Studying is an extremely amusing and at the same time dual thing.
On the one hand, its main task is, so to speak, a positive effect on human intellect. Simply put, development in all its glory. Read, write, count, and so on. The physical education classes themselves are aimed at strengthening the student's body. Good, right? Good.
But the other side of the issue often outweighs all the advantages of the aforementioned process.
Firstly, the factor of compulsion. Whether you want it or not doesn't matter. You must.
And along with it, essentially an integral part — universality. In the sense that the educational machine mainly does not take into account the interests of the student, who sometimes simply can't grasp, say, Japanese or mathematics. At the same time, that very student, let's suppose, paints magnificent pictures, but the teachers are not very concerned about such things. As the saying goes, there is a certain "technical map" with a list of all necessary subjects, and if you don't have a checkmark in one subject or another — congratulations, you are an idiot.
Of course, everything is not that bad, and I am considering the situation in a figurative vacuum, since exceptions to the rules can always be found, but...
Honestly, I still can't understand why I need to cram a huge number of dates linked to events if this will never be useful to me in later life?
No argument, knowing the history of your country is necessary. Only in what unknown way will knowing the exact year the mechanism for abdication was introduced awaken a sense of patriotism and love for the native land?
It is enough to understand the general principles of building a state model in past centuries, for example, to draw analogies with the current period.
Although, perhaps for someone, such things are incredibly interesting, and they are able to find meaning in mechanical memorization.
And for me?
And for me — the exact dates are absolutely irrelevant. It is much more interesting to know what exactly drove people in another uprising, what reasons awakened anger in them, rather than stuffing my head with dry information.
Hmm...
It seems a logical error has crept into my reasoning.
After all, I can't say: "Well, once upon a time, there was a guy who decided to overthrow another guy, who for a number of years oppressed the peasants with terrible levies." Even mentally it sounds... "empty."
Hmm...
Exactly!
All these facts and dates give your words "weight"! A kind of leverage over the interlocutor, especially when the person themselves does not possess similar knowledge and, consequently, folds! Aha!
That's where the kitsune is buried!
And, probably, if I dig deeper, I can find a couple more sacred meanings in dull mechanical memorization, but...
— Bro-o-o-ther... — Komachi, frowning discontentedly, tugged at my T-shirt sleeve. — I'm finished. Check it!
Sighing, I set aside the inappropriate reflections.
— Well, let's see what you've done here, — after all, I signed up myself to help my sister prepare for exams.
— Just don't scold me too much, — the girl grumbled. — You know yourself how my English is.
— I won't promise anything, — taking a red pen, I began to mercilessly cross out incorrectly written words and mark errors.
After a couple of minutes, after reviewing the work critically again, I nodded and returned the sheet to Komachi. She, covering one eye, squinted at my marks, after which, letting out a loud moan, she collapsed onto the table, covering her head with her hands.
— I won't pass... — undisguised despair seeped through her voice.
I smiled slightly and gently stroked my sister's head.
— Calm down, for middle school, everything is quite decent.
— Liar, you crossed out more than half, — the girl sniffled, making my heart skip a beat.
How can I tell in such moments: is she really ready to cry or is she overacting?
— Better me than the teacher, right?
— Maybe...
And what should I do with her? She knows perfectly well how to press my weak spots, often using this for her own benefit.
— Stop pouting, — after ruffling Komachi's hair one last time, I tapped the sheet with my finger. — Let's better go over your mistakes together so you don't repeat them anymore.
— I won't be able to, I'll make them a second time too, — keep yourself in check, don't let her acting break your bastion.
You are stronger than this, Hachiman!
— Then we'll go over them again.
— And if I do it again?
— Little sister, — I let out a quiet chuckle. — I am ready to do this as many times as it takes.
— You're lying! — Komachi lifted her head. Moisture was visible in the corners of her eyes.
— To you? Never, — I smiled softly. — So cheer up. We'll run through the main mistakes, and then I'll make you coffee with ice cream as a reward for your efforts.
Hearing this, she opened her eyes wide; there was no trace of sadness left in her gaze.
What a little vixen.
— With chocolate chips? — she clarified hopefully.
How cheeky, just look at her.
— Only if you promise not to be downhearted anymore.
Komachi straightened her back.
— From now on, Komachi is the most positive person! — and smiled broadly, holding up two splayed fingers to her eyes.
I laughed quietly.
And what am I supposed to do with her? She twists me around her little finger.
...Not that I mind.
***
— Will it be ready soon? Soon?
— Don't fidget, — I jokingly shushed my sister, driving her away from the stove, concentrating on the coffee, lazily bubbling in the copper Turk. But I knew that this was just an illusion. Just fall for it, looking away, and everything will be splattered.
Verified many times from personal experience.
— If you want to help — hand me the strainer.
Komachi nodded and rushed to rustle in the kitchen drawer above the sink, while I continued to watch.
Waiting for the right moment, I removed the Turk from the heat.
— Here! — nodding, I took the necessary item and strained the drink into the mug.
Next, I added a couple of spoons of sugar — my sister can't stand the original bitterness — and diluted everything with a small amount of pre-chilled cream. At the very end, I scooped up some vanilla ice cream with a special spoon — glad I bought one once! — and lowered the scoop into the cup.
The final touch: a handful of grated milk chocolate on top, and voilà — homemade iced coffee (glaçage) is ready for consumption.
Handing the treat to Komachi, who was enthusiastically jumping in place, I couldn't resist and ruffled her hair one more time, after which the satisfied girl skipped away to the sofa in the living room.
Meanwhile, rinsing the Turk, I poured ground coffee beans into it again. Why deprive myself, my favorite self?..
Five minutes later, I collapsed next to my sister, taking a sip of the tart and slightly bitter drink.
— Ugh, you drink it completely black? Gross!
— Why? I think it's quite tasty.
Although, if I think about it, a year ago, my cup would definitely have milk mixed with three spoons of sugar floating in it. And the coffee would be instant, not brewed.
When did my tastes change so much?
— Ew... — the girl snorted at my remark, finished the glaçage, and, exhaling loudly, placed the mug on the table. — Now this — this is truly delicious! By the way, brother, did I tell you I love you?
— Be careful with such blatant lies, my heart might not take it, — reaching out, I wiped the "mustache" above Komachi's upper lip with my finger, making her scrunch up her face amusingly.
— I'll stitch it back on, — my sister objected importantly, scratching the bridge of her nose. — By the way, why didn't it perk me up? Decided to save money on me, huh?
I nodded toward the clock.
— Did you see the time? What kind of strength can we talk about, you have to go to sleep in half an hour. I already committed an official crime, — I took a sip and squinted, feeling the drink spread through my body in a hot wave.
— And you, it means, are allowed? — she chuckled, crossing her arms under her small chest, barely noticeable because of the oversized T-shirt.
She stole mine again. What is this obsession? Is such a thing comfortable? It hangs on her like a nightgown.
— I'm older.
— By two years.
— By a whole two years, I'll have you note, — I took another sip. — Besides, you complained yourself that you can't stand the strong stuff.
Suddenly Komachi laughed.
— Eh-he-he, you remember that, right? — she sharply moved closer to me and brazenly rested her head on my shoulder. Right on the arm in which I was holding the mug.
— Uh-huh, — I sighed and changed my grip, leaning slightly so that a certain someone would be more comfortable.
— You also learned how to make this thing because I liked it at the cafe back then?
— Uh-huh, — I brazenly put my feet up on the coffee table.
— So, you love me that much too?
— Uh-huh.
— Ha, got you! — my sister smiled contentedly, pressing closer to me.
I snorted and quickly drank the rest of the coffee, placing the cup on the armrest.
— A long time ago, — and hugged the girl by the shoulder.
She lowered her head and, after a while, quietly mumbled:
— Plus... thirty...
— Oh my, my assets have noticeably increased, — I leaned back against the sofa back and closed my eyes. — By the way, twist or don't twist, but in half an hour, a certain person is going to bed.
— Pedant, — Komachi grumbled, but I didn't hear any special protest in her tone.
Sighing, she wrapped her arms around my torso and closed her eyes, saying nothing more. And it's not like the ensuing silence bothered either of us.
About fifteen minutes later, I felt her grip significantly weaken. Looking down, I found that my sister had already managed to climb onto the sofa with her legs and, pressing her knees to her stomach, brazenly dozed off, using my arm as a kind of pillow.
I sniffled and glanced at the clock.
Almost midnight.
Considering that she had been cramming material like crazy almost all day and evening, fatigue clearly took its toll.
I should wake her up and direct her to her room, otherwise her neck will hurt later because of the uncomfortable position.
But she is sleeping so sweetly...
I rubbed my eyelids with my fingers.
Fine, let her nap like that for another half hour, and then I'll drag her to bed.
The main thing is not to pass out myself before that moment...
***
School days hadn't changed, with the exception of a few moments.
Firstly, for Hayato and his lackeys, I ceased to be a nobody, but despite all this, they began to studiously ignore me. It's like there's no difference, but at the same time there is. Before, they didn't know me at all, and now... In short, they're messing around, or rather, experiencing youth. Kami-sama, did Hachiman manage to jump on someone's pride again and not notice? Why have people become so delicate, it's scary to talk to them!
Secondly, Miura, for the same incomprehensible reasons, was not included in this cohort. Even more — she barely nodded to me when we met, as if greeting me. No, everything could be written off as hallucinations, however, when I decided to pretend I didn't notice anything, the girl burned me with an angry glare. Plus, it should be added that we crossed paths without witnesses, so otherwise, with greater probability, a certain "Hikigaya" would not be seen...
Thirdly, again, shocking me to the depths of my half-dead soul: Her Excellency Snowball sharply stopped all attempts to mix me with dirt, as well as the absurd antics in the spirit of "while I pretend you don't exist, you really don't exist."
If the first two points can be justified from a logical point of view, the last one is a mystery, the answer to which cannot be given right away. There are a lot of options: starting from Hiratsuka giving Yukinoshita an earful, and ending with a personality change by moving a stranger's soul into her body. Not that this critically changed my attitude toward Yukino, it just became easier to communicate. Surprisingly, if a person stops fraying your nerves, you can even hold a dialogue with them.
Fortunately, the rest of the universe was not planning to change drastically yet, otherwise I would have serious grounds for seeing a psychiatrist.
I glanced sideways at Yuigahama, who clumsily intervened in the "comrades'" conversation again.
Thank you, Doggy.
Your invariable inability to read the room allows my sanity to remain intact.
— Kawasaki! — Hiratsuka's shout switched my attention. Judging by her intonation, she is clearly displeased.
Did someone decide to appropriate my laurels?
This "someone" turned out to be a tall, slender girl with a long shock of silvery hair. If memory serves — we study in the same class.
...Yes, I am extremely observant.
— Why are you late again? — Shizuka narrowed her eyes discontentedly.
The schoolgirl phlegmatically shrugged.
— And what's with your appearance? — the woman's pointing finger was aimed at the shirt, unbuttoned at the top two buttons.
She also tied a cardigan around her waist.
It's actually quite stylish.
By the way, her legs are also good, straight, moderately developed.
A confident seven out of ten.
— Are you just going to keep quiet? — the teacher tried to incinerate Kawasaki with a look, however, the key word is "tried."
The girl's face hadn't changed one bit since entering the class, maintaining an absolutely indifferent expression. It seems someone managed to develop the skill of a "stone face" to the maximum level.
On the one hand, I envy it, and on the other hand, certain questions arise naturally.
Since the absence of an emotional response, or a surge, to be more precise, to an attempt to engage in dialogue can itself be a cause for a certain kind of alarm.
We, people, are creatures with brightly expressed animal habits, consequently, we are literally forced to react in some way to external or internal stimuli. The matter here is not even hidden in some conditional "soul" or the work of consciousness, no. Everything is much baser — hormones, damn hormones. The work of the adrenal glands and other lovely things.
And the disruption of this process is a warning sign for a visit to an experienced shrink.
Hmm... although, in principle, it is possible here that Kawasaki has truly well-developed control over her mimic and gestural apparatus. I also sometimes pretend I don't care, for example, when they pester me with stupid questions.
It's still difficult to draw conclusions based only on observations of the human species. In our heads, often such things are going on that it is better not to delve into without a pre-written will.
— Hikigaya, come here, — blinking, I shook my head and looked at Hiratsuka.
Kawasaki walked past me; the teacher most likely finished her educational conversation with her.
— Hikigaya! — and, judging by everything, she didn't achieve much success, as poorly restrained irritation is clearly traceable in her voice.
Time to act as a lightning rod?
...And why does this thought slightly please me?
Rising from my seat, I slowly plodded toward the teacher.
— Could you have been any slower? — Shizuka tapped her foot discontentedly on the floor. — Fine, let's get straight to the point.
She leaned her hand on the desk and bent down.
— When are you going to provide me with the group data for the workplace visit? Today, I remind you, is the last day, and there is still no information!
— Can't I go alone? — trying doesn't hurt.
— At your own expense — please. However, the school will not allocate money from the budget for a solo participant. Or do you think the grouping into three people is just arbitrary? — Hiratsuka raised an eyebrow.
Total failure.
Okay, let's try a different approach.
— But, Sensei, you understand that I am a social outcast and... — the woman's promising look cut me off mid-sentence.
I sighed.
Apparently, there is no choice, I'll have to find temporary companions. It's a shame, I'm actually a solo player in all aspects.
— Um-m, excuse me for cutting in... — the quiet, melodious voice from behind could only belong to one person in this class.
As they say, I'd recognize it out of a thousand.
— Did something happen, Totsuka? — the teacher inquired.
Saika stood next to me, bringing his index fingers together and lowering his gaze.
Shizuka and I exchanged glances, thinking the exact same thing.
Cute.
— I accidentally overheard your conversation and... — the guy paused again, after which he took a deep breath and, stepping forward, raised his head, clenching his fists. — Please put me in Hachiman's group!
Hiratsuka staggered back, unable to reflect the determined gleam in the tennis club captain's eyes.
— W-well, — did she stumble? Did she stumble? — If you want to so badly...
— I do! — he took another step.
Shizuka stepped back.
— Are you sure? You have other op...
— I'm sure! — how masterfully Saika cornered her against the board, my respects for such skills.
Behold, the power of charming traps! Tremble!
Sensei, frantically glancing behind her and realizing that behind her was the board and there were no paths to retreat, surrendered.
— Alright, alright. You are in a group with Hikigaya, are you satisfied?
— Yes! Thank you, Sen... Oh, — Totsuka almost jumped up, sharply turning to me, looking apologetically. — Hachiman, you don't mind, do you?
I barely restrained myself from ruffling his hair.
— I'm completely "for" it, don't worry.
The next moment, I realized what an "blinding smile" means, for my eyes were clearly not ready for such a thing.
— Ahem, be that as it may, you need a final member, — clearing her throat, Shizuka regained the imperturbable look of a true teacher, — for the group.
Except I remember your facial expression a minute ago, teacher. A weak spot noted and entered into a special list, yes, yes.
The woman narrowed her eyes.
— Right! — oh, I don't like her satisfied smile. — Take Saki Kawasaki into your group, she's without companions.
— Her? — I glanced sideways at the schoolgirl, who was looking out the window disinterestedly from her seat.
— Her, — Hiratsuka confirmed, not hiding her spiteful expression.
I sighed.
— Saika, do you agree to that? — the boy, who had been floating in the clouds until then, blinked a couple of times and tilted his head.
— The main thing is that I'm with Hachiman, the rest doesn't matter!
And they still say that fan service is only in anime.
Fools.
— So, Hikigaya, go and persuade her, I await the results by the end of the school day, — giving me all the necessary instructions, Shizuka waved her hand, as if shooing me away.
That's how life goes. You have the best intentions, and they respond to you in this manner. Be careful, Sensei, it's easy to lose points...
Just kidding.
She has too large a reserve.
***
I didn't risk rushing headlong into the assigned task immediately, because, taking into account all the previously noted details, I would most likely receive a send-off on a long walking journey instead of a positive answer.
Few people would enjoy spending their nerves on an unfamiliar classmate with inconvenient requests after tedious lectures from the teacher.
Especially if Kawasaki, like me, has not yet joined any group, it means we might have similar motives.
So let's not aggravate the situation and observe from the side; there is time.
...And the matter is not at all that I am actually too lazy to initiate a dialogue with a relatively unfamiliar person — I only learned her name today, after all — from the position of a petitioner.
Figuratively speaking, the one who starts or tries to start a dialogue is in a knowingly disadvantaged position. Well, provided you have relatively equal social status. With values like "teacher-student" or "son-father," that is — with a significant difference — the system will work differently.
But with equivalent indicators: you can be refused, sent away, or ignored altogether, since the factor of a forced response is absent.
As an example, during my first meeting with Snowball, nothing prevented me from pretending that the girl didn't exist — of course, when Hiratsuka left us alone — since she initiated the conversation. Or the moment with Yuigahama when she interrupted my lunch break.
They started it, but I am not obliged to continue. A very fine line in understanding communication that not everyone immediately realizes.
In principle, with Kawasaki, one could use the pretext: "an assignment from the teacher," thereby reducing my own involvement and, at the same time, pressing on the external compulsory nature of the request.
Will it work? Unclear.
Based on the first impression, the girl cares little about Hiratsuka's authority, meaning she can completely ignore requests coming from her as well.
Also, one should not forget that social interactions are an extremely specific thing; one mistake and further attempts to strengthen the "bond" have an increased chance of failure. This is especially noticeable in real communication, since, in addition to words and the ability to express them, everyday physiognomy, tone of voice, and a hundred other details are involved.
Simply put, a ton of problems out of nowhere.
Therefore, preparation is necessary, in my case — observation, to identify the approximate variables from which to build the dialogue. It's a pity, of course, that Hiratsuka didn't give me a dossier on Saki, but I don't think that even making such a request would have gone well.
I don't need any personal details of her life, just general details.
Ugh, I should have used Saika and approached together... Didn't think of it.
Closer to the end of the day, an approximate portrait of Kawasaki was compiled. Not the best, full of gaps and conjecture, but at least there is something to work with.
The most important detail is that the girl is physically exhausted. She constantly yawns, barely maintains concentration on the teacher's speech, her gaze often slides away, and by the overall body motor skills and posture, one can tell that she is constantly fighting sleepiness. Dropped head, "mechanical" arm movements, and instinctive "cringing" in moments of student surveys from the teacher.
Usually, people in such a state avoid unnecessary nerves and are more pliable, subconsciously avoiding stress on the nervous system.
The next point: exhaustion doesn't particularly affect her academic performance; she answered the rare teacher questions that couldn't be avoided correctly, albeit with noticeable delay. Considering that new topics are currently being covered and Saki wasn't paying special attention in lectures, she is probably preparing ahead at home.
This is good. We'll press the logical angle. Concise and to the point.
The final detail, about which I am more or less certain: the girl is not directly part of any social group, as almost no one approached her during all the breaks. But she also doesn't receive outright rejection from the class, as she was involved in a couple of rare conversations, yet didn't show overt initiative. If we take the rough hierarchy system popular on the lower internet: a typical beta.
She rarely shows emotions, is rational, and most likely has an introverted nature, which, generally, is seriously questionable, in the realm of "far-fetched" theories.
Based on the data obtained, I was able to compile an approximate simulation of the future dialogue. The only thing left was how to start it.
I didn't have to wait long; the space around Saki emptied before the last lesson, so, deciding not to wait for a better chance, I got up from my seat and headed toward the girl. Of course, the ideal option is one where we are devoid of any witnesses, but the narrow time frame dictates its own conditions.
Alright, Hachiman, time to test theoretical calculations in practice.
I stood in front of my classmate, looking at her intently. Kawasaki lasted thirty seconds, after which, sighing loudly, she shifted her indifferent gaze to me.
— What do you want?
Yes, such a method is not flattering, but I needed her to start the conversation, even if due to external pressure. Thanks to my "dead fish" eyes.
— I have a request, — I pointed my chin toward Shizuka, who was sorting papers at the teacher's desk. — A forced one.
I, of course, could have started with a phrase like: "Got a minute?" or "Sorry to bother you," but the necessary effect would be lost.
Saki frowned discontentedly but didn't send me away.
— We need a third member for the workplace visit group, — and before she could interject a word, I continued, slightly louder: — No obligations, it's just for show, you don't have to contact us at all. The second participant is Totsuka Saika. If it weren't for the pressure from Hiratsuka, I wouldn't have bothered.
The girl looked into my eyes. I calmly met her gaze. After all, I didn't lie anywhere, I have no hidden motives.
— What happens if I refuse? — it worked. The main thing is not to mess up now.
— Nothing. I'll leave, get an earful of lectures from the teacher, after which, you'll probably be forcibly shoved into my group. Or assigned to someone random.
— So, I have no choice? — a hint of mockery flashed in her tone.
I shrugged.
Falling silent for a couple of seconds, Kawasaki glanced toward Sensei and shook her head.
— Fine, I agree.
— Excellent, — I pulled out a pre-prepared slip of paper with my number and handed it to the girl. — For contact in case of any incidents.
I think I just understood why people invented business cards.
My classmate stared at the note with slight surprise and, apparently coming to the necessary conclusions, quietly snorted.
— Hachiman Hikigaya, right? — putting it in her pencil case, Saki suppressed a yawn.
And why does it surprise me every time that someone knows my name?
— Yes.
— Saki Kawasaki. Nice to meet you.
On this wonderful note, I said goodbye and hurried to Hiratsuka to immediately report on the successfully completed assignment, ignoring Yuigahama, who for some reason was staring at me with an incomprehensible expression in her eyes.
However, if she needs to know — she'll ask.
I exceeded my talking limit at school for today.
By the way, did I overcomplicate everything? Although, it was interesting in a way, so we'll let it slide too.
What's done is done.
***
— I'm so glad you came with me! — Totsuka was practically bouncing as he walked beside me.
— Why not? It's a good idea, — I smirked, mentally cursing my weakness for cute creatures.
I had planned to finish quickly and head home at full speed, especially since almost all club activities are suspended during the pre-exam period, and that's a couple of extra hours! When will such a chance come again?!
A new expansion for the game came out a week ago, and I didn't even have a chance to log in, just work, work, work. Every person should have the opportunity to spend some free time on entertainment, after all!
However, I couldn't find the strength to refuse Saika's offer to study at a café after school.
— By the way, Hachiman, you were second in grades last semester, right? — the tennis club captain asked as we stopped at the crosswalk, waiting for the green "little man."
— Probably? — hearing this, Totsuka stared at me with wide eyes.
— You don't remember?!
— Um-m... — I scratched the back of my head, throwing my satchel over my shoulder. — I somehow don't care about rankings as long as all the conditions for getting the scholarship are met. And what place I'm in among the rest, or who turned out smarter — I don't care, no need to unnecessarily disperse attention and clutter my mind.
— I see-e-e... — Saika drew out, entering the café.
I immediately winced, slightly deafened by the roar of voices, and looked around with dissatisfaction.
Hmm, apparently, we arrived during peak hour; the line to the cash register alone is about ten people. And finding a free table in such a situation is quite a task.
Massaging the bridge of my nose, I looked at my companion. The boy was looking around with a smile, shifting his weight from heel to toe. For some reason, I'm not surprised that such an atmosphere is only a pleasure for him. I'm the only asocial type here.
— Oh, Hachiman, look! That's... — not finishing, Totsuka waved his hand toward the far wall. — Yuigahama, Yukinoshita!
Following his gaze, I raised an eyebrow.
What people, and without a guard.
The girls, who had been engrossed in their notebooks until then, lifted their heads and stared in our direction. Yui was the first to recover from the brief stupor and, smiling, waved back at Saika. Yukino limited herself to an acknowledging nod. I wonder if their gestures should be considered as applying to me too, since I'm standing next to him?
— They happen to have two more seats. Let's go!
Without waiting for an answer, he grabbed my jacket sleeve and dragged me toward them.
— Can we join you? — the tennis team captain smiled radiantly.
Yuigahama actively nodded, and, not allowing Snowball to open her mouth, said:
— Of course! — judging by the look she shot at Doggy, a certain person didn't exactly approve of the decision made for both of them. — By the way, hi, Hikigaya.
— Good afternoon, — sighing, I sat closer to the wall, directly opposite Yukino. Totsuka, who took the seat next, immediately rummaged in his satchel.
— Did you also decide to study together before the exams?
— Exactly! I barely managed to persuade Yukinon. She's really strange sometimes, studying is more fun in company! — Yui confirmed happily.
— Agreed! — Saika placed his notebooks on the table. — Especially since we have two of the best students from the parallel classes with us. Motivating! What's the saying?..
He put his finger to his lips, frowning his eyebrows amusingly.
— I remember! — the boy cleared his throat and declared importantly: — When the wild geese soar high, even the turtles tap their paws with impatience.
— Then, perhaps, we should finally start studying? — Yukinoshita threw out, making him collapse onto his seat in shame.
I mentally smirked, entirely sharing Snowball's position.
The sooner we start — the sooner we finish.
The next forty minutes flew by quite unnoticed.
Totsuka and Yuigahama actively pored over assignments for the upcoming exams, bombarding us with questions. However, Yukino herself didn't lag behind, taking on the role of a tutor. Among them, I looked like a white crow, since instead of a logical brainstorming session, I indulged in laziness and idleness, sprawling comfortably in my chair, occasionally tossing in answers.
— Hikigaya, didn't you think that you should also spend time studying? — the volunteer club president inquired at a certain point.
— What's the point? — I opened one eye slightly.
Snowball measured me with an unreadable look.
— And why am I even asking? — she shook her head. — I'm surprised how you manage to remain a leader in academic performance with such an approach.
I shrugged.
There was nothing shocking about it for me. After all, in principle, if you choose the right method, studying ceases to be difficult.
For example, using associative chains. Or analogies. Since almost all assignments in one subject and topic are based on a common meaning, instead of simply rote learning the material, it is enough to study one example and continue working based on it.
Of course, it doesn't work in all cases, but it often helps.
Plus, unlike Yuigahama, my social interactions are at a minimal level, thereby freeing up time during breaks or after school.
Suddenly, I felt someone cover my eyes with their hands. Only a slight state of semi-dozing and the developed ability to think first and then do something saved me from causing a scene full of sharp movements and shouts.
— Guess who?!
— And I'm glad to see you too, Komachi, — removing her palms from my face, I leaned back even further. My sister stood behind me with a mischievous smile in her eyes.
— Too fast, that's no fun, — pouting, she wrapped her arms around my neck, resting her chin on my shoulder. — What are you doing? Studying?
— They are, yes, I'm just pretending to keep them company, — I habitually ruffled her hair, making the girl loudly snort and mumble something about a "permanently ruined hairstyle."
— You say cruel things, people get offended by that, — despite her words, I caught satisfied notes in her tone.
— My fault, won't change, — I smiled softly, forgetting for a couple of seconds that we were not alone and our conversation was being closely watched. However, small details remain small details. — And what wind brought you here?
— I was keeping Taishi company, — my sister pointed a finger at a light-haired boy in a middle school uniform, standing nearby and shifting his weight from foot to foot.
— Mm, — why does his appearance remind me of someone?
— His sister, by the way, studies with you, — Komachi said, and, spending a few seconds thinking, added: — Saki Kawasaki, I think.
Oh, now everything fell into place. Younger brother, huh.
— Does he need something from you? — I ask, purely, ahem, for form's sake.
— No, he just has no one to talk to about his problems, — the girl giggled. — And the magnificent Komachi is always ready to listen and give advice.
She, for the first time in the conversation, shifted her gaze to Yukinoshita and Yuigahama, who were observing us with some bewilderment.
— Are those the girls you are in the volunteer club with? And... — her sharp gaze fixated on Totsuka. — Your tennis buddy?
— Uh-huh.
Komachi snorted loudly, but raised her hand and waved to them with her fingertips.
— Hi. I'm Komachi Hikigaya, nice to meet you, — is she playing it off as if she just noticed them? If I'm right, that's hilarious.
— Yui Yuigahama, — Doggy responded a little stiffly, avoiding eye contact with her for some reason.
— Yukino Yukinoshita, — Snowball nodded, quickly regaining her composure.
— Saika Totsuka, — the boy sitting next to me tilted his head. — You're Hachiman's younger sister, aren't you?
— The one and only, — my sister proudly tilted her nose up.
My precious.
— Do you have some business here? — Yukino asked coolly.
— Do I need a reason to approach my brother? — she retorted spitefully.
Snowball frowned but didn't answer. Strange.
— In any case, she's right, — Komachi sighed. — Taishi has a problem, and I was hoping you could help.
— We don't work with other schools, — Yukinoshita intervened, earning an irritated look from her.
— Amazing, I never would have thought of that, thank you for the revelation, — my sister rolled her eyes.
Oh, who did she pick that up from? Scary!
...Plus twenty points, even if it was clunky.
— However, I miraculously guessed it, thank goodness for providence. Taishi, don't you want to stop mimicking a wax statue and come over to tell them the essence of the problem? — I feel like she won't have any problems with socialization. I truly feel proud.
Kawasaki-junior flinched and approached us, for some reason looking directly at me. Hmm, is it because I look the most like a guy here? I understand, male solidarity is an important thing.
— Hello. My name is Taishi Kawasaki, — he is clearly nervous, since he repeated his name for some reason, even though we already know it. Or is he following the norms of good upbringing? — My sister — Saki Kawasaki — studies at your school, in class 11-F. Lately, she has been coming home in the morning, doesn't say anything, and constantly snaps when questioned, which is why I, and my younger brother and sister, are worried.
Short, clear, and to the point.
— So, what needs to be done? — Yukinoshita asked.
In essence, with her question, she already indicated preliminary agreement. Interesting.
— I want to know if she's alright... — the guy answered surprisingly sensibly. — ...After all, everyone should have their own... secrets? But like this? She used to be completely different, caring, always ready to support...
Toward the end of the phrase, his voice completely faded.
Snowball looked intently at me for some reason.
Kami-sama, am I a mirror for you or something?
You're not trying to hint at something extremely bad and nerve-wracking to me, are you?
— Alright, we'll take on this case, — she slammed her textbook shut, implying to everyone present that our study session had come to an end. Yuigahama and Totsuka perceived this with undisguised enthusiasm.
— In principle, I should just approach her and ask directly, — Yukino muttered, making me break out in a cold sweat.
Since when did you start choosing the most logical and simple options for solving problems? Snowball, you are frankly scaring me.
And why the hell are you staring at me again?!
***
However, Yukinoshita's overall approach to the matter hadn't changed much.
— Saki Kawasaki, am I right? — she folded her arms under her chest, looking the girl directly in the eyes.
The incident took place in the corridor, literally the day after yesterday's conversation. The students hastily scattered as soon as the final bell rang, and Kawasaki, much to her regret, managed to miss that moment, leaving the classroom last and in proud solitude.
That's when Snowball caught her, "at the cash register," immediately proceeding to the interrogation.
I, on the other hand, observed the scene from a safe distance — from the stairwell, not particularly wanting to interfere.
— Yes, — Saki looked at Yukino with dissatisfaction, clearly not eager to waste her time on empty chatter.
— I heard that you've been coming home late lately. Your younger brother is very worried about this.
— And? — the girl raised an eyebrow. — What's it to you? Don't meddle in my business.
— Since Taishi made such a request to our volunteer club...
— Wonderful. Doesn't change a thing, — Kawasaki rudely interrupted. — And if you dive headfirst into someone else's private life at the first request, then listen to my request as well.
She leaned slightly toward Snowball's ear.
— Get lost, princess.
And while Yukinoshita was in a stupor, Saki pushed her shoulder and quickly headed in my direction.
Kawasaki? I respect that.
Although, my coherent theory about her character got a strong crack. Personal questions, especially in the tone used by the club president, clearly don't evoke positive emotions in her.
Snowball?...
As soon as a person capable of fighting back emerged — you lost all your self-confidence.
Where is your notorious "aristocratic" pride?
That's right, this is not Yuigahama, who is easily pressured.
Hmm.
If I think about it, she definitely managed to assert her dominance over Doggy, but, instead of strengthening the effect, she now communicates with her completely differently. Say, at the "dere-dere" level, as if...
— Is eavesdropping interesting? — pausing for a second as she walked past, Saki measured me with a heavy glare.
I smiled mockingly, emerging from my thoughts.
— Sleep more, otherwise you'll soon be able to store rice in the bags under your eyes, — I winked and peeled myself off the railing, heading toward the "crushed" Yukino.
— Thanks, Mom, — Kawasaki mumbled barely audibly.
There, learn that, Snowball.
Sometimes passive aggression should be answered with active aggression.
Sometimes, you understand?
— Did you enjoy the "show"? — Yukinoshita inquired gloomily when I stopped a couple of meters from her.
— If there was anything to enjoy, — I scoffed.
For some reason, right now, after realizing her possible problem, I felt something like pity for her.
— By the way, I initially thought of doing the exact same thing.
The girl looked up.
— "Thought"?
— Uh-huh, — I shoved my hands in my pockets, turning away from her and looking out the window. — There's this stupid theory that you'll probably laugh at, but...
I made a theatrical pause, then raised my index finger upward.
— Every person needs an individual approach! Funny, right?
Yukino was silent. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed her clenching her fists in annoyance.
— And how do we fulfill Taishi's request now? — after some time, still without moving, Snowball asked. — Maybe you have ideas?
Finally, I thought I wouldn't live to see this moment.
Life was not lived in vain; Yukinoshita is asking me for advice. Actually asking, without sarcasm.
I turned back to her again, stopping pretending that what was happening outside the window was of any interest.
— It just so happened, purely by chance, that she and I are going on the workplace visit in the same group, catch my drift?
— And how will that help? — the girl frowned. — I'm sure you'll get the exact same result as I did.
— Now, now, — I shook my finger from side to side at such an insinuation. — Firstly, I've studied Kawasaki at least a little, so I have a rough idea of how to approach this topic. Secondly, the conversation will take place after the exams, so our "sleeper" will have fewer reasons for irritation. Thirdly... I'll keep it a secret.
I kind of don't want to voice my plans for using Taishi as a source of information. Why do I need a dossier when I can pump everything out of the nearest relative without difficulty? Thanks to Komachi, who definitely has influence over the boy.
— I see, — Yukinoshita mumbled thoughtfully. — Then I'll leave everything to you.
— Much obliged for such an honor, — I bowed playfully. — However, I'll expect a similar trade-off from you in the future.
— What are you talking about? — the girl asked bewildered, still engrossed in her thoughts.
— If there is a person I can't handle, and you can, then, — I smirked, — "I'll leave everything to you."
Snowball sighed heavily, opened her mouth to reply, but, freezing for a few moments, waved her hand weakly and nodded, agreeing to the condition set.
After that, we said our farewells quite peacefully, and I hurried home.
Everyone has so many problems: studying, family discord, or difficulties in communication...
And I still haven't finished the game expansion!