Classroom of the Elite: Stalemate

Vol.1 : Chapter 3.2-His Qeen

Both of us sat on the bench for approximately 10 minutes, neither of us said anything.

While Horikita was already on her second cup of coffee from the machine, it was only the first one for me.

Coffee had become one of the few things that I genuinely enjoy drinking; however, I must admit that it won't do me any good to drink it before I go to sleep.

As we sat in silence, I decided to break it.

"Horikita, I do know that this situation is nothing but troublesome for you. However, I think you understand that we can't just sit here until you die from a coffee overdose."

To this, she answered with a weak but genuine smile.

"You suck at joking, as always, actually."

"Sorry for being a literal branch in terms of communication and joking."

"You want me to tell you everything, don't you, Ayanokoji-kun?"

"..."

"You probably think that I should've told you, right?"

"Horikita."

On this, she flinched, thinking that I'd continue playing silent.

"While I won't lie. I'm curious; this is pointless to deny. However, I do understand you, and I would never pressure you into telling me this kind of information."

Not surprisingly, this statement swept the ground from her feet.

In disbelief, she asked, "You won't ask me? Even after all the clues you surely did gather along the way?"

"No, I won't. While I did gather quite an amount of facts and created a considerable amount of theories, I would never do this to you."

"..."

"What about this? Why don't we make a deal."

"What kind of deal do you want to propose, Ayanokoji-kun?"

'Bingo.'

"You shouldn't tell me anything until you trust me enough. I want you to trust me, to the extent of willingly telling me your story. I do know it will take time, but I'm ready to wait, as long as you need me to."

"..."

"Do we have a deal, Horikita Suzune?"

While she was still shocked by all the recent events, she managed to gather herself, and a genuine smile appeared on her face.

"I will gladly accept the deal, Ayanokoji Kiyotaka."

On this, I extended my hand for a handshake, to which she gladly responded.

With us finishing our coffees, we started slowly walking towards our dormitory.

As we walked, none of us said anything. Both of us were comfortable in the silence that enveloped the way to our destination.

A Couple of Minutes later.

With Horikita opening the door to her flat, she turned to me.

"And yeah, Ayanokoji-kun, thank you for helping me. It means a lot."

"Sure thing, goodnight Horikita. You should sleep."

Simple nod.

"You too, goodnight Ayanokoji-kun."

With her closing the door, I started slowly walking to my room.

'It was much easier than I initially expected, thanks for being a shitty brother, President.'

Next morning.