My New Life As Suzune Horikita (COMPLETED)

Chapter 43: Hokkaido Awaits

A month had passed since Yagami’s expulsion. The cold winds hinted at winter’s arrival when Chabashira-sensei stood before the class with an announcement. “We will be going on a school trip to Hokkaido,” she said. The room erupted with cheers as students exchanged smiles and chatter.

Kei leaned over, eyes sparkling. “Hokkaido? This is going to be amazing!” Sato chimed in, “I can’t wait for snow activities!” Haruka raised her hands in the air. “This is exactly what we need after all the tension!”

Chabashira-sensei's voice cut through the noise. “You guys will be divided into groups randomly along with students of other classes.” A murmur of concern spread, but soon everyone reluctantly nodded, excitement outweighing the inconvenience.

Later that day, we girls decided to go shopping. The streets were lined with winter clothing displays and travel gear. Kei grabbed my arm, pulling me to a store window. “Look, Suzune, isn’t this the cutest jacket?”

Matsushita, examining a scarf, leaned over to Shinohara and teased, “You should pick something Ike would like seeing you in.” Shinohara’s face flushed. “M-Matsushita!” she stammered, causing a round of giggles.

Haruka whispered to me, “This trip is going to be so much fun.” I nodded, feeling the warmth of camaraderie wash over me.

As we all started going back to our rooms , I spotted Ichinose on my way standing by herself, her gaze thoughtful. I approached her. “Ichinose, is everything alright?”

She looked up, smiling softly. “Yes, just thinking about the trip.”

I hesitated before asking, “How are things with Ayanokoji? Any progress?” Her cheeks tinted pink, and she looked away. “I… I haven’t made any moves. It’s just hard,” she admitted.

“You should take a step forward. Sometimes, a little courage makes all the difference,” I advised. Her eyes met mine, softening. “Thank you, Horikita. I’ll try.”

Meanwhile, in the gym, Sudo found Ayanokoji. “Hey, Ayanokoji, can I ask you something?” Sudo scratched his head awkwardly. “It’s about Onodera. I think… I might like her, but how do I know for sure?”

Ayanokoji’s eyes were unreadable as always. “If you’re thinking about her even when she’s not around and you care for her well-being, that’s a sign.” Sudo’s face lit up. “I think I do, then. Thanks, man.”

Later that evening, I met Ayanokoji and he told me about his talk with Sudo. I smiled faintly. “I’m glad Sudo is opening up. He deserves happiness.”

The next day, teachers listed the groups. I scanned the list, eyes pausing at mine: Ayanokoji, Kushida, Ichinose, Ibuki, Kei, Matsushita, and me.

“Yes!” Kushida and I high-fived, while Ibuki muttered, “Just my luck.” I couldn’t resist teasing her. “Try to enjoy it, Ibuki. We’ll make sure it’s fun.” She glared at me, but a smirk played at her lips.

Kushida and Matsushita noticed Ichinose’s frequent glances at Ayanokoji. Matsushita in curiosity leaned to my ear.“So, Horikita, is it true that Ichinose really like Ayanokoji?” Matsushita whispered, trying to contain her excitement.

I glanced around to ensure that nobody was listening to us, then nodded. “Yes, she does,” I said, watching their reactions closely.

Kushida gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. “Seriously? Ichinose, the model of integrity and kindness, likes Ayanokoji?” Her voice dropped to a hushed tone as she processed the information. Matsushita’s eyes widened in shock before softening with a smile.

“Wow, I would have never guessed,” Matsushita admitted. “But, come to think of it, she’s always been subtly attentive when he’s around.”

I nodded, a small smile forming on my lips. “Exactly. She’s careful with her feelings, so it isn’t obvious, but I’ve noticed it for a while now.”

Kushida grinned mischievously. “Do you think Ayanokoji has a clue about this?” She glanced between me and Matsushita, both of them waiting for my answer.

“Knowing him, he probably does but chooses not to show it,” I replied. “But this needs to stay between us,” I added, my tone firm. “Ichinose is reserved about her emotions, and if this spreads, it could make things difficult for her.”

Both girls nodded in agreement, their faces serious. “Of course,” Matsushita said. “We’ll keep this between us. It’s kind of sweet, actually.”

Kushida smiled slyly. “Love makes school life more interesting, doesn’t it? Who knew we’d have such drama in our class?” We exchanged a knowing look, the unspoken agreement to protect Ichinose’s secret settling between us.

We laughed lightly, the weight of the conversation lifted with our shared promise. The thought of our upcoming school trip to Hokkaido filled us with anticipation, and the bonds we were building felt stronger than ever.

That night, lying in bed, I let my mind drift over the day’s events. A trip to Hokkaido, old and new friendships, and hidden feelings made the upcoming days seem promising. With a smile, I closed my eyes, letting sleep take me as the anticipation bubbled within.

--Chapter 43 ends--