Yuu 296-300

Title: Extra: Valentine’s Day × Suffering Day (Part 3)

“...Huh?”

It was so sudden that she unconsciously made an odd sound.

Iroha blinked slowly, as if just waking up. Her face gradually flushed red, and she frantically waved her hands.

“Eh... No, that’s... Actually...”

Yuu looked at her, nodding hesitantly. “Actually...” That wasn’t what she meant?

After a brief hesitation, Iroha slowly lowered her hands. Her soft, pink lips pouted slightly. She murmured, as if resigned.

“Actually... I really like Senpai. So much that I want to be your girlfriend.”

Yuu fell silent. “...This is really sudden.”

“What else can I do?! When I want to say it, I can’t hold it back. It’s Senpai’s fault for being so slow!” Iroha slapped his arm in annoyance, unconsciously tugging at his sleeve.

“...Even if it’s sudden, I’m serious, you stupid Senpai.”

Yuu remained silent.

He stared blankly at the little girl with her head bowed. The blush on her pale ears—like red plum blossoms blooming in snow—was so beautiful it dried his throat.

“Senpai... What are you thinking?” After waiting so long without an answer, her gentle voice grew slightly fragile. Iroha asked, trembling slightly.

Snapping out of his daze, Yuu answered seriously, without hesitation: “I’ll make you happy!”

“Eh?”

This time, it was Iroha who was shocked. Her cute, blushing face tilted upward.

“You agreed right away? And saying ‘happy’ is too heavy!”

“Why? What’s wrong with that?” Yuu raised an eyebrow, laughing at her panicked expression.

“It’s not... I just thought, someone as popular as Senpai would at least think about it first...”

“We’ve been holding hands and hugging. What else is there to think about? Isn’t it just a matter of waiting for one of us to confess first?” Yuu rolled his eyes. He forcibly grabbed her small hand and tightly clasped it in his palm. “I didn’t expect you to confess first... If you’re not satisfied, let’s go to the Ferris wheel—how about I confess to you again?”

“Hah...”

Iroha opened her small mouth in shock. After staring at him in confusion for several seconds, her beautiful face turned even redder, as if dusted with blush.

Quickly turning her embarrassed face away, Iroha’s heart pounded wildly, her whole body burning up as if melting. Yet she stubbornly tried not to look defeated.

“What is this?! Senpai is way too skilled at flirting! Are you some kind of heart-thief criminal? This is my first love, yet I’m facing an experienced opponent. Isn’t that way too unfair?!”

“Hey, who said I was experienced...”

“Don’t argue! Listen to your girlfriend!”

“...Okay.” After a pause, Yuu couldn’t help but laugh. “I’ll listen to Iroha.”

He pressed his forehead against hers. Their warm skin touched. Their gentle gazes sheltered each other at such close range, as if the world belonged only to them.

“Wah, this is bad. Seems like Senpai likes me too much—will we hit boredom faster?”

Iroha said it sadly, but a sweet smile bloomed on her apple-red face.

It was a smile unique to Iroha—one that could fill the deepest corners of his heart.

“Well, as long as I like Senpai more, there won’t be any problems, right?”

Having casually reached this conclusion, she suddenly stretched out her slender arms and wrapped them around Yuu’s neck.

Then, tilting her face, she exhaled warm breath and gently bit his earlobe with a sweet, secret sound.

“I’ll love you more than you love me... Please prepare yourself for dating your kouhai, Sen-pai~”

Playful and relaxed, sweet and pure, sometimes a little cunning.

She was like candy, spice, and everything wonderful—this was the existence known as Isshiki Iroha.

From now on, she would be the one girlfriend Yuu would never let go.

“Iroha, I love you.”

“Yeah, I know.”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Unaware, they had played at the amusement park until sunset.

Hand in hand, they walked toward the top of the scenic hill. Around them, many loving couples had gathered to watch the evening glow. The sweet atmosphere was almost suffocating for single people.

“So beautiful~”

Now officially his girlfriend, Iroha hugged his arm tighter than usual, as if proudly showing off how happy she was. She bounced excitedly, her face full of satisfied smiles.

“Next time we come here, we must bring our phones. It’s such a shame not to take photos at such a beautiful view!”

Yuu smiled. “Don’t worry. We can come here many times. We have a lifetime to take pictures.”

Iroha glanced at him. “Senpai, you’re exaggerating—just got together and already saying things like that.”

“Can’t I express my true feelings?”

“It’s not that you can’t, but if you say that now, what will you say when we’re old?” Iroha sighed resignedly, as if scolding him. But the curve on her lips couldn’t be hidden.

Her ash-blonde hair shimmered under the beautiful sunset light. Yuu watched her soft lips open and close. Suddenly, he froze. He simply stared deeply into her.

Iroha quickly realized something was off. Instinctively avoiding his intense gaze, her face turned even redder, as if burned by the twilight.

“...Senpai?”

Gathering courage, she looked back into his deep, gentle eyes.

“May I, Iroha?”

“...Yes. If it’s Senpai, I’d be very willing.” Iroha smiled shyly. She closed her eyes and tilted up her small face.

She looked nervous. Her pink, glossy lips trembled slightly. Her breathing quickened. Her body stiffened. Her movements and the sound of swallowing were unusually clear.

Yuu didn’t keep her waiting long. One hand touched her warm, soft cheek; the other held her slender shoulder. In this warm, bright golden world, as he leaned down to kiss her—

“Excuse me, could you move aside a bit?”

Someone tapped his shoulder from behind.

Yuu reflexively turned. It was a woman wearing a baseball cap, head lowered so her face wasn’t clearly visible. She waved her hand, gesturing for them to step aside.

There was plenty of space beside them. Even if they wanted to take a photo at sunset, there were better spots. Yet she, as if looking for trouble, pretended not to see the empty spaces and insisted on passing through exactly where they stood.

“What’s going on...” Iroha looked over in confusion. Yuu frowned in displeasure.

Just as he was about to speak, he suddenly widened his eyes and fell silent. The woman before him slowly merged with someone from his memory.

“Wait, no—“

But by the time he realized, it was already too late.

The baseball-cap woman was ready. She pulled out a chocolate bar and took a bite. Then, roughly grabbing Yuu’s collar, she stood on tiptoe.

*SLAP!*

What reacted faster than Yuu was Iroha’s palm.

She immediately covered Yuu’s mouth. The back of her hand struck the hard chocolate, making her wince in pain. Yet she had no intention of letting go. Instead, she pulled Yuu backward, distancing him from the baseball-cap woman.

“...Tch, why are flirtatious women nowadays so fast to react?”

An annoyed voice sounded. The baseball-cap woman spat the chocolate onto the ground. She lifted her cap with her fingers. A pair of cold eyes stared at them both from the shadows.

“But even so, don’t dream of stealing Yuu-kun.”

Iroha murmured, slightly surprised—but not overly shocked:

“Kasumigaoka-senpai...”

“Oh, flirtatious women—that includes you too, you know.”

A cheerful, pleasant voice—yet devoid of warmth—sounded from the side.

“Haruno-san...”

Kasumigaoka Utaha, removing her baseball cap to reveal straight black hair, looked warily toward Haruno.

“Everyone has their own methods. Don’t blame me if I get serious because you two aren’t acting.”

“Ah, then I misunderstood you.” Haruno narrowed her dull eyes. She spoke casually. “If seriousness means forced kissing, turns out you’re still a child.”

“What did you say—“

“Saying things about Yuu-kun to yourself—I hope people like that just disappear on their own.” A soft sigh cut through their argument. A brown-haired girl approached, carrying a long package.

“Valentine’s Day is just a day to give gifts. There’s no need to make the atmosphere this harsh, right? It’ll only worry Yuu-kun.”

Though she said that, she slowly unwrapped the package and pulled out a slender sword.

“Your killing intent is worse than ours, okay? You’re the thief crying ‘thief’.” A silver-haired girl emerged from the crowd. Holding a short knife, she glared sharply at the completely expressionless brown-haired girl. “Yuuki Asuna, what do you plan to do with that sword?”

“Of course, to feed Yuu-kun chocolate? This is a chocolate sword.” Asuna tapped the blade, dark brown like chocolate, and countered, “Natsukawa-san, that short knife in your hand...”

“Is also chocolate. I want that cheating man to feel what I felt.”

Yukino folded her arms across her chest. Standing not far away, she sighed. “Regarding betrayal, it’s hard to say who betrayed whom first.”

“Compared to all of you, I came earliest.” Haruno stepped forward. She waved her hand, motioning for them to back off. Her tone was casual yet dominant. “Except for Yuuki-chan, I won’t allow any other flirtatious woman near him—especially on this important Valentine’s Day...”

“I can yield to others, but within six hours tonight, I will have him.” Masuzu tightened her grip on the chocolate short knife, resisting pressure, and finally compromised.

“Six hours? Any special meaning?” Yukino frowned, confused.

Asuna cleared her throat and kindly explained, “She probably means six hours of intimacy? Rumor says it starts at midnight on Christmas...”

“Hey, still have time to explain? He’s almost running away.” Utaha pointed ahead.

They all looked—and realized Iroha was pulling Yuu, already starting to run down the stairs.

Masuzu had silently followed from behind, chasing them. The chocolate short knife in her hand seemed aimed at his back.

“In that case, don’t think too much. First come, first served.” Haruno pulled a whip from her waist—also coated in chocolate. “After all, Valentine’s Day is a day like this.”

“Winning a competition doesn’t win someone’s heart. If only life were that simple.” Asuna sighed, yet didn’t hesitate. Stepping forward with her slender sword, she swiftly gave chase.

Yukino and Utaha, unarmed, exchanged glances. Their faces were expressionless, yet intense sparks seemed to clash in the air.

“Yukinoshita, was it you who told them I tampered with the drink?” Utaha asked coldly, arms folded.

Yukino, also folding her arms, glanced at the prominent chest in front of her, then calmly released her hands as if nothing happened. “Senpai, although I don’t know what substance you added, my sense of justice wouldn’t allow such actions.”

Utaha widened her eyes in disbelief. “I just melted my handmade chocolate and put it in the water. Do you think I committed a crime?”

Yukino paused briefly.

“Sorry, I misunderstood... But even so, that doesn’t mean you can tamper with someone else’s drink.”

“Tch, meddling busybody.”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Meanwhile, Yuu, being dragged by Iroha.

“Sorry... Problems like this will happen if you date me...”

“I know! Senpai, check yourself—why are there five beautiful girls?! You’re too popular, aren’t you?!”

Panting, Iroha complained bitterly. “I thought at most three or four. Never expected five! Could practically form a baseball team, you know!”

Yuu sighed and prepared to slow down. “I’ll go back and talk to them. If we talk openly, they shouldn’t cause trouble.”

But Iroha hesitated. “Senpai, if you go back now, won’t you get captured or beaten up on the spot?”

Yuu paused briefly.

“...Probably not. My physical strength far exceeds theirs. I could incapacitate ten people at once.”

“Are you planning to fight?! Senpai, this is Valentine’s Day, not a martial arts tournament!”

After grumbling, Iroha took a deep breath, slowly stopped, turned, held his face, and kissed him.

Her lips were soft—just as sweet and warm as he imagined.

“...If we run, we run together. Either way, we won’t be alone.”

She whispered softly.

They kissed. The girl’s face was flushed red. Her usual mischievous, playful smirk was there—but also filled with gentle determination.

“But if Senpai wants to face them, I’ll stand by you too—I’ve had this resolve since we left today.”

“Because... I’m your girlfriend!”

Those firm words fell to the ground. Her ash-blonde hair swayed gently in the wind.

Yuu looked at Iroha.

Behind him, the suffering of past Valentine’s Days slowly approached.

Before him, the present Valentine’s Day had already entered his heart.

He gripped her hand and gave a faint smile. There was no more doubt in his eyes.

Together, they turned to face the threatening, surrounding girls. Side by side, they waited as the sun set and night enveloped the world—

And then, waited for whatever tomorrow might bring.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Tenkuji Residence.

Sora frowned, watching the scene on the screen from a remotely controlled amusement park camera—seeming like it could have “THE END” written beneath it.

“What’s Yuu doing? Filming a movie? Why hasn’t he come home yet...”

As she thought that, Yuigahama’s voice called from downstairs: “Sora, the hotpot’s ready~”

“I’m coming—“ She turned off the screen and rose from the bed.

Walking down, Sora sniffed the air. Her face instantly changed. “This spicy smell… Wait, does the hotpot have chili?”

“It’s mapo broth. I know you can’t handle spice, so I asked Mizuhara-san to separate it.”

Chizuru stepped out of the bathroom. She naturally combed her messy hair, then gently patted Sora’s back. “Come on, let’s eat… Where are Yuu and the others?”

“Still outside. Who knows what they’re up to.” Sora huffed irritably, trudging heavily into the living room. “Who cares—we’ll eat first!”

“Alright, I’ll call later to check.”

Chizuru shrugged resignedly and followed her into the lively, bustling living room.

As for what happened after the hotpot party, no one knows.

(Extra Ends)

-

Title: Tenkuji, I’ve Decided—You’re Chosen!

Late October was the beginning of cultural festival preparations for students at Sōbu High.

Every day in class, they had to discuss the cultural festival theme, assign tasks to each person, and immediately start gathering various materials.

After all, they only had one month. In between, some would be busy with student council elections, club competition practices, and other activities. If they didn’t agree on a schedule and divide responsibilities well, they’d likely end up with half-finished work by festival time.

Of course, if the proposed project wasn’t too complicated, they could afford to relax slightly—traditional themes like cafés or stage plays were far easier to prepare than projects requiring many props and equipment, such as haunted houses.

“Then it’s decided—we’ll do a stage play. Next, we need to assign people responsible for the script, casting, and prop-making...”

After erasing the other options from the blackboard, the young, beautiful, and invincible female teacher frowned and thought for a moment. Then she wrote a large line of text beside it.

“None of that matters—first, let’s decide the executive committee!”

“Eeh—“ A groan instantly rose from the class.

Hiratsuka pretended not to hear. She waved her hand and shouted enthusiastically, “One male and one female! First come, first served! Who wants to volunteer? Raise your hand now!”

“...”

The groaning ceased immediately, as if the world had suddenly fallen silent.

Everyone clamped their mouths shut, acting as if it had nothing to do with them. Some fiddled with their nails; others immediately laid their heads down on their desks. Not a single person dared meet Hiratsuka’s encouraging gaze.

Silence stretched on for several seconds. Hiratsuka’s expression slowly faded. Finally, impatiently clicking her tongue, she slapped the podium with one hand.

“You rowdy kids—this happens every year! I know being on the executive committee is tough, but can’t anyone sacrifice a little for your beloved classmates to create a cultural festival full of laughter and memories?”

Below the podium, silence remained. No one wanted to respond. After all, no one wanted to trade their own free time for someone else’s workload.

Hiratsuka wasn’t surprised. She continued staring at the students who turned away guiltily. “No one? Then raise your hand if you weren’t here. Assigning the most important position to absentees has become standard practice, hasn’t it?”

“...”

—If absent people can just raise their hands, then why even bother with a play? Just make a haunted house instead.

Many wanted to complain like this. But right before opening their mouths, they felt an odd, hopeful gaze fixated on them. They quickly realized the teacher on the podium was waiting for someone to speak up—and whoever opened their mouth first would be dragged straight into trouble.

Hiratsuka was truly a master at fishing for volunteers.

To avoid getting pulled into more troublesome situations, the students shut their mouths tighter. Class F became so quiet it seemed even breathing was held in chests.

“...Fine, you’re tough.” Hiratsuka sighed resignedly and scratched her head. “Then shall I pick someone at random? From now on, you’d better pray your luck isn’t bad enough to get chosen by me.”

(Even Sensei says being picked is bad luck... And is this apathy really okay?)

Internally complaining, the students grew anxious. They watched as Hiratsuka’s gaze swept across the classroom. Finally, her eyes stopped on a handsome young man sitting in the front row. She pointed at him from afar.

“Tenkuji, I’ve decided—you’re chosen!”

“Sorry, I decline.” As if expecting it, Yuu replied instantly.

Hiratsuka frowned. “Did I fail to throw a Poké Ball to catch you? Wait, I’ll go buy a Master Ball and come back.”

“Sensei, please don’t make too many jokes in class.” Yuu sighed resignedly. He closed the book in his hand and calmly met the curious stares from around the room without changing his expression.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t take on this responsibility. Please give the position to another classmate who’s more capable.”

“What’s your reason?” Hiratsuka folded her arms, refusing to let him off easily.

Yuu adjusted his non-existent glasses and answered seriously, “To maintain my top ranking, I must focus on my studies. Being on the executive committee would only slow down my learning progress.”

“...I see.”

Hiratsuka was truly speechless. The other students didn’t feel this was unfair either—after all, smart people always had special privileges.

Moreover, Yuu had defeated Yukinoshita Yukino from Class J, brought Class F to first place, and shone brightly during the autumn performance.

Beyond rumors and being a sports genius, Yuu had also earned the title of “hardworking genius” after being praised by the principal during a school meeting. It wasn’t surprising that someone so outstanding wouldn’t listen to a teacher. Besides, his reasoning was perfectly logical. Though some grumbled internally, no one dared voice it aloud.

“In that case, pick someone else then...”

Reluctantly, Hiratsuka randomly selected another male student and handed the responsibility to him.

With the male member chosen, it was now time for the female representative—she picked someone Yuu didn’t know very well. Thus, Class F’s cultural festival committee was settled in the most ordinary way possible.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Today’s class meeting ended. After Hiratsuka left, the classroom returned to its usual bustle. Most conversations revolved around the cultural festival.

“Yuu, I thought you’d agree to be on the executive committee.” Her slender white arm resting on the desk, Yuigahama pouted with a regretful expression. “If I volunteered as the female rep, we could’ve worked together...”

While putting his books into his drawer, Yuu replied casually, “Sensei herself said it’s hard work. Why should I go looking for trouble?”

“But for you, this shouldn’t be trouble. You don’t have kendo club competitions or student council elections. Your studying seems relaxed too, so you don’t need to push yourself that hard...”

“In short, I want to be lazy.” Yuu stated plainly. That single sentence immediately silenced Yuigahama. “Just because someone’s capable doesn’t mean they have to shoulder more responsibility, Yui.”

“Hmm...”

Pulling out his phone, Yuu glanced at her. His tone was slightly teasing. “Could you really bear seeing me stressed over trivial things until I couldn’t stay calm?”

After he said that, Yuigahama truly gave up on her little idea. Her dough-like face flattened onto the desk. She let out a long sigh.

“You’re right… Even if you’re not on the committee, we can still collaborate during the festival! No need to make things harder on yourself.”

Yuu didn’t understand why Yuigahama was so persistent about this, but he didn’t ask further. He simply unlocked his phone screen. After reading a message from Masuzu, he raised his eyebrows.

“It seems Yukinoshita got chosen as the exec committee rep for Class J.”

“Eh? Yukinon?”

Yuigahama blinked in surprise. She leaned closer to look at the message, but Yuu swiftly blocked her.

“Yeah, apparently someone jokingly nominated her. Then the whole class joined in, and she was forced to accept the role.”

“They’re terrible—not considering Yukinon’s feelings at all...”

Yuigahama grumbled. Yet her eyes sparkled like a dog spotting a bone. She stared intently at his phone, as if hoping to sneak a peek at the message history he was deliberately avoiding.

Of course, there was no way Yuu would let her—or anyone—see the few sexy photos Masuzu had intentionally sent last night. After replying to the message, he immediately put his phone away.

“We don’t need to worry about her. Just think about what role you’d like to take... Since our class wants to do a musical play, there’s sound control, scriptwriting, prop-making, costumes, and most importantly, acting. Is there anything you’re interested in?”

“Acting, of course!” As expected, Yuigahama’s attention smoothly shifted.

Her eyes sparkled. “Even though the script isn’t decided yet, I’ve always wanted to try it! To experience performing on stage!”

“And you too, right? Acting part.”

-

Title: Killer Queen Has Already Touched...

Looking into her hopeful eyes, Yuu shook his head.

“Forget about performing on stage—I want to stay behind the scenes.”

“Eh? Why?” Yuigahama opened her mouth slightly in surprise. “Didn’t a TV station praise your acting?”

Yuu patted her shoulder, pretending to be serious. “To give opportunities to energetic young people like you who love acting, I won’t return to that world again.”

“Eh... Fine.” Her face wrinkled with disappointment as Yuigahama sighed heavily. She flattened her face onto the desk again, rolling left and right like a ball of dough. “Then I’ll just wait and see how the roles are assigned… Ah, I was really hoping that you and I could be the main leads, acting together on stage. Then Natsukawa-san might get jealous… What a shame.”

“So you had such a mischievous plan all along? I never expected this from you, Yui.” Yuu chuckled softly and flicked her forehead. “Don’t blame me if I didn’t warn you. If that actually happened, Masuzu would definitely get so jealous she’d flaunt our affection in front of you every single day… Are you sure you’re ready for that kind of mutual suffering?”

Yuigahama imagined it briefly. Immediately, she hugged his arm with a pale face, her slender shoulders trembling slightly.

No matter how they showed affection, she could already picture it—her fragile heart would surely be deeply wounded!

“Yuu, we’re best friends. You wouldn’t let her do that, right?”

“That’s hard to say.” Yuu shrugged, still smiling. “She is my girlfriend… How can I side with you and go against her?”

“...”

Yuigahama stared blankly at his smile. Suddenly, she couldn’t utter a word—even though he was only a pretend boyfriend.

As if confirming something to herself, she bit her lip. Her dark eyes dropped downward for half a second.

When she looked up at him again, the corner of her lips still held a faint smile. Casually, she changed the subject to something else.

“Never mind. Yuu, did you hear what’s been happening in the kendo club lately...”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Time passed quickly. School was about to end.

The dismissal bell rang. Yuu rarely visited the Service Club with Yuigahama these days.

He wasn’t glued to Masuzu every single day. When they had separate matters to attend to, or when he needed to stop by Angel Coffee, they’d part ways temporarily—though recently, they’d reunite at her luxurious apartment to cook porridge for him.

Of course, whenever she had free time, Masuzu would send him various distracting messages. As if afraid he’d go have fun outside and forget about her.

Masuzu: {Be careful, Killer Queen has already touched dango-chan’s chest. If you dare mess around with her, your junk will explode with a BOOM, turning into beautiful fireworks—a once-in-a-lifetime show.}

Yuu: {Her hand is the one touching—why does my junk explode?}

Masuzu: {I’m using beetle arrows. It’s a new feature specially developed for cheating men.}

Yuu: {Ask something realistic. What if it doesn’t explode?}

Masuzu: {Then I’ll come over and manually blow up your junk—and all your other junk too.}

Yuu: {The number of parts becoming fireworks is increasing, huh...}

Sometimes Yuu admired himself. He could keep up with that woman’s nonsense and wild imagination. No wonder she always said such bizarre things.

After all, the feeling that both of them understood exactly what they were talking about, could instantly grasp any joke, and chat so effortlessly—it always made someone unconsciously chatty and increasingly appreciate the person they could talk to like this.

He put away his phone. The door to the Service Club was now right in front of him.

Yuigahama opened the door. Bathed in sunlight streaming through the windows, the black-haired girl sat calmly and coolly amid the crisp autumn breeze, holding a book and focused on reading.

“Yukinon, Yahaharo!”

Yuigahama casually disrupted the peaceful, beautiful scene. She greeted cheerfully and walked over, swinging her school bag.

“Good afternoon, Yuigahama-san.”

After a brief greeting, Yukino lifted her gaze from the book. She looked straight at Yuu, who quietly closed the door and stepped inside.

They locked eyes. After a moment of silence, Yuu nodded first.

“Good afternoon.”

As if satisfied by some unspoken thing, Yukino smiled. Her clear, crisp voice sounded softer than usual.

“Good afternoon, Tenkuji-kun.”

“I heard you got chosen as the executive committee rep? Quite popular, Yukinoshita-san.”

“...”

Her previously satisfied expression immediately soured. Under Yuu’s half-smile, Yukino pursed her pale sakura-colored lips without expression. She brushed long hair off her shoulder.

“Of course. After all, my abilities and knowledge are clearly visible. Though slightly troublesome, overall it’s merely an easy task.”

She narrowed her eyes with a slight coldness. “On the other hand, you. Given Hiratsuka-sensei’s nature, there’s no way she wouldn’t have forced you into that position, right?”

“You know Hiratsuka-sensei quite well.” Yuu didn’t care how harsh her words were. He casually sat across the table. “True, but I declined because I was lazy. Too bad I missed the chance to work with you.”

“You just don’t want to take responsibility, right? Or perhaps… you lack confidence in your own abilities?”

Yukino gave a scornful smile. But this provocation was too obvious. Yuu couldn’t help but laugh.

“Say whatever you want. Following your heart, knowing when to advance and retreat, never getting stuck in difficult situations—that’s the mark of maturity.”

“...”

Her eyes widened slightly. Yukino stared at him, seemingly deep in thought.

Then she gently shook her head, as if denying a reality she didn’t want to face. She returned her calm gaze to her book, but it took her a long time to turn a single page.

Yuigahama sat between the two of them, propping her chin on her hand and frowning. She too sank into deep thought.

“...Wait, could it be that Yuu only comes to the Service Club to argue with Yukinon?”

After all, when no one came seeking help, their club activity simply meant doing their own things. Not showing up at all wouldn’t even be an issue.

Just as she thought that, a knock suddenly came from outside the door.

Yukino looked up. Her clear voice cut through the slightly heavy silence.

“Come in.”

The door slowly opened. A short ash-blonde haired girl peeked in first. After scanning the room, she cautiously entered.

“Excuse me... Is this the Service Club?”

Behind her followed a beautiful silver-haired girl with an elegant aura, like an angel.

Upon entering, she politely bowed to the three of them. Her tone flat.

“Excuse me.”

-

Title: Here to find him again?

“You... Tachibana-san from first year?”

Yuigahama exclaimed in surprise. Yukino also looked slightly taken aback, studying the silver-white-haired girl from head to toe.

“Yes, I’m Tachibana Kanade...”

She tilted her head slightly, her eyes showing mild confusion.

Kanade’s expression didn’t change much. She still kept her head slightly lowered, speaking calmly and politely, “I apologize for disturbing you, Senpais.”

After she finished speaking, the three of them unconsciously relaxed.

Her emotionless voice somehow carried a soft, comforting quality—as if their entire sense of hearing had been soaked in warm water.

A voice kissed by angels—perhaps that was the only way to describe it.

“Just like the rumors say, she’s incredibly cute...”

Yuigahama placed both hands over her chest, her face looking as if she were being healed. She clearly wanted to rush forward and pat the little head of her junior. However, since they weren’t close yet, she could only fidget in her seat.

Yukino seemed unable to bear watching her. She massaged her forehead and sighed. “...Yuigahama-san, could you please stop making that creepy face like that guy beside you?”

“Right, right!” Yuu nodded in agreement.

Then he mimicked Yuigahama—placing both hands on his chest and squealing in a high-pitched, childish voice, “Ohhh, President Yukinoshita is so beautiful~ Just like the rumors said, no, even colder and more stunning than a real yuki-onna~”

“...”

Yukino made a disgusted face, as if she’d swallowed an insect. She glared at him coldly. After taking a deep breath, she turned her expressionless gaze toward the two underclassmen still standing by the door.

“There are chairs over there. Please, have a seat.”

“Ah, yes—Thank you, Senpai~”

Having enjoyed the exchange between the two, Iroha laughed cheerfully. Then she pulled Kanade to sit across from the trio. Clearing her throat, she put on a serious expression.

“Although you Senpais may already know who we are, allow me to formally introduce ourselves—we are this year’s student council president candidate team. Tachibana-san is the candidate, and I am her assistant, Isshiki Iroha.”

“What kind of self-introduction is that...”

Iroha ignored Yuu’s complaint. In fact, she’d pretended not to know him since stepping into the room.

Instead, she lifted her chin and stared directly at Yukino and Yuigahama. “I assume you Senpais know that the student council president election will be starting soon, correct?”

“Well... that...”

Yuigahama touched the bun on her head and gave a vague smile.

...Despite knowing every single rumor, she apparently had no idea about school events.

But Yuu understood—ordinary students probably didn’t care much about the student council election. After all, Sōbu High’s student council was just an ordinary organization. It didn’t wield the immense power seen in manga or novels. Instead, it was essentially a group of hardworking, dedicated students burdened with endless tasks.

Those who dreamed of joining—or actually ran for—the student council usually had personal motives: wanting better university recommendations, seeking self-improvement, or aiming for higher status within their class.

That was why Yuu couldn’t understand why Iroha would get involved with the student council.

Given her personality, she should be chasing after handsome senpais in sports clubs and actively participating in fun activities to enjoy her youth—not quietly serving as a tool within the student council.

“I know. The voting announcement and candidate list should’ve been posted today.”

The other two remained silent. Yukino simply sighed and asked Iroha in return, “I don’t follow such announcements. But given Tachibana-san’s popularity, shouldn’t it be easy for her to win the presidency? Is there something else you need help with from the Service Club?”

Yuu detected Yukino’s confidence hidden beneath her casual tone.

After all, both she and Kanade—second and first-year respectively—were equally renowned for their beauty at school. Meaning, it wouldn’t be difficult for Yukino herself to become student council president.

(She gets narcissistic whenever she gets the chance...)

“Not exactly.” Kanade replied softly. Of course, she didn’t deny Yuu’s thoughts, but spoke seriously to Yukino, “Although many people care about me, becoming student council president and helping everyone requires far more effort and knowledge than I currently possess. It’s natural that I might be surpassed by someone more capable.”

She spoke slowly, yet each word radiated sincerity. Yukino paused briefly, then offered a faint approving smile.

“You want to earn votes through merit. That’s a very appropriate mindset. I misspoke earlier...”

“Actually, even if Tachibana-san does nothing, she has a 90% chance of winning.” Iroha interrupted with a slightly wry smile, raising her hand. “As far as I know, aside from her, the other candidates were simply selected by teachers from each class to fill quota requirements. Not a single one is genuinely serious about this election...”

“No enthusiasm at all? Sounds like the student council presidency is just as tough as being on the cultural festival committee...” Yuu complained as if it had nothing to do with him, while Yuigahama nodded in agreement beside him.

Iroha glanced curiously at the two of them, then quickly redirected her attention back to Yukino.

“So, although we came as student council candidates, the matter we’re seeking your help with isn’t actually related to the election. Tachibana-san wants to resolve this issue using her own strength.”

Kanade didn’t speak—she merely blinked her large, pale golden eyes, silently confirming the truth of her words.

“In that case, let’s get straight to the point. Let me remind you upfront—the Service Club isn’t a volunteer club. We’ll only provide methods and guidance; we won’t solve your problems with our own hands.”

Yukino stated bluntly, back straight, hands folded neatly on her lap. Her clear blue eyes locked seriously onto the two juniors.

As for why they had come seeking the Service Club—there was no need to waste time asking. Either Hiratsuka recommended them, or they investigated the club after the autumn performance. There were no other possibilities.

Regardless of the reason, if someone was struggling, she would offer help and guide them toward the right path.

That was the Service Club led by Yukino.

“Hm, we also hoped to solve it ourselves... But this is truly beyond our abilities. After consulting with Hiratsuka-sensei, we decided to come and ask for help from you, the Service Club Senpais.”

She seemed slightly embarrassed. Iroha scratched her cheek, her eyes secretly flickering toward Yuu.

Yukino sharply noticed this. A sudden unease stirred within her.

Kanade, whose gem-like golden eyes also glanced in that direction, spoke frankly, “To be precise, it’s not us who need help—it’s our friends from the kendo club.”

“They want us to help persuade Tenkuji-senpai from the Service Club to participate in this year’s national high school kendo competition.”

Yukino: “...”

(In the end... they came looking for him again?)

-

Title: Kendo Club Crisis?

“National kendo competition?”

With wide eyes, Yuigahama suddenly remembered something. She let out a small gasp. “Ah, that’s the issue happening in the kendo club...”

“That issue?” Ignoring the complicated feelings rising within her, Yukino turned to Yuigahama, frowning slightly. “Can you explain? Why would the kendo club, which has already qualified for nationals, seek help from Tenkuji-kun?”

“Well, it goes like this...” After gathering her thoughts briefly, Yuigahama began explaining.

In short, Captain Himura of the kendo club and his vice-captain accidentally got into a conflict with street thugs while eating out. The result? One was unharmed, the other severely injured. All twenty members of the opposing side were knocked unconscious. The scene was reportedly spectacular.

The vice-captain, who suffered serious injuries, had his arm broken by a baseball bat strike. Not only would he not recover in time for the match, but once the Kendo Association learned about the incident, they immediately imposed a suspension penalty—despite them not starting the fight, the fact that a brawl occurred couldn’t be ignored. The school couldn’t defend them and could only accept the punishment resignedly.

Herein lies the problem: Captain Himura himself is someone who’s been suspended until graduation, so it doesn’t matter if he wants to compete. But the vice-captain is the second strongest player on the team—the ace of the kendo club, determined to win the national championship trophy.

After the fight, that trophy slipped from his grasp. The club’s winning rate also plummeted drastically.

They were originally evenly matched against their current opponent, but now their ace can’t participate. There are no reserve members with comparable strength. The dream of victory, once within reach, now faces the threat of shattering—

“At that moment, someone recommended the Senpai who defeated Captain Himura.”

Iroha finally looked directly at him. Her eyes held a strange glint. “That’s a member of the Kendo Club whom Senpai previously ignored. He said that if his teacher came, they could definitely lead the kendo club to victory...”

“Him? I already told him I’m not his teacher...” Realizing what she meant, Yuu sighed, massaging his forehead. “If you hadn’t brought it up, I’d almost forgotten. If I’d known it’d turn out like this, I wouldn’t have held that fan meeting—it just brought endless trouble...”

“What? What? Yuu has fans? What do you mean, ‘teacher’?”

Hearing an interesting topic, Yuigahama immediately propped herself up on both hands on the table, asking excitedly.

“Putting aside personality and character, in terms of ability, this man is indeed reliable.” Yukino gave an objective assessment, adding a subtle jab. “Immature girls naturally get drawn to people like this—becoming blind and easily deceived... Yuigahama-san, please remember this well.”

“Eh?” Yuigahama tilted her head in confusion. Then she quickly reacted, frantically waving her hands at Yukino. “I won’t be deceived by Yuu! Besides, we’ve known each other for so long—I know better than anyone else what he’s really like...”

“I think Tenkuji-senpai is a good person.” Seeing Yuu’s expression, already accustomed to such talk, Kanade spoke calmly and gently. “Someone who would give me his last portion of mapo tofu shouldn’t be a bad person who deceives others.”

“His last portion of mapo tofu? Tachibana-san, did you meet Senpai before?” Iroha stared at the two of them in surprise, as if silently asking, Why didn’t I know about this?

Kanade blinked innocently. “In the cafeteria. When Iroha-san bought the macaroni set.”

“The cafeteria? Hmm...” Iroha pouted and thought for a moment. Then she suddenly remembered. She placed her finger at the corner of her lips and murmured, “Oh, that time... I didn’t know Senpai back then. I don’t remember at all...”

“Alright, back to the main topic.” Yukino clapped her hands. With a clear voice, she steered the conversation back on track. “So, because the kendo club’s ace can’t compete, you want to ask Tenkuji-kun to take his place?”

“Exactly right!” Iroha gave a sharp salute.

“In that case, I have several questions for you.” Completely ignoring Yuu, the center of attention, Yukino casually raised her index finger. She asked sharply, “First, why didn’t the kendo club come themselves to request help? Asking through a first-year underclassman—doesn’t that seem insincere?”

Iroha instinctively shrank her shoulders, hastily replying with an awkward smile. “A-actually, they wanted to come personally too, but Captain Himura refused. He said since they lost due to lack of skill, there’s no need to trouble others over something like this... But the vice-captain will graduate next year. This is his closest and final chance to become national champion. He didn’t want to give up, so he confided in Kanon-chan. Kanon-chan secretly told me and Tachibana-san. After being asked, here we are...”

“Then why didn’t Kanon-chan go directly to Yuu? Isn’t he her teacher?” Yuigahama, having pieced together the whole story, asked.

Iroha gave a wry smile. “She said... she’s afraid. The second-year building, and the silver-haired woman always beside Senpai—everything feels intimidating, making her too scared to approach...”

“Ahhaha...” Yuigahama gave an awkward laugh, her eyes slightly conflicted.

Using her aura to drive away any woman trying to approach Yuu—that was exactly something Masuzu would do.

Chin resting on her hand, Yukino still didn’t understand. “But even so, wouldn’t it have been faster to ask Tenkuji-kun for help directly? For instance, Isshiki-san, I recall you work at the same place as Tenkuji-kun. Why didn’t you ask him then, instead of going through the trouble of coming to the Service Club to formally make a request?”

“Because I wanted to help Kanon-chan and the vice-captain.”

With her hands on her knees, Kanade spoke in a clear, calming voice. “This has nothing to do with the student council election. I should’ve come myself to ask Tenkuji-senpai for help... But I don’t know Tenkuji-senpai. I only knew I could come to the Service Club for assistance.”

“And when Iroha-san heard I wanted to help, she said she’d accompany me to see Tenkuji-senpai—and she could also help me campaign for student council president at the same time... I never expected Tenkuji-senpai to be the one who gave me his last portion of mapo tofu.”

After saying this, she looked at Yuu and nodded gratefully.

Yuu paused briefly, then returned her a gentle smile.

“We don’t need the mapo tofu story.” Yukino lowered her head resignedly, letting out a soft sigh. “Fine, I understand... One last question.”

“Isshiki-san, you came to help Tachibana-san campaign? Can that really be done as an afterthought?”

“Hehehe~ That was just a spur-of-the-moment idea.” Iroha stuck out her tongue playfully. But clearly, she wasn’t revealing her true intentions.