? Okay." said Kushida.
The duo quickly exchanged our tickets for our meals and sat down in front of the heavy-footed student.
"Um, excuse me. Are you an upperclassman?" Ayanokouji asked.
"Hmm? Who are you?" The student regarded us calmly, a look of complete disinterest on his face.
"Are you a second-year student? Third-year?"
"Third-year. Let me guess, you're a first year?"
"I'm Ayanokouji, from Class D. You're also in Class D, aren't you?"
"What's that got to do with you?"
Kushida looked at Ayanokouji with surprise, as if asking, "How did you know?"
"Because he's limited to eating the free meals. It's not very tasty, is it?" Ayanokouji asked. He was eating the free vegetable meal set and Ayanokouji deduced that he's low on points.
"What do you want? You're really irritating." He took his tray and made it stand, but Ayanokouji stopped him.
"I want to ask you something. If you listen, I'll show you my gratitude." said Ayanokouji.
"Gratitude?" asked the upperclassmen.
"Do you still have the problems from the midterm test from the first semester of your first year? Or, if not, do you happen to know someone from your class who does?"
"Do you even understand what you're asking?"
"It's not particularly strange, is it? I didn't think it was against school rules to study using old test problems."
"Why are you asking me?"
"That's simple. I believed I'd have the highest chance of success if I worked with someone who doesn't have any points. Honestly, that free vegetable meal doesn't look good. Of course, things would be quite different if you actually liked eating the vegetable set. What do you think?"
"How much are you going to pay?"
"Ten thousand points. That's as high as I'll go."
"I don't have the old test problems, but...I know someone who does. If you want him to help you, though, you're going to need to offer at least 30,000 points. If you've got that, you're fine."
'Okay. That's a scam. He purposely raised the price of the tests to see how desperate we are.' thought Ayanokouji.
"I'm afraid that 30,000 is a no-go for me. I don't have that much." said Ayanokouji.
"How much do you have?" asked the upperclassmen.
"Twenty thousand."
"Then 20,000... no, 15,000 should do. Nothing under that."
"15,000, huh?"
"If you'd go so far as to ask for old test problems from a stranger, then you must be pretty desperate, huh? Well, the school will mercilessly expel any student who gets a failing grade. None of my classmates are even here anymore."
"Hmm..."
"Please. Our classmates might be expelled!" said Kushida. She gave the upperclassmen her signature puppy eyes and tilted her head slightly. This gesture is used to increase her intensity of her cuteness and the upperclassmen looked entranced. Her pleading and upturned eyes is lethal to him as well. The upperclassmen cleared his throat and closed his mouth, thinking about it.
"F-fine. But, I'll take 12,000 points." said the upperclassmen, blushing a little bit.
"I see. I understand. I'll pay the 12,000 points." said Ayanokouji.
"Then we have a deal. Of course, I'll have to ask you to transfer the points in advance."
"Fine, but if you do anything to stab us in the back, I won't forgive you. Even if you're an upperclassman, I'll do anything and everything I can to make sure you're expelled."
"You're a freak. Fine, I get it. Besides, when you transfer points, there's always a record of it. If a rumor spreads that some first-year students ripped me off, it'd look bad."
"All right then. Since I'm paying you 12,000 points, can you toss in a little bonus? I want to see the answers to the surprise test that we took after being admitted."
"All right. I'll toss that in, too because you have a cute girl. I think that your concerns are pointless, though."
'It seemed he understood what I was after. How many students know of this?' thought Ayanokouji.
"Thank you very much."
The upperclassmen exchanged phone numbers with Ayanokouji and Ayanokouji sent him the points. After we made our deal, the upperclassmen quickly left and it seemed like he didn't want to be noticed.
"Hey, Ayanokouji-kun? What you did just now. Was that really okay?" Kushida asked.
"It's no problem. School rules allow point transfers, so there was no violation." said Ayanokouji.
"You might be right, but isn't getting the old test problems cheating?"
"Cheating? I don't think so. If the school didn't allow it, they would have outlined it in the school rules to begin with. Also, I felt more confident after seeing that third-year student. That is to say, it's not unusual for students to barter points like this."
"Huh?"
"My request didn't particularly surprise him, and he accepted quickly. This probably isn't the first time he's negotiated like this. Not only did he have the answer sheet for the first-year midterm exam, but he also had the answer sheet for the mock test we took after being admitted. If he saved those, it's clear why."
Kushida's eyes widened in shock as she realized the true meaning of Ayanokouji's explanation and was shocked by his ingenuity.
"Ayanokouji-kun, what you did was unexpectedly daring." said Kushida.
"It's just a bit of insurance to prevent Sudou and the others from getting expelled." said Ayanokouji.
"But, if the old test answers are useless, then it will have been for nothing. I mean, the past test questions are old, aren't they? They might be completely unrelated to what's featured on this year's test."
"The problems may not be exactly the same, but there will definitely be similarities. I noticed a hint on that last mock exam we took."
"A hint?"
"You noticed the really difficult problems alongside the simple ones, right?"
"Yeah, I did. The final questions, right? I didn't understand them at all."
"I did some investigating, and I found that those questions were on the second- and third-year students' tests. In other words, a first-year student generally wouldn't understand how to solve them. Wouldn't it be pointless for the school to purposely throw us problems we can't solve? Those questions aren't there simply to measure our academic ability. Now, suppose that the problems on the mock test we took were exactly the same as the problems on the old mock test. What would happen?"
"If I'd seen the old test, I would have been able to answer every question."
'The same thing would likely apply to the midterm exam as well. Let's see if my theory is correct.' thought Ayanokouji.
Shortly thereafter, that third-year student sent Ayanokouji a message with an image file attached. It was the old test questions. First, Ayanokouji checked the mock test. The key was whether or not the last three problems were the same. Kushida, curious about the test answers, drew closer and tried to peek at Ayanokouji's phone.
"Well? Well?" Kushida asked.
"They're the same. Every single word is identical. The tests from that year and this year are exactly the same, in every way." said Ayanokouji.
"That's amazing! So, if we show this to everyone in class, that would mean an easy victory! We should show this to all of our other friends, not just Sudou-kun!"
"No, we'll hold off. We won't show it to Sudou and the guys yet."
"Wh-why? You went to all of the trouble of using up so many of your points for this!"
"If they learn that the old test questions would be effective, their motivation to study would go up in smoke. We need to be wary of overconfidence. After all, even though the mock tests were identical, it's possible that the questions featured on the midterm this year might not be the
same as last year's."
'These old test papers were insurance. A back-up, just in case, the study group can't cover all the materials.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Okay, then how will you use them?" asked Kushida.
We tell everyone that the problems from the old test are generally the same as the
ones on the new. Make sure to do it the day before the midterm exam. Then what do you think will happen? "asked Ayanokouji.
"That night, everyone will be hunched over their desks, frantically trying to memorize all of the problems!"
"Exactly."
'The students with a poor grasp of the basics probably wouldn't be able to memorize everything in a single day. However, we weren't shooting for perfect scores this time around. The crucial thing was to avoid failing. If we got greedy, we might end up digging our own graves. With this plan, we could probably get everyone in Class D to pass.' thought Ayanokouji.
"When did you come up with the idea to get the old tests?" Kushida asked.
"I considered it when we learned that the test material was going to be different. However, I had a hunch back when they first told us about the midterm exam." said Ayanokouji.
"Huh?! Way back then?"
"There was something very peculiar about the way Chabashira-sensei told us about the test. As our homeroom teacher, she had a clear understanding of everyone's grades and academic performance. Despite that, she seemed absolutely certain when she told us that there was a way for us to pass this test. In other words, she indicated that there was a surefire way for us to save everyone."
"And that's...the old test papers?"
Ayanokouji nodded his head.
'This might be related to why Sudou, Ike, and Yamauchi were admitted to this school despite being academically poor. Even if they couldn't get good grades by studying ahead, perhaps there were other means of addressing the problem, a backup plan they could use to avoid expulsion. This meant that it was possible for anyone to get a near-perfect score if they could get the old test papers. That's what I took from the situation, anyway.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Ayanokouji-kun, you really are an incredibly observant person, aren't you?" asked Kushida.
"I'm just cunning. Besides, I didn't believe that I could pass the midterm without some help. I was just looking to make things easier for myself." said Ayanokouji.
"Hmm..."
Kushida seems to be re-evaluating Ayanokouji and started to smile as she realized that maybe she can save all the Class D.
"I have one more favor to ask. Could you please tell everyone that you got the old test papers, Kushida? I want you to say that you got them from a third-year student you're close to." said Ayanokouji.
"That's fine, but...are you okay with that, Ayanokouji-kun?" asked Kushida.
"I like to avoid trouble. I don't want to stand out. Besides, our classmates trust you, Kushida. I think it would be better if you told them."
"I understand. If you say so, Ayanokouji-kun."
"Thanks. Don't say anything else, though. We need to avoid drawing too much attention."
"Okay, we can keep this secret between us."
"Yeah, that's what I was thinking."
"Don't you feel that a strange bond of mutual trust forms between people who share a secret?"
"I don't know about that. I sure hope so."
"Thank you!"
Ayanokouji didn't know what Kushida meant by that, but Kushida looked quite happy after the conversation. Ayanokouji could practically see the stars in her eyes as she stared at Ayanokouji. Ayanokouji looked at her quizzically and blushed a little, averting her eyes. For the rest of the lunch period, Kushida and Ayanokouji ate lunch together and had some small talk.
*Timeskip (after school)*
Ayanokouji walked over to the library with Kushida and Horikita by his side. Horikita and Kushida were discussing strategies on how to run the study group efficiently, topics to be covered, and the schedule of the study group. They have less than a week left before the midterm.
The trio entered the library and secured a table for their group. Horikita and Kushida took out notebooks and textbooks of the various subjects in the midterm. A few minutes later, Sudou, Ike, and Yamauchi entered the library, talking loudly to each other. When the trio saw Horikita, they stopped and looked at her. Then, they looked at Kushida and Ayanokouji. Kushida gave them a reassuring nod and they cautiously approached the table.
"H-hi, H-horikita." said Ike, nervously. Yamauchi gave a quick wave and sat down quickly.
"Have you guys even studied at all?" asked Horikita.
"S-sure. W-we got some topics down with Kushida-chan. Don't worry. We're going to pull an all-nighter to get through this. Been doing this since junior high."
"That certainly sounds like an idea you two would have. But if you do, it's highly likely you'll be expelled."
"You're acting the same as usual," Sudou said. He glared at Horikita.
"You're the one who should be worried, Sudou-kun. You don't seem to have any fear of being expelled." said Horikita.
"I know that. Drop it, or I'll beat the crap out of you. I'm busy with basketball now, anyway. I'll be just fine if I cram before the test."
"C-calm down, Sudou. Okay?" said Ike.
"Sudou-kun, won't you try studying with me one more time? You might manage to squeak by if you pull an all-nighter, but if that fails, you won't be able to play basketball here anymore. Right?" Horikita asked.
"Well, I...I don't want any of your stupid charity. I haven't forgotten the bullshit way you said. If you want me to join, I want an apology first. A completely honest one," said Sudou, displaying open hostility toward Horikita.
'Although Sudou probably realized the danger he was in, he couldn't dismiss Horikita's insults. Of course, Horikita would never give him an apology. No one could ever take pride in saying something that is untrue.' thought Ayanokouji.
"I hate you, Sudou-kun." said Horikita.
"What?!" said Sudou.
Instead of apologizing, she spat harsh words at Sudou, throwing fuel on the fire.
"However, our mutual abhorrence is trivial right now. I will teach you for my own sake. You will do your best for your own sake. Am I wrong?" said Horikita.
"You really want to get up to Class A, then? Even if that means inviting someone you hate, like me?" Sudou muttered.
"Yes, exactly. Otherwise, why would anyone willingly involve you?"
Sudou grew more openly annoyed in response to Horikita's incredible bluntness.
"I'm busy with basketball. The others on the team never take study breaks, not even before a big test. I can't fall behind everyone else by doing something as boring as studying."
As if she'd predicted Sudou's remarks, Horikita opened her notebook and showed it to him. On the page, there was a detailed schedule leading up to the test.
"During the last session, I noticed that style of studying didn't work for you. None of you understand the fundamental basics. For example, it would be like tossing a frog into the ocean. The frog wouldn't have any idea where to go or how to swim. Also, I understand that taking time away from your hobbies will only add to your stress. Therefore, I've come up with a plan." said Horikita.
"What kind of sorcery did you use to come up with that? All right, tell me the plan." said Sudou.
"The test's two weeks from today. You'll all study every day during class like your life depends on it. You three don't usually work seriously during class, do you?"
"You can't know that about us," Ike objected.
"So, you work seriously?" asked Horikita.
"Well... No, we don't. We just sit around 'til class is over."
"So, in other words, you waste six hours a day doing nothing. Rather than struggling to study for the one or two hours available after class, we're wasting a far larger and more precious period of time. We must use this time better."
"Well, certainly... Theoretically that would work, but...isn't that unreasonable?" asked Kushida.
'Kushida was right to be worried. They wasted time precisely because they couldn't study normally. If they couldn't manage to discipline themselves during class, I doubted they'd be able to understand the problems by themselves.' thought Ayanokouji.
"I can't even keep up with class at all." said Yamauchi.
"I know. So we'll hold a short study session during our free time." said Horikita.
With that, Horikita turned to the next page, spelling out the details of her plan.
'After the first period, we'd all meet up and discuss what we hadn't understood in the lecture. During the ten-minute break, Horikita would explain the answers to those questions. We'd repeat the process over the next several periods. Of course, this wasn't as simple as it seemed. Since Sudou and the others couldn't keep up naturally, they might not be able to learn the material in such a short time. That's not a bad plan.' thought Ayanokouji.
"W-wait a minute. I'm kind of confused here. Is this really going to work?" asked Ike.
"Yeah. I mean, won't it be impossible to understand that stuff in just ten minutes of break time?" said Yamauchi.
"Don't worry. I'll compile answers to every question and make them easy to understand. After that, Ayanokouji-kun, Kushida-san, and I will each teach you individually, one-on-one." said Horikita.
"It's just a matter of explaining the answers. You two can handle it, right?" Horikita asked.
"But I still don't think we can do it in that little time. Studying's so hard." muttered Ike.
"One class period covers surprisingly little content. Typically, there'll be one page of notes, two at the most. If you narrow it down to only the things that will be on the test, you can probably whittle it down to a half a page of information. If we somehow end up not having enough time, we can always use our lunch period. I'm not saying that you have to understand the material. I just want you to memorize it. During class, you must focus on the teacher's voice and what's written on the blackboard. Forget about taking notes right now." said Horikita.
"So, you're telling us not to take notes?" asked Yamauchi.
"Trying to memorize things is surprisingly difficult when you're writing down notes."
'She was probably right about that. A focus on note-taking would simply waste precious time. There's no point in taking any notes if you don't understand the meaning behind it. At any rate, Horikita had laid out a plan that didn't use up any time after school.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Just try. Give it a go before you say no." said Horikita.
"I don't want to. I'd rather spend my time differently than a bookworm like you. Besides, I don't even think I could learn to study with such a simple, cheap trick." said Sudou. It seemed that Sudou didn't believe that such a simple plan would work.
"It seems you've misunderstood. There are no shortcuts or cheap tricks when it comes to studying. You just have to spend your time carefully. That applies not only to studying, but to everything else as well. Or are you telling me there are shortcuts and cheap tricks in something like basketball?" said Horikita.
"Of course there aren't. You only improve by practicing, all the time." said Sudou, who inhaled sharply, surprised by his own words.
"For people who can't focus or work seriously, it's impossible. However, you put all of your effort into basketball. I want you to apply some of that effort to studying, even if it's just a fraction of what you have. Put in the effort so that you can continue to play basketball at this school. Don't
throw away your own potential."
"Yeah, I'm still not doing it. I get what you're saying, but I'm not convinced." said Sudou, after a moment of hesitation. It seems that Sudou's pride is getting in his way and he still disagrees with Horikita's plan. Sudou turned around and left, and Horikita couldn't stop him.
'If he left now, the study group was probably dead. Ike and Yamauchi both looked like they wanted to leave with Sudou as well. Normally I'd stay out of it, but this called for drastic action.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Hey, Kushida. Do you have a boyfriend?" Ayanokouji asked.
"Huh? What? I don't. Why would you suddenly ask me something like that?!" yelped Kushida. She blushed a little bit after hearing Ayanokouji 's sudden question. Horikita looked shocked and surprised by Ayanokouji's sudden proposal and she gave Ayanokouji a cold glare.
"If I can get fifty points on the test, will you go out with me?" asked Ayanokouji, extending his hand to her.
"Huh?! Wh-what are you saying, Ayanokouji! No, date me, Kushida! I'll get fifty-one points!" Ike cried.
"No, no, me! Go on a date with me! I'll show you! I'll get fifty-two points!" Yamauchi said.
Kushida blushed at Ayanokouji's sudden proposal and seemed to be panicking slightly before she understood Ayanokouji's plan.
'Idiot! You're such an idiot, Ayanokouji-kun! Like hell, I would date those two fucking perverts! I would choose you anytime! Wait! Did I really think that?! Also, don't say that so casually!' thought Kushida.
'Idiot! Ayanokouji-kun! Did I not warn you about Kushida-san?! But, I see what you're doing. Don't go saying something like this! This warrants a bit of pain for you.' thought Horikita.
"H-how embarrassing... I don't just judge people based on something like test scores, you know?" Kushida said.
"But they need a prize for trying. Look at how eager Ike and Yamauchi are. They'd probably be motivated by a reward." said Ayanokouji.
"W-well then, how about this? I'll go on a date with whoever scores highest on the test. I like people who work really hard, even when they don't like doing it."
"Whoa! Yes! I'll do it! I'll do it!" cried Ike and Yamauchi, breathing heavily in their excitement. Ayanokouji called out to Sudou.
"Hey, Sudou. What about you? This might be your chance." said Ayanokouji.
"A date, huh? That doesn't sound too bad. Jeez, guess I don't have a choice. All right, I'll join," Sudou said, his voice small. He didn't turn around, but at least he stopped moving.
Kushida sighed deeply in relief.
"Remember, boys are the simplest creatures on earth." muttered Horikita, giving Ayanokouji a karate chop to the side. Ayanokouji rubbed his side in pain and with that, the study group was reformed and ready to go.
*Timeskip (3 hours later)*
Ayanokouji is walking to the park where he first met Shiranami. At the end of the study session, he received a message from Shiranami, asking him to meet her at the park. She said she wanted to talk to him about something and Ayanokouji told her that he'll be there in 10 minutes.
Ayanokouji entered the park after leaving the library. He saw Shiranami sitting at a bench, looking a little down. Shiranami noticed Ayanokouji and waved to him.
"Hi, Ayanokouji-kun!" said Shiranami.
"Hello, Shiranami." said Ayanokouji as he approached her.
"Yeah. Remember how we first met. I need someone to talk to."
"I see. Why me?"
"Well... you seem like a good guy and I appreciate the advice you gave me last time. I-I thought you could give me a... pep talk."
"Pep talk?"
"Y-yeah. Let's say that you like someone. And that someone is from your class."
"Does that apply to you?"
"Y-yeah. I-I'm not sure what to do to be honest. I want to c-confess to them soon."
"Confess? You just met this person a little more than a month ago."
"I-I know this sounds stupid, but I f-feel like I can't wait any longer. B-but, I'm not sure if I should do it."
"You're uncertain about it. You think you might be rejected?"
"Y-yeah. This person is a kind person, but I'm worried that I might become a burden to them if I do this. I-I'm also scared of being rejected. I'm pathetic..."
Shiranami looked down nervously and embarrassed by her vulnerability and lack of resolve.
"I won't be too sure about that. Shiranami, confessing to someone that you like takes a great deal of strength and resolve. It's something that not everyone can do and it's something that you must do to experience love. I believe in your case that you should do it. You clearly like this person especially to the point of confessing your love. You should do it or you'll live in regret and sorrow in the future, knowing that you didn't take your shot and rejected your heart." said Ayanokouji. Ayanokouji wasn't a master of love, but he decided to answer honestly without any bias.
"..."
Shiranami seemed to be thinking about what Ayanokouji had said. After a few moments, Shiranami spoke up.
"Y-you really have a way with words and good advice, Ayanokouji-kun." said Shiranami.
"Not really. I just told my honest thoughts about the situation." replied Ayanokouji.
"B-but, it's really helpful."
"I'm glad you found it like that. Have you made up your mind yet?"
"I-I think so."
"I see."
"Y-you're not going to ask further?"
"It's your love life. I have no right to interfere with your personal business."
"T-thank you. I-I'm going to do it." said Shiranami, with a determined expression. It looked like Shiranami had made up her mind.
"Okay. Glad I could be of assistance to you."
"O-ohh... Ayanokouji-kun, what if I get rejected?" asked Shiranami. Shiranami seems to be lacking in confidence and seemed to be nervous about rejection.
'Most people fear rejection. Even if it's not a romantic confession, rejection is something that people are afraid of. People will experience rejection at least once in their lifetime and some have to deal with it more than others. Shiranami seemed to be nervous about the potential rejection, but she decided to just do it already.' thought Ayanokouji.
"If that happens, just know that I'll be there for you." said Ayanokouji. Shiranami froze and looked up to Ayanokouji with surprised and fearful eyes.
"R-really?!" asked Shiranami.
"Yeah."
"T-thank you, Ayanokouji-kun."
Shiranami gave Ayanokouji a nervous, but thankful smile. She seems relieved by Ayanokouji's pledge of support.
"I-I'm going to think about what to do next." said Shiranami.
"Okay. I'll leave then." replied Ayanokouji.
"T-thank you for everything, Ayanokouji-kun."
"It's no problem. Glad that I don't have to stay here to help you with your plan. I'm bad with romance and love."
Shiranami smiled a little at Ayanokouji's lackluster remark and gave him a wave as Ayanokouji left the park.
*Timeskip (10 minutes later)*
Ayanokouji decided to go somewhere to get dinner. He wondered if he should go to the Keyaki Mall or stop at the convenience store. Ayanokouji remembered there were little plazas and parks with food stands. He went to one with Kushida earlier this week and decided to go to one to find some dinner. Ayanokouji figured it didn't hurt to try something new.
Ayanokouji entered a plaza where there were a couple of food stands or carts open for business. There were a couple of students, but most of them seemed to be leaving with food in their hands. Ayanokouji scanned and browsed through his options. He decided to get some fried rice, Napolitan, tonkatsu, and some tofu.
Ayanokouji sat down at an empty table and began eating. He savored each bite and after a few minutes, Ayanokouji had devoured most of his dinner. Ayanokouji wondered if he should get some desert but decided against it in favor of saving some points. Suddenly, a girl walked over to Ayanokouji and collapsed on top of his side of the table. The girl has light blue hair with a one-sided braid of hair that is running down on the right side of her shoulders. Ayanokouji was surprised by the girl's sudden collapse and wondered if she's injured. Before Ayanokouji could check on her, he noticed that the girl's balance was off. The table that Ayanokouji is sitting at is a 4 person table that can fit 2 people at each side when they're sitting. The girl is lying down and the lower half of her body is sticking off the table causing an imbalance force on her body, causing her to start falling. Ayanokouji quickly grabbed her and prevented her from falling off the table and positioned her to prevent her from falling. The girl ended up smuggling tightly against Ayanokouji's body. Her face, half-buried in Ayanokouji's chest, with her body pressed against Ayanokouji's. Her arms wrapped around him and Ayanokouji could hear her gentle and quiet breathing. The girl seemed like she's sleeping and Ayanokouji decided to stay quiet.
After a few minutes, the girl seemed to have woken up. She jerked her head up, looked around, and rubbed her eyes.
"Good morning..." said the girl, sleepily.
"It's the evening." said Ayanokouji.
"Good evening. Thanks. You're a good pillow."
"Pillow?"
"Yes. You feel good and soft."
"Thanks?"
"Good to sleep on."
'This girl seems to like sleeping. I can't tell if she's tired all the time, but she uses short sentences to talk and seems to like to conserve her energy.' thought Ayanokouji.
"Glad I could be of assistance. Sorry... who are you?" asked Ayanokouji.
"Yajima Mariko, Class C." said the girl, yawning.
"I'm Ayanokouji Kiyotaka from Class D."
"Ayanokouji-kun..."
"Hmm..."
"Give me your number."
"May I ask why?"
"Good person..."
"How would you know?"
"Didn't do anything to me when I'm sleeping..."
"I see."
"Plus you make a good pillow for me."
"I see..."
Yajima seems to have fallen asleep, but Ayanokouji could feel her gentle breathing on his chest. He took note of her voluptuous breast pressed up against his body. They were a little bigger than Horikita's. A bowl of ramen with a little extra meat. Ayanokouji decided not to move and let her sleep a little longer.
After a few more minutes of sleeping, Yajima woke up, yawned, and stretched a little bit before moving away from Ayanokouji.
"Thanks for that. I have enough energy now." said Yajima.
"It's no problem." replied Ayanokouji. Ayanokouji was a little shocked by how drastically Yajima changed. She went from a sleepy, tired and energy-conservative girl to a normal girl.
"Sorry about that."
"As I said before, it's no problem."
"I don't normally do that to people, but I was running low on energy and made an emergency crash landing."
"Crash landing?"
"Finding the nearest place to lie down and sleep. You seemed like a better spot than sleeping on the floor or hard bench."
"I see. What if I tried something on you?"
"I would've been in fight or flight mode and probably would've slapped you."
"Okay. Keeping that in mind."
Yajima laughed a little bit, "I hope I just didn't give you intel on my defense mechanism while I'm sleeping."
"You sure like sleeping a lot." said Ayanokouji.
"Yeah. I run out of energy frequently. I sleep around 13-14 hours a day."
"Does that include the recommended 9 hours a night?"
"Yeah! Plus a little bit during school and some few hours of sleep after class."
"I'm surprised that you didn't lose points."
"Ah... no. I sleep during breaks and lunch time."
Ayanokouji noticed that Yajima's tone and attitude changed to nervous for a brief moment when Ayanokouji mentioned losing points. She seems to be worried about something or someone from her class and losing further points.
"Well, I gotta go now! Gotta get some food and probably sleep again!" said Yajima, stretching again before standing up.
"Sleep dreams, Yajima." said Ayanokouji.
"See ya, Ayanokouji-kun."
With that, Yajima began walking out of the plaza and towards the direction of the dorm. She stumbled a little bit, perhaps a little fatigue, before walking normally.
'What a strange girl. She seems to be tired half the time and functioning normally on the other half. I wonder if she studies.' thought Ayanokouji.
Ayanokouji decided to check his phone and his chats. He noticed that in his soulmates group chat, which included all of soulmates and Ayanokouji, were talking about some new constructions that are being built at the school and near the dorms. Ayanokouji noticed that as well, but decided to ignore it.
After a few minutes of checking his phone, Ayanokouji picked up his trash and disposed of it in the trash can before leaving the plaza. He was on his way to the dorms, when he noticed Kushida. Kushida acted a little strangely and started walking in a completely different direction to the dorms. She headed to the school and Ayanokouji found it a little strange. He decided to follow her silently to see if she's alright.
Ayanokouji followed her to the school where she entered. Ayanokouji thought it was strange that she's entering the school during late hours. It wasn't against the rules, but Ayanokouji found it strange that Kushida is going somewhere isolated during the evening. He followed her up the stairs to the second floor. The sound of footsteps continued up to the third floor and approached the next level which was the roof. Students were free to use the roof during lunchtime, but it should've been locked after class.
Ayanokouji went up the stairs after Kushida and hid his presence. He peeked at the half-opened door and saw Kushida standing there by herself.
'Is she meeting with someone? A strange rendezvous place? Oh, this is bad. Maybe I shouldn't be here, just in case, someone is actually coming.' thought Ayanokouji.
Before Ayanokouji could move, he heard a noise coming from Kushida.
"Ahhh, so annoying!" muttered Kushida.
'Her voice was so low that it didn't sound at all like Kushida.' thought Ayanokouji.
"She's seriously annoying! God, how irritating. It'd be better if she just died..." grumbled Kushida to herself, as if chanting the words to some kind of spell or curse.
"Ugh, I hate stuck-up, snobby girls who think they're so cute. Why is she such a harpy? A rotten girl like her couldn't possibly tutor me." muttered Kushida.
'Was Kushida annoyed with...Horikita?' thought Ayanokouji.
"Ah, she's the worst! She's just the worst, the worst, the worst! Horikita, you're so annoying! You're so damn annoying! Fucking acting like a Miss-Know-It-All. This bitch. I can't believe that after all of this time, I run into her! Fucking bitch always get in my way!" snarled Kushida, her voice seems to be growing louder and Kushida become more bold. She began kicking at the chain-link fence, rattling the fence.
"Don't get me started with those two fucking perverts, Ike and Yamauchi! Those fucking perverts thought they have a chance with me! 'I'm going to date Kushida-chan once I score higher than a 50 on the midterms.' Fat chance! You'll be lucky if you can even get a 40. Fucking braindead idiots! Always ogling my breasts and body! Using their pathetic small sticks that they called a dick instead of their rotting, smooth brain! I wished they fucking die!" yelled Kushida. Kushida paused for a moment before releasing more of her rage.
"As if they have a chance with me! Only... one person... stands a chance with me!" shouted Kushida. Kushida hesitated for a bit and took a deep breath. Ayanokouji leaned in anticipation wondering which name she would say.
"Ayanokouji-kun!" said Kushida, quietly.
Ayanokouji lurched forward and didn't expect his name to be said, especially in this context. He wondered if Kushida basically confessed to him.
'Oops.' thought Ayanokouji.
Ayanokouji accidently bumped the door and the noise was louder than expected. Kushida tensed up and slowly turned her head towards Ayanokouji's direction.
Author's Note:
I'm back! Sorry for the long break! While I was during break, I worked on two stories at the same time and managed to finish them on the same day. I'm dropping them both at the same time. I'm feeling a little motivated, but I have some few things going on with my life. So, I won't be as active as before, but I will take my time to create the stories that you know and love. Thanks for the support, everyone!
Time for development, next chapter. Which soulmates do you think should get some more screen time and possible character development? Some stuff is vague on purpose, so chill out.
Until next time, my dear readers.