Chapter 5

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[School Entrance] (Almost Nighttime)

“How’s Yuna doing? Is she okay?” Shinichi asked.

“Ms. Tanaka? She’s not doing great, but she’s managing. Anyway, what about you? What have you been up to all this time?” Hiroshi inquired.

“Not much. I was looking for Ms. Takahashi, but she seems to be missing,” Shinichi replied.

“Now that you mention it, I haven’t seen Ms. Takahashi either. Why were you looking for her?” Hiroshi asked.

“Remember the plan I mentioned earlier? The plan requires a key. ‘What’s the key for, Shinichi?’ I’m glad you asked. I was trying to find the person responsible for handling the exam scores to discuss Yuna taking a retest. It turns out Ms. Takahashi is in charge of the scores, which makes her the ‘key’ I was looking for,” Shinichi explained.

“So that’s why the scoreboards are always accurate—because Ms. Takahashi handles them. But isn’t that bad news? We’re talking about Ms. Takahashi here!” Hiroshi said, concerned.

“Didn’t I already tell you not to worry? I’ve got this under control,” Shinichi reassured him.

“Alright, I trust you,” Hiroshi said.

“Oh, I just remembered I have some errands to run, so I won’t be heading home with you today,” Shinichi said.

“Do you need any help? Should I come with you?” Hiroshi offered.

“No, it’s just some errands with my mom,” Shinichi replied.

“Okay then. Take care. I’ll see you later!” Hiroshi said, heading out.

“Yep,” Shinichi responded.

[Streets] (Night time)

Shinichi dialed his mother to let her know he had picked up everything she asked for.

"Hey, Mom? Yeah, I got everything you needed. I’m heading home now. Alright, see you soon!" he said, ending the call.

As he walked alone down the empty streets, something unusual caught his eye in the distance. A woman was staggering, her movements slow and unnatural, almost like a zombie.

"Huh? What’s going on with her...?" Shinichi muttered, his curiosity piqued.

Without hesitation, he quickened his pace and made his way toward the woman. When he got closer, he realized she was swaying like someone who had too much to drink.

What is this pretty lady doing here, walking like she just downed three bottles of alcohol? Shinichi thought.

"Uh, ma'am, are you okay?" Shinichi asked, concerned.

"Huh?" the woman mumbled, lifting her head to see who was speaking. The moment Shinichi saw her face, he froze.

"Oh, crap! Ms. Takahashi?! Jesus Christ! Do you need help, ma’am?" Shinichi offered, extending his hand.

"Hmm..." Ms. Takahashi groaned.

"I’ll take that as a yes..." Shinichi said, placing her arm over his shoulder and gripping her waist with his other hand to steady her.

"That... scent, I... know hic that..." Ms. Takahashi slurred, her words broken by hiccups.

"Yeah? Sorry if I smell, Ms. Takahashi. I’ve been running around all day trying to find you," Shinichi replied, guiding her as they slowly walked.

"Is hic that you... Mr. Ishikawa?" she asked, her voice hazy with intoxication.

"N-no, it’s one of your students. Uh, I can’t really explain right now... I’m sorry, ma’am," Shinichi stammered, trying to deflect her confusion.

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