My New Life As Suzune Horikita (COMPLETED)

Chapter 57: A Night to Remember

The student council room was alive with conversation as Ichinose and I pored over several school affairs, bouncing ideas back and forth in our typical efficient rhythm. The topics ranged from upcoming events to recent student issues, but just as we finished reviewing the day’s agenda, a soft knock sounded on the door. Kushida and Nanase stepped in, both with eager expressions.

“Horikita, Ichinose,” Kushida began, her smile bright, “we’ve got some news! The school wants to organize a special event this year instead of the usual sports festival. They’re asking for our suggestions on what it should be.”

Ichinose leaned forward, eyes gleaming with curiosity. “A new event? That’s unexpected. Do they have any specific requirements?”

Nanase shook her head. “Nope, they left it wide open. They just want something memorable and fun for everyone.”

I leaned back, contemplating possibilities, but before I could voice any, Ichinose clapped her hands together as if struck by inspiration. “What if we held a prom night?” She looked around, excitement clear in her eyes. “Everyone could dress up, pair off, and dance. And to add a little competition, we could vote for the most gorgeous-looking couple of the night.”

Nanase’s eyes lit up, and Kushida immediately agreed. “That’s an amazing idea, Ichinose! It’ll be like something straight out of a movie. Imagine the memories we could make!”

I nodded, impressed. “A prom night... It’s different, and it gives everyone a chance to relax and enjoy. I think the school will go for it.”

Once we finalized the details, I met with the administration to pitch the idea. To my relief and satisfaction, they approved it without hesitation. The moment I returned to the council room, I couldn’t resist teasing Ichinose.

“So, was this idea partly inspired by a certain someone you’d like to dance with? Maybe Ayanokoji?” I asked, a smirk playing on my lips.

Ichinose’s cheeks reddened instantly. “W-What are you talking about?” she stammered, but the blush betrayed her.

I chuckled, enjoying her flustered reaction. “I’m only saying it’s quite a coincidence. But I get it, Ichinose. Maybe you’ll get that dance you’re hoping for.”

She only blushed deeper, mumbling something under her breath, and I let the topic drop.

That afternoon, the announcement spread quickly. I briefly explain our class on the upcoming prom night, and the excitement was palpable. Many of the students, particularly the couples, could barely contain their enthusiasm, already chatting about outfits and dance moves.

Later, I pulled Ayanokoji aside. “Ayanokoji, can you please pair up with Ichinose for the prom,” I suggested with a knowing smile. “I think she’d appreciate it.”

He considered it for a moment, then nodded. “If that’s what you think is best, then sure.”

The girls in my class were particularly thrilled. My friend group—Kushida, Kei, Haruka , Sakura, Sato, Shinohara and Matsushita—couldn’t stop talking about it. Kushida looked at me with sparkling eyes. “Horikita, you’re will look absolutely elegant, like a princess.”

Kei and Matsushita exchanged glances before smirking. “Is there any boy you’re thinking about dancing with, Horikita?” Matsushita teased, nudging me.

I rolled my eyes, shaking my head. “No, nothing like that. I’m just as focused on making the event a success as you are.”

“Oh, come on!” Kushida laughed, playfully disappointed.

“Unfortunately, I have other plans, so I won’t be able to join you guys for shopping,” I added, seeing their expressions fall.

Kei sighed but smiled. “Alright, but don’t complain if we end up looking better than you!” They laughed, and I waved them off, a small smile of my own slipping through.

The next day, the girls set off on a shopping spree, excitedly discussing their dresses, color schemes, and accessories. They laughed and joked as they moved from shop to shop, picking out outfits they thought would dazzle at the prom.

While they roamed the mall, Sato suddenly turned to Kei. “Why didn’t Horikita come shopping with us again?”

Kei shrugged. “She said she had other plans, but I’m curious what she’s really up to.”

Just then, Sakura, who had been silently following, glanced in my direction. She had seen me—though she didn’t mention it to the others. I was across the mall in the men’s section, carefully browsing through the various options.

In the men’s clothing section, I studied the different outfits, considering how unusual it would be to attend the prom dressed in something masculine. I’d been in Suzune’s body for over two years, but my mind still leaned toward the habits of my former self. Dancing with another boy was simply unthinkable for me. If I could dress as I preferred, maybe I’d feel a bit more like myself—and who knows, maybe I’d even get to dance with one of the many beautiful girls I’d met in school.

“Horikita?”

I turned to see Ayanokoji standing behind me, a curious look on his face.

“What are you doing in the men’s section?”

After a pause, I trusted him enough to explain. “I… don’t really want to attend prom in a traditional dress. I’d feel like wearing something unique other than the usual girly clothes.”

Ayanokoji nodded, his neutral expression unchanged. “I understand. I won’t say anything on your decision..”

I smiled, grateful for his discretion. “Thank you. But since you’re here, tell me, how are things with Ichinose?”

A small smile tugged at his lips. “It’s… strange. Whenever I’m around her, there’s this warm feeling. When she smiles, my heart… it just beats a little faster. I don’t fully understand it.”

I smirked, recognizing the signs. “Ayanokoji, that’s called love,” I teased. “If you don’t act on it soon, someone else might.”

He tilted his head thoughtfully. “Maybe you’re right.”

I chuckled, patting his shoulder. “Prom night is the perfect opportunity. Why not ask her to be your partner and tell her how you feel?”

He nodded slowly, as if turning the idea over in his mind. With that, we spent some time searching for the right outfits, each of us preparing for the night ahead in our own way.

--Chapter 57 ends--