On a typical day, individuals embarked on their daily routines, driven by the pursuit of sustenance, shelter, and necessities. Students diligently pursued their academic goals, aiming for success in professions such as medicine, law enforcement, and automotive repair. Conversely, those who lacked a sense of purpose engaged in criminal activities such as bank robbery and drug trafficking.
In the realm of love, individuals of both genders found solace in forming connections, engaging in conversations, expressing affection, and fostering communication.
My name is Daisuke Ito, a 16-year-old student in my first year of high school, on the cusp of transitioning to my second year. I cherished my close-knit family, including my best friend, my young sister, and my aunt, and eagerly anticipated the opportunity to connect with them.
One day, while working at a convenience store, I found myself frozen in thought, lost in contemplation. As I stood there, my partner tapped my arm, startling me.
"Daisuke!" he exclaimed.
"Huh, yes?" I responded, momentarily taken aback.
"Are you alright, man?" my partner inquired, expressing concern. Despite not yet knowing his name, we shared the same high school, which made our encounter even more unexpected.
"I'm fine," I replied, a nervous laugh escaping my lips. "I suppose I was lost in thought, as I have ADHD."
"Daisuke, as your partner and friend, I know you well. You need to embrace your uniqueness and stop being self-conscious."
"Oh..." I acknowledged, feeling a sense of embarrassment.
"I'm saying this as a friend. Come on, man. It's natural for me to notice your appearance. If I were a girl, I would be interested in you."
As my partner continued to tease me, the front door opened, and a beautiful girl entered. Her short, brown hair was thin and wavy, complemented by her glasses and piercing blue eyes.
As she approached the snack section, she bent down to search for a bag of cookies she was looking for. When she finally found one, her eyes immediately fixed on the Meiji Hello Panda cookie. There were various flavors available, including chocolate, strawberry, caramel, and milk, but her favorite was the chocolate one. As she reached for the bag, she couldn't help but smile, as if she were a dog receiving a treat.
I couldn't help but notice her beauty and asked,
"Who is she?"
"That's Ayu Takahashi," my partner replied.
"She attends the same high school as us and is an excellent student. She's like the popular girl in our high school."
"Do you remember her?" I asked.
"Of course, I do," he said, looking at me as if he wanted to ensure I remembered.
"I don't recall," I said.
"That's why you need to stop being so imaginative," he said, as I was grabbing, my partner's hand to let him go. He knew about Ayu, but he had chosen not to tell me.
"What grade is she in?" I asked, gripping his partner's arm tightly.
"I don't know," he said. "Why don't you ask her yourself? It's your chance to talk to her if you're interested."
"I'll try to do that," I said.
"Anyway, I have to clock out before the manager gets angry with me for adding more time to my time-out clock schedule. Today is the last day of summer vacation, so see you tomorrow in class," he said, getting ready to clock out for work.
"See you tomorrow," I said, waving at him. I turned back to Ayu, feeling a bit nervous as I stared at her. I knew I should look away and control my feelings, but I couldn't help but be drawn to her. As she was about to pay, she stopped in front of Daisuke, who was preparing to take her money out.
"Hello, mam," he asked with a smile.
"Yes, that would be it," Ayu replied.
Utilizing a laser scanner, I emit a beeping sound to display the prices.
"The total cost would be 2,878 yen," I direct my gaze at Ayu. She retrieves her small wallet and begins withdrawing yen to settle the payment.
"Oh no, I don't have the 800 yen," Ayu expresses her disappointment. We both fall silent, and the cashier becomes available to complete the payment.
"I have the 800 yen; please accept it," I offer a smile to Ayu.
"It's not necessary; you don't have to do that," she insists.
"It's my pleasure; I insist," I reiterate.
"Thank you very much; you have no idea how much I appreciate these cookies."
"I understand; they are undoubtedly the best cookies out there."
"Yes, hehe," Ayu giggles.
Ayu proceeded to pay for the cookie bag using the money she had, combining it with the amount I had contributed to complete the payment. The transaction was smooth, and Ayu's face lit up with gratitude. As she bid me farewell and bowed her head in appreciation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of joy at having been able to assist her in purchasing the Meiji Hello Panda cookie bag.
As she departed towards the entrance and front door, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. It was an opportunity for me to engage in further conversation with her, but unfortunately, such moments are fleeting and often subject to change. As I looked down, I couldn't help but reflect on the fact that there are other days when such opportunities may arise.
The following morning marked the end of summer vacation, and students returned to school. The halls echoed with the sound of friends conversing about their summer experiences, while others engaged in discussions about their plans for after school, including video games and manga. However, not all students were as vocal; some preferred solitude, seeking refuge in their studies or reading. As I sat alone, preparing for class, I noticed the falling leaves outside, creating a picturesque ambiance. Amidst the lively conversation and anticipation for class, a young man unexpectedly approached and embraced me. Surprised by his gesture, I responded with a smile.
"Daisuke!" he exclaimed, his eyes gleaming with joy. "It's so good to see you!"
"Fuuto, please stop with the hugs. We are no longer children," I playfully chided, recalling my childhood friend's exuberant behavior.
"Sorry, Dude. I was simply delighted to see you. I am currently visiting my aunts on vacation, and it has been quite a challenge."
"Oh, I see. Your mother's sister?"
"Yes, that is correct. She can be quite demanding at times."
"Well, at least you have a mother, Fuuto. I appreciate what you have." Fuuto's expression softened when I mentioned that. My mother had passed away in a car accident.
"I am sorry, Daisuke. I did not intend to cause you any distress. You know that I care about you deeply." Fuuto's feelings of empathy and respect for me were evident.
"Don't be upset, Daisuke."
"It's alright. Don't worry about it."
"You are being too kind, Daisuke. It's not necessary."
"Fuuto, let's share a fist bump as a symbol of our friendship." As we engaged in our customary fist bump, the class began to assemble, with a smile.
As I turned to the right side of the room, where the doors were located, I noticed a woman walking towards class. She resembled the girl from the work I had seen yesterday. However, as she approached, I observed a shadow behind the door. To my astonishment, it was the same girl.
I couldn't believe that it was her. Slowly, the door opened, revealing Ms. Hanako. They shared a striking resemblance, with nearly identical hair, although their heights differed.
"Hello class, Good morning. Please take your seats as class is about to begin."
As Ms. Hanako prepared to start class, a girl ran into the hallway, breathing heavily. She ran so fast that it seemed as though she were running for her life. When she reached the glass door, she made a loud noise and burst in. Everyone in the class stared at her.
I slowly turned around as the door opened and was met with a loud noise. When I looked, I could not believe my eyes. Ayu was standing right in front of me.
"I apologize, Ms. Hanako for being late," Ayu said, trying to catch her breath.
"It is alright, take a seat, young lady. Class is about to begin."
Ayu quickly found a seat in the first left row, where Sith was sitting. As she took her seat, everyone recognized her instantly. Some boys complimented her on her appearance, while others expressed interest in pursuing a romantic relationship. She possessed an exceptional intellect, an attractive physique, and a kind demeanor, making her a prominent figure in high school.
Despite my initial shock at recognizing her, I found myself captivated by her presence. Fuuto, who had been observing me, turned to me and made a peculiar, amused expression.
"It seems someone has developed romantic feelings," Fuuto remarked, his voice filled with amusement.
"Please refrain from making such remarks," I responded, feeling my cheeks flush with embarrassment.
It was lunchtime, and we were enjoying a light snack or a delectable meal. Fuuto was searching for me, as he had noticed my abrupt departure from class during the lunch bell. He had inquired about my reasons for leaving so quickly, but I had brushed off his questions, preferring to enjoy my meal alone.
Futo had been scanning the restroom, hallway, library, cafeteria, and even the rooftop, but he had not yet located me. As he approached the rooftop, he cautiously opened the door and was greeted by the sight of me seated on the floor, engrossed in a bread cookie.
Upon entering, the door caught my attention, causing me to momentarily cease eating and turn to face Fuuto. However, I anticipated his playful teasing and was not in the mood for it. I simply desired to enjoy my meal in solitude.
Nevertheless, Fuuto emerged from the door and proceeded directly to my location. As he reached me, I found myself seated on the ground, and Fuuto stood beside me, his arm resting on his right side.
"I presume you hurried out of class because Ayu was giving you an awkward glance," Fuuto suggested, reminding me of the incident.
"Please refrain from reminding me of that, Fuuto," I responded, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over me.
"During Ms. Haniko's introduction of our names, I experienced a profound sense of nervousness," I confessed to Fuuto.
"I understand that you felt apprehensive," Fuuto acknowledged, offering me a sympathetic smile.
"Hello, my name is Daisuke Ito. It is a pleasure to meet you all."
As I smiled and turned to where Ayu was sitting, she made an uncomfortable expression and looked away. I was so frozen that I slowly sat down, pretending that I had not introduced myself to the class. I was simply eager for the school year to conclude, and Ayu's expression of embarrassment was quite embarrassing.
"Hmm, so that's why you walk out of the class fast because Ayu is looking at you awkwardly," Fuuto said. He knew the reason, but he wanted to hear it from me. Of course, he enjoyed listening to me. I honestly did not want to go back to class, but Fuuto asked why, should I be concerned about Ayu's
My perception of my awkwardness. Fuuto is the type of person who is indifferent to the opinions of others. However, this time, I am concerned because I explained to Fuuto what transpired at work when I encountered Ayu and the emotions I experienced upon seeing her cross the street and enter the convenience store where he works.
"Oh...so that's why you have been acting strangely since Ayu joined class?"
"Yes...that's the reason..." I rose to my feet and resolved to cease overthinking and trust fate. In reality, I had exaggerated my thoughts and actions, and I informed Fuuto that I was now feeling better and would attempt to engage in conversation with Ayu, regardless of the outcome. The bell rang, signaling the return of students to class.
Two weeks passed, As usual, everything was normal in school. Despite this, Ayu did not engage in any conversation with me. I suppose this is acceptable to me, As I am content with the situation. But Mrs. Kinochi from history teacher, announced that a project presentation would be held, in which pairs of students would be formed to collaborate. The teacher would select the groups, believing that some students would prioritize friendships over academic focus. It would have been preferable for Mrs. Kinochi to randomly select pairs of students. While the class expressed disapproval, it was ultimately beneficial for their concentration.
Mrs. Konishi began listing the students' names to facilitate the group selection process. Some pairs were fortunate to have compatible partners, while others were less pleased with their assigned collaborators.
"I trust Mrs. Kinochi will select us as a team for the history project presentation," Fuuto expressed with unwavering confidence in our ability to work together. However, this did not transpire. Mrs. Kinochi assigned Fuuto to work with Hanako.
"Frustrating...well, that's for nothing...it would be amusing if Mrs. Kinochi paired you with Ayu," Fuuto muttered, crossing his arms and closing his eyes. Surprisingly, Mrs. Kinochi selected Ayu and me to work together. Fuuto opened his mouth in shock. I was equally surprised.
"You never shut up huh Fuuto," fuuto remarked to himself.
Fuuto remained disappointed, but he also choked. Gradually, I turned to face Ayu, but she was also looking back at me. This time, Ayu did not exhibit an uncomfortable expression; instead, she appeared composed. I was curious about the meaning of the message, but my anxiety was rising. I was worried and scared of the face in the message. What did it mean? Was it good or bad?
The bell rang, signaling the end of the school day. It was afternoon, and everyone was leaving to go home or participate in extracurricular activities, such as the club or sports team. As I hurried home, I wanted to avoid Ayu's sight. I had intended to walk with Fuuto on the way home, but today, I was too nervous to do so. I simply wanted to get home.
Suddenly, I heard my name shouted. I stopped standing there as everyone was heading towards the gate exit. In my mind,
I recognized the voice. As I slowly turned around to see if it was the right person, I realized it was Ayu, who was walking briskly towards me.
"You're fast! You should be in the cross-country sport," Ayu said, trying to laugh but struggling to catch her breath. As she tried to catch up to me, she asked,
"What do you need, Ayu?" I asked, feeling slightly nervous. I knew what she wanted to talk about—the history project. I was so nervous that I couldn't calm down or think clearly.
"Right, I was just wondering where we would do the project and what time," Ayu replied, being friendly.
"Well, my question is where a place you are comfortable working at?"
"Hmm...Oh! How about my house? It's very comfortable and conducive to work."
"Are you sure it's a good idea for me to go to your house?"
"I don't see why not. We'll just do the project there. If it makes you feel comfortable, I understand that we don't know each other very well, so why don't we talk a little to each other on the way home? How does that sound?" Ayu winks and playfully hits my shoulder side to side.
"That sounds good," I say, feeling a sense of relief.
"That is a commendable suggestion. Let us proceed with it." I felt at ease with Ayu's words. As we were walking home, we maintained a hushed demeanor, and I found myself at a loss for words.
"What should I say to her? Should I compliment her hair or her glasses? Is it that difficult to express my feelings without appearing awkward? She is simply a normal human being." I was internally contemplating these thoughts.
"So, Daisuke," Ayu interrupted.
"Y-YES! Oh... excuse me what were you saying?" I replied, momentarily taken aback.
"Oh no, I apologize for the interruption. I was wondering if you still work at the convenience store." Ayu inquired.
"Wait... you remember me at the convenience store?" I blushed, momentarily surprised.
"Of course, why would I forget the kind person who paid me for my favorite snack?" Ayu smiled warmly at me.
"By the way, thank you again for the cookies. I was in dire need of them."
"It's nothing. I was simply doing my job."
"Ah? Do you also pay other customers with your earnings?" Ayu giggled.
"It is not even like that," I blushed.
"Hahaha, I was merely jesting," Ayu teased.
The conversation continued as we walked, and I genuinely wished it would end because I was thoroughly enjoying our talk. It was something I had longed for in school, and finally, it had transpired. However, I could not help but wonder about Ayu's feelings when she spoke to me. As she had previously stated, it was merely a history project, not a genuine desire for friendship. I genuinely wanted to befriend Ayu. As for myself, I yearned to be her friend. This was my opportunity to inquire if she would reciprocate my feelings. I eagerly awaited her response.
As Ayu halted our walk, I slowly turned back to her, her radiant smile still on her face.
"Why have you stopped?" I inquired.
"Well, this is where I must depart. I have to take the train station," she replied, standing there with her smile and flowing hair. She undoubtedly exuded beauty, as everyone in high school had remarked.
"Oh, alright. Be careful on your way," I blushed, momentarily losing my composure. However, I soon regained my composure and inquired,
"Um, do you require my presence on the train to ensure your safety as you return home?"
"Ah, it is unnecessary. My father is a detective police officer, so I am assured of my safety. In the event of an unfortunate occurrence, I would contact him immediately.. Nevertheless, I have provided you with my address so that we may attend the project at my residence. Additionally, please arrive at noon. Do not forget," she said, handing me a small envelope containing a piece of paper and her written address.
"Alright then, that is reassuring. Thank you, Ayu," I said, holding the torn paper notes and address.
"Please be careful on your way home tomorrow."
I bid farewell to Ayu as I departed for the train station. I waved in return. The sun descended, and the moon emerged, adorned with delicate stars. Upon returning home, I found myself accompanied by my Aunt Yumi and my younger sister, Ren. As I made my way to my room, Ren was engrossed in her homework, while Aunt Yumi rested on the sofa. I kindly put her a blanket, and draped over herself.
Upon entering my room, I set aside my pag and prepared for a relaxing shower. I was momentarily preoccupied with Ayu, contemplating her beauty. However, I promptly refrained from such thoughts, acknowledging my peculiar behavior.
I changed into comfortable attire, brushed my teeth, and settled into bed. Despite my efforts to fall asleep, I found myself unable to rest due to the anticipation of meeting Ayu tomorrow at her house.
"Enough is enough," I muttered to myself, determined to cease my intrusive thoughts.
As everyone settled into sleep, a phone rang. Fuuto promptly answered, his voice groggy.
"Hello?"
"Fuuto, please help me," I expressed my apprehension.
"What is the matter Daisuke?" Fuuto responded, his concern mirroring my own.
"It is about Ayu. I intend to visit her tomorrow, and I am concerned about making a mistake."
"... Daisuke, do you even know the current time? You are informing me of this in the middle of the night..."Fuuto, still groggy but composed, lay down his head on the pillow.
"Yes," I acknowledged, sensing Fuuto's unease.
Fuuto, who was now fully upset at me, hung up on me for disturbing his sleep. The following morning, I prepared to visit Ayu's residence. While experiencing a mixture of apprehension and fatigue, I had difficulty sleeping due to excessive contemplation about Ayu and the possibility of making a mistake. As I was about to descend the stairs, I paused to assess my appearance. I was wearing my classic black Converse shoes. Before proceeding downstairs, I sought confirmation that my attire, consisting of a black dankie sleeve button-down shirt with an inside grey shirt and black jeans, complemented my hairstyle. I discreetly checked my reflection in the small mirror outside the living room, wondering if I would impress Ayu.
Once I deemed myself satisfactory, I descended the stairs. My footsteps echoed slightly as I made my way down, and my younger sister, Ren, who is 15 years old, noticed my presence.
"Oh hey, big brother," Ren inquired.
Ren Ito is my only sister, and she occasionally monitors my activities. Our mutual affection and understanding are the foundation of our bond, as instilled in us by our mother. While she possesses a sweet disposition, she can also be occasionally irritating, a characteristic shared by siblings.
"Good morning, Ren," I responded, feeling a slight annoyance.
"Aww come on, be kind to me," Ren pleaded. "I was simply curious about your destination. Couldn't your younger sister ask?"
She responded with a touch of annoyance, placing my hand to my face and glancing at the side with a sigh.
"I am visiting my partner to complete the assignment mandated by our teacher for our history project."
"Oh, with Futoo," Ren exclaimed. "I wish you both the best of luck. Please extend my regards."
Ren waved and smiled as she returned to the living room.
"No, this time is with a different individual; it is a girl," I clarified, observing my sister as she approached the living room. However, Ren unexpectedly turned back towards me, startling me.
"What in nature did you just say, Daisuke?" Ren inquired, her face mere inches from his.
"I was going to" I attempted to reiterate, but she promptly covered my mouth and interrupted me.
"I understand what you said, foolishness. I am merely surprised that you are conversing with a girl. What was the last time you spoke to a girl?"
About a previous conversation, I would like to mention a female acquaintance. She was the only girl I ever spoke to when I was a child. I believe it was approximately a year later when I first met Fuuto. However, this does not matter. As Ren still had her hand on my mouth, I gently removed it.
"Do not be concerned about whether I did or not," I reassured her.
"So, is she some sort of crush of yours?" Ren continued,
Mockingly addressing me as if I were a sibling.
I proceeded to explain the situation to Ren when I encountered her at my job at the convenience store and we were enrolled in the same class.
"Wait, Ayu Takahashi," she interrupted, "I have heard her name before in school, but I am unfamiliar with her appearance in person. My friends have informed me that she is well-known and considered the most attractive girl in high school. Many boys have approached her, but she has consistently rejected them."
As she paused and made a mocking face, she resumed her conversation with me.
"Oh...when are you going to ask her out, buddy? So that she can reject you," she continued, mocking me once more.
"Okie im out," I exclaimed, feeling increasingly irritated with her as I made my way toward the door.
"Aw, come on, you were so adorable when you were talking to me about her," she protested, still holding me in her arms as I attempted to leave the house. She was reluctant to let me go, as she desired to continue mocking me. However, I seized the opportunity and quickly moved her arms, allowing me to escape the house and run towards the front gate. As I exited the house, Ren feigned sadness, placing her knee inside the house.
As soon as I was outside, I embarked on my journey to the train station. However, the walk was somewhat protracted. During my walk, I often enjoy listening to music through my Bluetooth headphones. It provides a sense of tranquility as if I am immersed in my world and devoid of external distractions. While listening to rock indie music, one of my favorite genres, I was engrossed in my music when an unexpected incident occurred. As I was walking along the sidewalk, an elderly man in his forties collided with me.
"Watch where you're going, kid," he grumbled, still holding his phone to his ear.
"I apologize, sir," I said, feeling remorseful for my oversight. The old man seemed upset and continued his phone call as he walked away.
Undeterred, I resumed my walk, paying closer attention to my surroundings.
Seven minutes later, I finally arrived at the train station
As I searched for the train that would take me to the next stop, where I intended to visit Ayu's home, I realized that I had underestimated the travel time. It would take approximately fifteen minutes to reach Ayu's residence.
However, as I looked around, I noticed that the announcement board indicated that the train I needed was scheduled to depart in a minute. This unexpected turn of events allowed me to catch the train and avoid the inconvenience of a longer journey.
In a moment of urgency, I sprinted to the train station, where I had to catch a train. As I frantically searched, I finally spotted the train just as it was about to close. My close call left me feeling as though I had narrowly escaped being crushed.
After catching my breath, I scanned the crowded train and found a seat. As I settled in, I began to relax and put on my headphones, listening to music.
While waiting for the next train to take me to Ayu's house, fifteen minutes passed. Finally, I arrived at the next station and boarded the train bound for Ayu's residence.
Upon reaching the designated stop, I checked my phone's map to confirm my location. The address matched the one on the paper note, and I verified it by checking the house on the map and the note again, while also scanning the surrounding area.
As I approached the house, I noticed that it was even more impressive than I had imagined. The front yard was beautifully landscaped with a bush adorned with vibrant flowers. I approached the house and rang the bell.
However, no one answered. I pressed the bell again, and slowly, the door opened. It was Ayu himself.
"Hello, Daisuke," she greeted me. "You arrived just in time. I apologize if I did not open the door sooner. Please come in."
"It is alright," I replied.
As I entered Ayu's house, I was struck by its grandeur. It was a luxurious home,
Reminiscent of those owned by individuals with successful careers. Ayu had mentioned to me that his father was a detective, which likely contributed to their affluence.
"Did you encounter any difficulties on your way here?" Ayu inquired.
"Everything went smoothly, on the way here" I admitted.
"Ayu, who is it?" The voice of a female speaker was coming out of the kitchen. It was Ayu's mother. As she was diligently cleaning the house, making it look pristine, I noticed that her mother appeared younger than expected, almost as if she were Ayu's older sister. It was a peculiar phenomenon that some individuals could maintain a youthful appearance despite their advanced age.
"Mother, this is Daisuke. This is the person I mentioned to you earlier. He is here because we have a history project that we need to complete for homework. I had already informed you that he would be joining us today," Ayu explained to her mother.
"Oh, I see. Nice to meet you, young man. I am Ayu's mother. Please do not keep me talking; I do not want to waste your time." Ayu's mother said with a warm smile as she introduced herself. I bowed my head respectfully as she introduced me.
Upon completing the task, Ayu and I proceeded to her room while her mother prepared snacks and lemonade tea. Despite the familiarity of the house, I was once again captivated by its aesthetics.
"Ayu, your house is truly beautiful," I remarked on the house's appearance.
"Thank you," Ayu replied. "This house is quite old, but it has been renovated and is now more modern."
As we entered Ayu's room, I felt a sense of apprehension, having never been in a girl's room before. When Ayu opened the door, she allowed me in and surveyed her surroundings. The room was adorned with rock and metal posters, anime figures, and bookshelves filled with various genres, including light novels. Notably, there was a torn photograph on her desk, but as I observed it closely, Ayu noticed my fixation and discreetly flipped the cover to reveal a different image.
It appeared as though she was deliberately avoiding my attention to that particular photograph.
"I apologize, Ayu," I said with a nervous tone. "I was not being inappropriate by staring at that photograph."
"It is alright," Ayu reassured me. "Do not be concerned."
"Anyway, should we commence working on the project?" Ayu glanced at the designated area where we would complete our homework, which was a small table situated in the center of her room.
As we commenced working on the project, I later realized that I had left my backpack at home.
"Damn it, I have forgotten my backpack," I explained to Ayu. "It contained my project notes."
"It is not a problem," Ayu said. "We have ample time to complete this homework project. I can send you a screenshot of the new notes so that you can transcribe them into your own."
"Thank you, Ayu," I expressed my gratitude. "Your assistance is invaluable."
We settled down and resumed working on the project. A few minutes elapsed abruptly, and we both fell silent. As I tapped my pencil on the paper, I felt a desire to engage in conversation with Ayu, but I was unsure of how to initiate a dialogue. Eventually, I conceived an idea for a topic of conversation and decided to pursue it.
"Ayu, why did you make that uncomfortable face when I introduced you?" I inquired, contemplating the absurdity of our conversation and the question to begin with.
"Oh, it's not like that. I was shocked and didn't realize it was you, Daisuke. I just saw you at the convenience store, but I was grateful for the cookies." Ayu clarified.
"I forgot to pay you back. I have the money here. Thank you for your assistance." Ayu smiled at me.
"Oh, it's fine. Don't worry. I was just being polite."
Ayu felt remorseful for not repaying the money, as it was the amount I had paid for her cookies. She would save the money if I ever needed it, and just as I had paid what was left, she wanted to reciprocate. Ayu's mother knocked on the door, ready to deliver the snacks as sandwiches and green tea.
"Hello, kids. How's the project going?" Ayu's mother asked, setting down the snacks and green tea.
"Everything is progressing well, Mom. Thank you for asking." Ayu expressed her appreciation for her mother's support. As her mother left the room, we resumed working on the project. I was fixated on Ayu, and attentive to her explanations about the project. We paused, took a break, ate our sandwiches, and drank our green tea.
"Hey Ayu, is it alright if I ask you a question?"
"Sure, what's up?" Ayu replied, continuing to eat her sandwich.
"Um... I overheard rumors when the bell rang for returning to class from lunch. I heard that you were supposed to be in class 2-A, not 2-B."
Ayu ceased eating her sandwich, placing it on her plate. She looked down as her top-front hair covered her eyes, remaining silent for ten seconds before responding.
"I changed to class. I asked the counselor before school started if it was acceptable, and I have the class now, 2-B." Ayu looked down as if she was uncomfortable discussing the situation.
"I apologize for asking you this. It was inappropriate of me to inquire."
"No, it's alright. I simply dislike it when people discuss me. I wish I could be just like everyone else, treated as if I were unknown, as a normal person would be." She covered her knees with her hands, and her eyes were the only ones visible.
"I simply despise people seeing me as this beautiful, intelligent girl who has achieved so much success. I wish there was someone who treated me normally."
I remained silent, unsure of what to say to her. I simply wanted to listen to her express her feelings. It seemed as though she was eager to share everything she had on her mind.
"Whatever you have to say, let it all out. I will listen to you attentively." I smiled warmly at Ayu, patting her shoulder. She reciprocated the smile, revealing her face.
"Thank you, Daisuke. That's all I had to say."
However, the class she was in was composed of intelligent students, with four distinct levels: A, B, C, and D. Each level corresponded to a different level of intelligence: A class was reserved for the most intelligent students, B class for those who were intelligent but not exceptionally so, C class for those who were slightly less intelligent, and D class for students with exceptional special abilities.
Currently, I am enrolled in the Class B level, and our high school is a large institution with a substantial student body. While the school maintains strict discipline, some students exhibit inappropriate behavior, making it a challenging environment. Despite the challenges, the teaching staff is highly competent, but student conduct remains a persistent issue. The exact reasons for this situation remain unclear.
Ayu approached me with a serious matter that she wanted to discuss privately. She expressed her desire to keep this conversation confidential and prevent it from becoming a rumor. If it were to spread, she wanted me to know that it was her doing.
"Whatever you tell me, Ayu, I promise to keep it a secret. I don't want you to think I'm gossiping or spreading rumors about you," I assured her. I was equally serious about my promise, as I wanted to maintain a respectful and trustworthy relationship with her. Despite our lack of formal friendship, I genuinely cared about her well-being.
Ayu continued, "Last year, I was in Class A as a freshman. However, I had to move to Class B due to a personal situation involving a former best friend from childhood. This individual was a good person, but his behavior became increasingly erratic and controlling. He expressed inappropriate feelings towards me, including a desire to marry me."
Ayu expression became somber as she recounted her story.
"My father and My closest friend's father have known each other since college, and they saw this situation as an opportunity for us to get married upon our graduation. I apologize for sharing personal information with you."
"Please don't apologize, Ayu, and I respect your need to share it," I reassured her.
"Thank you for your understanding. It means a lot to me," Ayu replied, her spirits lifting slightly.
"Previously, he was amiable to me, but something has transpired, and I now harbor animosity towards him. I refuse to be a manipulative friend who dictates my actions and espouses absurd notions, such as his desire to marry me. Fortunately, the situation has concluded, and I have ceased communication with him. Our friendship has ceased to exist." She rose to her feet and promptly approached the window, her expression filled with sadness. As we both fell silent, I felt compelled to disclose the truth. I genuinely desire to be Ayu's friend; such a person does not deserve such treatment. Regrettably, she has yet to establish friendships in class 2-B. While some students engaged in conversation with her, their interactions were superficial and devoid of genuine camaraderie. They perceived her solely as a star in the classroom, disregarding her desire for a normal friendship.
"You know, I wanted to inquire about something," I began, my voice trembling slightly with apprehension. "I was wondering if you would be receptive to my request."
"Yes?" Ayu responded, her curiosity piqued.
"Ayu, I am not like the others you perceive me to be. I see you as an ordinary individual and believe that you do not deserve to endure a life in high school characterized by such treatment." As I stood up and approached her, I felt a surge of determination.
"You deserve better, Ayu. And I would like to ask you something."
"Yes?" Ayu remained patient, her eyes fixed on mine.
"I would like to be your friend, Ayu. Would you be willing to be my friend?" I gazed into her eyes, my face flushed with emotion. But then, she suddenly fell silent.
"I promise you, Ayu," I reassured her with a smile. "Things will change." However, I simultaneously acknowledged that our friendship had reached its end after the completion of the project, and I harbored the belief that we would not engage in further communication.
"Yes, Daisuke," she finally replied. "I would like to be your friend."
As Ayu gazes into my eyes with an expression of genuine happiness, I am filled with a sense of joy at having her as a friend. Despite my smile and disbelief, I fervently hope that my journey with Ayu's friendship will be filled with positivity and avoid any adverse circumstances.