After arriving at school, Shiina Mahiru quickly composed herself. She seamlessly returned to her usual, dazzling state—the angel of the classroom. With perfect posture and unwavering focus, she absorbed the lessons with a serene expression. Just watching her so immersed in her studies was enough to ignite motivation in others.
"If even an angel is working hard, how could I dare to slack off?"—this thought likely ran through the minds of many.
Of course, there were just as many students who simply admired her from afar, captivated by her presence rather than paying attention to the lesson.
During physical education, Mahiru tackled every task with serious dedication. Her performance was consistently strong—graceful, efficient, and precise. While not a professional athlete, she carried a natural elegance that made it seem as though she excelled in everything she did.
As for her social standing, Shiina Mahiru was undoubtedly the "Princess" of the class. Miura Yumiko had long been dubbed "Her Majesty the Queen" for her strong-willed, tsundere-like personality, while Hayama Hayato, the ever-charismatic figure, naturally assumed the role of "Prince." Well, calling him "King" might be more appropriate, though Miura would likely protest the title. Hayama wasn't just popular—his innate leadership qualities allowed him to maintain order effortlessly. Within just a few days, he had already established his influence over the class.
Hozuki Nozomi had no particular dislike for Hayama. In fact, Hayama was always respectful whenever Nozomi, as class rep, needed to make an announcement. The guy even helped keep the class in check, which saved Nozomi the trouble. So, why complain? Less work for him.
Nozomi preferred to keep things simple. If someone deliberately made things difficult for him, he wouldn't hesitate to use more... direct methods to settle the issue. After all, sometimes a single well-placed punch spoke louder than words. His reputation as someone "not to be messed with" had its advantages—it kept unnecessary trouble at bay.
And why was it that girls seemed drawn to the so-called "bad boys"? The dependable, studious types were often overlooked, while the ones who exuded danger held a certain appeal. Perhaps it was the illusion of security—of having someone strong enough to protect them. Though, someone like Shiina Mahiru likely wasn't affected by such things.
Or, more precisely, she wouldn't fall for an irresponsible type.
Her own parents were prime examples of that. They saw her as a burden, an obstacle in their marriage. If they didn't want her, then why even bring her into this world? They abandoned her emotionally, leaving her with nothing but financial support and a caretaker. Not a single word of affection.
And yet, a single act of kindness—Nozomi handing her an umbrella in the rain, showing genuine concern—had shaken her more than she expected.
Mahiru did her best to act normally. She tried not to pay attention to Nozomi. But they sat side by side. A single glance was enough to see him.
At the moment, he was reading Love Metronome.
Her breath hitched.
Nozomi had said he wouldn't pursue her. But… could eyes lie?
If he truly had no interest in her, then why was his concern so genuine? Why would Sayu go as far as to encourage her to date him? Could it be… he was reading romance novels to study up on ways to approach her?
What a fool.
Nozomi had been using tactics on her from the start. The way he comforted her yesterday, even the way he held her—it had all been deliberate.
Mahiru convinced herself that she had figured it all out.
And yet, for the entire day, Nozomi said nothing beyond what was necessary as class rep.
True to his word, he didn't pester her. He didn't make any moves.
He only cared as a landlord.
Not as a man.
This realization left Mahiru unexpectedly frustrated.
Did he really not like her?
Then why did it bother her so much?
Memories of yesterday's embrace resurfaced, causing a strange tightness in her chest.
"…Shiina, did I do something to upset you?"
Nozomi's voice suddenly pulled her back to reality.
"Eh? N-No. Why do you ask?"
She panicked, averting her gaze.
Nozomi looked puzzled. "Because you've been staring at me like you want to kill me."
Mahiru's face turned crimson. She immediately turned away, forcing a calm expression.
"No, I just didn't sleep well. I was looking outside to clear my head, that's all. I wasn't glaring at you."
She felt guilty saying it, and the heat on her face intensified.
"Oh, I see. There's no class right now—want to switch seats so you can see the view better?"
"No need! I've seen enough. Thanks, though."
After that, neither spoke much for the rest of the day.
Nozomi kept his distance, never acting too familiar with Mahiru during school hours. He understood that she had a reputation as an honor student to maintain, and getting too close to him might cause unwanted gossip.
It was better this way.
Distance created allure. And besides…
Wasn't playing a little hard to get a classic move?
As expected, Mahiru found herself watching him more than she intended, frustration evident in her expression.
And so, despite telling herself not to think about Nozomi, Mahiru spent the entire day distracted. But she couldn't ask him directly.
How could she?
"Do you like me?"
"What do you think of me?"
No. Those were questions a reserved girl like her wouldn't ask.
Besides, he hadn't confessed. They weren't dating.
She had no right to ask.
So she could only continue stewing in her own silent frustration.
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A bit short, no smut for like 10 chapters but oh well. We move!!!!!