KiyotakaxOC- A New Life In Classroom Of The Elite: Ayaki 's Quest For Change

Chapter 12- Manipulation

The first weekend of May, the whole class, including Ike, was listening to the lesson in silence, except for Sudo, who was taking his best nap. Sudo's behavior caused a lot of anger among his classmates. Suddenly, a scream pierced the silence of the classroom. Chiyabashira-sensei turned to Ayanokoji-kun, visibly surprised. She addressed him:

"Ayanokoji-kun, what's going on? Why did you suddenly scream? Is it your rebellious age?"

Ayanokoji-kun, with an impassive look, replied calmly:

"I just had some dust in my eye."

Ayaki, observing the scene, thought it was one of the worst excuses she had ever heard. Usually, the students would have whispered among themselves at that moment, but this time, they just stared at him, all on their guard. Ayanokoji-kun rubbed his arm. Ayaki knew very well that it was Horikita who had stabbed him with a compass because he had tried to sleep in class. After all, it wasn't like he really needed these lessons given his intelligence.

When the bell rang for lunch, Hirata stood up and spoke:

"The test Chiyabashira-sensei talked about is coming soon. Remember that if anyone gets a failing grade, they will be expelled. It is therefore preferable to form study groups. If students decide to neglect their studies, they will get bad grades. Moreover, the results could impact the class points. I would like those who are struggling to participate in these study sessions. You will be welcome."

Hirata glanced at Sudo, who responded with a "tch..." while averting his eyes, crossing his arms, and closing his eyes. Hirata continued:

"From 5 PM today until the exam, I propose that we gather to study for two hours in this classroom. It's okay if some have to leave halfway."

Some struggling students approached Hirata. However, Sudo, Ike, and Yamauchi stayed back. Ayaki, always eager to get closer to him, went to see Ayanokoji-kun and asked if he would like to have lunch with her. He accepted. But suddenly, someone unexpected joined them and said:

"I invite you to eat."

It was Horikita-san. Ayanokoji-kun, surprised, replied:

"An invitation from Horikita? That's unusual and suspicious."

Horikita calmly responded:

"There is nothing to fear. I'll buy you whatever you want."

Ayanokoji-kun, still suspicious, asked:

"That's scary. Is there a trap?"

Ayaki, well aware of Horikita's intentions, said nothing, already savoring the thought of seeing Ayanokoji fall into the trap. Horikita added:

"If we start doubting others' true intentions, society wouldn't function."

Finally, Ayaki and Ayanokoji followed her to the cafeteria. After ordering, they sat down at a table. Horikita watched them as if waiting for them to eat. Ayanokoji, uncomfortable under her insistent gaze, began to eat. Ayaki, however, decided to wait, pretending not to be very hungry. Horikita, intrigued, raised an eyebrow and spoke:

"Listen to me carefully."

Ayanokoji-kun, sensing something bad, murmured:

"I have a bad feeling."

He tried to stand up and escape, but Horikita grabbed his hand and forced him to sit back down.

"Since Chiyabashira-sensei's warning, the number of infractions has decreased within the class. Half of the reasons why we lost points have been cleared," explained Horikita.

Ayaki confirmed her words. Horikita continued:

"The next thing the class needs to do is improve test scores on the next exam. Hirata has already taken initiatives."