Cote: Elite in Action

A Break on the Weekend

It was the weekend, and although not much time had passed since the sports festival—which, as expected, we won, adding another 50 points to our class—I was currently wandering aimlessly around the school. Today seemed like a good day to hang out with friends or maybe just relax in my room, but the heat outside is tremendous. However, here I was, drifting without a clear destination. Perhaps it was the need for a little solitude, a luxury I rarely take.

Since I entered this school, I had never been alone. So it's a good opportunity to enjoy some time by myself. But, honestly, I wasn't sure what to do. I always followed the girls' plans, and now I was uncertain about how to spend my time.

Mako and Yuki were in my room right now, as usual. They liked to relax there, but someone who wasn't around and whom I hadn't spoken to much since the festival was Honami.

Honami had changed a bit since the festival. She seemed a little distant from me, which was unusual. I didn't think I had done anything to upset her, or maybe I did without realizing it. I suppose I'll talk to her later. I hope it's nothing serious.

As I continued wandering aimlessly, I came across President Horikita and the small senpai who always accompanied him.

—Osawa —greeted Horikita, and we exchanged polite nods.

—President —I replied with a smile.

—Aren't you hot in that uniform? —I asked. Both he and the small senpai were wearing their uniforms. Who wears the school uniform on a weekend?

—I need it, as I was in the student council office —Horikita explained with his usual serious tone.

—Ah, right. It was obvious. I don't think you wear that uniform for fun —I responded.

—Was there something special you had to take care of? —I asked, trying to make conversation. It wasn't that I cared too much, but I was a bit bored.

—Yes, I'm clearing out my things from the office. In a few days, I won't be the president anymore —Horikita said with a slight grimace of resignation.

—Right, I had forgotten. So, Nagumo will be the new president —I nodded, remembering the upcoming changes.

—Yes, although I won't be able to see much of his term. Things will probably get heated in your second year —Horikita commented with a meaningful look.

—A kind of warning? —I asked, intrigued.

—Take it as you will —Horikita said with an enigmatic smile.

—By the way —I said, looking at the small girl beside him—, what's your name, small senpai?

—Small senpai? How rude. My name is Tachibana Akane —she replied, clearly annoyed.

—I'm sorry, Tachibana-san. I didn't know your name —I quickly apologized.

—Then don't call me that —Tachibana-senpai said, still a bit annoyed.

—Alright, small senpai —I said with a playful smile—, I'll keep that in mind.

Tachibana Akane frowned, but in the end, she couldn't help a slight smile. Horikita, who was watching the interaction, cleared his throat.

—Well, Osawa, I don't want to keep you any longer. It seems like you're looking for something to do.

—Yes, I'm not quite sure what to do today —I admitted.

—Then, why not make the most of your free time? —Horikita suggested—. You can look for something that interests you.

—Good idea —I nodded—. Although, if it's not too much trouble, small senpai, do you have any suggestions?