The American Elite (COTE X OC)

The First Hurdle

JACK POV:

Time had gone on. It was about a month and a week since school started. Not much had happened since that night when the president tried hitting Horikita. Everyone continued studying and getting prepared for the midterms. Everyone besides Ike, Yamauchi, and Sudo. Those three refused to study no matter what.

Currently, it was lunch and I was playing chess as always. Horikita was reading next to me as always. For some reason, the air around us feels different lately. I don't know why.

I just finished a game. I decided to go and get a drink from the vending machine. Just a water.

I left the classroom and began making my way to the vending machine. I got my drink and began drinking it while leaning against the wall. A bit later, I saw Hirata and his friend group coming back from the cafeteria.

Hirata: Hey go on back to the classroom. I need to talk with Jack for a bit.

They all continued on.

Jack: What's up?

Hirata: Hey... I need your help.

I tossed my empty water bottle into the trash.

Jack: With what?

Hirata: Your academics are pretty good and the study group is getting to be a little much so...

Jack: I don't know about all that. I'm pretty good at math and English. But that's it. I can't really help anywhere else.

Hirata: That's fine! Could you please help me out after club today?

I sighed.

Jack: Yeah sure man. But isn't your group like... Mostly girls?

Hirata: Yes? Is that a problem? I don't wanna make you uncomfortable...

Jack: Don't worry about it. It's not your fault. I'll be there.

Hirata: Thanks a lot! I'll see you then!

He walked off and went into the classroom. I sighed and then went up to the roof to clear my head.

(A/N: Jack's academics are still a D+. I know this may make it seem like I forgot all about that, but I didn't. The only test they've taken was super easy, and the only comparison Hirata has to make is with his classmates who, news flash, aren't the brightest. Remember, Jack still missed 2 of the easy questions on the test. He still struggles quite a bit with academics but, in comparison to some of his classmates, he seems way better than he is.)
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Soccer practice just ended. I was changing in the locker room after showering. I can't lie, I'm freaking out. I don't like being around so many people, especially girls. And especially the ones who hang out with Hirata. The bitchy ones. They seem so judgmental and mean. Hirata seemed to notice my apprehension.

Hirata: You're gonna be okay.

Shibata chimed in.

Shibata: What's up with him?

He asked Hirata.

Hirata: I asked him to help with my study group and he's nervous about all the girls.

Jack: Hey! It's the people in general! Not just the girls!

Shibata: *Gasp* You're afraid of girls?!

Jack: I'm not afraid of them!

Shibata: I'm sure you'll be fine. I bet they'll love your presence there.

Hirata: I know they will. They talk about you sometimes. And even ask about you.

Jack: They do what?!