COTE: Stealing Back What's Mine

Slow Isolation

There was a sense of understanding shared by everyone standing in the hallway, a silent acknowledgment of the events that had just unfolded. Those still present knew how much Ichinose had changed, and how obsessive she can be when it came to Ayanokoji.

"That was quite the spectacle, don't you think so, Horikita-san?" Sakayanagi's voice cut through the silence, soft yet sharp, as she addressed Horikita.

Horikita turned to face her, with a frustrated expression.

"That seems to be the case."

She responded in a curt manner, clearly not interested in engaging further. She turned to walk away, but Sakayanagi wasn't finished.

"Just a moment, Horikita-san."

Slightly surprised, Horikita paused, raising an eyebrow in Sakayanagi's direction. It wasn't like Sakayanagi to pursue a conversation without an ulterior motive.

"What are your thoughts on Ichinose-san?" Sakayanagi asked.

Horikita hesitated, unsure of how much she should reveal.

"What do you mean?" she asked cautiously, choosing her words carefully.

"Don't play dumb, Suzune. I'm pretty sure you're aware that Ichinose's relationship with Ayanokoji is not what it seems," Ryuen chimed in, his usual smirk plastered on his face.

That seemed to hit the mark. Horikita's expression changed, her brow furrowing as she contemplated her response. Horikita would be aware of the abnormal relationship, as someone who closely watches Ayanokoji, she would know any changes that arise within him.

"I know their relationship isn't normal," Horikita confirmed.

Sakayanagi smiled upon hearing this, clearly pleased with Horikita's admission.

"Then you're also aware of her plans to have Ayanokoji-kun transfer after this exam, yes?"

Horikita's expression didn't change, but a perceptive person could tell the acknowledgement in her eyes. Of course, she knew. Such a significant rumor wouldn't have slipped past her. The only ones pretending not to believe it were those in Class D.

"Whatever her intentions are, I trust Ayanokoji-kun."

Horikita said these words firmly, though the tightness in her voice suggested she was holding back more than she was willing to admit.

Sakayanagi seemed to have anticipated such an answer. She tilted her head slightly, her smile turning almost condescending.

"Trust," she repeated. "But does he trust you?"

Horikita's jaw tightened, and she bit her lip. Sakayanagi's words had struck a chord. The hesitation in her response was visible, Sakayanagi knew Horkikta often felt inferior to Ayanokoji, so such a statement was bound to stir emotions within her.

"Of course he trusts me," Horikita replied.

Despite saying this, her voice lacked the conviction she usually carried. There was doubt in her words, as if she was questioning herself even as she spoke.

Sakayanagi's smile widened ever so slightly. "But you still wouldn't want to risk it, right? So why don't you help me instead? This way, Ayanokoji-kun remains in your class."

Horikita's gaze dropped, as she fell into deep thought. It was obvious that she was trying to find a solution that wouldn't compromise her beliefs or her loyalty. Siding with Sakayangi would go against Ayanokoji's trust, but at the same time, has he ever trusted her? No doubt these are the thoughts circling Horikita's mind.