[Warning 15+]
Chapter 3Preparations for the Cultural Festival
Summer vacation went by so fast.
I was busy training for the National Tennis Championships held in August, Zomu-kun was working hard on the Handover of Leadership for the Soccer Club ahead of the generational transition, while Mi-chan and Ōmori-kun were stuck in Summer Cram School.
Actually, we had planned to go to the Sumita River Fireworks Festival, but unfortunately, the event was canceled this year due to bad weather, so we just watched recordings from previous years on TV.
In the end, the only long trip we took together was to Summer Park. The rest of the time, as usual, we just had tea at a family restaurant near school or went shopping for clothes and small items at our regular store, and that's how our Third-year of Middle School Summer came to an end.
—And, as we entered September.
The school is entering the Cultural Festival Preparation Period.
"Yeah, yeah, good! Make your voices a little louder, okay!"
Location: In front of the stage, inside the gymnasium.
I shouted, using a tightly rolled-up script as a makeshift megaphone.
"Stop! Your movements are a little stiff. Can you guys make use of the entire stage?"
"Okay, Director! Let's put the stage props back where they belong!"
Zomu-kun, the lead actor and Drama Team Leader on stage, replied with a wave of his hand, then immediately gave instructions to our classmates working backstage.
Watching everyone who received the order swarm onto the stage in a flurry, I sat on a folding chair, exhaled deeply, and moistened my dry throat with a glass of water.
—At the Akagawa Academy Private Middle School Cultural Festival, there's a stage performance segment.
Although this slot is usually filled with performances from the Wind Instrument Club and the Light Music Club, it's become a tradition for a few volunteer groups—like bands formed by friends or comedy acts—to perform as well.
That's why, this time, we, Class 3-A, will be performing a 30-minute Mini-Play.
"Huh… …I'm really nervous."
Suddenly, Mattsun—Matsubara Yuina-chan—who was waiting for her turn next to me, muttered anxiously.
Mattsun is the lead actress in this play. She has loved theater from the start, but since our school doesn't have a Drama Club, she could only watch the performances, and she often said, "Someday I want to try being an actress."
So, since I thought this was the perfect opportunity, I recommended Mattsun, and after getting everyone's approval, she was chosen as the lead actress.
"Hey, Mei... ...are you sure it's okay that you're not playing the lead female role?"
"Hm, why are you asking that all of a sudden? Didn't I already tell you that you're better suited for this part?"
I replied, patting the script with my hand.
Yeah, after all, I'm still a girl, so it's not like I'm not tempted by the words "Lead Actress." It's just that I was the one who first proposed this project, so it's only fair that I be the Director.
Of course, if there's someone else who's better suited to be the Director, that's a different story. But in our class, many of us have acting talent, and it's clear that the best approach is to place everyone in a role where they can maximize their abilities.
"But… …it's true, Mei is better suited to play the female lead. Besides, the co-star is Nozomu-kun."
Hmm, ahaha.
Well, actually, another reason is that since the male lead is Nozomu-kun, it's probably better if I don't get directly involved…
As I laughed softly while scratching my cheek, Mattsun continued with a worried expression.
"I'm not exactly cute, I can't memorize lines at all, and I often mess up my lines… …maybe I really am not cut out to be an actress. Besides, if I mess up during the performance, or if I think about it—"
"Okay, cut!"
I slammed the script down on the table to cut off the conversation, then looked Mattsun in the eye.
"Besides, isn't this the script Mattsun was looking for? Haven't you been saying for a long time that you want to play the female lead in a romance drama?"
"Well, yeah, but..."
"Relax, relax. This role is perfect for you, and you're getting better with every rehearsal. We still have time to prepare, so let's take it step by step, okay? Okay?"
"…Yeah."
After a moment of silence, Mattsun nodded slowly.
"Yeah, yeah," I nodded, then gently placed both my hands on Mattsun's shoulders as if to comfort him.
"Don't worry, this Great Director will guide you perfectly! Especially for Mei, you know!"
"…Ahaha, that's so silly."
Relieved that Mattsun was finally smiling, I turned my attention back to the stage.
"Come on, let's continue! Zomu-kun, are you ready?"
"Okay!"
After escorting Mattsun backstage, I returned to the Director's chair.
Phew… …Maybe because I kept failing earlier, I'm feeling a bit sensitive right now. Since I'm naturally a bit anxious by nature, maybe that's why I'm like this.
As I watched my classmates bustling about on stage, I thought to myself.
─The fact is, none of us have reached the level where we can do a dress rehearsal yet.
Even though the Preparation Period has only just reached the halfway point, it will be difficult if we haven't mastered the basics, like dialogue and movements.
Of course, my classmates have been working hard without letting up.
So, the only thing missing is practice time.
…It turns out it might have been a bit much for me to get involved in the drama.
At the Cultural Festival, there's a food stall that serves as a joint event for the entire grade. This event is organized like an interclass Sports Competition, and every year it's considered the main event, taken very seriously by the entire grades. Usually, that alone is enough to keep us busy, so classes typically don't go so far as to put on a stage performance.
But this time, my friends from the Student Council pleaded, "We're still short one group of participants—please help us," and I couldn't refuse, so I ended up agreeing.
When it was proposed, my classmates were enthusiastic and no one objected… …but it turned out to be more troublesome than expected, so now we have to work hard not just after school, but also in the mornings and during lunch breaks.
Since some members were reassigned to the Drama Team, the Stall Team's progress doesn't seem to be going well either. The Vice President overseeing the Stall Team is a member of the Wind Instrument Club, and it seems difficult for him to balance his time between activity club practice and this task, so his exhaustion is already clearly visible.
Hmm… …I think we need to reevaluate our workflow… …maybe.
At first, I thought it would be more efficient if each team focused on their own tasks, but it seems we can't just keep doing things this way. Maybe we should consolidate the chain of command and make personnel assignments more flexible.
Fortunately, I still have the capacity. In addition to being the Drama Director, I'll also take over the Food Stall Management duties.
Also, I hear the budget is very tight, so we'll need to adjust the budget and rearrange the schedule. We should also start planning the After Party right away. I also want to keep an eye on everyone's mental health.
…Yeah. Maybe I'll get a little less sleep, but that's okay.
If this problem can be solved by sacrificing my time, it's no big deal. My classmates have been working hard, so I have to do my best too.
Besides, the sense of satisfaction when we succeed will surely be incredible.
My classmates will definitely be very satisfied and able to laugh with a happier feeling than before.
─….
Yeah. This shouldn't be a strange way of thinking.
"─Everyone, get into position! Let's begin!"
"Oh, okay!"
No, this isn't the time to let my guard down. Right now, I need to focus on improving the quality of this play.
"Okay, Scene 12, Take 3! Action!"
While visualizing the next movements in my mind, I clapped the script loudly to signal the start of the scene.
◆
After school the next day.
Before starting today's activities, I immediately announced the new system I had come up with.
"—In short, you'll basically have to follow the schedule I just gave you, but you might be asked to help out teams that are short-handed that day. I'll be the one deciding who helps with what, so please check the class RINE carefully, okay?"
From all my classmates, I heard the reply, "Okay!"
"Also, if there's anything you don't understand or if a problem arises, please let me know, and I'll do my best to resolve it! Thank you for your cooperation!"
This time, a little laugh escaped me: "Hahaha."
Yeah, the classroom atmosphere isn't bad, just like usual. As long as I can adjust perfectly, I think I can keep trying.
"Oh, uh… ...Kiyosato?"
Suddenly, I realized that Takki, the Food Stall Team Leader, was raising his hand hesitantly.
"Huh? Takki, what's wrong?"
"So, about that new structure... ...does that mean I'm not needed anymore...?"
Takki asked with a gloomy expression.
Takki, also known as Takaido Arata, was the one in charge of entertaining his classmates. Takki was a friendly and funny boy who often imitated famous comedians to cheer everyone up.
From his laid-back demeanor, Takki does seem like a laid-back guy, but he's actually quite sensitive, and apparently he often suffers from stomachaches due to nervousness leading up to the Club Tournament.
I tried to calm Takki down with a gentle tone of voice.
"'You're no longer needed'—that's impossible. I heard your club activities are at their peak right now and the situation is urgent, isn't it? Balancing both must be difficult, right?"
"Well… …yeah, that's true."
"That's the reason behind this change in duties. I mean, if you end up getting sick because of it, that would just be a hassle."
Takki looked down with a gloomy expression, looking awkward.
From the start, Takki wasn't really the type suited for administrative work. Or more accurately, in our class, the only ones who could handle things like that were me and Zomu-kun, plus Mi-chan, who only worked behind the scenes.
But Zomu-kun and I ended up getting involved in the Drama part as well, and I left the costume arrangements to Mi-chan. I just asked Takki to help out without considering his abilities, simply because he held the position of Vice Leader.
Feeling the slightly awkward atmosphere, I gave a mischievous smile.
"Anyway, it's fine! Takki will be doing all the heaviest physical work from now on! The rest is just shopping!"
"Eh, isn't that just being a delivery boy?"
"You could say that!"
Hearing my remark, my classmates burst into laughter again.
Yeah, I guess the atmosphere is a little more relaxed now.
With a gentle smile, I continued.
"Thanks for working so hard all this time. So, if you're ever in a bind, feel free to ask for my help. Okay?"
They've worked hard enough without ever complaining. Now it's my turn to properly repay their hard work.
Then, Takki kept his head down and fell silent for a moment, muttering to himself.
Hmm…?
"…Well, if Kiyosato says so. From now on, I'll do my best as Minister of Domestic Affairs!"
Just like that, right then and there, the witty remark slipped out in a joking tone.
Laughter erupted from everyone, and the classroom atmosphere became cheerful.
Hahaha, that's so true. It's definitely Takki's ability to liven up the atmosphere that's his main appeal.
I clapped my hands loudly to get everyone’s attention.
"Okay, if there are no other questions, starting today, here's what we'll do! The Drama Team will practice as usual during the allotted time in the gym. Outside of those hours, go over your lines in an empty classroom. Simulation Stall Team, there's something I'd like to share later, so please stay here—"
After getting everyone's approval, we dispersed for the time being.
In the classroom that had suddenly become bustling, I returned to my seat.
"Mei."
Suddenly, Zomu-kun came over.
"Huh? What's up?"
"You've taken on too much work. Are you really okay?"
Zomu-kun's tone sounded a little worried.
As usual, Zomu-kun is really kind at times like this. Normally, he's not like that at all, but if someone is in trouble or seems to be struggling, he'll definitely show his concern.
Zomu-kun's concern is nice, but this time his worry is unnecessary. Besides, aside from the management issues, there's nothing difficult about it.
I flexed my arm muscles, then replied in a joking tone.
"Relax. Besides, I'm the Unbeatable Mei-chan! Something as trivial as this is a piece of cake for me.”
"Oh my… …You really do always take everything on by yourself, don't you, Mei?"
…Huh?
"Fine, whatever. I'll help you, too!"
Hearing those words, spoken with a "Oh, not again" kind of expression, my eyes widened.
Wait, did I not make myself clear just now?
"I may not be the best at thinking things through, but if we just keep pushing Mei, that's not exactly cool."
"Hmm, here's the thing. Zomu-kun, for now, just focus on the play—it's totally fine! The important thing is to memorize that long monologue as soon as possible."
"Of course, I won’t take that lightly. That's for sure."
"Ahaha, hmm..."
Huh, I wonder why? Usually, Zomu-kun gets the vibe in situations like this.
Does Zomu-kun think I'm just pretending? Was I being too dramatic when I said that in a joking tone?
I lowered my voice a bit to sound more serious before speaking.
"Eh... ...seriously, I'm really fine, okay? Besides, this 'Adjustment' is just a thorough check-up, and there's almost nothing you need to help with."
"Oh, no, there are bound to be some small tasks that need to be done. There's no harm in splitting up tasks like that, right?"
…Hmm. For some reason, Zomu-kun seems very determined this time.
Of course, I'm very grateful for Zomu-kun’s help. But he is the Drama Team Leader, and considering that he'll be leading while I'm away, it's better if he doesn't get involved in the overall operations.
Then—.
When I glanced around, I noticed a few girls occasionally glancing my way.
To be honest… …I wanted to minimize the chances of being alone with Zomu-kun at this Cultural Festival as much as possible.
It's true that this Cultural Festival tends to have a romantic atmosphere. Many people, both boys and girls, are eager to take advantage of this opportunity to confess their feelings to the person they like.
Among the girls in my class who like Zomu-kun, there are some who are showing signs of that too.
Then—.
When I glanced around, I noticed a few girls occasionally glancing my way.
To be honest… …I wanted to minimize the chances of being alone with Zomu-kun at this Cultural Festival as much as possible.
It's true that this Cultural Festival tends to have a romantic atmosphere. Many people, both boys and girls, are eager to take advantage of this opportunity to confess their feelings to the person they like.
Among the girls in my class who like Zomu-kun, there are some who are showing signs of that too.
"…Okay. If I need help later, I'll be the one to contact you. So, until then, please focus on this play."
In a tone that was a little firmer than usual, I said that.
Zomu-kun's concern came from a good place, and it felt wrong to just brush it off.
So, for now, I'll accept Zomu-kun's offer, and I'll make sure there's no chance for the two of us to be alone together. That approach should be less likely to cause problems than if I were to reject him outright.
It seemed Zomu-kun finally agreed to that, and then he gave a slightly exaggerated, firm salute.
"Got it, Coach! Okay, I'll do my best to memorize it!"
"Okay, please do! Oh, I'll test you later to see if you've memorized it. Every time you get it wrong, you have to buy me a juice."
"Huh? That's a bit mean, isn't it…? Besides, you'll just get fat again..."
"What did you just say?"
"It's nothing, really."
Okay, same as always.
I returned my fingers, which had been curled into claws, to their normal position, then shifted my gaze toward Zomu-kun and let out a soft sigh, "Hah."
Okay, now it's time to print, print.
"…Hm."
Suddenly, there, my gaze met Ōmori-kun's, who was sitting in the back row.
I did smile and wave gently, but Ōmori-kun acted as if nothing had happened, then immediately stood up and walked out of the classroom.
Hmm….
Ever since that incident at the pool, it does feel like there's been a distance between me and Ōmori-kun.
When he’s with the rest of my classmates, Ōmori-kun hasn't changed, and since he's the type who often looks grumpy, you could say he's just the same as usual.
But sometimes I feel like Ōmori-kun's avoiding me over trivial things, like what's happening right now.
Come to think of it… …maybe it was just small talk while riding the Ferris wheel─.
"Hey, Kiyosato, aren't you done yet?" "We're wasting time, y'know." "Hurry up, hurry up!"
"Oh, sorry, sorry!"
Pressured like that by everyone, I shook my head to shake off those distracting thoughts.
…After all, what needs to be done remains the same.
To make everyone laugh, so we can all laugh together, I'll do my best.
No matter who I am, that's definitely not a bad thing.
Anyway, right now, the success of the Cultural Festival is what matters most!
I gathered my thoughts and picked up a stack of printed sheets.
◆
─The next day, after school.
At that time, things were running smoothly under the new structure.
With a clipboard in my hand, I went around to each team to give them some quick instructions.
"Hey, Mi-chan!"
As I walked into the uniform room, I immediately called out to Mi-chan in a loud voice while waving my hand.
The clattering sound of the sewing machines stopped, and Mi-chan, who was sitting at the table in the middle near the window, suddenly peeked out.
"Mei? What's up?"
"Do you have a minute?"
Glancing at the fabric Mi-chan was sewing, I walked to the center of the room.
The Costume Team consists of five people—quite a large group—and I've entrusted Mi-chan with the role of Coordinator.
Since this play is a contemporary Drama, we don't actually need special costumes, but because our booth is themed as a maid café, the preparations take more time. Also, since we're focusing more on the food at the booth, our budget is very tight, so we have to handle things like hemming skirt hems or preparing accessories ourselves.
After waiting for Mi-chan to arrive, I turned my attention to the bulletin board.
"Here's the thing. I want to cut costs as much as possible from now on, so I was thinking of reducing the number of costumes... ...could we manage that by shortening the hems of the skirts or something like that?"
"I already anticipated that, so from the start I've been choosing designs based on that assumption. On the big day, they can be adjusted right away with a safety pin."
"Wow, that's amazing!"
Hmm, Mi-chan really is very meticulous about the little things. Good thing I left it up to her!
"I'm making a hair tie right now. I know I'm running out of time, but buying something like this is pretty expensive, isn't it?"
"I don't know what to say. I love it!"
"Hey, don't hug me!"
Mi-chan pushed me away pretty forcefully. I was a little taken aback.
"…So, is that all you have to say?"
"Oh, about the fabric we were short on earlier—I already asked both Zomu-kun and Ōmori-kun to buy some, so it should be here any minute. As for the receipts for small items like thread and buttons, I'll collect them all at once later, so please keep them in your area for now, Mi-chan—"
As I continued explaining, I suddenly felt Mi-chan glance behind me.
Hmm…?
"Yeah, yeah, it's fine here. Don't worry."
But that attitude was only momentary, and this time Mi-chan gave a firm reply.
Maybe it's just my imagination… …Oh, never mind.
Anyway, the Costume Team is running smoothly. Next up might be the Cooking Team, I guess.
Just as I was enthusiastically checking off my to-do list—
"Great, that looks fun."
Suddenly, from the table behind me on the left, I heard a voice say something like that.
"…Ririko-chan?"
When I turned around, I saw Ririko-chan and the girls from Class 3-B standing across from the sewing machine.
Oh, I see… …now I understand why Mi-chan reacted that way.
It looks like they're preparing costumes just like our class. As far as I remember, they're also going to hold a maid café event like ours, aren't they?
Ririko-chan continued with a little laugh.
"But it seems like a lot of work, doesn't it? She's so busy she's even joining the drama club—that's so typical of Class 3-A."
Hmm, at first I thought Ririko-chan was the one who started the conversation—which is rare—but it turns out it was just a dig….
Usually I'm ignored more often, so maybe it's already pretty good that Ririko-chan wants to talk. But it feels the same, though….
Anyway, since Ririko-chan has already spoken to me, I can't just ignore her. I have to be careful so she doesn't feel uncomfortable.
"Hahaha, it is a hassle, though. But it's really fun, y'know."
"If it fails, it'll look really outdated, y'know? Will it really be finished on time?"
"Of course, we're all working hard to finish on time. But if something goes wrong, maybe that's the Committee Chair's responsibility, right?"
"…Oh, I see."
It seemed like Ririko-chan wasn't satisfied with the conversation, so she furrowed her brow and refocused on the sewing machine.
Oh no, did I mess up? I guess I just can't act normally around Ririko-chan…
As I scratched my cheek and happened to glance at Ririko-chan and her friends, my eyes suddenly fell on a paper bag nearby that contained a stack of fabric.
Upon closer inspection, there was a pile of patterns on the table that looked like they were used for sewing, and there were far more of them than in my class.
Wait, could it be—?
"Wait, could it be that all your costumes are handmade!?"
Hearing the words I blurted out in surprise, Ririko-chan reacted.
"…So what's the big deal, then?"
"That's so cool!"
I let out a breath of admiration, "Hah—."
I'd heard rumors that Ririko-chan was a real fashionista, often browsing the shops in Maruhachi or Ura-Sando. In fact, she really does pay close attention to her appearance, from customizing her uniform to her nails, more than anyone else.
But it's truly unimaginable—I never would have guessed they could handle everything all the way down to the sewing. I don't have any special knowledge about fashion, but making a costume like a maid uniform from scratch seems difficult even for a layperson.
I continued, my eyes sparkling.
"A maid café with completely original costumes… …that alone is enough to really pique my curiosity."
There are several types of maid cafes. In our case, we decided that costumes weren't a priority and focused more on food and drinks, but still, the food options we can offer are limited, and the downside is that people won't know how delicious it is until they try it.
On the other hand, the appeal of the costumes is visible from the outside. If they stand out from cheap, mass-produced items like party supplies, that alone is enough to grab people's attention.
Additionally, these stalls aren't judged based on sales revenue but on voting results, so I think it's a smarter strategic move for us to prioritize appearance.
This might be our toughest opponent yet... ...maybe we need to come up with a more solid strategy.
I nodded to myself as I mulled it over.
Then.
"...Huh."
Suddenly, Ririko-chan let out a sigh.
"Can you stop saying things that sound like sarcasm like that?"
"...Huh?"
Sarcasm? What does that mean─?
While I was still stunned, not immediately grasping the meaning of the word, Ririko-chan stood up with a gloomy expression.
"Besides, we're not going to be able to beat Class 3-A with you in it, are we? Sorry, but all we can do is dodge in our costumes?"
"W-Wait a minute. I didn't mean it that way..."
Wh-Why did Ririko-chan take my words as a dig? I didn't mean to imply anything like that, y'know?
"Eh... ...Personally, I never even thought about making a costume in the first place. So, I just genuinely thought, 'Wow, that's so cool.' Seriously."
I said that while looking Ririko-chan straight in the eyes, trying to sound as honest as possible.
But Ririko-chan put on a pouty face as if she were annoyed.
"…Seriously, why do you act like you're so much better than me so naturally? It's really annoying."
Did my attitude come off as condescending to Ririko-chan?
Why would what I just said be interpreted that way…?
"No, that's not it. I didn't mean to—"
"Oh, never mind, never mind. It's really not worth getting involved in this."
As I remained silent, not knowing what to say, the atmosphere around us began to grow restless. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Mi-chan looking anxious, her face somber.
This can't go on... ...If this keeps up, people will think we're fighting. If the atmosphere gets tense over something as trivial as this, nobody benefits.
…Anyway.
It's true that I've made others feel uncomfortable, so I have to apologize to defuse the situation.
After deciding that, just as I was about to bow my head—.
"You're the one who started this, so why are you saying things like that? You're such a drama queen."
Suddenly, the back of a boy wearing a shirt appeared in front of me, and those words rang in my ears.
As I looked up in astonishment, there he was—.
"Ōmori-kun…?"
Holding a paper bag filled with fabric in his hand, Ōmori-kun was standing there.
From behind Ōmori-kun, Ririko-chan spoke up.
"…Huh? Asahi is in charge of the costumes too, are you?"
"Didn't you say you didn't want to get involved? Then why are you still talking to me?"
"…"
Could it be… …that Ōmori-kun is protecting me?
Even when I look up from here, I can't see Ōmori-kun's face. All I see is his back, standing between Ririko-chan and me, like a wall.
No, that must be it. The moment he realized there was a problem, Ōmori-kun came right over to help me.
Seeing how considerate Ōmori-kun is, I unconsciously feel a warmth in my chest.
—No.
But.
"…Thanks for shopping, Ōmori-kun! I'll keep this, okay!"
I snatched the paper bag from Oomori-kun's hand, then patted him on the back twice.
"Come on, it's fine! Hurry back to your duties in the Property Team!"
That way—.
That's the kind of way that would make anyone stop laughing, y'know.
Hearing my words, Ōmori-kun turned his upper body toward me and looked at me.
Ōmori-kun's expression was half-angry.
The rest of it was disappointment.
"Kiyosato—"
"Ririko-chan, I'm sorry for bothering you!"
I pretended not to notice and cut Ōmori-kun off, then walked over to Mi-chan while rubbing the paper bag.
…I'm sorry, Ōmori-kun.
I was happy that Ōmori-kun stood up for me.
But the way Ōmori-kun handled it left Ririko-chan with nowhere to go. I made a mistake too, so please don't let him single out her as the one at fault.
I set the paper bag down with a thud on the table next to Mi-chan.
"Here you go, Mi-chan, the extra fabric you asked for earlier. Please take care of this, okay?"
"…, Okay."
Then Mi-chan, who had been looking down with her lips pressed together, looked up at me.
For some reason, Mi-chan's face looked emotionless and expressionless.
─…?
"…Thanks, Mei. Leave the rest to me."
"Oh, okay…"
Mi-chan's expression like that lasted only a moment; Then she immediately smiled gently as she said that.
What's going on?
Why does Mi-chan look like that right now…?
"Hurry up, you should head to the next place. If you stay here, I think you'll get bothered again."
"…Roger that."
With a heavy heart, I walked toward the exit next to Ririko-chan.
Just like Mi-chan said… …it's not good for me to keep staying here. I'd better leave before things get worse.
"─Oh, Mei!"
"Whoa, what's going on here?"
Just as I was about to walk past Ririko-chan, Zomu-kun—who was probably out shopping too—suddenly appeared right in front of me.
Gosh, that really startled me… …Oh, so Zomu-kun is back with the group.
I looked at the tall figure standing right in front of me.
On Zomu-kun's face, for some reason, there was a look of panic.
"Eh, just now... ...You didn't do anything wrong, y'know!"
Then suddenly, those words rang out, echoing throughout the room, and I was startled.
"Hey, Z-Zomu-kun? Why did you suddenly say that...?"
"No, I mean... ...earlier, after all, it was Ririko who was wrong, wasn't it? She is the one who should apologize─"
"─!"
"Zomu-kun!"
Sensing that Ririko-chan beside us was holding her breath, I immediately raised my voice and cut Zomu-kun off.
To a startled Zomu-kun, I spoke again in a firm tone.
"Don't do things like this again. I'm fine... ...right?"
Zomu-kun held his tongue, then turned his face away awkwardly.
Even Zomu-kun—why is he suddenly blaming Ririko-chan… …when he's never like that usually?
For some reason, I felt like there was something off about everyone's behavior, to the point where I started to feel anxious, so I gripped the clipboard tighter.
…Anyway, the best thing to do right now is to get out of here. Come on, hurry.
Then, I slipped out of the room as if sneaking through a crack in the door.
─But, as I was leaving.
"─Truly, you're always so beautiful. I hope you won't regret this, okay?"
Softly, and.
Ririko-chan's words, spoken without emotion.
Their meaning—at that moment, I didn't understand.
◆
From that moment on, we were busy preparing everything.
Even though the schedule was very tight, everyone pitched in, and both the food stalls and the theater performances went off without a hitch.
Before we knew it, there was less than a week left until the big day, and now we're in the midst of the final preparation phase.
Everyone's exhaustion has certainly reached its peak, but if we hang in there just a little longer, everything will go smoothly—.
Well, that's exactly when.
Problems can indeed arise.
"─Are we missing any ingredients?"
When the food supplies for the stalls arrived, we were checking them in the classroom.
That sudden revelation caused quite a commotion.
"Huh? What? What's missing?" "Sugar!? Why that of all things!?" "Wait a minute, if that's the case, we won't be able to make anything!" "Oh no, oh no, oh no, what are we going to do…!?"
"Hey, hey, hey, calm down, guys!"
Zomu-kun did clap his hands together to calm the commotion, but it seemed like no one was willing to settle down. Perhaps their anxiety had reached a boiling point because of the major problem that had arisen just as they were about to reach their goal.
"What should we do…? If we submit it now, we definitely won't make it in time, right…?"
Mi-chan, who was checking off the list next to me, looked at me with a worried expression.
I tried to stay calm, then turned to ask my classmate in charge of food supplies—who had just made a shocking confession—Kamīzumi Mio-chan.
"Um… ...didn't we already send the order form to the Student Council?"
By the time I joined as the Food Stall Team Manager, the orders for the necessary ingredients had already been placed.
According to what I heard from Takki, they entrusted the ordering process to Kamīzumi-chan, whose family owns a bakery—.
"The problem is..."
Kamīzumi-chan replied, rubbing her red, swollen eyes.
"I think there's one sheet of the printout that's missing..."
─.
A commotion broke out in the classroom again.
"Wow, did Kamīzumi-chan miss it?" "Huh, how could that happen?" "Besides, that's not something we should be talking about right now!"
Oh, I see... ...that's why Kamīzumi-chan has been looking so down for the past few days....
I regretted thinking this was just ordinary fatigue, then clenched my fist tightly.
Kamīzumi-chan is a quiet and somewhat shy girl. I'm sure she wanted to say that, but she couldn't.
"You really are…! Why didn't you say something sooner…?!"
Standing next to Kamīzumi-chan, her close friend—Komaba Rin-chan—shouted, her anger still simmering.
Komaba-chan is in charge of cooking, and she's a girl who's very skilled at household chores, even going so far as to make her own lunch every day.
On top of that, since Komaba-chan is also a girl who values teamwork, she's very firm about actions that could disrupt the group's harmony.
It looks like Komaba-chan just found out the truth, and it seems they had a huge fight before coming here.
Kamīzumi-chan started crying again, then covered her face with both hands.
"B-But...! I think maybe the store can provide it...!"
"It's impossible to do something like that without permission from the Student Council! Why would we submit a request and buy it collectively if not for that!"
"A-And besides. Y-You guys have worked so hard; I don't want to be a burden..."
"So... ...oh, obviously this is just going to be a burden for us! You idiot!"
"U-Ugh...!"
"Calm down, calm down, calm down, just calm down!"
I calmed Komaba-chan down, who was getting worked up, then said that in a voice loud enough for everyone to hear, full of confidence.
"Don't worry! In a situation like this, there's a loophole we can use: The self-purchase request. I was taught this by the Student Council Officials back in the day!"
"I already knew that! Besides, the money isn't going to go down to us any further, is it?"
"Huh. Actually, since I suspected something like this might happen, I deliberately set aside a little money from elsewhere."
"Huh…?"
Komaba-chan was stunned, her mouth hanging open.
All my classmates looked surprised, with expressions that said, "Eh, really?"
"M-Mei-chan… …is that really true…?"
Addressing the stunned Kamīzumi-chan, I patted my chest firmly.
"Yeah, yeah. Even a minor accident like this has been taken into account, y'know!"
Then, to calm Kamīzumi-chan down, I smiled gently and took a handkerchief out of my pocket.
"So, don't cry. I'm sorry—if only I'd realized it sooner."
Actually, it's my fault too for not double-checking when I took over the task. Everyone was working under conditions that were almost beyond their limits; I should have acted on the assumption that there might be mistakes.
"Mei-chan…! I-I'm sorry, I'm really sorry…!"
"It's okay. Thanks for handling everything on your own all this time."
My co-workers, who had been worried, seemed relieved after learning that it wasn't a fatal mistake.
Phew. Hopefully this will resolve the issue....
"—By the way, Kiyosato. Didn't you say the budget was short?"
But, eh.
This time it was Komaba-chan who said that, with a look on her face that seemed dissatisfied.
"But I've been really careful with the money. If there were any leftovers, we could definitely make even more."
"Oh, well... ...I did say it was 'leftovers,' but that's not really the case. They say that reserve funds are set aside in anticipation of unexpected events, and that's standard practice in events like this. If it goes completely unused by the end, I plan to use it for the After Party expenses."
"...I don't really understand, but if that's the case, why did you hide it?"
"No, I didn't mean to hide it! It's just that talking about money is kind of boring for people who aren't interested, right? So, I just figured I'd only answer if I was asked."
"Oh, I see..."
Komaba-chan still didn't seem satisfied, then turned her back on me with a sulky expression.
Komaba-chan is usually a bold girl, but today she's being really harsh. Maybe it's because of her strong sense of responsibility and the stress leading up to the performance, so her emotions are running high.
I bowed my head deeply so that even a fraction of my sincerity would come across.
"I'm sorry. You're right, aren't you? Komaba-chan is the one in charge of the cooking. I should have told you beforehand."
"...It's okay. There's nothing wrong with what Kiyosato did."
Komaba-chan said that in a harsh tone, then walked away quickly.
Maybe I should just let it go for now… …Later, after Komaba-chan has calmed down, I'll follow up on it again.
I cleared my head, then spoke to Kamīzumi-chan to discuss our next steps.
"Okay, time is running out. Can you tell me what kind of things we need to buy? I'll submit the request to the Student Council and prepare the materials."
"Um… …but, but isn't it my fault, so shouldn't I be the one to…"
"Don't worry about it, rest assured. That's exactly why I'm the President! Just leave the rest to Mei-chan, our super Middle Manager, and Kamīzumi-chan, can you double-check if there are any materials we missed? You guys can all go back to your respective duties now!"
After saying that, I somewhat forcefully rolled up the remaining wrappers, and we wrapped up the meeting.
─Okay, this time it's really all set.
Just as I let out a sigh of relief, Mi-chan called out to me in a worried tone.
"Mei─."
"Hmm?"
"…Oh, no, it's nothing."
But, as if she'd been about to say something but changed her mind, Mi-chan handed me the inventory list she'd been clutching to her chest, then returned to her original spot.
Hmm, ahaha. I wonder what's going on?
As I lowered my head, pretending not to know anything, Ōmori-kun—who seemed to have been quietly observing the situation—walked past me without saying a word.
…And then, suddenly.
"You liar."
In a lower voice.
After saying that, Ōmori-kun walked out of the classroom.
…Oh, d*mn it, you guys are so scary.
I shrugged, then checked the amount of sugar that was missing on the inventory list I'd just received.
─Well, here's the thing.
I wonder if this allowance is enough…?
◆
─After school.
After drama practice was over.
"Hmm, this is a real hassle!"
Alone in the classroom, filling out the application form, I grumbled as I straightened my back.
I already knew that since this involves food, I have to be careful about a lot of things, but is it really necessary to write down the manufacturer's name or which supermarket the item was bought at? After all, this isn't a fresh product….
But if this request is denied, it will definitely be a waste of time, and I don't have the spare time to just sit around wondering about it. I want to fill out all the fields right away and get approval by tomorrow morning.
While thinking about that, I looked out the window, and it turned out the sun had completely set, leaving everything pitch black.
The sounds of activity that had been heard here and there had unnoticedly stopped, and now all I could hear was the sound of a shoe cabinet door opening, creaking, echoing from the distance.
"...Wow."
It's only natural, since school's out. I actually intended to finish up quickly and go home, but since I had to work on other assignments from time to time, I ended up running late.
Even though the atmosphere is a bit relaxed because it's Cultural Festival Season, the Teachers on patrol will surely come over here soon. Of course, once I get scolded, I'll have to go home, so that's my deadline. There are still other things I need to do, and I don't want to bring any more tasks home.
While trying to ignore my rumbling stomach, I took a sip of the water I'd poured into my water bottle.
Usually I'd snack on something, but… ...after doing the math, my allowance would probably run out completely, so I decided to stave off my hunger with water from this dispenser.
No, that's not it. Let's think of it this way. This is actually a chance to diet. If I treat it as a test to cut back on meat, I'm sure I can withstand the hunger!
Ignoring the "Growling" protests from my stomach, which were defying my resolve, I refocused on the documents.
Hmm, manufacturer's name, manufacturer's name… …will it come up if I look it up?
—Because of that.
Just as I started searching on my smartphone, the sound of the classroom door opening echoed.
Wow, you're early today, Sensei!
"Haha, sorry! I'm going home... ...eh?"
As I hurriedly tried to clear the table, I realized that the figure was wearing a school uniform.
Hmm...?
"...Ōmori-kun?"
And there—standing all by himself, holding a plastic bag—was Ōmori-kun.
"Hey, is the Property Team still here? Is there a problem?"
I asked, winking at Ōmori-kun.
Ōmori-kun didn't answer my question; Instead, he walked over to me without saying a word, then set the bag he was holding down with a thud on the table next to me.
"Your stuff."
"...Huh?"
I stared at the open plastic bag.
Inside were some snacks, like chocolate and cookies.
…Huh.
"What's this supposed to mean…?"
"You're covering the damages caused by your mistake with your own money, aren't you? You really are too kind-hearted."
Caught off guard by the direct question, I swallowed hard.
"…Oh, come on, there's no way something like that could happen."
"Liar."
"I'm not lying, really…"
…It turned out that's exactly what the word "Liar" was meant to imply.
Even though I knew there was no point in dodging the question, I still replied to Ōmori-kun because something felt off.
"Eh... ...don't worry about it. Besides, I'm not hungry either."
"Oh, no way. Your stomach's growling so loud you can hear it from outside—how can you say that?”
"Eh, you're lying!?"
"I'm lying?"
"You're lying, aren't you!"
Thwack! Without realizing it, in the same tone I'd used to tease Zomu-kun, I punched Ōmori-kun with a rolled-up sheet of paper.
Oh my gosh, I acted on impulse. Hmm, maybe I'm a little tired, too.
As I hit myself with that printed sheet, Ōmori-kun sat down at the next table and opened the lid of a coffee can with a "Kashu" sound. It looks like he intends to stay here.
But, Ōmori-kun... ...is really sharp. I thought only Mi-chan could see through my lie.
On top of that, he could tell how I was reacting, and Ōmori-kun even teased me. Since I'm not used to that kind of thing, it felt a little weird.
But oh well─.
As I watched Ōmori-kun quietly sipping his coffee, I gave a small smile.
Just like with Ririko-chan earlier, you're really kind, aren't you… …Ōmori-kun?
Maybe when Mi-chan was having a hard time too, Ōmori-kun must have reached out to help her just like this. Even though he can do anything with such skill, the way he shows his concern is actually a bit awkward, and that feels kind of cute.
If only Ōmori-kun showed this side of himself more often. It's such a shame that he's kindness is reserved for only a select few.
"…Ōmori-kun, why did you help Mi-chan?"
"Huh? …Why are you asking that all of a sudden?"
Ōmori-kun turned to look at me with a puzzled expression.
The things I wanted to ask but didn't get a chance to ask before… …maybe now I can ask Ōmori-kun a lot of things.
"Look, back when you were on the Library Committee, didn't you help Mi-chan out when she was having trouble? I'm pretty sure it went something like this."
"…"
"Why did you do that, anyway? I'm kind of curious."
As I've said before, Ōmori-kun is really harsh on 'Unimportant outsiders'.
But since Ōmori-kun helped Mi-chan, that means she doesn't fall into that category. If I could figure out his reason, maybe I could guess what's on his mind.
Ōmori-kun's expression went blank again; He glanced at me briefly, then opened his mouth.
"...Simply put, what Shinagawa said makes more sense, while the others are just hiding the fact that they find it troublesome and keep spouting nonsensical arguments, and that's what's getting on my nerves."
As he said that, Ōmori-kun took a sip of his coffee.
"In my opinion, someone like Shinagawa would usually be easily swayed by others and change his mind. But he refuses to back down at all, so I'm intrigued."
"…Fufu, I see, I see."
So, Ōmori-kun likes Mi-chan's determination, right?
Even though people sometimes call Ōmori-kun stubborn, I also feel that's what Mi-chan finds most attractive about him. That means he has something truly valuable and uncompromising.
And since that's been recognized, it means Mi-chan has been judged fairly.
That is indeed the most joyful thing.
"But—that's because of Kiyosato's influence, isn't it?"
"…Huh?"
That's right—.
Suddenly, the conversation turned to me. For a moment, I was at a loss for words.
"I did suspect something was off, but everything else seemed pretty normal."
…W-Wait a minute.
Wait a minute.
"Hey, listen. I had absolutely nothing to do with it, y'know? Mi-chan was an amazing girl right from the start."
"But wasn't it Kiyosato who managed to bring out that potential?"
Suddenly realizing this, I looked up.
Ōmori-kun snorted and continued.
"I only realized it after joining this class, but whenever something comes up, Kiyosato is always there to support me, isn't he? It feels like, 'That's Mi-chan's strength, that's her charm,' you know?"
"That's true, but..."
"It's a trait that can naturally spark both support and criticism, but if Kiyosato acknowledges it, then it's perfectly fine, so it can be expressed calmly. It feels like getting the blessing of someone competent."
"N-No, that's not it. Something like that—"
"That, if interpreted differently, is the same as doping. Strength that can't be unleashed without Kiyosato—that isn't the person's true strength in the real sense, is it?"
Ōmori-kun said flatly, as if he were simply stating a fact─.
"I don't like having to depend on other people. We're not kids anymore, are we?"
Ōmori-kun asserted this in a brusque tone.
Hearing those words, which stood in stark contrast to the tenderness Ōmori-kun had just shown, my chest felt tight.
"Why…?"
"?"
"Why does Ōmori-kun… …feel that way?"
That sense of caring for others is supposed to be at the core of who Ōmori-kun is. It certainly isn't a lie, but why can he be so cold at the same time?
In response to my question, Ōmori-kun fell silent for a moment.
"…It annoys me to see capable people being held back by others."
With a slightly annoyed look on his face, Ōmori-kun set the empty can down on the table with a "Clunk."
"Usually, capable people end up being bothered by those who aren't. Then, in the end, we have to adapt to those who aren't capable. That's just a waste of time, isn't it?"
"…"
"Do I really have to sacrifice myself to look out for others? Just leave them be—people like that."
—Oh, could it be?
From the words he spoke, which seemed to be uttered along with pent-up emotions, I could sense it.
"Kiyosato, you're actually feeling overwhelmed too, aren't you? Like this time, having to clean up the mess left by someone you can't rely on."
Ōmori-kun said that in a mocking tone.
Ōmori-kun must have gone through something like that, I suppose.
Back then, Ōmori-kun did show kindness to many people, but it wasn't reciprocated. Eventually, he became reluctant to interact with others.
So, I can understand what Ōmori-kun is trying to say, and I don't think he's wrong.
But….
I—.
"That's not it."
In that case, no matter how hard I try.
Because I felt that no one could laugh from the heart.
"That's not it. What I'm doing here can't possibly be wrong."
So, firmly—
More firmly than I had on the Ferris wheel—I asserted,
"...Why don't you understand? That's what's strange, isn't it?"
Ōmori-kun furrowed his brow as if he couldn't accept it, then ran his fingers through his hair.
"Besides, it's weird to pay out of my own pocket for someone else's mistake, isn't it?"
"It's my mistake. I'm the one responsible."
"That's just an excuse. If Kiyosato had handled it from the start, something like this wouldn't have happened."
"I'm the one who entrusted it to you guys, and I'm also the one who neglected to check it. So, I'm the one at fault."
"…Are you trying to be a hero or something?"
Ōmori-kun clicked his tongue, his face clearly showing his annoyance.
Ōmori-kun's anger—it was all for my sake. Even though his words were harsh, I knew that behind it all was his concern for me, so I wasn't angry.
─.
…Ōmori-kun's concern—for me?
"If things keep going like this, it's definitely not going to work out. The people around here don't even realize you're helping them."
Caring, caring—
From the very beginning… …from the very beginning, yeah.
Why does Ōmori-kun care so much about me?
Is it because I'm the kind of person who's "capable," like Ōmori-kun said?
Is it because Ōmori-kun imagined me in his situation and was worried about what would happen to me?
…Is that really it? Is that the only reason Ōmori-kun is willing to go through all this?
"Besides, no matter how much Kiyosato is—"
"Ō-Ōmori-kun!"
Without realizing it, I blurted out, cutting off the sentence Ōmori-kun was about to say.
Without realizing it, I spoke up, cutting off the words I was about to say.
For some reason… …my heart was pounding.
It wouldn't be good if this conversation went any further.
"I'm fine. So, don't worry about me."
I looked straight into Ōmori-kun's eyes again, then asked him in a firmer tone than usual.
…Please.
Please, just back off.
I feel… …I feel really uncomfortable.
So, please.
─.
"…I hate this."
"What do you mean—?"
What do you think?
Just as I was about to ask Ōmori-kun that question again, on the spur of the moment.
—If I go any further, there's no turning back.
Yeah, shivering.
I had a feeling that was the truth.
"S-Sorry! I'm going home!"
With a loud "Thud," I kicked the chair and stood up.
Without waiting for Ōmori-kun's reaction, I clutched my bag, its zipper still open.
Without looking back even once, I ran away from there.
"Hahaha."
I ran, running down the dimly lit hallway.
My heart was pounding, and I was gasping for breath.
─No.
I want to believe that's not true.
"That—just that—is not allowed…!"
—What was in his heart.
Ōmori-kun's heart.
Insisting, "I don't want to be a talisman for anyone else,"
The things Ōmori-kun did to protect me.
The feelings hidden behind all of that.
"In that case… …Mi-chan…!"
─That really was his feelings for me.
TL: Reeze27
ED: Reeze27
PR: Reeze27
RP: Angga Kun
If you like our work, please consider supporting us on Ko-fi. 🙏
Support Us: https://ko-fi.com/ninjacross
Donations are very much appreciated.
Follow Our Official WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaRa6nHCsU9OAB0U370F
Read in other languages: