Dissonant Harmony [G. Akechi x Reader]

nijuusan

Happy Holidays to all! I hope everyone got some much needed rest and that you all are doing well <3

Everyone crowded around the stage in the auditorium, while the vice principal and Dr. Maruki waited patiently for everyone to gather. Sensing a familiar presence, I looked to my right and saw Akira standing next to me, with Ann and Ryuji not too far away either.

"Can't believe he's leaving," Akira mumbled close to my ear. "He also wants us to stop by during lunch. . . something about a surprise."

I nodded my head in confirmation.

Other students' conversations reached my ears. "It's already been half a year, huh? That sure went by fast."

Tell me about it. I remember when not too long ago all that was on my mind was whether or not I'd be prepared for a piano audition.

"We would like Dr. Maruki to share a few last words with the student body," The vice principal spoke into the provided microphone, gaining everyone's attention. "Well, Doctor. If you will. . ."

Clearing his throat, Maruki began. "Good morning, everyone. As the vice principal has mentioned, today marks the end of my tenure at Shujin Academy."

"Over the past several months, I've come to learn about all sorts of conflicts that you students have faced this year. Troubles with romance, with studies- in fact, some of you have financial issues that are awfully similar to my own. . ."

A few chuckles sounded throughout the gymnasium.

"But before I leave here, I want to offer you a final piece of counseling." He smiled, taking a chance to lock his eyes on a few students in particular, including my own. "If your situation ever becomes too painful to endure, remember; it's okay for you to escape your problem. I don't want a single one of you to think that an unfair reality you've been forced into is the only one that you have to live."

Shaking his head, I could tell he was digressing. "Um, what I'm trying to say is, even if your life is full of worries, it's best for you not to obsess over them. Your existence in this world is an amazing miracle. You deserve to spend your days in happiness. I'll keep rooting for you."

He moved to take a bow, but ended up slamming his head against the mic. Laughing it off, he added, "I guess things don't always pan out like you expect."

I didn't end up listening to much else of his speech. His words had stuck out to me. . . almost as if he knew his words were going to come true sometime soon.

I rubbed my bandaged arms from a breeze that I seemed to be the only one to feel. Akira eyed me curiously, but I shook my head with a slight smile so as not to worry him.

Is Maruki planning to fix the world we live in for his own perceived better?

After the first few classes, we were dismissed for lunch and I walked with Akira to the practice building where Dr. Maruki resided.

"Ah, (Y/N)!" Dr. Maruki exclaimed. "Thank you both for coming here."

"Thanks for inviting me!" I said.

Once we were all seated, Maruki said, "Since this is about to be my last meal at Shujin, I've brought the best lunch ever. These tempura bowls are from a restaurant I've been curious about since I first came to the school. I'd always passed on it due to the price, but today is special! Not only that- I ordered the deluxe bowls for us!"

"Can't let this good food go to waste then," Akira said, chuckling lightly.

Opening the covered dishes, steam rose and a strong aroma filled the air. I looked over at the other two to see if they were eating yet, but neither were. Their glasses were too fogged to see anything.