Hikigaya's Route to Senior High Is Not Normal, As Expected

The Aftermath of Midterms

Hikigaya's Route to Senior High Is Not Normal, As I Expected

"You just have to find that thing that's special about you that distinguishes you from all the others, and through true talent, hard work, and passion, anything can happen." – Dr. Dre

...

Hachiman's POV

...

The final test was finished, and Hachiman and the rest of Class D had called it a day.

After all, who wouldn't want to relax after such a stressful event had hit them?

Regardless, Hachiman had decided that, while originally going to spend his time alone in the library, he instead had gotten involved with Shiina, who according to her, felt the exams were straightforward.

Even some of the hardest ones would make a bit of difficulty for even her, but for the meantime, she felt she would be completely fine.

Still, the most surprising thing about this ordeal was the fact Suzune had praised parts of her class. It was rare considering the kind of person Suzune was, but alas, Hachiman assumed it had something to do with her brother's confrontation, and maybe even the work of Kiyotaka.

This included Sudou. While Sudou wasn't suddenly one of the smartest people in the class, far from it, he was perhaps showing he was competent in the slightest when it came to academics and studying.

Sure, Hachiman had to pretty much give him a wager to follow if he wanted to succeed, but alas, Sudou did it.

The fact that even the supposedly stupidest people in their class could do such a thing should show the capabilities to be better that everyone has.

Hachiman looked at the class, as even he couldn't help but feel his lips tug to a more neutral line rather than a slight frown.

The reason was simple, the class was celebrating their achievements.

"Excuse me, Sudou." The voice of Suzune echoed, as Hachiman noticed she had approached Sudou.

"Yes?" Sudou asked, pretty skeptical based on what was happening. The last time he spoke with Suzune, it didn't end well to say the least.

"Earlier, I had told you, that your dreams of becoming a professional basketball player were foolish." Suzune started.

Sudou immediately looked a bit ticked off. "Tch, why are you reminding me of such statements?" He asked a bit on edge.

"I have done some of my own research on the field, and well, I cannot say I understand the work and dedication it takes to become a professional basketball player. However, if you are making progress, you are, and are succeeding, then I cannot label you as a stupid incapable individual just because of some book work. You've clearly showcased that you can learn. Perhaps it was on my end of how terrible I could be as a teacher." Suzune explained before she continued, "Apply that diligence to basketball, the will to improve and be better, and you might just be able to go pro. That's how I feel."

She then turned to walk away, before she gave one last look at Sudou. "I'm sorry for what I said back then. And I'm also sorry to everyone I've likely pissed off or worried during the midterm exam prep, to those I've worried and harmed due to my rough teachings, I hope I can do better for you all." Suzune gave a small bow before she left.

Hachiman wanted to chuckle. He almost did. "Seems the icy girl may thaw quicker than the ice age officially ends," Hachiman told himself as he shrugged and paid no mind to it.