COTE: The Best Version of Me

Chapter 1 - First Impressions

Time skip: 3 Weeks Later - April 1st

The car glided smoothly along the road, and I allowed myself to relax in the backseat, watching the landscape unfold before me. It was a calm morning, with the sun lazily rising over the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold and orange. Warm light filtered through the trees lining the road, creating dancing shadows on the asphalt. A light breeze came through the half-open window, bringing with it the fresh scent of wet grass. 

Matsuo drove with the same serenity that I felt. He seemed at ease, as if each curve in the road was an extension of his own being. I thought about how that journey, which for many would be just a commute, for me was the harbinger of something great. School was approaching, a promise of challenges and new experiences.

Initially, the original idea I had agreed with Eiichiro was to go together by bus, but although I didn't go into details, I let him know in advance that I would have to go a few hours early and that we would meet there.

I looked out the window and saw an open field, wildflowers dancing in the wind. They were like tiny flames of color, vibrant and full of life. This moment, this calm, made me realize that I was not anxious, but curious. Curious about what this supposedly elite school had to offer. The idea of ​​being surrounded by brilliant minds was exhilarating. 

The path narrowed, and soon the silhouette of the school began to rise on the horizon as we entered the gates of the school complex. It was imposing, with its high walls and wide windows, surrounded by a well-kept lawn that seemed to invite everyone who entered. I felt a rush of anticipation. The hours I had spent preparing for this moment dissipated like mist in the sun.

Matsuo, noticing my contemplation, glanced in the rear view mirror, a satisfied smile on his lips. "Are you excited?" he asked, and his voice sounded calm, as if he were sharing a secret. I nodded slowly, knowing that words were unnecessary. Excitement throbbed in the air, and here, in that car, anything seemed possible.

Normally, first-year students weren't allowed to enter the school campus as early as I was doing, but the man who was waiting for me in the parking lot was the reason. He was the one responsible for allowing me this exception.

As we got closer and closer to him, his imposing and serious features remained as visible as ever. This man was none other than Chairman Sakayanagi. As we approached, I took a deep breath, taking in every detail around me. The future was before me, and I was ready to embrace it.

Right in front of me stood the Chairman. His lilac hair danced lightly in the wind, almost as if it had a life of its own, and his eyes, an equally rare shade, observed everything with a piercing clarity. He was imposing, and his presence exuded an air of authority that could intimidate many. But instead of backing down, I maintained my stance. The calm that had accompanied me since the trip would not abandon me now.

Chairman Sakayanagi walked toward me, his steps measured and confident. When he finally approached, he stopped in front of me, an expression of interest lighting his face as all the tension around us dissipated. 

"Nice to see you again, Ayanokoji-kun. Are you prepared for that?" he said, his voice soft but firm. It wasn't just a greeting; it was an assessment. I could feel him studying me closely, like a sculptor assessing the clay he'd just received.

"Thank you for welcoming me personally as well," I replied, keeping my gaze firmly fixed on his eyes. The connection was instantaneous, a silent exchange of respect. I would not be carried away by his imposing presence. I was there, determined to take my place.

After a brief moment, Sakayanagi nodded, satisfied. "Very well, Ayanokoji. But before we continue our conversation..." He trailed off as he looked at Matsuo, behind me. "I think you need to have one last talk with him." I turned to Matsuo, who had stood a little ways away, watching the interaction. His gaze expressed a mix of pride and concern.