CH#292

#292

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The unique atmosphere of after school, with the shouts of sports clubs from outside, occasionally hearing laughter, and all of it wrapped in a profound silence.

Some might find it a lonely atmosphere, but I quite like this unique feeling. When I want to think about something or just spend time alone vaguely, I can confidently say that, while I’m not a student who loudly proclaims love for school, I do like it after school.

 

I let Shizuku head to the student council room first, and Kirasaka mentioned that she would be in the library looking at books on making sweets until our activities for today are over.

Yuuto, seemingly tasked with some shopping by his mother, went home early today. So, the only one left in the classroom is me.

 

Watching the energetic first-year students sitting on the grass in the courtyard, engrossed in conversation with friends, I occasionally recall Miura’s words passing through my mind.

 

“…I wonder if they’re getting excited about Valentine’s too.”

 

I murmured as I gazed at the students below from my seat by the window.

Three female students were sitting on the grass, and perhaps they were discussing what kind of chocolate to give to male students.

This, too, is a page of youth.

Right now, it’s unbearably enjoyable, and both the past and the future are nothing more than unnecessary problems.

This moment is everything, and that’s what we, as students, are revelling in.

Such scenes were reflected in my eyes.

 

“…Shall we go, then?”

 

I do feel like enjoying a little more of my time alone, but there’s student council work waiting for us after this.

While I’m adept at slacking off, I’m terrible at shirking responsibility.

It leaves a bad aftertaste.

Coming face to face with others and coming up with excuses for feeling guilty is a complete waste of time.

 

Taking my bag off the desk, I closed the door of the now empty classroom and headed to the student council room.

Passing by the faculty room of one building, climbing the stairs, I opened the heavy door of the student council room with practiced hands.

The cold doorknob stole the warmth from my hand, and in return, warm air from the opened room embraced my whole body.

 

“Good work, Shinra-kun.”

 

“You’re late. The meeting can’t start without you.”

 

Koizumi, the student council president, greeted me with a smile from the farthest seat, while Miura, from the seat right in front of his, gave me a slightly stern remark with a wry smile.

At the seat across from where I would sit, Hino-kun stood up, considerately brewing warm tea, and Shizuku pulled out my chair with a smile.

 

“Sorry… I was just lost in thought.”

 

“You’re always thinking about something. I’m a bit worried about your future.”

 

“It’s okay. I was just thinking about how to repel my sister’s boyfriend when she gets one.”

 

“That’s dangerous.”

 

Casually chatting with Koizumi, I apologized for being late and took a seat. Steam rose from the tea offered from my left rear, and at the same time, I noticed the trembling arm.

 

“Sister… H-H-Has your s-sister got a boyfriend!? Th-that’s impossible!?”

 

“She didn’t. Or rather, it has nothing to do with you, Hino-kun.”

 

Hino-kun, who strangely admires my sister, opened his mouth with a look of shock and despair, but when I denied it, he breathed a sigh of relief.

What a weird person… but I’ve known that for a while.

 

With everyone now seated and everything prepared, Koizumi cleared his throat as a signal.

It was a sign that the regular student council meeting for today was starting.

With Koizumi’s words as a cue, the meeting began, and Vice President Shiraishi took on the role of facilitator. Shizuku wrote important items on the whiteboard in beautiful handwriting, Miura tapped the calculator while looking at sheets with numbers, and Koizumi groaned thoughtfully.

Hino-kun, mindful of everyone’s drinks, handed out materials and writing utensils as needed.

 

After reading through the contents written by Shizuku, I pointed out unnecessary items that had been continued for reasons like tradition.

A new form of student council.

In the past, there was a tendency to neglect individual thinking due to the absolute presence of President. To compensate for that, everyone is now encouraged to think, speak, and act.

The form of the student council that Koizumi is creating is finally coming together.

 

“Then, let’s propose to the teachers that we cut the decoration costs for the third-year send-off party and allocate that budget to gifts, even if it’s a small amount.”

 

“I’ll go to the staff room right now. Shiraishi-san, could you come with me?”

 

“Huh? Oh, y-yes, I understand.”

 

Miura called out to Shiraishi, holding a paper with corrected figures for the budget. Shiraishi seemed surprised but quickly stood up and followed Miura.

With the ones being sent off behind them, the two disappeared from the student council room. Simultaneously, a sense of a short break settled in the room.

 

“It’s time to send off the third-years… It’s sad that President is graduating.”

 

Koizumi murmured. His expression couldn’t hide the genuine sadness, and it seemed like he was even resisting the very idea of the event he was in-charge of.

However, those words were left unspoken. Time and age cannot be stopped by anyone’s will.

Refusing it, denying it, that moment will come.

At least what we can do is to show a strong attitude, even if it’s a bluff, so that the seniors, President, won’t leave with sadness, regret, or worries.

 

“Just show that you’ll take care of the school after her with dignity… That’s probably what she wants.”

 

Sad farewells are not desired. Whether it’s the first-year students with short connections or the second-year students who spent a lot of time together, this is the last opportunity for everyone to meet the third-year students in a proper farewell event.

If the student council in charge of the event has a sad mood, it won’t be solemn at all.

When I conveyed this to Koizumi, he nodded slightly in agreement.

Feeling a slightly melancholic atmosphere, Hino-kun stood up boisterously.

 

“I’ll bring some tea snacks! Would you prefer Japanese or Western sweets?”

 

It was a question for everyone, but naturally, my eyes and Shizuku’s eyes turned to Koizumi.

Honestly, both Shizuku and I didn’t really care… or so we thought. At that moment, it hit me.

It was a question for everyone, but naturally, my and Shizuku’s gaze turned to Koizumi.

Honestly, both Shizuku and I didn’t really care… or so we thought.

 

“Hino-kun, do you have any chocolate?”

 

“Chocolate? Um, wait a moment.”

 

Hino-kun murmured as he searched inside a cupboard at the back of the student council room.

This was the chance. If there was chocolate, we could make it today’s snack and smoothly transition to asking what kind of chocolate he liked.

 

Shizuku, who was sitting next to me, also noticed, and she turned her face towards me, nodding with sparkling eyes.

…As expected of Minato-kun, always coming up with good ideas. That’s right, it’s me, who came up with this brilliant idea.

Contrary to our expectations, Hino-kun made a troubled sound as he rummaged through the cupboard.

 

“Oh, I don’t have any… now that I think about it, there used to be some, but I haven’t seen any lately.”

 

“Ah… about that.”

 

As Hino-kun muttered, my ingenious plan seemed to be rejected. At that moment, Koizumi spoke with an apologetic tone.

 

“Actually, I’m not good with chocolate… Recently, I’ve been in charge of buying snacks, and since I don’t like it, I haven’t bought any… I’m sorry.”

 

“…”

 

“…”

 

With Koizumi’s apology, Shizuku and I exchanged glances with a sense of disappointment.

Inaudibly, I whispered to Shizuku.

 

“It’s messed up now, isn’t it?”

 

“Yes, it seems we did… Miura-san, it seems your increased chocolate repertoire won’t do any good here.”

 

Normally, I would be a little nervous at the flowery scent and body temperature coming from my childhood friend in front of me, but this time it didn’t happen.

Miura-san… didn’t know that he didn’t like chocolate.

 

When Miura returned to the student council room, she looked at me and Shizuku with a puzzled expression, wondering what had occurred.

 

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<BBX> : Merry Christmas everyone !! 🎅🎄

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CH#291

#291

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When I responded to Miura’s call and stepped into the hallway, she walked ahead as if escaping to a spot where no one was around, gesturing for us to follow. I followed, and behind me came Shizuku and Kirasaka.

As we descended the corridor and passed by the science room, which we seldom used, Miura led us to a less frequented area in the second building where the second-year students usually spend their time. She turned around and looked at us when we were about two or three steps away, then stopped to organize the situation.

 

Although we have some interaction as student council members, we rarely talk casually. With different classes and different subjects—she’s into science, and I’m in the humanities—our only common ground is the student council.

But this doesn’t seem to be about the student council. If it were, a message in the classroom would have sufficed.

It must be something personal for her. However, that’s as far as I can guess. We don’t have such an intimate relationship for me to delve into her inner thoughts.

 

Shizuku and Kirasaka also seem puzzled, looking at Miura with wide eyes, wondering what business she could have with them.

Silently waiting for her to speak, Miura finally said, without hesitation.

 

“What kind of chocolate does Koizumi like?”

 

“…Chocolate?”

 

Boldly, unexpectedly, and matter-of-fact, Miura asked, leaving me standing there with my mouth open. …Chocolate?

Why now? Anyone can figure out the reason by recalling the date on the calendar. She is planning to give chocolate to Koizumi on Valentine’s Day.

However, asking about someone’s preferences individually implies a different set of emotions toward him compared to other students.

 

In other words, it’s because she has feelings for Koizumi.

For me, without the connection of the student council, I’m just a classmate. Asking me implies there must be a serious lack of information.

However, it’s difficult to reveal one’s secret. This holds true for most girls, and boys are no exception. Yet, when it comes to love stories, claimed to be more essential than three daily meals, the two behind me couldn’t help but be intrigued.

 

“Oh my, could it be that we’re in for an interesting story?”

 

“Is it for Koizumi-kun!? Could it be, your true love?”

 

Kirasaka murmured with keen interest, and Shizuku, her face glowing, clasped her hands together and playfully inquired.

Miura, after a brief pause, lifted her gaze for a moment, appearing thoughtful, and then nodded ever so slightly.

…She’s not trying to dodge the question. It seems she possesses a surprisingly strong spirit.

 

If I were in her position, I would never be able to share such information with others.

But perhaps this straightforward attitude is also one of her strengths.

Now, I need to think about the question.

Certainly, since we’re both members of the student council, we spend more time together than I do with other girls. But is chocolate limited to only chocolate bars?

 

Maybe something like raw chocolate… What even is raw chocolate?

There are so many types of chocolate that I can’t recall them all even when someone mentions their names.

Miura, who has spent more time with Koizumi than I have, doesn’t know the answer. So, it’s impossible for someone like me, who just recently joined, to understand. I guess this is not the answer she’s looking for.

But what a troublesome question. As I was pondering, Miura continued.

 

“If you’re okay with it, could you ask Koizumi about his favourite chocolate or sweets sometime this week?”

 

“I don’t mind, but… I’m not sure how to start a conversation with him.”

 

“I leave that up to you. But absolutely no mention of Valentine’s, understood? I don’t want him to find out from anyone but me.”

 

With a calm tone, she stated that, as if it were nothing, but I could sense a determination in her words.

Usually, we only talk about work, so asking suddenly about someone’s favourite chocolate could make things awkward. After all, as Valentine’s Day approaches, boys become overly self-conscious, as you can easily observe by just watching the students in the class.

While I was still contemplating how to connect the conversation as Miura asked, the girls continued their conversation with enthusiasm.

 

“Sounds good. Are you making them yourself?”

 

“Yes, Shizuku-san and Kirasaka-san, would you like to practice making sweets together? I got permission from the home economics teacher, so we can use the home economics room after school.”

 

“Oh, then count me in! I was just looking at recipes and couldn’t decide which chocolate to make.”

 

“I agree! I was also having trouble choosing among the recipes. If you don’t mind, I’d like to hear your opinions.”

 

Without any objections, Shizuku and Kirasaka readily accepted Miura’s proposal.

 

…I’m completely out of the loop.

Well, it’s not a big deal.

If I were to join in and engage in some sophisticated chocolate talk with them, I’d undoubtedly be met with cold stares from all three.

As I silently observed their conversation, Miura took a step towards me and bowed slightly.

 

“Next year, it might be difficult to find time due to exams… This year is the real deal. I’m counting on you for information gathering.”

 

“Got it, I’ll just go ask.”

 

While nodding at Miura’s words, I couldn’t help but think.

When did I start getting involved in things beyond myself?

The environment changed, relationships changed, and my way of thinking may have changed somewhat.

But I believed that my core values hadn’t changed much.

 

In fact, I found Miura’s request to be somewhat bothersome.

No matter how aware I am of it, there’s a part of me that accepts such requests.

Perhaps I’ve become weaker.

 

Toward someone she harbours feelings for. Toward someone who is sincere, straightforward, she radiates a brightness that I lack.

Although I still can’t see it with my own eyes, I’m sure Miura, on the day of Valentine’s, will shine brilliantly as she interacts with Koizumi.

I want to know what underlies those emotions, those actions.

If I could know, if I could touch even a little, perhaps the curtain hiding the emotions suppressed in my heart could be lifted.

That expectation has always been within my chest.

 

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CH#290

#290

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Valentine’s Day is not an event originating in Japan but rather an imported event from overseas. It’s an event where couples exchange gifts, such as chocolates and sweets, and it’s a time for those in romantic relationships to enjoy.

In the days leading up to Valentine’s, boys become restless, and on the day itself, they discreetly check their lockers or desks for small boxes or wrapped items. For the majority of them, this cruel event usually means receiving nothing.

 

In recent times, there seems to be a trend of giving chocolates to same-sex friends, perhaps an evolution of the ‘friendship chocolates.’

As the new year begins and the third-year students have completed most of their exams, with only the graduation ceremony remaining, today marks the last event within the school. Even the third-year students who are usually free to come to school have reportedly come to school to give chocolates to their friends.

By the way, I got this information from the President. It seems even she will be coming to school on that day. With the limited number of days remaining, there must be some value in coming.

 

Returning to the main topic, changes have occurred within the school as Valentine’s Day approaches.

Firstly, there’s an excessive amount of skinship from boys towards girls, seemingly to appeal to their presence.

The girls are aware of this, and although they reciprocate, there’s a sense of distance. Maybe it’s because I observe from the side of the classroom that I feel this way.

 

The futile efforts of these boys, with a perfect mismatch in the sense of distance, are undeniably pitiful.

However, it can’t be helped. The number of chocolates a boy receives from girls is seen as a measure of popularity.

Despite thinking it’s rude to the girls who send them, the boys can’t help but care about it.

 

Teenage boys are generally like this.

Secondly, students are no longer gathering around Yuuto and Shizuku, who would normally be at the center of attention in the class.

This, too, can be attributed to Valentine’s Day.

 

They are the objects of admiration for everyone, regardless of gender. Naturally, they will be the focus of attention during this Valentine’s Day.

In Yuuto’s case, everyone is curious about how many chocolates he will receive and from whom. For the girls, it’s a major issue to watch how many rivals they have and what kind of chocolates they are sending.

 

On the other hand, in Shizuku’s case, the question is who she will give chocolates to. Whether it’s one of the boys, or maybe a friend, the boys, while still suspicious, are eagerly anticipating it.

The girls are monitoring each other’s information, including rivalry and containment. They continue to spend their days slightly apart from Yuuto, and Shizuku is receiving intense attention from the boys.

 

“Impressive… The stares from the boys are quite intense.”

 

“Endure it. It’s like everyone secretly wishes to receive chocolate from you.”

 

In the back of the classroom, a place that is already becoming our designated spot, Kirasaka sits next to me, Shizuku is seated in front, both facing backward in their chairs. Yuuto stands behind me, leaning against the window with a wry smile.

 

“Kirasaka-san, you also receive similar stares from the boys, don’t you?”

 

“Hmph… If I feel like the statues are looking at me, it’s nothing significant.”

 

“Statues, huh…”

 

She said it with such a decisive tone. Well, for her, anyone who only gazes without making any approaches are out of the question.

Shizuku nods in agreement. Well, if they share something in common, that should be fine…

I direct my gaze toward Yuuto, standing behind me, from the front of the class.

 

“How many are you expecting this year? Or, how many did you get last year?”

 

“The way you phrase it sounds somewhat sarcastic… I think it was around 36 last year?”

 

Counting with his fingers, Yuuto reveals a surprising number. This guy… I hope he get diabetes from eating those many chocolates.

Getting that many sweets every year… In my memory, there were times when I didn’t receive some chocolates, so if he accepted all of them, it must be a considerable number.

 

…This is like opening a chocolate shop. Welcome to the one-day-only Ogiwara Shop. We’ll close as soon as everything is sold out.

So, recently, while there is a laid-back atmosphere, for a certain group of people, it’s a more important and serious battle than their studies.

 

But you might wonder why I can remain so calm. Well, let me answer that—I receive chocolates every year.

Of course, handmade chocolates filled with sisterly love from my little sister Kaede and our mom.

 

With this advantage over others, I have immeasurable mental composure. No matter what someone asks, saying, “I received two,” usually silences them.

Though, no one has ever asked about the quantity.

Moreover, it’s not just my family who sends chocolates every year…

 

“What kind of chocolate do you want this year, Minato-kun?”

 

“…”

 

The sunlight streaming in from the window in front illuminates the face of a smiling beauty.

Shizuku has been giving chocolates to Yuuto and me every Valentine’s Day. Until last year, I thought the significance behind giving them to Yuuto and me was different, but this year, due to my misunderstanding, this question has become quite a difficult one.

Simultaneously, I start feeling embarrassed. The meaning behind the chocolates she gave me has become clear now. I find myself contemplating how to accept and react to them.

When Shizuku asks me this question, Kirasaka also seems to remember something and murmurs softly.

 

“That’s right, Minato, you don’t like bitter things, right? So, do you prefer sweet chocolate, or maybe baked goods?”

 

“…”

 

Eyes and faces are directed at me from the side and the front. Kirasaka, with her fair, translucent skin and usually sharp eyes, now gently directs them toward me.

I knows the meaning and reason behind her different gaze compared to other students. Therefore, even the words that I would normally answer promptly and decisively seem to get stuck in my throat.

After glancing between the side and the front, I resort to the final option: looking up at the clear blue sky outside the window and maintaining silence.

 

“You’re embarrassed… that’s amusing.”

 

“Shut up. Should I start a campfire with your hair?”

 

Responding to Yuuto’s muttered words from behind, I retort with words born out of desperation. In response to their reactions, Shizuku and Kirasaka both smile quietly, and I feel relieved that the question has come to a somewhat ambiguous conclusion.

Isn’t this something you should do as a surprise without asking the other person? That’s how it was in my family. In other words, it might be a kind of local rule.

Certainly, from the perspective of the person making it, giving something the other person doesn’t like would be the worst scenario.

 

As for my favourite chocolate… I don’t know.

Actually, I usually only eat chocolate bars, so I don’t have a list of chocolate preferences.

I’m not familiar with trendy sweets that would be popular on social media either. Even if I knew, the biggest difficulty would be visiting those places, so my interest naturally fades away.

 

Hence, I can’t honestly answer what kind of chocolate I like. The next time I’m asked, I’ll decide to honestly admit that.

Our somewhat conversation-like conversation ends here. Shizuku uses her smartphone to research recent sweets, Kirasaka resumes reading a paperback book she had started, and Yuuto, as usual, stands behind, expressing his true feelings, “I can’t finish eating them all…”

 

… Indeed, nearly forty of them. Moreover, chocolates that someone sends usually come in multiples. I wonder how long handmade ones last. But one thing is certain: after eating them all, I won’t want to see chocolate for a while.

After Valentine’s, I’ve decided to buy Yuuto a meal from the school store as a kind gesture. Chocolate bread and chocolate croissants it is. Yeah, that’s settled.

 

All you guys out there, entrust your hopes to me. Let’s promise to send judgment chocolates to this source of all evil, the handsome guy.

As I revel in the mischievous scheme I’ve harboured in my heart, a slight grin appears on my lips. While observing Shizuku and Kirasaka, a knocking sound reaches us from the classroom door.

 

… Knocking on the door means a student from another class. Not just me, but most of the class turns their attention to the back door. There stands Miura from the student council.

…Did she say she has close friends in this class? As far as I remember, there was no such statement. While wondering who she might have business with, I find our gazes meeting.

 

“Minato, a moment.”

 

“Huh… me?”

 

Miura directs her eyes towards us and signals for me to come over. Uncomfortable stares from all around gather.

It’s that time of the year. I feel like I can hear the intense, anger-filled gazes from the guys, especially.

 

I want to get out of this situation quickly. So, standing up from my seat, I make my way to the rear entrance.

When I reach there, Miura seems to notice me and directs her gaze behind me.

 

“Oh, right. If I’m calling you, I can’t leave out these girls, right? How about it, Kanazaki-san, Kirasaka-san, will you join us?”

 

“Oh, sure, I’m fine.”

 

“Do you need something with my Minato?”

 

Shizuku quickly puts away her smartphone and rushes over to me with the sound of quick steps. Kirasaka also puts her book into her bag, adding an unnecessary remark, and walks over.

I glance back once and, with a gesture, apologize to Yuuto for leaving him alone, and he responds by waving his hand to see us off.

I turn around to face Miura, and she mutters softly.

 

“I have something to discuss… just a little.”

 

So, our days leading up to Valentine’s have begun.

 

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CH#289

#289

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In the aftermath, after parting ways with me, the President apparently successfully completed the recommendation entrance exam.

She assured me that there was no need to worry about the content, expressing her gratitude with words like ‘thanks to you’. Still, I decided to graciously accept only half of the appreciation.

 

I generally don’t refuse what’s offered, yes.

Excessive humility can sometimes come off as sarcastic, and, from Minato-kun’s perspective, graciously accepting gratitude wouldn’t hurt. With this, concerns in the immediate surroundings seemed to have been temporarily resolved.

However, life is such a troublesome and complicated thing.

 

Returning to the classroom after a brief weekend holiday, I encountered two formidable foes.

The usually gentle girl, who wore a soft smile, now harboured a sharp gaze in her eyes. The other girl, who normally possessed piercing and cold eyes, directed a gaze as cold as a blizzard, stealing warmth from the surroundings.

Stepping into the classroom, in a moment of realization, I understood the change in their demeanour and the reason behind it.

And I pondered where the information leaked from?

 

…Ah, it’s Kaede, isn’t it? I inwardly reached the conclusion that my sister had been secretly leaking information to the two, causing a wry smile to escape me.

What should I do? Unable to take a step forward from the entrance of the classroom, hesitating whether to turn on my heel and avoid them, the two annoyingly approached me.

 

“Minato-kun… come over here.”

 

“Come this way.”

 

With Shizuku holding my left arm and Kirasaka holding my right, I was dragged away from the front of the classroom.

The last sight I saw was Yuuto, grinning and seemingly enjoying the situation, at the back of the classroom.

 

“You really… have a good personality.”

 

Even as I glared at him with resentment, it would be as ineffective as glaring at a student who had tattled when scolded by a teacher.

Even though I knew that, I couldn’t help but infuse my gaze with a sense of anger.

 

Dragged along, we ended up on the rooftop of the second building.

Naturally, there were no students in sight, only the voices of students engaged in morning club activities on the grounds reached our ears.

Finally released from their grip, I rotated my arms lightly to relieve the tension and then turned my gaze toward the two.

 

“Did you enjoy your weekend?”

 

Shizuku said as our eyes met.

It wasn’t so much about enjoyment… it was more like encouragement. I hadn’t done anything particularly enjoyable.

 

“I wasn’t having fun; it was just my duty as a junior.”

 

“Well, it seems the other party didn’t see it that way.”

 

Kirasaka immediately interjected.

On the screen of the phone she pulled out, there was a displayed exchange of messages between the student council president and Kirasaka.

 

[Spent some time with Minato at a cafe over the weekend.]

[His encouragement lightened and warmed my heart.]

[It’s been a short time, but I’m glad to have such a good junior.]

 

…That’s quite a high rating. It’s like giving a review for a product you haven’t even bought on an online store and getting paid for it.

Even Minato-kun, normally not prone to self-doubt, began to question his high evaluation.

 

But from her perspective, this message probably generated various anxieties and speculations. If it was just encouragement, they should have gone together, but I didn’t even contact them in the first place.

In the messages from the student council president, the ambiguous wording might have been one of the factors that upset them.

 

“I am innocent.”

 

“That’s usually the first thing the criminal says.”

 

Flatly denying the words, Kirasaka put her hand on her hip and sighed. She brushed aside her bangs irritably and brought her face close.

At a distance where the tip of her nose seemed to graze, a slightly nervous heartbeat was induced by the floral fragrance carried by the wind, and she said:

 

“Minato, be aware of who you belong to and act accordingly.”

 

“Minato is definitely mine. Or rather, I am Minato.”

 

Asserting ownership as if it were a matter of course is a bit much. I don’t consider myself someone’s possession, and I have no intention of changing my existence to fit into someone else’s framework, whether it’s dating, marriage, or nurturing friendship.

 

“Well… it was wrong of me to go for President’s encouragement without saying anything to you two. But it was at President’s strong request.”

 

“That can’t be helped, but… Minato, are you really not doing anything strange with President?”

 

Shizuku, with a worried expression, inadvertently let out a wry smile.

Not to boast, but I pride myself on being relatively good at risk management compared to others of the same age. The mere thought of making a move on the student council president, especially with Koizumi in the mix, sends shivers down my spine.

 

As I nodded slightly, reassuring them that everything was fine, both of them showed a slightly relieved expression. With this, the conversation should be over. I exhaled the breath I had been holding in my chest; it had been a tiring time since the morning.

Today, I’ll have to spend the remaining time in energy-saving mode, or I might end up dozing off from exhaustion. As I turned towards the entrance to go back to the classroom, someone other than us turned the doorknob of the rooftop entrance.

With a clicking sound, the door opened, revealing the central figure of the discussion, Hiiragi Akane.

 

“Oh! There you are, Shinra.”

 

“Good morning… Is there something you needed?”

 

Regarding the words President had mentioned about looking for me, I tried to recall if there was any particular urgent task. I hadn’t made any promises, and nothing specific came to mind.

Tilting my head, I asked President, who continued with a smile.

 

“What are you talking about? Didn’t you say I could call you out whenever I wanted from now on? Anyway, a bakery I was interested in opened in the next town, let’s go together this weekend.”

 

“…”

 

Turning my brain at full speed, I recalled the conversation from the other day. I did mention to President that in the future, if she ever felt lonely in a distant place, she could call me to distract herself. The words were honest, but there seemed to be a slight discrepancy in perception.

 

“Well, that was more like, ‘If you ever feel lonely at university, feel free to call me,’ you know…”

 

“This is also student council work and you are my assistant, right?”

 

Facing President’s smirking, confident remark, I fell silent involuntarily. This has become troublesome…

Everyone here knows that President is not the type to be easily brushed off with casual words. I feel the cold gazes from the two behind me, but I can’t think of anything to say that would make the president back down.

Perhaps taking my silence as agreement, President with a smug expression, started to leave the rooftop that she just came to.

Turning around for the last time, she left an unnecessary remark.

 

“I’ll be counting on you from now on, Shinra.”

 

With a click, the heavy door closed, and the next thing that came was silence on the rooftop. The two piercing gazes still felt like they were stabbing into my back with the intention to kill.

It’s scary to turn around…

Slowly, but certainly, I turned my body to face them. Correcting Shizuku’s earlier words, I spoke.

 

“My apologies… I said something weird.”

 

At that time, I was desperately squeezing out words to convey my intentions to President, so I hadn’t considered the potential meaning behind those words.

I’ve… If possible, I’d like to make a proper plan and go back in time.

Kirasaka expressed her disbelief and sighed, placing her hand on her forehead. Meanwhile, Shizuku lowered her head, and her body trembled slightly.

 

“…Mou! Minato-kun is mine!!”

 

From her trembling figure, Shizuku looked up at the sky as if she had squeezed out her voice. To the voice filled with a mix of anxiety and anger, I quietly thought to myself.

…But, Minato-kun is my Minato-kun.

 

I’m beginning to lose track of what I’m saying, but anyway, that’s what it is.

 

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<BbX> : I managed 1 chapter today, yay! T_T

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CH#288

#288

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I check my outfit in the full-length mirror hanging on the wall. I’ve pulled out one of the decent winter clothes that had been sleeping in the depths of the closet, and after the final check by my sister Kaede, everything should be fine.

Even so, it’s certain that I’m not used to wearing this.

After Kaede nods several times beside me, her expression suddenly changes to one of anxiety.

 

“Do we really not have to tell Shizuku-san and Rei-san?”

 

“It can’t be helped… It’s President’s request.”

 

Adjusting my collar, I reply to Kaede’s words.

In the end, I haven’t told Shizuku and Kirasaka about today’s events. It’s President’s own request, and my intuition tells me that if the two of them find out, it might lead to various troubles.

From Kaede’s perspective, it might be awkward to support the president since they are the ones she is close to.

 

How many times have we repeated this conversation since morning?

Finally giving up on the unchanged response, Kaede lets out a sigh.

With the essentials packed, I put my wallet and smartphone in my pockets and change into outdoor shoes at the entrance. At that moment, Mom peeks out from the living room.

 

“Minato-chan, are you going to be back late?”

 

“It’s not like I’m going far… I’m just going to cheer her, so I’ll be back before it gets dark.”

 

It’s like a conversation between elementary school kids. Being a worrying mother might be an itch of age, but the fact that the quiet home of just the two of us has regained some liveliness is heartwarming. The interactions between us, parent and child, which have been absent for a long time, are now warming my heart.

Opening the entrance door and announcing, ‘I’m off’, to the two who see me off, I’m bid farewell with a gentle smile and a small ‘Take care’.

 

The university where President is receiving a recommendation is the only private university established in the rural town. The word ‘rural’ tends to evoke only negative aspects, but in terms of universities, it seems not such a bad place after all.

The campus is spacious, and students are rarely forced to endure the hardships of commuting in the city. Well, roughly speaking, students can spend their time in a relaxed environment and focus on their studies.

As for why President didn’t choose a famous university or a specialized school, I heard it’s because she loves her hometown.

 

Walking towards the cafe near the university designated as the meeting place, I reflected on past conversations.

Even so, I rarely visit the university area in town, especially since it’s near the mountains, unless I have some business there.

 

Having a cafe near the university or overflowing with local love—these are pieces of hidden information that even Minato, who might be chosen as a future local ambassador, might not be aware of.

As I approached, the scenery, which was nothing but houses and fields, revealed individual restaurants and convenience stores, likely privately owned.

Among them, on the terrace of a stylish coffee shop with a wooden exterior, I saw a woman in a familiar school uniform.

As I approached her, she seemed to have noticed me, smiled, and closed the book she had been reading.

 

“…Sorry to keep you waiting.”

 

“No, you came earlier than the agreed time, so don’t worry about it.”

 

The time was about ten minutes earlier than the agreed-upon time. I thought I had arrived first, but President was already waiting at the cafe.

Sitting in the opposite seat, a waiter came out with a menu and greeted us. I decided on a black coffee to seem sophisticated, but in reality, I ordered a hot cocoa. Moreover, with plenty of milk and sugar.

The waiter seemed to direct a somewhat maternal gaze at me, probably surprised by my overly sophisticated choice of hot cocoa.

 

Taking a moment to relax, I observed the expression of the woman sitting across from me. If she showed any signs of nervousness, indicating the approaching exams, I planned to avoid discussing the exams as much as possible and use words to distract her. However, what I faced was the usual expression of President, unchanged.

 

“…Surprisingly, you seem natural.”

 

“Would you have preferred to see me all tense and stiff from nervousness?”

 

“Actually, it would’ve been a rare sight, so I was looking forward to it.”

 

While waiting for the ordered cocoa to arrive, I sipped on the cold water. Since I had walked here and my body was a bit heated, the cool water felt pleasant.

As it has become quite cold recently, I wondered if it’s okay to be seated on the terrace. If there were vacant seats inside, it wouldn’t be bad to suggest moving. However, President, anticipating my thoughts from the movement of my gaze, spoke first.

 

“The inside of the shop is too warm, and I might get sleepy. I can’t afford to relax that much.”

 

“…I see.”

 

If that’s the case, there’s no need to worry.

Now, now, I wonder what words I should use to fulfill my role after being called.

The lack of experience in interacting with people directly correlates to a limited stock of conversation. Weakness in choosing appropriate words for the situation, in other words, that’s what it is.

Twisting my thoughts, the words that came to mind seemed to tell the story of my personality, and I almost chuckled.

 

“You seem like you’d be the student council president at university too.”

 

“…?”

 

In response to those words, President changed the smile she had and looked somewhat surprised. …Did I say something strange?

President is the type who likes to keep a clear boundary between her personal life and work, and it’s not that she dislikes being in a leadership position within an organization.

So, even at university, I thought that wouldn’t change, but…

Quietly waiting for President to speak, she muttered softly.

 

“In the past few days, everyone I meet has been saying things like ‘do your best, you’ll pass for sure,’ so I thought you would say something like that too.”

 

“Regardless of the form, there’s no one who isn’t doing their best before an exam… Besides, I’m not an examiner, so anyone can fail.”

 

Some people become overly sensitive before exams, even dropping things, but it only has a negative effect. A certain level of composure is necessary to bring out one’s true abilities. Knowing that, but being pushed to the point where one can’t think clearly is what makes exams tricky.

If you want me to say it, I’ll say it as many times as you want. However, the words ‘of course you’ll pass’ should be recognized as a kind of double-edged sword.

It unknowingly imposes the pressure of not allowing failure, like a blade thrust into your back.

That’s why those of us in the position of cheering others on should talk about things further ahead, such as future plans and things to look forward to.

 

Well, it’s just my theory that I consciously adhered to during Kaede’s exams. It’s neither correct nor incorrect; that’s about it.

So, finally warming my palms with the hot cocoa that had just arrived, I spoke.

 

“When I was taking exams, I’ll have President help distract me.”

 

“Hehe… Ah, I’d gladly accept that when the time comes.”

 

President replied in a way that seemed to say, ‘Leave it to me’, with her chest puffed and a slight wry smile appeared on her face, but it quickly disappeared. President, after returning her chest to a normal state, directed a meaningful gaze.

 

“Can we talk for a bit?”

 

“…Sure.”

 

Responding quietly, I placed the cup I was holding on the table and closed my eyelids, tilting my ears to listen to the words being spoken.

 

“I am aware that I am blessed, and I have no regrets about my actions. However, I’ve been thinking lately, why was I born a year earlier than you guys?”

 

The sad voice, which I had never heard before, easily conjured up the scene President was imagining. Our figures, wearing the same uniform, carrying the same textbooks, side by side.

 

“We should have become good friends, sharing joys and sorrows together, not as senior or elder sister, but just as good friends… I wanted to spend more time with you all.”

 

“…”

 

Lifting my closed eyelids, I turned my gaze to the woman in front of me. President, who had lowered her head slightly, had a shy smile on her face, as if feeling embarrassed after confessing her true feelings.

Time is cruel, and no matter how much we think or wish for the same thing, it won’t rewind. I share the same sentiments as President’s words.

She has been the one to guide us, to hold us together. However, discussing unfulfilled wishes together will only magnify the loneliness in President’s heart, leaving a sad conclusion.

 

“For me, the student council is not just the name of an organization…”

 

Why did she suddenly think that way? But I continued without caring.

 

“Hiiragi Akane is there, giving us instructions and taking actions together. That’s what the student council means to me… and it won’t change even if President graduates.”

 

I couldn’t articulate my words well. It didn’t seem like I was telling her the words she was expecting to hear. However, I wanted to convey to her what the student council meant to me.

 

“So, this place’s the student council too… even if you go to university, please call me to the student council again.”

 

There are troublesome aspects, differences in values, differences in personalities, and the difficulty of spending time with others. However, considering all that, the student council, which I was forcibly recruited into by President, was a very comfortable place.

In the tiny moments of life, which can be counted on the fingers of both hands, it’s one of those precious things that should not be lost.

 

My words, their meaning—whether they reached her even a bit, I can’t be sure. The slight silent air between us intensified the cold that should have chilled my body.

… My lack of speaking skills is frustrating. Can’t there be a simpler way to convey emotions, or is that too much to ask? Lost in such thoughts, President suddenly stands up.

The cup on the table still holds coffee, and there’s more than enough time before the originally discussed exam time.

Is she heading to the restroom?

Thinking so, I observe as she casually starts handling her belongings.

 

“P-President?”

 

“I-I just remembered something I need to take care of. I can’t approach the exams with a state of mind unfitting for the occasion. I’ll head out first!”

 

Without lifting her face, she places her payment on the table from her wallet and turns away.

Did I say something wrong…?

 

In that fleeting moment of reflection, I don’t recall saying anything that could have upset her.

As she moves away, I’m torn between standing up and following her. However, she pauses mid-stride, turns around, and looks back.

Her expression, unlike when she revealed her feelings, is notably brighter.

 

“Thank you, Shinra.”

 

Briefly, she says so and swiftly departs from the cafe.

But I feel relieved.

In that case, I probably don’t need to worry.

I stay alone in the cafe, gazing at the now-empty seat where the president sat, sipping on the cooling cocoa, spending a moment in contemplation.

 

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<BBX> : Don’t really feel like translating these days… 😛

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CH#287

#287

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At Sakuranaoka Academy, the atmosphere within the school began to change.

The presence of third-year students was diminishing, and the second-year students were, in essence, becoming the senior class.

Perhaps because of this, there was a slightly lively atmosphere within the second-year building.

 

However, this lasted only for a short while.

Familiarity comes to everything.

Everyone can sense the buoyant atmosphere around them, and their own spirits rise as well. However, observing someone calm instantly organizes the situation within oneself.

Whether one translates that into action depends on their personality.

 

Yuuto, Shizuku, and Kirasaka, even though they saw the same atmosphere, remained as composed as ever.

Observing them, the classes gradually began to regain a sense of calm.

 

It was during the time when I went to buy a drink from the vending machine on the first floor during lunch that I noticed a familiar figure behind the window of the distant staff room.

 

Today was not a day for third-year students to attend.

Some were studying at home, and others were comfortably spending their days after securing admission through recommendation.

As far as I knew, that person was rumoured to have a recommendation interview scheduled for next week, and it was expected to go smoothly.

 

Wondering what business she had at the staff room at this point, I hesitated before turning my steps toward it.

When I arrived at the entrance to the staff room, the person I was looking for was just finishing up and giving a slight bow at the entrance.

 

“President…”

 

“Minato! I was just about to come and meet you.”

 

Calling out, I approached her, and the former student council president, Hiiragi Akane, greeted me with a smile as if flowers were blooming on her face. She swiftly approached me.

Stopping in front of me, she checked the surroundings.

She was probably checking if Shizuku and Kirasaka were around.

Unfortunately, both of them were having lunch in the classroom.

 

I, too, intended to return and finish my remaining lunch after the conversation with President.

I was about to ask her why she was here at school when President took hold of my arm and started walking away.

 

“…The level of physical contact is quite intense, isn’t it?”

 

“Oh, we’re a couple arranged by our families. Besides, today, there’s no need to be considerate of my junior today.”

 

Humming a tune, President continued to pull me along towards somewhere. It wasn’t until we had advanced a bit that I noticed the direction we were headed in—the familiar student council room.

It seemed like that’s where the conversation was going to take place.

 

Silently allowing President to guide me, as we walked towards the student council room, I stole a glance at the person next to me.

Come to think of it, I may have never seen President’s face up close like this.

 

In this academy, there were two beautiful girls, Shizuku and Kirasaka, who were certainly outstanding in terms of appearance. However, President herself was undoubtedly a beauty as well.

Upon reassessing her appearance, I couldn’t help but feel a bit embarrassed. If other students were to see me in this situation, rumours might spread… well, maybe not.

 

In the first place, people might wonder who the student next to President is. While there was some attention during the student council elections and, among our grade, the incident during the school trip, I’m aware that I lack personal charm.

Even if I’ve been forgotten, there’s no need to feel down about it now.

However… if I were being observed by Shizuku and Kirasaka, it would be a bit scary.

There’s a slight sense of guilt towards them that’s beginning to sprout, and I’m aware that deep down, I’m avoiding understanding the reasons behind it.

 

Admitting it would be an easy thing.

That they, Shizuku and Kirasaka, are becoming something different within me.

If I keep overthinking things beside President, she might keenly pick up on even the slightest changes. Brushing away the thoughts intruding from the side of my mind, I quickly return to the main topic.

 

“Haven’t you had lunch yet?”

 

“Ah, well, I was planning to stop by the staff room on my way back.”

 

I understand upon seeing President’s appearance. Since there shouldn’t be any classes today, there’s no reason to visit the classroom. However, she doesn’t have any bags or belongings, so she probably came dressed in her uniform with the intention of just stopping by for a chat.

As the two of us arrive at the student council room, President takes a seat on the visitor’s sofa, not her usual president’s seat.

 

She graduated from the student council, and now Koizumi has taken over, leading the new organization. I also participated in the student council election to support Koizumi, continuing my role as the assistant to the president.

However, even with these changes, the figure sitting in the chair in front of me is still Hiiragi Akane.

So, seeing her sitting on the visitor’s sofa instead of her usual seat, I feel a slight sense of loneliness. It’s an emotion I wouldn’t have considered before.

The inexorable flow of time and memories silently overwrite the existence of Shinra Minato, and I can’t help but keenly feel it. President raises her gaze.

 

“Next week, there’s the entrance exam for the university I aspire to. It’s in the afternoon, but…”

 

“But what?”

 

Interrupting her at this awkward point, I ask. Why stop talking at such a crucial moment? Her words are usually so clear and decisive. She rarely stumbles or hesitates.

Looking unusually fidgety, glancing around and playing with her hair like a maiden, she waits for a moment before gathering herself and continuing.

 

“On that day, it’s a weekend, so I really want you to share your energy with me.”

 

“…”

 

Who is this person, blushing and muttering with an unusual shyness? She looks exactly like the Hiiragi Akane I know, but could they be twins?

She’s acting like a maiden. Come to think of it, she was a maiden, wasn’t she? If I say something like that, she might end up punching me in the face, so I resist the urge and bury it deep inside.

There are things that shouldn’t be said out loud, a lesson I’ve learned recently.

 

Well, everyone gets nervous before an exam. Even with regular tests, I have that unpleasant feeling.

Being perceived as a perfect superhuman and maintaining that image without changing her behaviour is why it’s easy to forget that she’s just a high school girl with only a one-year age difference.

 

Naturally, she has the same exam experiences as me.

Positively, it should be seen as a sign that she doesn’t need to be concerned enough to show a different side to those around her.

…However, what should I do?

 

Even if she asks for me to share my energy, I can only respond in my usual way, and refusing would be unreasonable.

As an option that comes to my mind, it seems best to bring Shizuku and Kirasaka, and maybe even Yuuto, and support her during the exam.

As I was about to convey this to President, unfortunately, she spoke at an inconvenient time.

 

“If possible, I’d like only you…”

 

“Really, just me?”

 

“Yes, just you.”

 

“Really? If you want, I can gather the whole cheering squad without hesitation…”

 

“It’s okay. I want only you.”

 

To President, who emphasized the word ‘you’ in a peculiar way, there was only one option left for me.

Closing my eyelids, I quietly pondered before nodding slightly.

No… there’s no other choice.

 

President had presented a one-way path from the beginning.

When I nodded, I heard a small sigh of relief coming from the front.

When asked about plans for the weekend, I couldn’t think of any reasons to evade the request.

 

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<BBX> : I was going to start a bit early but my mouse broke. *crying noises*

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