Too Many Losing Heroines! - Volume 5 - Chapter 4.2

A lively atmosphere surrounds the gymnasium.

I can see many students in their uniforms across middle schools in the city. We’re talking about a grade’s worth of people.

I wonder how many of them will become my kouhais.

Looking from the gymnasium's walls, the student council members seem to be lining up the visitors according to their schools.

Kaju appointed me to be her tour guide today.

Tachibana-kun is here too- perhaps Kaju is trying to introduce him to me.

Her friend Gonto is here as well. Maybe she can help to soothe things over if an argument happens. Suppose she’s on Kaju’s side, of course.

I fell into thoughts. Then, a flower scent gently comforts the inside of my nose.

A familiar prelude played in my mind.

“Nukumizu-kun, can I stand next to you?”

“Eh, sure.”

Karen Himemiya stood next to me. She’s the winning heroine who became Sosuke Hakamada’s girlfriend. Yanami views her as her rival in love.

Huh, come to think of it, that’s indeed the case-

“You’re not with Hakamada today?”

“Fufu, Sosuke will come to my house and cook for me today. He wants to give me a surprise.”

Is that the “something to do” Hakamada mentioned earlier?

“A surprise? …But Himemiya-san knows already.”

“He’s always so clumsy. I think this part of him is quite cute, though.”

Himemiya-san didn’t give a straight answer. She casually talked about her love before looking around leisurely.

“Nukumizu-kun, it’s Valentine’s Day. Did you get chocolates?”

…Huh? Is this how extroverts tease introverts?

I closed parts of my heart and answered at the same time.

“I got some from my mother this morning. It should count, right?”

“Oh, …did Anna not give you chocolates?”

“Ha. She didn’t give it to me specifically.”

The chocolate in the club room- isn’t for me.

…That’s weird. Himemiya-san seems to be disappointed.

Somehow, I can feel the volume of the BGM decreasing as well.

“I made chocolate with Anna in my house yesterday.”

Eh, I didn’t know she made that oopart-like chocolate in Himemiya-san’s house.

Himemiya-san revealed her shiny teeth and leaned toward me. She looked at my face.

“She put a lot of effort into it. That’s why I’m thinking whether she’s giving it to someone important to her.”

Someone important? In other words, does Himemiya-san think Yanami is the type who gives things to the boy she likes?

Of course, I’m not going to deny that. However, this is the only time I feel a little bad for her…

“Well, the Literature Club members all brought chocolates. We’re planning to let the visitors try them. The spherical one is the one she made, right?

“Oh, yeah. Wow, you guys are giving it to visitors.”

“How should I put it? …I tried it in the club room. We probably won’t give hers to them.”

“Eh, why?”

Himemiya-san’s head tilted cutely.

To say why- the three teeth marks appeared in my mind.

“I can’t let anyone else eat Yanami-san’s chocolate.”

Himemiya-san’s BGM started getting chaotic after I blurted that out subconsciously.

“Eh!? So, you’re saying…that?”

“...? Yeah, I mean that.”

I answered half-heartedly. Himemiya-san showed a bewildered expression.

“Oh, …Nukumizu-kun. I didn’t expect you to be so enthusiastic.”

“I don’t know whether it’s enthusiasm or responsibility. Uh, anyway, I feel like I’m the one responsible.”

I’m the president, after all. I can’t let others eat chocolate with high school girls' teeth marks.

Himemiya-san’s eyes bulged even harder after I said that.

“Responsible!? Nukumizu-kun, since when have you two gone that far!?”

Himemiya-san’s reaction is unusually exaggerated.

Obviously, that’s because she doesn’t know I’m the president of the Literature Club, but is it that shocking? …I’m a little startled.

“Eh, …uh, it’s been like this a long time ago.”

“O-Oh, …I see. …You two have been like this a long time ago.”

What’s with her reaction? Indeed, Himemiya-san and I never seem to be on the same wavelength when we’re having a conversation…

Himemiya-san is really excited. That’s why I have to spend this awkward moment with her.

During this time, Prez Hokobaru walked onto the stage with a microphone.

“Welcome to Tsuwabuki High School, everyone.”

The solemn voice immediately changed the atmosphere in the gymnasium within a second.

All of the cheering middle school students immediately went quiet. I couldn’t help but straighten my back as well.

After looking at the lined-up audience below the stage, Prez Hokobaru started speaking in a calm demeanor.

“I think many students have already chosen Tsuwabuki High School, while a huge chunk of students are still hesitating. However, I hope all of you can ignore all of that just for today. Just bring back the feelings you have after the visit. Also, if there are still students who are willing to pick Tsuwabuki- as part of our family, I’ll be incredibly honored.”

After the speech, Prez Hokobaru turned off the microphone and bowed to everyone respectfully.

Her elegant manners are alluring. I watched her dazedly. Then, Teiara-san’s crisp voice is heard throughout the entire gymnasium.

“Alright, all tour guides please greet our visitors!”

I know I have to go.

At first glance, the leading student at every line has a sheet of paper that says the name of their middle school.

I’m in charge of Class 3-5 of Momozono Middle School. That’s why Kaju should be there too…

I searched for the one-piece dress uniform among the crowd. Then, a familiar face appeared, a head taller than I remembered.

“You’re Nuku-chan’s brother, right? It’s been a long time.”

It’s a tall girl in a Momozono uniform. I think I’ve seen her several times back home.

“Ah, well, you’re-”

“I’m Gonto. Nice to meet you.”

“Ah, yes, nice to meet you.”

I answered nervously. A short boy- Tachibana-kun stood next to her.

“I’m Tachibana. I’ll be in your care-”

Tachibana-kun’s expression froze in the middle.

…Ah.

“Eh, …Watanabe-kun?”

“Ah! That’s-”

Shit, I can’t think of any excuses at all.

The two of us stood still. During this time, Kaju leaned on me and grabbed my arm tightly.

“Alright, that was actually a prank! What a success! Right, onii-sama?”

“Eh? What is- ouch!?”

Kaju pinched my back.

Tachibana-kun didn’t react. Kaju started speaking to him rapidly.

“With Tsuwabuki High School’s open day as an opportunity, my onii-sama wants to understand Tachibana-kun as a person. That’s why he came to check you out! Sheesh, onii-sama, didn’t I already tell you Tachibana-kun is a serious person?”

Even though I don’t really get it either, she seems to be covering for me. Fine, I’ll just do what I can.

“Y-You’re right. Sorry, Tachibana-kun. I was being impolite.”

Tachibana-kun lowered his head and approached us. He’s unable to hide his confusion.

“It’s fine. I was the one who brought up an unreasonable request. I’ll be in your care today.”

…Tachibana-kun is such a nice person. I’m also nice, even though I was a stalker.

Gonto-san looked at us dazedly. She then patted Kaju’s shoulder.

“What happened? Does your brother know Satoshi?”

“Well- I’ll explain it to you later. We don’t have much time right now! Let’s go!”

“Ah, hold on, Nuku-chan.”

Kaju and Gonto-san held hands as they stepped out.

After exchanging a glance, Tachibana-kun and I followed the two of them out of the gymnasium.

“Sorry, I just suddenly came here and caused you trouble.”

Tachibana-kun said that worriedly. I hastily shook my head.

“No, no, no, that’s not true. Uh, do you want to check out any places?”

I tried my best to say that in a cheerful tone. Then, Tachibana-kun fidgeted and took out the handbook for visitors.

“Uh, I want to join the public lesson in 1-C’s classroom.”

That’s my class, right? Even though Amanatsu-sensei likes to complain, she still does what she needs to do.

The handbook says, “Please observe what our classes are like normally”.

Although I don’t really want to show that lazy teacher to others, she only gets serious during class, so it should be fine for us to put her up there…

I spoke to the three people while on the corridor that connects both buildings.

“Well, we’ll join the public lesson later. There’s still some time before it starts. Are there any places you guys want to go?”

Kaju held Gonto-san’s hand as she turned around to look at me.

“Onii-sama, please bring us to places you usually go next!”

“Places I usually go? There’s no point in doing that, right?”

Kaju’s lips curled down as she threw a tantrum.

“It’s because Kaju wants to know what onii-sama is like normally. Onii-sama rarely talks about school with Kaju after getting into high school.”

It’s because I have nothing to say.

Aside from the classroom and the emergency stairs, the places I usually stay at are…

“Well, I’ll give you guys a tour of the water pipes in the school-”

“Onii-sama, are there any other places?”

Kaju interrupted.

“Eh, but the shape of the tap before the Arts Room changed.”

“Anything. Else. Onii-sama?”

Ehh, …I feel like Kaju is a bit scary. But how can there be anything else…?

“Well, the Literature Club’s room- you guys aren’t interested, right?”

I couldn’t think of anything else. That’s all I could say. After that, Kaju’s eyes brightened.

“I’m going! Actually, I’ve already prepared a draft to be brought to the Literature Club!”

A draft to be brought…? We don’t have such an option.

“Uh, why are you bringing that?”

“Kaju has thought about this before. It would be so good to publish my draft in the same edition of the club magazine with onii-sama. Seeing the siblings’ names on the menu is like we’re having a joint publication. It feels so good!”

“I don’t know that feeling, but we’re making a club magazine today. Let’s try putting it up there.”

“Really!? Hey, Gon-chan, Tachibana-kun, are you two coming as well?”

Gonto-san smiled and shrugged.

“I don’t mind. What about you, Satoshi?”

“There’s some time before the public lesson, anyway. I’ll go. Uh, I’m a little interested in the…Literature Club as well.”

Ah, this guy isn’t interested at all, right? Some of us can’t even tell the difference between the Gardening Club and the Literature Club. I’m so sorry to make all of you worry…

Right now, he’s more mature than I am. He’s more considerate, gentle, and handsome- but I’m taller and older than him. Also, my blood type is A. I have a bigger advantage during blood donation.

…Yep, this is a draw.

Tachibana-kun doesn’t know I’ve already started a match against him. Instead, he showed me a warm smile.

“I’ve heard that Nukumizu-san is already the president of the Literature Club, even though you’re just a first-year student. That’s so amazing.”

“Huh? Ahh, well, someone had to take the position, after all. In other words, I guess it’s a sense of responsibility.”

Tachibana-kun is such a nice person. I scratched my cheeks to cover my embarrassment.

I’m already starting to trust him. That’s why I relaxed my expression and walked into the building.

-But this doesn’t mean I’ve already acknowledged the relationship between Kaju and him, okay?

*

I reached my hand toward the club room’s door at the corner of the west building, yet I stopped just before touching the knob.

Right, Komari and Konuki-sensei are inside, I think…

“What’s wrong, onii-sama?”

Kaju glanced at my hand puzzledly.

“I have a question for you. Kaju, the two of them are in the same grade as you, right? Are they 14 years old?”

Inside here is the worst teacher in Tsuwabuki, in terms of education level, that is.

After seeing the nod of approval from them, I reached my hand toward the knob. Sensei, please…

“I’m Nukumizu. Here are the visitors.”

Clack. …I gently opened the door. Konuki-sensei faced me with her back while squatting down.

As for Komari, she’s curled up in the corner of the room with a chair as her shield. Sensei’s waving a cat wand at her.

“Good, good. Come out, Baby Komari.”

“Fuu!”

Komari hissed at her angrily.

Hmm, this is still SFW. It’s within my expectation. So, I waved at the three.

“Here, make yourselves at home. Sit anywhere you like. I’ll make some tea for you guys.”

“Ara, we have guests. Welcome.”

…Huh, everyone’s just standing at the door. They aren’t coming in. Kaju carefully asked.

“Uh, what is Komari-san…?”

Of course, she garnered much attention. I looked forward. Konuki-sensei nodded and started explaining.

“I’ll skip over the details. I wanted to get closer to her as an advisor, and this is how it turned out.”

I’m quite curious about the skipped parts, but if that’s the case, I can’t help it. Konuki-sensei is like that, after all.

The three visitors sat on the chairs confusedly. I gave them some tea and chocolate. Gonto-san looked around curiously and asked.

“What does the Literature Club usually do?”

“Writing novels mainly. We make club magazines and exchange our thoughts after reading a book together.”

“That’s why all the books.”

“Yep, exactly.”

…That’s all of the explanation.

I’m slowly losing faith. However, I’ve already prepared for such a situation.

“Uh, we have a self-introduction table here. How about you guys try filling it out? We can staple it together with the draft and make a club magazine out of them.”

I rapidly told them the lines I had prepared as I distributed the self-introduction tables to everyone.

Tachibana-kun looked at the paper and raised his head.

“I don’t really read novels. Can I fill in a magazine or manga?”

“Of course. You can even write about a movie, anime, or game. Write whatever you want.”

…Glad to see this. I don’t have to say anything when they are writing.

I thought about it. However, for some reason, instead of writing, Kaju just looked around.

“What’s wrong, Kaju? You don’t know what to write?”

“Uh, can I…give my draft to onii-sama?”

Come to think of it, I did say something like that.

I agreed. Then, Kaju lowered her head shyly and took out a piece of folded paper.

I took it. It’s a short novel. It has around 2 A4 papers’ worth of content.

“This is the first time I’ve heard Kaju writes novels. When did you start?”

“I suddenly had an idea after being too nervous to sleep yesterday. This is my first time writing one. It feels really embarrassing.”

She suddenly had an idea and then finished her very first novel in one night…?

The content is yet to be investigated, though. Despite my look, I actually have several months of writing experience under my belt.

I suppressed my nervousness and flipped open the paper-

*

Literature Club Report - Special Edition

<Like a Bad Japanese Movie> by Kaju Nukumizu

The gloomy kitchen is enveloped by cold silence. The scene before my eyes reminds me of a Japanese movie I’ve watched somewhere, even though I can’t remember the title.

I make breakfast here alone every day at 6 AM.

Crack. I tore off the head of a dried fish and took out its organs.

Crack. After repeating it 10 times, I poured the dried fish into a pot with water.

I only made one dish when the soup was boiling. I cut my brother’s favorite raw ginger into slices and mixed them with sesame and vegetable leaves for a simple meal.

My brother and I have been living together for 10 years. This is an incredible duration in my eyes.

I continued with my routine as usual this morning.

-Even though this is my last day to live with my brother.

The clock points at 6:30 AM. Usually, my brother will sit next to the table and start reading newspapers at this time.

I was worried. With a tinge of anxiety, I quietly came to the corridor.

After opening the bedroom's sliding door, I saw my brother standing at the center of the room.

He already got changed. There’s a suitcase next to his foot.

“Nii-san, it’s time for breakfast.”

He nodded, so I returned to the kitchen and twisted the knob of the stove.

My brother entered the room with a newspaper. He turned on the TV and sat before the dining table.

He watched the news on TV as he paid attention to the newspaper. It was almost like he was checking the answers.

I have to make the miso soup during this time. The ingredient is just sliced tofu. The broth is red Hatcho miso.

Then, at 7 AM, the two of us have breakfast together. This is a habit we have never dropped for 10 years.

Not even during New Year. The two of us think this is pretty laughable.

Oh, I think there’s one time when we broke the promise. That was the only day.

The first time when my brother and I woke up under the same blanket.

I acted like a spoiled child who didn’t want to leave her bed. Then, my brother became my chef with his usual expression.

I thought he would be more or less not used to it. However, unexpectedly, I couldn’t believe he made a successful bowl of miso soup. So, we still had our breakfast at 7. From that day on, I’ve never stopped doing this piece of chores even once.

I watched the blue flame on the stove as I carefully adjusted the knob.

The water in the pot must not boil after pouring the dried fish into it. The rich broth must be carefully prepared before the sliced tofu is added. I also need to pay attention to twisting the knob on the stove to avoid overcooking.

A bowl of miso soup is done after 30 minutes.

My brother loves to hear the noises from me preparing breakfast.

-I prepared to turn off the stove as usual after sensing the heat from the tofu, yet my hands twisted the knob in the opposite direction.

-The blue flame burnt the bottom of the pot. The boiled tofu is spinning around inside.

I’ve never let my brother cook during these 10 years. Right now, all the time has turned into ingredients and melted into the miso soup- it’s a complicated feeling.

I suddenly raised my head. My brother is doing the questions in the newspaper.

For some reason, I feel like a total idiot. I quickly turned off the stove and added the usual MSGs.

The clock pointed at 7.

My brother and I sat face to face and started greeting the ever-unbroken morning during these 10 years.

He changed into his usual leather shoes at the entrance and took the suitcase.

The suitcase contains the 10 years my brother has spent here. Everything else is left at home.

He probably won’t come back ever again after leaving, right?

-Perhaps it’s better for us to keep our distance for now.

I can’t believe I’m bidding farewell to him for such a vague reason. Those words have been dragging on until this day.

My brother broke his long-maintained silence by quietly mumbling, “Will she be alright alone?”

He’s such a bad brother. He always makes his own decisions no matter what I say.

This is the first time I’ve realized my anger. I stared at him furiously, yet I saw the anxiety in his eyes.

After taking a deep breath, I put my palm on the slightly enlarged spot below my belly button and stroked it gently.

“It’s fine. It’s because I’m not alone.”

My brother is shocked. To that, I answered him with an innocent smile.

-We’ll always be together, nii-san.

*

…I see. I put the draft on the table.

What kind of face should I make after my little sister requested me to read this novel…?

I felt frustrated. Kaju looked at me worriedly.

“How was it? Kaju still feels I’m a little childish compared to onii-sama.”

“No, it’s pretty good. Yep, it’s amazing how good this is for a first-timer.”

“Really!?”

Kaju’s face immediately brightened up.

“So, are you not using a pen name? You’re going to use your real name?”

“Yes!”

She’s going to publish it under her real name. I see…

Komari crawled out from nowhere and read her draft without any permission.

After reading it, Komari stared at me like a piece of garbage.

“...H-Hand yourself in to the police.”

“This isn’t an I-novel, okay!? There are no real-life elements.”

I took the draft back from Komari.

“Well, I need to print one out first. Hmm…”

It’s a bit of a walk from the closest convenience store. I want to use the printing room, but our club has no budget left.

I struggled for a solution. During this time, Konuki-sensei tidied her hair and stood up.

“Sensei can print it out in the teachers’ office. Lend me the draft.”

“Eh, are you sure?”

“Leave it to me. Despite my looks, sensei is the Literature Club’s advisor, okay? Do you still remember this setting?”

“Yeah, a little.”

Sensei suddenly turned around just as she prepared to leave the club room. She seemed to have recalled something.

“Don’t sneak out while I’m gone, okay? Sensei will be pretty sad if I come back and no one’s here.”

“Komari will be here. Please relax.”

“Good to know.”

Konuki-sensei winked at Komari before leaving.

“Alright, everyone’s self-introduction table- Komari, stop kicking me under the desk, alright?”

I let Komari kick me as I looked at the three people’s papers.

Uh, let’s see. …I didn’t know Gonto-san liked period dramas.

“You watch period novels too? By the way, the TV show <Furious Swordsmen> is adapted from a novel?”

“I started from the show as well. I collected the DVDs between 1978 and 1989, but I’m just halfway through.”

Gonto-san puffed up her chest proudly. This girl is a die-hard stan.

“Asami is Ken-sama’s biggest fan, after all.”

Tachibana-kun chuckled and spoke up.

Come to think of it, the protagonist of <Furious Swordsmen> is born in Toyohashi.

He’s an experienced actor who starred in many famous works. Aside from that, he always performs during the festivals in the city.

“The same goes for Satoshi, right? There was a Ghost Festival performance in the Children’s Club. You even performed your Ken-sama-style samba dance. I was the one who taught you when you kept forgetting the poses, okay?”

“Alright, alright, it’s embarrassing.”

Gonto-san said that in a mischievous tone. Tachibana-kun waved his arm shyly.

“Eh, are you two old friends already?”

The two glanced at each other after hearing my question.

“Asami and I were in the same class during elementary school.”

“Ken-sama came from our elementary school as well, you know?”

Oh, …are these two just like Yakishio and Ayano?

I observed the two excited students as I paid attention to Kaju.

Kaju doesn’t seem to mind. She’s writing something on the paper with a pencil- at least, that’s what it looks like.

…According to a certain girl, everyone aside from childhood friends are cheating cats.

Even so, if all they did was spend time in the same elementary school, that means they weren’t that much of childhood friends. It seems a bit too early to perceive that there’s a cheating cat in my house just because of that.

I referenced my experience in love (2D) as I became lost in thought. During this time, Kaju handed me her filled self-introduction table.

“Alright, onii-sama. I’m done.”

Right, what has Kaju been reading these days?

…Hmm, not just light novels too. There are shojo manga and romance novels as well.

“Ah, Kaju has read the <Lapis Lazuli Kingdom> series too? Did you borrow it from Momozono’s library?”

“Yeah, it’s because it’s a recommendation from the librarian.”

Upon a closer look, the table contains many books I borrowed in middle school.

…No, it’s not even “many”, don’t tell me these are all the books I borrowed in middle school.

If it wasn’t a coincidence, does that mean she checked all the borrowing cards in Momozono’s records?

“Uh, Kaju, these books, did you-”

“Yes, what’s wrong, onii-sama?”

Kaju tilted her head cutely.

“...Well, you have quite the taste.”

“Yes, Kaju agrees.”

Very well, let’s just skip the topic by saying BS.

After a while, everyone filled out their self-introduction table.

Komari silently placed the printed drafts on the desk.

“Stack the draft pages in order and staple them together. The self-introduction tables will be in the inner cover-”

“W-Where’s your little sister’s indictment?”

Komari gently pushed my arm. I forgot about it. Also, that’s a novel.

“Uh, then let’s put Kaju’s novel before mine, okay?”

“Is this Nukumizu-san’s novel?”

Tachibana-kun pointed at the title. It’s called <My Girlfriend Has a Boyfriend, But I Didn’t Expect That It Wasn’t Me>.

-I nodded. This is a vanilla novel I’ve been cooking for a long time. It has a rather high portion of NTR elements.

“Let’s put a sticky note up there first. I’ll put Kaju’s novel in later.”

Now I just need to wait for Kaju’s draft, and then we can start stapling them together.

…? Tachibana-kun has been looking around anxiously since then.

He looked at the clock on the wall. Right, I think he wants to join our class’s public lesson.

“Tachibana-kun, you still have to go to 1-C’s classroom, right? We can leave the club magazine for later. Just go.”

“Ah, yes! Thanks for the work!”

Tachibana freaked out and stood up. I wanted to follow him, yet Komari grabbed my shirt.

“Y-You won’t leave me here alone, right…?”

“Don’t worry. Konuki-sensei will be back right away.”

“I-I don’t want that either.”

I feel the same, but please bear with it.

I tried to convince her since Komari wouldn’t let go.

“Relax, Yanami-san will be here soon. Hmm, I think she said she will be here in a little bit.”

“L-Liar.”

How did you know? I looked away nervously. Komoar gave me a furious stare.

“Y-Your dead fish eyes turn really bright whenever y-you’re lying.”

I can’t help it if it’s exposed then. I decided to change my attitude.

“Komari, come over here. Don’t worry. I won’t do anything.”

“Ueh!? W-What are you doing…?”

I brought Komari to the corner of the club room.

“Listen up. The result of this open day directly influences the number of new members we get next year. That’s why welcoming Kaju and her friends is-”

“T-They are just second-year students. The year after this is when they get in, r-right?”

“...Yes.”

“A-Also, other people are about to come after visiting the Culture Club. That’s why we need to pay attention to welcoming them. Also, y-you’re too close to me. Go away.”

I see. That’s indeed the case. Our vice president is kind of reliable.

“But we can’t just ignore Kaju and her friends, you know? Let’s split into two groups and-”

“I-I told you. Y-You’re too close to me!”

Komari pushed my body away forcefully.

“My little sister will hear us. Be quiet, Komari.”

“E-Everyone left a-already!”

…Huh? I turned around. Those three already disappeared from the club room.

“Wait, where did everyone go?”

“Your little sister texted me and said she would be going.”

Komari showed me her phone screen for a glance. Right, Kaju said she also wanted to go to our class’s public lesson.

In other words, this means I just forced Komari to a corner and whispered to her. Doesn’t that make me a criminal?

At least Konuki-sensei didn’t see this- hmm?

I suddenly had a familiar feeling. I turned around. Konuki-sensei is peeking at us behind the slightly opened door.

“It’s fine. Sensei will be watching and making sure you don’t cross that line. So, please just follow your desire and challenge the limit.”

I don’t want to cross or challenge anything. I tidied my uniform after leaving Komari.

“Sensei, I still have to be the tour guide. I’ll leave the rest to you. Komari should also-”

Komari smacked my back with her phone furiously before I could even finish.

“Ouch, what are you doing?”

“T-That’s why I don’t like this part of yours!”

“I said it hurts. Sensei, please help me out.”

Sensei showed a pleased look after I requested help.

“That’s nice. Sensei will support you two developing such a hobby.”

…Please don’t, and also please help me.

*

That was a lot.

Even though it was my bad for scaring Komari, she didn’t need to be so pissed, right…?

I dashed out of the west building. Then, I saw the three of them walking toward the new building through the corridor.

“Sorry, everyone. I’m late.”

“Onii-sama, are you really leaving Komari-san behind?”

Kaju said that half-heartedly. She speedy-walked away before I could answer.

…I think even Kaju is mad as well.

I distanced myself from her a bit out of fear and came next to Tachibana-kun.

“Sorry, onii-san. You can go ahead first.”

“I’m the one who should apologize. We just had a little argument-”

…Eh? Did he just call me “onii-san”?

Eh, uh, don’t tell me the next scene is “please leave Kaju to me”.

My heart skipped a beat. After that, Tachibana-kun spoke up seriously.

“Thank you very much for giving us a tour today.”

I could only give him an “I mean” and a “well”. I didn’t even know what I should say. Kaju was in front, so I observed them at the same time.

The two girls are chatting as they are walking. They aren’t paying attention to me.

“Tachibana-kun, what do you-”

What do you think about Kaju? I decided to swallow my words before asking that.

“What’s wrong?”

“Uh, you want to get in Tsuwabuki, right?”

Unexpectedly, he gave me an awkward smile.

“Even though I really want to study at Tsuwabuki High School, I’m not as academically gifted as Asami or Kaju-san. My grades probably aren’t good enough to get into Tsuwabuki.”

Eh, he’s not planning to enroll in Tsuwabuki?

“Then why are you here for the tour today?”

Tachibana-kun lowered his head shyly.

“Uh, there’s something I want to talk to somebody no matter what.

…! I swallowed my saliva. Let’s just ask him.

“The thing you want to talk about- is it related to love?”

Tachibana-kun stopped in surprise after hearing that.

“Ah, did you ask Kaju-san already? Sigh, I told her to keep it a secret.”

“But you still have to say it today nonetheless, right?”

Tachibana-kun nodded.

“Indeed, I want to muster my courage today and convey my feelings.”

He still hasn’t confessed. I can sigh in relief, …but I don’t have the time to do that.

“It’s starting soon, you two-”

Kaju’s voice interrupted my thoughts.

We are already standing before 1-C’s classroom. Kaju and Gonto-san are waving at us.

Tachibana-kun nodded nervously. He raised his hand toward Kaju.

…Is that what he really means?

I’ve read many rom-coms, so I already know what he wants.

The two’s story is about to reach its climax. What’s awaiting them will be-

Confession.

*

Amanatsu-sensei’s public lesson has already begun.

The usual desks and chairs are placed in the corner of the room. The whiteboard is right next to the window. All the chairs are wheeled. Everyone can pick wherever they want to sit.

After seeing Kaju and her friends taking a seat, I decided to stand around the classroom entrance and listen to the lesson.

I remember public lessons are for visiting students to understand what classes are like, typically. I don’t think I’ve been to such a special lesson before, right…?

Amanatsu-sensei stepped before the whiteboard when the tens of visitors finally sat down.

“Well, I’m Amanatsu. I’m teaching World History in this school.”

Everyone looked at her. With that, she cleared her throat and grabbed the textbook.

Amanatsu-chan, you’re the teacher representative of Tsuwabuki High School. I’ll leave it to you.

“Some say there’s no point in remembering dates whenever it comes to history lessons and that they won’t get to use it after growing up. I think these people should just kill themselves.”

I’ll leave…it…to you…?

“Alright, I want to ask you people’s opinion on PE lessons. I know already. You brats want to say, ‘We’ll be adults then. Don’t tell us we have to make a living by jumping over boxes or splitting our legs and doing a front roll.’ But sensei is already an adult, so I’ll keep it brief. Okay, the lesson starts now.”

Chak. Amanatsu-sensei opened the marker’s cap.

The darkness in her heart seemed to have subsided. Now it’s time for a proper class-

“Huh, there’s the Literature Club president. Nukumizu!”

She suddenly dragged me in.

“Eh, how can I help you?”

“What’s the oldest novel you know?”

Everyone is looking at me. I’m startled. I scrambled my brain for an answer.

“Uh, <The Tale of Genji> for example…?”

Amanatsu-sensei nodded and started writing on the whiteboard.

“Indeed, the consensus is that <The Tale of Genji> is the oldest novel. It was written in the early 11th century. At the same time, the Byzantine Empire was in its golden era in Eastern Europe.”

Amanatsu-sensei continued without stopping at all.

“Meanwhile, Japan was in the Heian period. During that time, a palace servant wrote a slightly erotic novel. It got passed down to the entire palace, and even Emperor Ichijo read it too. On the other hand, the Byzantines won the Battle of Kleidion and took over 10,000 prisoners. The Eastern Romans scooped their eyes out and sent them back to the country-”

…It looks like she’s finally in her teacher mode.

After that, Amanatsu-sensei threw out some topics for the visitors to discuss. The lesson is going on orderly. The theme seems to be about the difference between mindsets and common knowledge for people in different periods and cultures.

The atmosphere lightened up a bit. During this time, Amanatsu-sensei split the visitors into two groups.

“Based on what you’ve heard, this group will be Paris residents living in the 14th century. The other one will be 21st-century Japanese people who went back in time. The two groups need to think of measures to alleviate the Black Death at the time.”

Amanatsu-sensei crossed her arms and stood between the two groups proudly.

“Sensei will be the host. Also, I’m born in the 23rd century. My character is a stubborn conspiracist.”

What’s with such a complicated setting?

However, the class is going very well. Amanatsu-sensei gave introverted students suitable topics and let them interact with each other. At the same time, she slowly guided everyone to make speeches. I’m very satisfied with sensei’s measures. However, during this time-

Chak. I suddenly heard the noise of a snap.

I turned around. Shikiya-san is standing next to me. She’s picking an angle to take a photo with her phone.

“Ah, Shikiya-senpai. The student council has to take pictures too?”

“Photo records, …report…”

Shikiya-san checked out the photos she got.

It seems that Shikiya-san is satisfied. She nodded and opened her white pupils to observe the situation in the classroom.

“Despite her look, …Amanatsu-sensei actually has a…pretty high reputation when it comes to class…”

“You’re right. It’s indeed true despite her look.”

“Yeah, despite her look…”

Shikiya-san stopped taking photos and stood next to me while wobbling instead.

The discussion in the classroom is gradually getting heated as we listen.

Kaju’s roleplaying as a 14th-century Paris citizen. She explains how herbs are a cure for poison. The students on the other side act as modern people. They seem pretty shocked by Kaju’s explanation. They even nodded frequently.

…Even I start to think Kaju’s right when I’m just listening.

“Can the Black Death really be cured by herbs…?”

“There’s no way, …right?”

Shikiya-san mumbled. She then took a photo of me.

“Why did you take a photo of me?”

“I feel like…somebody wants it…”

Shikiya-san said something weird before starting to type in her phone.

“That’s true for senpai’s photo, but nobody wants mine, right?”

I chuckled self-mockingly. Shikiya-san stopped.

“...Do you…want my photo?”

“Huh?”

Shikiya-san tilted her head. Her white pupils are vaguely reflecting my face.

“Uh, well, let me check if I have to reference how everyone thinks. Or I can see if anyone wants the photo-”

I began saying nonsense. Shikiya-san suddenly turned around and leaned onto me.

After that, she reached her hand out- chak. She pressed the selfie button.

“I’ll give this one to you. …Don’t…buy it from others, okay…?”

I received a text on my phone. She already sent me the photo.

“Eh, ah- is this photo for me?”

Shikiya-san nodded.

I looked back at the classroom in embarrassment. Amanatsu-sensei radiates a dark aura.

“Don’t show off here, you two. Go flirt somewhere else.”

Hold up, Amanatsu-chan. You’re saying that before middle school students.

Amanatsu-sensei recalibrated herself and continued the lesson after complaining viciously.

I sighed in relief. Then, Shikiya-san and I observed the class together.

…Right, we haven’t had a chance to talk alone ever since Christmas Eve.

That day, Shikiya-san was giving out a slightly different mood than usual.

Under the candlelights, Shikiya-san’s cheeks, along with the scent of makeup products and perfumes, were mixed together. They are deeply engraved into my memories.

That scene seems surreal. Sometimes I even revisit it in my dream.

We’ll wave at each other every time Shikiya-san and I meet. However- we aren’t actually friends yet. More than acquaintances, less than friends, …I guess?

“Uh, how are you doing?”

I stared forward and lowered my voice before asking her to avoid Amanatsu-sensei’s wrath.

“I’ve been studying and working. …No chance to play…”

Shikiya-san isn’t just a student council committee member. She’s an elite student as well. Even though she looks pretty chill (physically), she’s a busy girl.

I actually want to go to the board game cafe with everyone one more time, but I’m too embarrassed to invite others…

Shikiya-san mumbled after seeing me spending all day hesitating.

“You seem…to like board games, …so I bought it…”

Hmm? Did I let out my thoughts subconsciously?

“Eh, well, you’re talking about the board game cafe, right? I’ll bring everyone next-”

“That board game…is for 2 people only…”

…Then everyone can’t play together. For example, Yanami can’t wait to play her cards out in order.

“Well- the two of us can go next time.”

“Yes…”

Shikiya-san nodded slightly. I scratched my cheeks to cover my shyness.

…What’s with this weirdly peaceful atmosphere?

“My little sister was on the student council trip last year. Senpai, did you join as well?”

I changed the topic to avoid the awkwardness. Shikiya-san glanced at me.

“I did, …Kaju Nukumizu…looks…just like you…”

“No, no, we’ve been- ah, we look like each other!?”

I complained as I thought about what Shikiya-san said.

It’s oblivious. Kaju and I look just like each other. However, nobody told me this fact after all these years.

“Yeah, we’re siblings, after all.”

Tachibana-kun roleplays as a 21st-century citizen. He’s still making his speech.

He hypothesized the source of the disease with plant infections as an example. With all that, even the 14th-century Kaju nodded in agreement repeatedly.

Both sides kept giving their opinions. Class is about to end. After the discussion, Amanatsu-sensei started summarizing. Tachibana-kun paid full attention to her.

…He’s not a bad person, based on our conversations earlier.

No, it’s more like he’s a great guy.

-Kaju is still too young to have a boyfriend.

My feelings remain the same, but it’s far better than her being taken away by a weird guy…

Class ended as I was lost in thoughts.

Amanatsu-sensei cleaned the whiteboard.

“Remember, folks. Common knowledge varies in every period. Also, common sense won’t change even for people in different groups or stances. Even though something is wrong from a modern standpoint, you guys should think about how it turned out to be that way and why people at the time were doing those things. It’s best for all of you to have a basic understanding of history, so that you can quietly ponder about it in the future.”

Amanatsu-sensei wiped the last word off the whiteboard after saying all that solemnly. She then turned around.

“Well, that’s what I think about during class. I just give an ordinary lesson according to the study guide. Please take your studies seriously if you’re interested in getting into Tsuwabuki.”

Amanatsu-sensei finished class with one last round of random chattering.

At that moment, somebody clapped their hands. It was Kaju.

The other students followed and gave her a round of applause.

Even Amanatsu-sensei seemed a bit embarrassed as well. She turned around. “Alright, class is over. There’s nothing left to teach.” She said that as she pretended to clean the whiteboard.

…It’s time to bring the three of them back to the club room. I wonder if Komari is getting along with Konuki-sensei.

During this time, Amanatsu-sensei seemed to have noticed something. Her head turned.

“Oh, can someone help me move the whiteboard and chairs? I took these out of the conference room without permission. I’ll be scolded if I don’t return them.”

Tachibana-kun quickly raised his hand. I guess he’s thinking, “Oh, it looks like she wants my help.”

“Yes! I-I’ll help you.”

He’s still that praise-worthy young man. Very well, I’ll return to the club room first-

“Alright, give me a hand, too, Nukumizu. You have time to flirt, anyway.”

Amanatsu-sensei looked at me with eyes full of despise.

…Sigh, I knew it. I gave up on running away and nodded.