Chapter 35: Stepping into New Challenges

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The decision of me to join the student council came after some thought, with Ayanokoji’s subtle encouragement and Kushida’s supportive words echoing in my mind. When I approached Nagumo with my application, he examined me with a calculating look before smirking.

“Horikita Suzune, I see potential. Welcome to the student council,” Nagumo said with a sly grin.

Ichinose, already a member, gave me a warm smile as she approached. “Horikita-san, it’s great to have you here. I’m looking forward to working with you.”

“Thank you, Ichinose-san,” I said, returning the smile. There was a newfound sense of anticipation as I stepped into this role.

---

Two days later, Chabashira-sensei entered our classroom, her usual stern expression fixed in place. “Students, I have an announcement. A new special exam will take place soon. It’s similar to last year’s island survival exam, but this time the rules have changed. You’ll need to form groups of six, with students from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years.”

A wave of whispers swept through the room as everyone processed the news. I glanced at Ayanokoji, who met my eyes with his usual calm, unreadable expression.

As students started forming groups, I heard Yagami’s voice near Ayanokoji. “Ayanokoji-senpai, I must inform you—Tsukishiro and Nagumo haven’t given up on their plans to expel you. Stay vigilant.”

Ayanokoji with a confused face asked , “Why are you informing me this?”

Yagami with his usual smile says, “Just to let you know.” And leaves from there.

I, Ayanokoji, Koenji, and Ibuki had already decided to go solo in the exam. The choice carried risk, but I felt more confident with this strategy.

---

Over the next few days, whenever Ayanokoji and I were discussing anything, Ichika would find a way to appear, always with that mischievous grin.

“Oh, am I interrupting something?” she teased one afternoon, leaning over Ayanokoji’s desk.

“No,” I said, my voice clipped as I crossed my arms. Ayanokoji remained silent, only giving her a brief glance.

Ichika chuckled. “Don’t mind me, Horikita-senpai. Just keeping things interesting.”

---

To take a break from the exam pressure, Ayanokoji and I agreed to visit the shopping mall with some friends. The warm buzz of students filled the air as we walked. It wasn’t long before we ran into Ichinose and Kanzaki.

“Horikita-san, Ayanokoji-kun,” Ichinose greeted us, a smile on her face that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Out shopping together?”

“Yes, just taking a break,” I said. Kanzaki’s sharp eyes shifted between us and Ichinose, he saw Ichinose being somehow jealous of my closeness with Ayanokoji but he didn't know the reason.

As we continued walking, we encountered Kiruin, a senior from Class 3-B. Her poised demeanor drew attention, and she approached with a hint of curiosity.

“Horikita, Ayanokoji—an interesting pair

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“Horikita, Ayanokoji—an interesting pair. I hope you two are prepared for the exam,” she said with an amused glint.

“We are,” Ayanokoji said simply.

Kiruin smiled slightly. “Good. I look forward to seeing how you both perform. Good luck.” With that, she turned and walked away, her presence lingering even after she was gone.

---

Meanwhile, Tsukishiro called Nanase into his office. His expression was cold, eyes glinting with a quiet command. “The upcoming exam is your opportunity. Ensure Ayanokoji is expelled. Do whatever it takes.”

Nanase’s eyes flickered with uncertainty, but she nodded.

---

That night, as I lay in bed, the weight of the upcoming exam pressed down on me. The stakes were higher than ever, and the challenge of going solo meant I needed to stay alert. I pushed the thoughts aside and exhaled slowly, willing my mind to calm.

“This is just the beginning,” I whispered, a hint of determination in my voice as I closed my eyes. The future awaited, and I would be ready.

With that, I let sleep take over, a storm of possibilities swirling in my mind.

--Chapter 35 ends--

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