part 4

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by Rtaryourt

by Rtaryourt

Aihra paced the room, her fingers tracing the spines of the books on the shelf, her eyes drawn to the framed photographs of the Irie family that adorned the walls. She needed to plan, to strategize, to ensure that she could navigate this new reality with the skill and finesse that had eluded the original Kotoko.

Her gaze settled on the uniform neatly folded on the bed, a silent reminder of the task that lay ahead. Today was the first day of her new life at Tonan University, and Aihra was determined to make a lasting impression.

* * *

As Aihra stepped through the gates of Tonan University, the familiar sights and sounds of the campus enveloped her. Students bustled about, chatting animatedly and navigating the winding pathways. Aihra took a deep breath, squaring her shoulders as she made her way towards the main building.

"Kotoko!"

Aihra turned at the sound of her name, her eyes widening as she recognized the approaching figure. It was Kinnosuke, his expression a mix of excitement and thinly veiled concern.

"Kinnosuke-san," Aihra greeted him, her tone polite but distant. "Is everything alright?"

Kinnosuke fell into step beside her, his gaze darting around the campus. "I just wanted to make sure you were doing okay, that's all. You know how important this is, and I don't want you to feel overwhelmed."

Aihra nodded, her lips curving into a small smile. "I appreciate your concern, Kinnosuke-san, but I assure you, I'm more than prepared for this."

Kinnosuke's brow furrowed, and Aihra could see the wheels turning in his mind. "You've been... different, Kotoko. Ever since you got your acceptance letter, you've seemed, I don't know, more confident, I guess."

Aihra's gaze met his, her expression calm and unwavering. "I've simply been focused on my studies, that's all. I want to make the most of this opportunity."
Kinnosuke opened his mouth to respond, but Aihra cut him off, her tone slightly firmer. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to get to my first class. I'll see you around, Kinnosuke-san."

With that, Aihra turned and continued on her way, leaving a bewildered Kinnosuke in her wake. As she navigated the bustling halls of Tonan, Aihra couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence. She was no longer the bumbling, average student that Kotoko had been; this time, she was determined to prove her worth.

The first day of classes passed in a blur, as Aihra effortlessly answered questions, contributed to discussions, and demonstrated a level of academic prowess that left her classmates in awe. Gone was the timid, self-conscious Kotoko; in her place was a driven, intelligent young woman who commanded the attention of her peers and professors alike.