The sun was setting, casting a warm golden hue over the school's campus. With midterms just around the corner, I was buried in my study routine, trying to keep the looming pressure at bay. Yet, the unresolved argument with Isamu and the recent rumors had cast a shadow over my focus, making it hard to concentrate on my studies.
At lunch one day, Hiroto, Yumi, Mia, and I gathered at our usual spot in the school courtyard. The lively chatter of other students and the distant clang of cafeteria trays filled the background as I vented about Isamu once again.
"I just don't get it," I said, frustration evident in my voice. "Isamu's been so impossible lately. He acts like he's above everyone else, and he never seems to care about how his actions affect others."
Hiroto looked up from his sandwich, a hint of exasperation in his eyes. "Taichi, you've been talking about Isamu non-stop. It's starting to feel like all we ever talk about is him."
Yumi, trying to be diplomatic, added, "We understand you're frustrated, but maybe you should try to focus on something else for a bit. You've been letting this situation consume you."
I waved off their concerns. "I know it sounds like I'm fixated, but you haven't seen how he's been treating people. It's not just me. He's acting like he's the king of the school, and no one can touch him."
Mia sighed, looking tired. "We get it, Taichi."
As I continued to rant, the conversation drifted away from Isamu, but the frustration still simmered beneath the surface. Unbeknownst to me, my friends were growing weary of the constant focus on Isamu, especially given the recent revelations about his past.
Later that week, while studying in the library, I was trying to escape the constant thoughts of Isamu and the stress of midterms. During a break, I overheard a conversation between two teachers in the hallway just outside the library. They were discussing Isamu in hushed tones, clearly unaware of my presence.
"It's getting harder to keep this under wraps," one teacher said, her voice tinged with concern. "The incidents from Isamu's previous school could cause serious trouble if they ever leak."
The other teacher sighed. "Yes, but his family's influence has done a good job of keeping things quiet. It's just a matter of ensuring that nothing comes to light now."
My ears perked up at the mention of these incidents. I strained to listen, trying to piece together the fragmented conversation.
"I've heard Isamu being involved in some pretty terrible things," the first teacher continued. "There were even whispers of violence and severe bullying, not to mention the underage drinking incidents that his family managed to cover up."
The second teacher nodded. "Yes, and now he's here, trying to start fresh while the past is buried. We need to make sure no one connects the dots. Even if there is some pressure to keep quiet about it."
My heart raced as I processed the information. The details about Isamu's past—violent incidents, severe bullying, and underage drinking—fit with the rumors I had heard. The idea that Isamu's family had used their influence to cover up his actions was both shocking and disturbing.
As the teachers continued their conversation, I quietly slipped away, feeling a mix of anger and disbelief. The idea that Isamu's behavior might be influenced by a dark and hidden past made me feel even more frustrated.
That afternoon, I met up with Hiroto, Yumi, and Mia at the café where we frequently gathered. I was eager to share what I had overheard, hoping to find support and validation for my feelings.
