The Perfect Plaything

Chapter 1: A New Beginning,

Haruki stood at the entrance of Crestwood University, the sprawling campus looming before him. At 6'3", he had transformed physically; his lean frame was now muscular from the countless hours spent training in kendo. Yet, despite his imposing stature, he felt small inside. The heartbreak from a year ago—when his girlfriend had cheated on him—lingered like a shadow over his spirit. It had taken everything out of him, leaving him with a sense of hollowness that he struggled to shake off.

He adjusted his tie, ensuring his uniform was neat and presentable. It was a requirement for new students, a way to instill discipline, but for him, it felt like a mask he had to wear to hide his true emotions. As he stepped into his first class, the chatter of students around him faded into white noise.

"Welcome, everyone! We have a new student joining us today," the professor announced, gesturing toward Haruki. "Please welcome Haruki to our class."

Haruki glanced up, meeting a sea of curious faces. Some girls gasped at his transformation. "He looks interesting," one whispered. Another remarked, "Isn't he the same guy who was so kind back in high school?"

Feeling the weight of their gazes, he mumbled, "I’m sorry, but I can’t have a girl guiding me around."

The professor paused, taken aback. "Is that so? Well then, Yuki, why don't you take Haruki under your wing?"

Haruki blinked, confusion crossing his face. "Wait, are you joking? That's a guy?"

"Absolutely," the professor replied with a chuckle, as Yuki's smile broadened, their confidence radiating. "Yuki's a guy. Trust me, you’ll be in good hands."

With a reluctant nod, Haruki agreed. As Yuki approached, he felt a mix of emotions. He wanted to keep his distance from everyone, especially females, after what had happened. But he also knew he needed help navigating the new environment.

As the day progressed, Haruki kept his head down, lost in thoughts of his past. He recalled the betrayal he had faced and how it had shaped him. Every interaction felt heavy, like a reminder of what he had lost. He missed the easy connections he used to have, the trust he had once placed in others.

After a long day of classes, Haruki sought refuge in the library, drawn to the comforting silence. He found a secluded corner and buried himself in a pile of books, desperate to escape his reality. Eventually, exhaustion overtook him, and he drifted off to sleep, his head resting on the pages of a history book.

Unbeknownst to him, Yuki had been watching from a distance. The other girls—Hana and Aiko—joined Yuki, whispering amongst themselves as they observed Haruki.

Hana leaned in, her voice low. "He looks so different now. I wonder what happened to him."

Aiko nodded, her expression thoughtful. "He seems lost. We should find a way to help him… or at least get closer."

Yuki smirked, intrigued by Haruki's unguarded moment. "He may not know it yet, but we have plans for him."

The girls watched as he slept, their minds buzzing with possibilities, unaware of the profound impact their actions would have on Haruki’s already fragile heart.

As the chapter drew to a close, the tension hung in the air, hinting at the complicated relationships that would soon unfold. Haruki remained oblivious to the girls’ intentions, lost in dreams that were as distant as his former self.