The White Room Dropout - A CotE Fanfic

Part 32: Shadows of Doubt

The air in the room was filled with a sense of accomplishment as we wrapped up our menu preparations for the upcoming cultural festival. The dishes we had chosen seemed to have met everyone's expectations. Akagi, known for her shyness, mustered the courage to break the silence and direct her praise towards me.

"Ayanokouji-kun, your food tastes incredible!" she exclaimed, her voice quivering slightly with both surprise and delight.

Her genuine compliment sparked a chain reaction among the other girls, their voices rising in agreement and admiration for the flavors they had just experienced. Matsushima, always straightforward in her words, chimed in with a comment that drew everyone's attention.

"No wonder Karuizawa-san suggested that Ayanokouji should be on the cooking team," she remarked, her tone carrying a mix of admiration and curiosity.

"Well, it's not that impressive. I just followed a recipe I found online," I nonchalantly stated.

The girls' compliments continued to flow, each one adding to the chorus of praise. "But your food is incredible! I couldn't stop eating it," one girl exclaimed, her words filled with genuine amazement.

Another girl chimed in, her voice tinged with curiosity. "It seems like Karuizawa is really lucky to have you. You have so many hidden talents. I wonder what else you're hiding," she mused, her eyes fixed on me expectantly.

In my usual detached manner, I offered a vague response. "There's nothing special to discover. I am just making use of what I can."

Matsushima, sensing the need to redirect the group's focus, suggested a shift in attention. "Now that we've completed the menu, perhaps it's time to wrap things up."

Her practical suggestion brought an end to the fleeting moments of admiration, and the atmosphere shifted as everyone refocused on the remaining responsibilities.

Without hesitation, everyone sprang into action, bustling around to gather the dirty dishes and utensils. The clatter of plates and the sound of running water filled the air as we initiated the process of cleaning up.

As we finished cleaning the dishes and utensils, it was time to part ways, and we took a moment to bid farewell to Akagi and her mother, expressing our gratitude for their assistance. Akagi's shy smile and her mother's heartfelt words of encouragement served as a pleasant farewell.

With the dishes now gleaming and the utensils neatly stacked, the group prepared to disperse. Goodbyes were exchanged, accompanied by promises to reconvene and finalize the remaining preparations for the cultural festival.

...

I found myself walking alongside Kei, the silence between us stretching for a moment until she broke it with a tinge of unease in her voice.

"Kiyotaka, was it annoying that I joined in? I mean, I wasn't even part of the cooking team, but I decided to come anyway," she expressed, her worry palpable.

I glanced at her, my expression remaining impassive. "I don't mind. You contributed in your own way," I replied, my tone even.

Kei's unease persisted as she continued, "But I can be so possessive sometimes. I was afraid you would hate me for being too involved."

I offered a simple reassurance, "Your inputs while we were cooking were helpful. It's not something to be concerned about."

She nodded, a small smile gracing her lips, her worries temporarily alleviated.