Chapter 7: To me, this is the biggest shock of my life
Part 1
A week has passed since then.
I’ve lost everything. The reputation I had with people around me, and my friends. There’s probably nothing left.
That day, I didn’t realize it but, it just so happened that there was some other female student in the library.
And so, she heard the whole conversation that took place when Sun-chan and the girls came to the library.
Of course, that included me acting like scum.
I don’t have to say anymore right?
Rumours quickly formed in the blink of an eye. The information from the female student immediately spread throughout the whole school, and the next day it was the hot topic. The entire school, including the teachers, became my enemies.
It’s fine to say that my current situation is going to come to a disastrous end right?
Everyday, my indoor shoes are messed up and become pieces of art, my desk is vandalized, and when I’m sitting in a toilet stall, it rains 1 .
But, there’s no helping it. I’m just a scum bastard who tried to trick the two school idols and the baseball club’s ace.
There’s only one place for a guy like me.
The bottom of the bottom of the school caste. A special level just for me, “The worst scum bastard”.
Everything is seriously over huh~. I assumed the worst case but, this has gone way farther than I thought it would have.
It’s really over……
Haa…… Should I change schools? Transferring to another school would at least stop this treatment. I want to go somewhere far away……. A far away place where nobody knows me……..
When I felt this grief, I understood the feelings of people who went up north.
You might not understand what I mean but anyways, I want to go north. That’s definitely where Mother Earth is right?
By the way, I was fired from the student council.
A new secretary was recruited immediately, and I admire how he quickly gets Cosmos’ jobs done.
Since I didn’t really want to go I didn’t mind it but, I received a cold message saying “You don’t have to come anymore” from Cosmos, and when I tried to reply back with “Okay” a little crying mail demon appeared on my screen a second after. She blocked me right after sending that message. I didn’t try it out but, calling her wouldn’t work either.
I am completely isolated in school, and nobody would listen to me.
The only one who would was Pansy, who was the one who caused all of this action.
Even though she was the main culprit who knocked me into this abyss, she calmly sent me a message the next day.
In her message, she told me that she was invited to the student council by Cosmos, and also invited to the tennis club by Himawari, but she refused them.
It’s probably Sun-chan’s plan, but right now I don’t really care.
And, it seems like Sun-chan officially confessed to Pansy.
This is true love! I fell in love with you at first sight!?
She quickly rejected that Shakespeare-like confession.
Even though Sun-chan is a good guy, he is not good enough for Pansy.
Since then I have not gone to the library.
I don’t have a reason to go, and in my place, it seems like Sun-chan has been going to the library everyday.
Himawari and Cosmos both told him “First, you should get to know the other person” as advice, so he’s using that as his motivation, blah blah blah……
Well, in any case, he seems happy talking to the person he likes everyday.
Despite getting rejected after confessing, he continues to pursue her with his “Never give up!” mentality, and it’s kinda inspiring.
Good luck Sun-chan. I will secretly cheer you on from the very bottom of the school hierarchy.
***
Then one day,
Continuing on with the whole isolation thing, today I was staring at some cheerful art that someone had added to my textbooks that were inside my desk. While I was doing that, I got a message from Pansy.
Come to the library during lunch time. I will tell you my real feelings about you~?
If I had to say it clearly, then I don’t want to go. Actually, I don’t have any plans on going.
Why should I go and see her now after all this time?
I might be at the bottom of the school caste, but I won’t do what I don’t want to do.
Particularly, meeting her, who has just been knocking me down this whole time, is something I definitely don’t want to do.
I’m not interested in her true feelings or whatever.
If you don’t come, then I’ll do some very cruel things~?
Hmm, I guess I’ll have a tasty lunch in the library today.
Come 15 minutes after lunch break starts.?
It seems like she’s giving me some time to eat lunch. I’m not happy at all though.
Aaaa whatever. I want to teach Pansy a lesson.
***
TL notes
1 Like, someone with a bucket or something dumps water on him from over the stall dividers. Read the manga if you can’t picture this.
Part 2
15 minutes after the lunch break started, I showed up at the library exactly as Pansy wanted.
Hello.?
……What are your true feelings
Before that, could you go fetch a book titled “I am a cat 1 ” for me? It’s somewhere over there. You will definitely be surprised~?
Yeah yeah, I get it….. What a pain….?
When she says “You’ll be surprised”, I can’t help but feel that I’m going to be scared so much that my heart will burst. But even if it’s scary I have no choice but to obey her.
And so, after letting out a sigh, I headed towards the bookshelves that Pansy pointed at.
Wah, this book is probably quite deep in these shelves……
The fact that I know that and that I know a lot about the inside of the library is saddening.
H-hey Sanshokuin-san!?
While I was heading towards the inner section of the bookshelves, I suddenly heard a voice resound from far behind me.
In reaction to that voice, I rushed to quickly hide my body between the bookshelves.
It’s tight! This place is so narrow! Ugh, I know I entered this space because of the situation, but I don’t think I can get out now!?
No, there’s no point in complaining now. In any case, hiding is my number one priority right now.
If I were to be found here in the library, there’s no doubt that the husband would get angry.
It’s possible that I’ll be dyed in blood again as he screams “Why the fuck are you here”.
With that in mind, I can only endure this situation. It would be suspicious if I appeared so I can only endure it!
…..Well, the person who came to the library is Sun-chan.
While being squeezed between the bookshelves, I somehow managed to peek out and saw his face with a huge smile on it.
Ohh ohhh, well ain’t that a nice smile. He looks so happy.
Well of course he would be. After throwing me into the toilet, Sun-chan became the one who visited the library everyday. It’s become a famous story.
Umm….. Since I can hear the entire conversation from here, it would be great if I could leave the library but, in this situation, it’s impossible to leave….. The exit is in front of their eyes after all…….
Sorry Sun-chan. I’m gonna have to listen into your conversation for a bit.
Hello.?
Receiving a reply from Pansy, Sun-chan happily headed towards the reception desk.
And then, while sitting down in front of Pansy, Sun-chan began some chit-chat.
Hey did you know? My grip is quite strong. I can crush an apple with one hand!?
Is that so.?
Also, I always make sure to get 8 hours of sleep everyday! Being well rested is very important if you want to become skilled at baseball after all!?
That’s amazing.?
Sun-chan, you’re really conscious about these things…. But, your efforts are completely fruitless.
Everything completely went through Pansy’s head. She disinterestedly replied to him.
But, without worrying about that, Sun-chan seemed like he was enjoying the time.
It’s definitely that isn’t it. It’s the happiness that comes with spending time together with the person you like right?
I don’t know what that feels like though.
Things stayed like that for a little bit, and then continued again.
Hey, Ooga-kun.?
This time, it was Pansy starting the conversation.
W-what is it!
Sun-chan’s spine straightened out. That’s very good posture.
You see, there’s something I want to ask you.?
Ask me anything! I’ll answer anything!?
Is that so. Thank you.?
Pansy let out a slightly lively voice. Oi oi, aren’t you getting Sun-chan’s hopes up? If you’re acting like this for real, then I will be quite surprised.
Uwaa! I’m so nervous since this is the first question you’ve ever asked me. What kind of question is it I wonder
Yu~p. I guess that’s the real Sun-chan?
The usual sweltering atmosphere is completely erased and changed to a refreshing one. Yeah. The opposite is gross.
While disinterestedly watching over Sun-chan, Pansy slowly moved her mouth.
Why did you deceive Jouro-kun and lead him into a trap
…….Huh? Pansy, what are you saying?
Sun-chan baited me? There’s no way…. wait, what’s the matter Sun-chan!
His face is frozen in a smiling state isn’t it!?
T-that….. What are you talking about
I’m sorry, did I ask in a poor way
Sorry! I didn’t really understand…..?
I’ll rephrase it then. I want to hear an answer afterwards though.?
After a short pause, Pansy glared at Sun-chan with a sharp, sword-like gaze.
You noticed Akino-senpai and Hinata-san’s feelings right? And then you lured Jouro-kun into a trap.?
…….What are you talking about? Also, me tricking Jouro and luring him into a trap is just your imagination……?
What’s this? What’s the meaning of this?
Unconsciously, I was about to jump out from between the bookshelves, but I frantically held myself back.
This conversation is not over yet. Until it’s over, I can’t jump out suddenly.
I quickly told myself that.
I see, you plan on playing dumb right?
ugh!?
If you won’t talk then I’ll talk. This is the truth based on my conversations with you this past week.?
Not a guess, but the truth she says.
And that voice, it clearly contains anger in it. Pansy is angry.
You’re considered to be a cheerful and bright person by everyone around you, and that’s true. I think you are like that too. However, there’s another side to you, a more composed and cunning side.?
As if listing out his offenses, Pansy put her words together like a robot.
In response, Sun-chan just listened as he was dumbfounded.
I first had my suspicions when Jouro-kun told me that even though you were angered by Hinata-san and Akino-senpai, you just immediately forgave them the next day. This might just be my opinion but, if you visibly show other people you’re angry with them, it’s weird to act as if nothing has happened on the next day. That’s why I’ve considered this. What if, after getting angry Ooga-kun, you realized their feelings for you.?
……………?
Oi oi, seriously…..?
Then, does that mean Sun-chan pretended to forgive those two after noticing their feelings?
There’s no way you didn’t notice right? Hinata-san and Jouro-kun suddenly stopped coming to school together, and she desperately tried to approach you. Even though you barely interacted much with Akino-senpai up until now, she began to make lunch especially for you everyday. There’s no way the two of them don’t like you.?
Well, thinking about it calmly, that’s true. I would also notice if someone did stuff like that for me.
I mean, if stuff like that doesn’t mean you like someone, then I’d soon lose faith in humanity.
Hopefully that doesn’t happen.
Nevertheless, you’ve been pretending you haven’t noticed in order to trick Jouro-kun into falling into your trap right
No…. C’mon, why would Sun-chan even try to trick me?
Taking out Jouro-kun and those two at the same time. And then, by creating an inescapable situation, Jouro will lose everybody’s faith. That was your objective.?
Why do you know that much…….?
Understanding people from a glance is my strong point.?
Is that the extent of your strong point!? Try looking at Sun-chan!
His face completely gives it away! That’s the face of a criminal when you call them out!
However, unexpected things happened right
Unexpected things? What are ya talking about?
The first thing is, you thought that Jouro-kun would definitely help you when you asked him to help with your love, but he refused. That’s why you immediately changed your plans into the tricking type right
What the hell…… Ever since the baseball talk, he’s been doing things to trick me……
And so, even though I evaded the first trap, I fell into the next one huh?
And then the second thing, was me and Jouro-kun interacting with each other. You were impatient and told Hinata-san and Akino-senpai about your love for me right? Since you learned about me and Jouro-kun.?
……..So you know that much. Did Jouro tell you
I didn’t hear it from him~ Thank you for acknowledging everything.?
Ughh!?
Pansy is scaryyy! Is that the infamous leading question!? 2
That’s why you changed your strategy. First you’d get those two to help with your own love, and you’d use Jouro-kun, the one who is helping them with their love, and turn him into the antagonist right? But, before you could do anything, you came across a stroke of good luck. It was that lunch period.?
When Pansy knocked me into the abyss huh?
Even though you didn’t do anything, Jouro-kun was here talking with me alone, just the two of us. You thought this was your chance right? And then you put Jouro-kun into a trap.?
Hey, if you understood that much then how come you set me up!?
No matter how you think about it, that’s where you protect me! Seriously, please protect me!
But, at that time you said that about Jouro!?
That’s right! Tell her Sun-chan! It’s her fault that I lost my important best friend!
Ah, this feels like a break up letter…..
Yes. I did lure Jouro-kun into a trap. That’s because, if I didn’t then you wouldn’t have come.?
What do you mean by that
Oh, Sun-chan, what a coincidence. I am also thinking the same thing. As expected the two of us….. are best friends right?
If I didn’t pretend to be Jouro-kun’s enemy, you would have realized that I’m actually Jouro-kun’s ally right? Since that was the case and because of your slyness, you wouldn’t have calmly come here a second time. So, I definitely couldn’t allow any faults in my acting.?
Pansy, you were doing all that for my sake huh?
Even though you knew you’d make me angry.
Thinking of it like that, then for all the strange things that’s happened so far I’ll forgi— As if I would!
Fine then! If that’s how things are gonna be then it’s good that I was tricked!
However, I’ve payed for my mistakes enough already.
Even if I didn’t do anything, this is how it would’ve ended up in the end.
This is the difference between acting too slow or too quickly. Jouro-kun, who was tricked by you, was reaping what he sowed.?
Ah, you get it too. I understand your thinking, but it’s offensive when someone else is saying it, oi.
Now then, let’s return to my question….. Ooga-kun.?
After saying the finishing blow, Pansy paused briefly. Sun-chan gulped real hard.
Why did you lure Jouro-kun into a trap and trick him
…………………….?
Sun-chan said nothing. He just silently looked downwards.
But, only a little bit passed until,
……It was during middle school.?
He said that in a whisper. It was completely like he was a criminal confessing during interrogation.
Gloomily dropping his shoulders, a sorrowful mood enveloped him completely.
I, was completely defeated by Jouro. In terms of the girl that I liked.?
Ha? What are ya saying? I completely defeated Sun-chan?
Wait, Sun-chan, you had a girl you likedl!?
What the……. If you told me I would’ve helped you….
At first I wasn’t able to talk with her well, but we started talking often, though I don’t know what we talked about, and from there my hope increased and I thought that I might have had a chance. But….. the reason why that girl was talking to me….. Was because she wanted to get closer to Jouro.?
Various things here are too perplexing. Why did my name come out there? I don’t get it.
If they wanted to get closer to me, then from the start they should have just talked with me….. wait, don’t tell me……
That girl liked Jouro-kun instead. And then, she wanted you to be a mediator.?
Seriously!? No wait, I remember. Thinking about it, during middle school, there was a girl that I met through Sun-chan. And the three of us hung out together for awhile. Now that I’m thinking about it, we didn’t stay in touch.
Ah? Actually during our graduation ceremony, she did say “Don’t forget me okay~”. How nostalgic.
That’s right. Why was it like that? I wasn’t just a connection to Jouro. That girl only thought of me as a convenient tool.?
No way. A guy who did something similar recently is now currently sandwiched between bookshelves.
Sun-chan, so you’re my trailblazer huh…….
It was frustrating. It was seriously frustrating. I worked so desperately to please her, and yet no matter what I did she still fell in love with Jouro. I don’t understand why. Why did I lose to him!
Sun-chan violently slammed his fists on the desk, causing it to shake.
I knew that he was hiding his real personality and pretending to be friendly! So I went and told that girl about it. What do you think she said in response? “I like that side of Jouro too”. Can you believe it
Uwao. I was found out that much huh? Sun-chan is surprisingly perceptive.
That’s why I thought I would deceive him this time. I understood very well the concerns that Jouro had with those two, and more than anything seeing the same look on his face was the best thing ever!?
. . . . . . . . . . I’m shocked.
When Cosmos and Himawari came to consult with me, I didn’t particularly come to hate Sun-chan.
If anything, I was a little happy. My best friend was deemed acceptable by the two idols of my school.
But, that guy is still ahead of me……?
I’m ahead of Sun-chan? No way! I’m in the lowest caste in the school you know?
I never thought that you and Jouro would be acquaintances though. That time when you came and asked Jouro to return a book, but that wasn’t the real reason right? There’s no way you’d go out of your way to visit Jouro for a reason like that. In other words, you……?
Yes, that’s right. I like Jouro.?
As expected. That’s what I thought.?
Sun-chan did a complete 360 and hit a game-ending home run that would faze other pitchers.
That’s right……… During middle school too……. And then during high school too the people that he likes have, fallen for me………
It’s still Jouro! All of the girls that I’ve fallen for have fallen in love with Jouro! That’s why I said it. I told Himawari and Cosmos my feelings! And then those events immediately occurred. “First let’s go to the library and get you closer to her. We will help you out” they said. Those girls are simple. They’ll do anything for me since they like me you know? This past week has be the funniest week of my life. No matter how exhaustive it is, they won’t refuse! Hahahahahaha!?
That’s why he had that sense of determination that time when Pansy invited me to come during lunch break.
During that time I completely forgot, since my head was just filled with how to deal with Pansy, but I guess that is how it was.
Seriously, everything is as Pansy said…….
I seriously think of Sun-chan has my most important best friend you know.
I still think that even now.
After all, this all happened because of my own selfishness.
Besides, don’t you think Himawari and Cosmos are pitiful?
Those girls, their feelings for Sun-chan were real.
Hey, I want you to tell me. Why do you like that guy? I think his personality is quite screwed you know. This time, that guy did this after all……..?
Don’t joke around.?
Unimaginable for the usual Pansy, she stopped Sun-chan’s words with a powerful voice.
Don’t tell me….. did she snap?
It’s true that from this talk, Jouro-kun’s situation resembles the one you were in years ago. I also think that too. However, there’s a big difference between you and Jouro-kun.?
A big difference
I guess you haven’t noticed. Jouro-kun’s actions weren’t for himself, or for Hinata-san, or for Akino-senpai.?
Ugh! Pansy, you noticed that much…… No, as expected there’s no way……
……..Everything, was for your sake.?
You actually noticed!! And you even said it!!!
From the beginning, Jouro-kun was trying to get you to go out with Hinata-san or Akino-senpai. The two of them consulted with him, and he thought that if it was one of those two, then you’d become happy after going out with one of them. However, he changed his actions midway.?
Stop it Pansy! Seriously stop!
Don’t do it! Really, don’t do it! Don’t say it!
When you told him that you liked me, Jouro-kun completely changed his plans and told me to go out with you. Rather than going out with Hinata-san and Akino-senpai, he judged that it would be better if you went out with the person you liked. The reason is really simple. Jouro-kun knows really well that you’re the kind of person who sticks to something once you’ve decided to do it. You guys are best friends after all. It’s a really overbearing and unpleasant feeling you know. You’re a cunning person. Even though he refused to help you.?
Nooooooooooo! Please don’t say anymore that thissssss!
Jouro-kun was always like that. Not for Hinata-san, or for Akino-senpai, everything was for you. You were the biggest motivation for his actions. Regardless of the time…. you always had maximum priority.?
Pansy said that while gripping her hands tightly, as if she was enduring some sadness.
Alright. I don’t know what you’re sad about, but if you’re sad then don’t talk anymore.
It was the same last week. Jouro-kun didn’t criticize you at all. Even though you purposefully exposed his feelings.?
Look that’s why I told you to not say it! I’m really embarrassed!
Even during that time when you were punching Jouro-kun, rather than worrying about himself, he was more concerned about your hand you know? “Since you’re a pitcher, you should treasure your hand more…..”, he said.?
My fear has overwhelmingly surpassed my embarrassment! Why do you know what was going on in my mind at that time!?
But even then, you betrayed him. I’ll never forgive you for that.?
B-but, my feelings for you are real! Really, you are…..?
No way. The one I love is Jouro-kun.?
Why……
Jouro-kun is kind. He’s a very kind person.?
What are you basing that off of
It all started last year, when the baseball club went to go participate in the district grand finals.?
You were also there!? Seriously, you guys like that place!
It’s complete now. You guys make up the district finals quartet!
I thought that everyone had already said it, so I didn’t think it would come out here again!
The district grand finals
Yes. You fell in love with me after leaving through the south exit, and I said this when we met but, before that, I saw Jouro-kun at the north exit. He was waiting for you there.?
Ah, hello it’s me the Black Tortoise of the North. 3 I’ve discovered the Vermilion Bird. The sea is not nearby.
Wait, Pansy was there!?
No wait, was she there?
Aah?… But, it’s not unlikely.
At that time while I was waiting for Sun-chan, a big-breasted onee-san did pass by, and while I was busy looking at her, it’s weird that I didn’t notice Pansy. She’s plain after all.
Jouro-kun was waiting for you there the whole time. Waiting under the blazing sun even though it was extremely humid out, he was holding your favourite kushikatsu with both of his hands, ready to cheer you up after you lost the finals. Seriously, he’s such a silly person right? People laughed at him as they passed by. However, Jouro-kun did not mind the surrounding gazes, always, always waiting for you. Seriously, you’re so important to him…..?
Well, I was waiting. Come on, Sun-chan is my best friend after all…..
It was at that time that I fell in love with him. A person who appeared to think of his best friend a lot. Out of all the people I had come across, to me he was the coolest person. It’s the same now as well. Jouro-kun, a guy who acts while always thinking about his best friend’s happiness. Everyone has come to dislike Jouro-kun because of the events that have taken place, but I’m different. If anything, more and more….. I’ve come to love him more than anyone else in the world.?
I see. That’s the difference between me and Jouro huh….?
Yes. Did you understand
Yup. It’s made a deep impression in my heart.?
That’s good then.?
But, you’ve made just one mistake.?
I made a mistake
It’s that time. Sun-chan, who had been in a completely knocked-down state up until now, said that while his eyes lit up. What an amazing villain face. That’s my (former) best friend you know?
It’s lunch break and we’re in the library, nobody will come you know
Yes. That’s right.?
Oi oi. I got a bad feeling about this…..
Then, I could do anything I wanted to you here and no one else would notice.?
It is as you say. And so, suddenly standing like that, are you going to do something to me I wonder
What the hell, is this why you got me to hide here?
Seriously, you’ve been able to read people’s actions so far, you must be an ESPer.
I’ve decided. There’s only one thing to do.?
Then, there’s also only one thing for me to do.
I see. It looks like you are a stupid person after all.?
That’s right. I’m a stupid bastard you can find anywhere. What are you gonna do about it? I can’t lose to Jouro anymore. If he wins, then I’ll do anything.?
Haaah…… I wanted to hide until the very end if I could but……. Well, there’s no helping it.
That’s not what I mean~?
Huh
Isn’t it a given that if you do anything to me here right now, he will come? Do you not even understand that
I understand, idiot.
H-he
My reckless, and the worst, unkind prince that is.?
Do you love me or what, I can’t help but doubt that, oi.?
Jo-Jouro!
Sun-chan’s face at that time, it was amazing to say the least.
I suddenly appeared from behind him, so of course he would be startled.
Sweat started to form on his forehead, and his lips were trembling.
Yo, Sun-chan.?
I said that in a indifferent tone in order to stay calm the whole time.
Well, how do I put this….. I knew you liked Pansy but, I differentiated between good and bad you know? Well anyways, just give up on this flat-chested girl with braids.?
Why did you add those unnecessary words at the end
I think facing reality and giving up is the best thing to do.?
Love is blinding, so isn’t it fine? I also don’t want it to seem like I’m crazy about you~?
Are those unfashionable glasses of yours just for decoration? You should really stop with those super bad hobbies of yours.?
I’m doing my best~?
W-why…..are you……..?
Seeing me just come in and talk to Pansy without caring about him, Sun-chan was completely confused.
Well of course he would be. I’ve heard everything that’s been said up until now.
And I even started talking about something dumb with Pansy.
It’s a method that forcibly makes him flustered.
But, please follow along for a little while more okay?
From here on out, it’s my turn.
I also understand your feelings too, Sun-chan.?
Huh
Maybe my words were surprising or something, but Sun-chan’s eyes opened wide.
With Cosmos and Himawari you know. Those girls, they’re really laughable.?
Those two
That’s right. After all those girls, in order to appeal to you, they did various things that made them look like idiots. Furthermore, it was all basically pointless. They were breaking their back for nothing.?
Saying that, I recalled the past two weeks. While doing so, I was laughing for real.
Himawari seriously doesn’t think enough. When she starts thinking about doing this or doing that, she has the nerve to just casually do them. Because of this habit, during crucial moments she is always scared and can’t do anything. And so, in the end she’ll start tearing up and look at me with a pouting face. It’s actually lame.?
Whether it’s spreading your arms out when you talk very arrogantly, or making some bamboo shoot gnocchi 4 , that kind of idiotic acting is the best.
The title of natural airhead bitch is very adequate for her fruitless efforts isn’t it?
Cosmos is the opposite. She thinks too much. She writes anything and everything in her notebook, and if she doesn’t prepare for something then there’s no way she can do it. And so, when it was time for the real deal, she was unable to do anything. That girl acts like a grownup, but shes quite the kid. With her girlish tastes, you wouldn’t think she’s a year above us. It’s unfortunate.?
That frightening obsession with pink coloured items, and that clattering sound that follows when she starts to panic makes her very laughable.
You wouldn’t think a girl who is normally very calm and reserved to act so rashly.
All the hardships I went through amounted to nothing in the end. They wouldn’t listen when I tried to tell them it was a misunderstanding. If it’s useless to them they’ll quickly throw it away. Well, those girls do have good points too but, unfortunately as a whole they are a minus. At least I’ve come to dislike them this time after all that’s happened. I don’t want to see their faces either.?
I’m not lying. It’s the truth.
I don’t want to have to deal with them again a second time.
It’s okay to say they’re the most bothersome people right?
But you see Sun-chan……?
Eh
Since the power behind my voice lowered, Sun-chan slowly came closer.
Laughing at those girls’ feelings…… is unacceptable.?
W-what are you……. ugh-!?
The moment I understood that he didn’t understand my words, I used all my power and seized his chest.
Well, if Sun-chan and I were to fight here, there’s no doubt that I would lose.
The baseball club’s ace vs a former student council secretary. The result is as clear as day.
But, that has nothing to do with this.
No matter how much I don’t want to do it…… No matter how difficult it is……
It’s not something to make fun of you know.?
If you’ve decided to do it, just do it. That’s my motto.
Looking at the surroundings is not worth it…… I’ve heard about it. Don’t let this become a B movie 5 . But, regardless of how idiotic they are, and regardless of how cliched it is…… those two did their best for you, the person that they are in love with.?
My hands gripped his chest harder as I was filled with emotion. Blood was rising to my head, but I knew that.
But despite that, why are you laughing at them with that idiotic face like it’s none of your business? Sure you can laugh at their actions! You’re free to be harsh! That’s right, it doesn’t matter! You don’t have to like them! However, don’t just laugh at their feelings! How much do you think they like you!? How much do you think they think about you!? In order to let you enjoy yourself, they desperately prepared movie tickets! In order to please you, they desperately made you lunch! And you’re just laughing at those feelings! You’re just using them!?
Ughh…..! Aguh…..?
The feelings of love you have for someone isn’t something funny or boring! Everyone has the same feelings! You also have someone you like, so don’t you know how it is!? If you hate me then just deal with me directly! Those girls…… don’t drag the girls who are in love with you into this! If you still don’t understand what I’ve been saying after all this then I’ll seriously have to beat it into you!!?
In response to my intense and threatening attitude, Sun-chan nodded his head up and down.
After confirming that, I let go of my grip.
No matter the time, those girls always put you first. Rather than their important childhood friend, and rather than their cute kouhai….. it was you.?
Aa…… *cough*! *cough*!?
Even I didn’t notice it but, I was gripping with quite a strong force, and so the moment I let go, Sun-chan started to cough violently.
That’s why you should go and properly apologize to those girls….. Do you understand
I-I understand. I’ll properly apologize. I really….. think I did them wrong.?
Alright. I got through to him.
Well, Sun-chan was saying this and that, but he’s an honest guy so I knew he would understand.
Yup. It’s a good thing we didn’t get into a fight.
The library was nearly dyed with blood. My blood. I was seriously scared.
……..But Jouro, what are you gonna do
After a short pause, Sun-chan asked me that. サンちゃんは少し経つとそう言った。
Well, of course. To put it bluntly, my situation is worse than anyone else’s. The entire school’s become my enemy, and I’m harassed in various ways everyday. Honestly, if I had to say it then it’s tiresome and harsh.
However, more than that, Sun-chan looking at me with such frightened eyes was far more painful.
Relax. I don’t plan on doing anything to you.
I’m fine. In the first place, I’m just reaping what I sowed. Anyways, if I did something about my situation, you’d be put in a troublesome spot right? That’s why I won’t tell anyone about what happened today. Since we used to be best friends.?
……I see. Once again you’re still…….?
Oops, not good, not good. I more or less pushed my desires onto him huh.
Pansy, you too. Don’t tell anyone about this.?
Is that an order? Or is it a wish
Pansy, who had been carefully watching this whole time, asked that with a playful voice..
What if I whisper sweet words to you
I guess it can’t be helped then~?
Thinking about what’s to come, Pansy said that with a smile on her face.
Now with that out of the way, Sun-chan, I’m counting on you.?
Ah, yeah……. I understand. But Jouro, you know…….?
Hmm? What
……………I still haven’t lost to you yet.?
Saying only that in the end, Sun-chan turned around and left the library.
***
TL notes
1 A book by Natsume Souseki about japanese society in the Meiji Period (1868 – 1912)
2 Leading Question – a question that prompts or encourages the desired answer.
3 Remember a few chapters ago, with all the other deities. Well, now we’ve completed the quartet. Black Tortoise squad rise up.
4 I might be not understanding a play on words here or something, so I’ve just literally translated it. Maybe I’ll fix it later if I figure it out.
5 B movie – a low-budget commercial motion picture
Part 3
***
I think you’re too soft of a person~?
After Sun-chan left the library, Pansy said that.
Your situation hasn’t changed you know? You’ll still be the target of the entire school’s criticism. The reputation that you’ve been building up until now is completely lost, and the only person you have left is just me. Even though this was the best chance you had at improving your hopeless situation, are you fine with letting it go
Yeah. I’ve lost everything. E?ver?ry?thing.?
All you have left is?just?me.?
I’ve lost e?ver?ry?thing.?
I had a completely refusing attitude. While I was showing my objection, Pansy was delighted and smiled.
Honestly, I don’t understand this girl.
You’re seriously a kind person.?
You’re overestimating me and it’s grossing me out.?
How cruel~?
The place you hid me was cruel. Think about it some more. If I came out it would’ve been real bad.?
There are other places that I could’ve hidden in the library.
That being said, since she offered me the narrowest place to hide, I think she’s got a screw loose.
It was VIP seating. Were you pleased with it
I would’ve been fine with general seating.?
I made sure that the general seating was sold out. Thankfully nobody was eaten.?
Pansy said that while looking at “The Wolf and the Seven Young Goats” by Brothers Grimms. 1
I don’t get it.?
Jouro-kun, it seems like you still don’t understand me~?
I don’t want to put in the effort to understand you.?
What an unfriendly person~?
In the first place, you should apologize to me. It’s all your fault that I’ve ended up like this you know
I had various reasons as well you know.?
Reasons huh
You said it earlier didn’t you? That Hinata-san and Akino-senpai would be so pitiful if you exposed the situation. That’s why you told Ooga-kun that earlier right? That you will continue to be a sacrifice.?
Hearing that, it’s as if I’m a main character.?
In my life, you’re definitely the main character.?
It’s not worth dealing with someone else’s life for a few years. Don’t suggest anything else.?
That. I love it when you refuse me you know~?
Getting up while saying that, Pansy came to my side.
Are you a masochist
Well, it’s just because you did it to protect me right
Huh!? What are you sayin
Right now, you’re the target of the school’s criticism. If I were to be seen with you, the probability of me also becoming a target of criticism is high. That’s why you refused me right? In order to protect me.?
Ton*. Pansy pressed her index finger against my chest.
That’s why, I love you~?
That’s why, I hate you.?
Since she was also a victim in this matter, I don’t want her to be involved in anymore troublesome things.
Even though I only thought it, she went and conveniently thought it up.
Let’s also keep the positive thinking at a moderate level.
Hey, Jouro-kun.?
What
After what’s happened this time, there is some things to be happy about.?
Moving her index finger around in circles, Pansy continued to talk in a good mood.
Haa
Why did you tell me to go out with Ooga-kun
W-well you see…… Sun-chan liked you so…….?
Is that…… Is that really all
Ughh! Yes it is!?
Liar~?
Kuu-!?
You kept Ooga-kun as the most important thing while you executed your plans. So that So that Ooga-kun would be the happiest, you had to select the best person to go out with him right? And so, you tried to get me together with him. That means…….?
Pansy paused for just a second, but that second felt like an eternity.
You thought that I was, a “good girl”, didn’t you? ? ? ?
Not really…… In terms of personality, those two have a screw loose. Since that’s the case, you just didn’t change much so you’d be the best choice, is what I thought. That’s all.?
A shy person aren’t you~?
Don’t talk in that offense way, picking up every little detail! Anyways, are we done talking
Yes. It’s over now.?
Then, I’m gonna head back.?
Will you not come to the library anymore
Pulling her hand away from my chest, Pansy slowly wrapped her hand around mine. 2
Well of course. I don’t have a reason to come.?
I want to see you~?
I don’t want to see you.?
While saying that, I kind of roughly shook off Pansy’s hand.
……………I’ll be lonely~?
Pansy stared at her hand, unwilling to let go of the remaining traces of the feeling of our hands touching.
And then, slowly returning her gaze back towards me,
Even though you learned the truth.?
Ugh!?
Will you really not come to the library
I won’t say it a second time!?
Pansy’s eyes, that were full of expectation and anxiety, captivated me.
It was as if her eyes were trying to appeal to me and tell me to not leave her alone.
Whether or not she noticed this, she acted bashful and played around with her braids. I lost my composure.
I won’t come!?
So I said that. I won’t be enticed by her affection here.
No matter what happens, the fact that I only hate her will definitely never change.
Then, I should do my best.?
Don’t do as you please.?
Yes, that’s what I plan on doing~?
This girl, whatever she plans on doing is of no concern to me.
After all, I’m the worst of the worst in this school. I think that my heart will secretly break a little.
……But, running away early would be for the best.
Since earlier, an alarm has been sounding off inside my head, telling me that staying anymore than this is dangerous.
See ya, Pansy.?
Yes. See you again, Jouro-kun.?
Ignoring Pansy’s ominous words, I left the library.
Closing the door with a snap, for some reason I found myself staring at the wide hallway in front of me dumbfounded.
Haa……. I wonder what’s gonna happen once I return to the classroom.
It’s so bothersome and a pain in the ass. But, well whatever.
There are some troublesome things to think about from now on, but various pent-up feelings have been cleared up from my chest.
I did agree with her but, I should give my thanks to Pansy after all.
In the end, she was my only ally from the start to end.
Thank you….. Pansy. Well, if I feel like it I’ll visit the library.
Saying my thanks in my mind, I returned to the classroom.
TL notes
1 A story that is part of a collection of stories by the Grimm brothers
2 Guys imma have to cancel this, it’s too lewd
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