Classroom of the Elite: Liars Edition

Chapter 16: Trustworthy?

"I'm back!"

When I entered Yōsuke-chan's room, I removed my shoes and placed my bag and the cookies I had baked on the kitchenette counter. I then rushed to my beloved boyfriend and embraced him, resting my head on his chest. My actions slightly startled him, but after seeing that I had no intention of letting go of our hug, he wrapped his arms around my shoulders in return, accepting his fate.

"Woah, Airi-san."

I looked up, gazing at his charming face, feeling a warmth spread across my own. He returned my gaze with a joyful smile, wearing the emo hat I bought for him that I believe complimented him.

"I just wanted a hug from you."

"No, I understand. I enjoy this as well."

If it were up to me, I would never want our passionate embrace to end.

"If you lovebirds are finished making out, we have class matters to discuss."

A voice called out to the two of us with a hint of annoyance within the voice.

I released myself from the hug, feeling a sense of sadness build up within me, and turned to the displeased third wheel in the room. The affection I showed my boyfriend, which was precisely why displeased her, I suggested having the conversation in his room. The girl was Horikita.

She was sitting in one of the chairs around the table in Yōsuke-chan's room.

I normally wouldn't let a girl into Yōsuke-chan's room and leave her with him when I'm not around. But this girl was Horikita, who made it clear to me that her focus was on reaching Class A. I couldn't see her getting into a relationship with anyone while she focused on Class A and impressing her older brother. And even if I'm wrong and she was interested in dating someone, it definitely wouldn't be Yōsuke-chan. They just don't seem compatible to me.

Actually, there weren't many people I could see Horikita being in a relationship with at this school, maybe Ayanokōji or Kikyō, but definitely not me.

"Come on, Horikita-chan. Why do you have to be such a buzz kill?"

"Because, unlike you, Sakura-san, I like punctuality and want to get straight to business. After this talk concludes, the two of you can resume your..." Horikita shook her head in disappointment, trying to fight back against the grimace on her face. "Activites..."

I wonder what she could be referring to by activities. Does she think Yōsuke-chan and I are sexual deviants...?

Hold up, more importantly, what does she mean by calling me unpunctual?! I mean, she wasn't wrong, but I still felt offended.

"Um, girls, I don't think now's the time to argue."

Yōsuke-chan, like the fence-sitter he was, attempted to sway the two of us from continuing our little back and forth and even rested his hands on my shoulder, trying to calm me down.

His response was predictable, yet disappointing. Still, since I've put his development in the backseat over the past week, I can't say I expected anything different from him.

That was fine for now, as all the necessary pieces for everyone to pass the midterm were there, so I did not need to force him to take drastic action now. However, with today's discussion, I can achieve two goals regarding his development. The first is formally connecting Yōsuke-chan with Horikita, the girl with the biggest drive in Class D to reach Class A. He's told me he's wanted to get closer to her since last month, and today will be the beginning of their partnership to lead Class D with me guiding both of them, giving them the support they need.