Back home, I barely made it to my room, collapsing onto the bed fully clothed, arms spread out listlessly.
The attempt to explain Yukinon and my decision to Yuigahama—thankfully, the Snow Queen confirmed she still possessed logic—drained the already meager reserves of energy I'd spent throughout the day.
Lack of sleep was one, the completely unnecessary "yoke" they shoved around my neck was two, and the investigation into Hayama's sudden change in attitude was three. That's way too much for a single day. Fate clearly has no sense of compassion...
Sighing, I rolled onto my back and stared at the ceiling. There was a certain meditative element to the action, allowing me, if not to calm the stormy torrent of thoughts, then at least to direct it into a productive channel. It was a shame I couldn't spend the rest of my life like this: aimlessly and free from all worries.
However, after racking my grinding brain, I concluded that the idea was far from the best, as it contained too many hidden pitfalls. Furthermore, the main downside of idle pastime is that it simply becomes boring at a certain point. Besides, I once read somewhere that "the best rest is a change of activity."
For example, right now I'm getting maximum enjoyment from procrastination precisely because I mentally busted my ass for ten people before this. I wouldn't achieve a similar effect otherwise.
Hmm...
The comparison game works in almost every sphere of human activity, though. I mean, take love, for example. Is it truly possible to understand that you're attracted to someone if you've never hated anyone before? No, emotions certainly won't vanish because of that, plus the experiences of other people or literature won't let you confuse them with something else, so my words can be easily refuted.
But, purely for the sake of the experiment, let's discard the above factors. Hypothetically, Adam and Eve from Christian mythology. The first people, no one else around, experience in its nascent state. Through what lens did they perceive their relationship? Through the words of God, who decided everything for them?...
I blinked slowly and rubbed my eyes.
Why do I constantly drift off into strange and contentious topics? I already told myself not to overcomplicate things for no reason. Keep it simple, Hachiman, sim-ple!
At least I managed to convince Yuigahama and Yukinoshita not to stick their noses into my mess with Hayama. However much they might want to help, their interference in this situation would do more harm than good. Though it seems hard for the girls to grasp a simple truth: "If a person is absolutely convinced of something, convincing them otherwise will be incredibly difficult." Especially when one of the factors is jealousy. It's not for nothing that the classics love to mention its "blindness."
Fine, let's say I talk to Hayama, lay out the situation, and expose Haruno's motives. What changes could I expect? The awkwardness between me and the jock won't vanish, but maybe some of the rough edges will smooth out. Is that really necessary in the current circumstances?
No.
Hayato is just a classmate; only school links us. Besides, by trying to dive head-first into the problem, I'll only give Haruno an opportunity for a bigger "banquet." Again: do I need that? Not at all.
So, I'll calmly observe from the sidelines and derive moral satisfaction from the legal opportunity to dent the footballer's ego, seeing as he decided to play on my turf.
...Still, it doesn't compare to junior high. Even though the methods there were less sophisticated, it didn't make things any easier.
I also shouldn't forget that, thanks to this, I have a chance to take a jab at the elder Yukinoshita. The question is how exactly? My inner hunch—and I trust it completely—suggests there's a way, but I can't quite formulate it yet.
Lacing my hands behind my head, I let out a long hum.
Haruno is an interesting person, all the same.
On one hand, her motives seem clear to me: the desire to provoke her sister and stage a verbal battle with a worthy conversationalist.
On the other hand, what exactly prompted the girl to reach such a conclusion? She acts too harshly, but without malice, as if trying to teach something without giving direct hints. And their family is rather peculiar; there's a decent chance the sticking point lies with the parents.
And the third point: why does this bother me so much?
Rolling onto my side, I pressed my lips together.
Social relations have always bypassed me. In childhood—due to external conditions, when any attempt to establish a connection was rudely severed; in recent years—I myself avoided making unnecessary acquaintances in the real world. Too bothersome and stressful. And yet, at this moment in time, I can call one person a friend, two comrades, and the last a casual acquaintance. Isn't that an incredibly sudden shift?
What changed?
Joining the Club? Hiratsuka-sensei's influence?
The unseen play of hormones that finally achieved their goal?
Or did I unconsciously somehow drink from the "fountain of youth"?
So many questions and so few answers.
— Big Brother, I'm home! Where are you? — Hearing my little sister's cheerful voice, I sighed in relief and got up from the bed.
Away with heavy thoughts, time to enjoy the company of my little darling.
— Coming down now!
***
— Really? They chose you as the Class Representative? That's awesome! — the girl gushed.
Making sure I'd ordered the pizza to the correct address—neither of us could be bothered to cook, so we decided to order out—I set my phone aside and turned to my little sister.
— What's so good about it? Personally, all I see is extra headache.
Hearing that, Komachi snorted loudly and curled up on the armchair with her legs tucked in.
— I have said it, I am saying it, and I will continue to say it: stop looking exclusively for the negatives in everything.
She wagged an index finger for emphasis.
— Now, why don't you share the secret with me: what positives do you see in a situation like this?
To my surprise, my little darling barely had to think about the answer.
— First, it's good experience that will be useful in the future. Second, it's an opportunity to make new acquaintances and connections. And third—
Here, she smiled slyly, leaned in, and whispered quietly:
— Trust me, as a member of the Student Council, in addition to duties, you also gain rights that you can fully use for your own interests.
— Elaborate on the last point, please.
I won't deny it, she intrigued me.
— I won't tell.
And she stuck her tongue out at me.
Ugh, that pest!
Noticing the flicker of annoyance on my face, Komachi burst into peals of laughter.
— I certainly could share my special tricks for making the life of a school official easier, but I won't, because I want my beloved Big Brother to try and look for the bright side himself.
The girl smiled gently.
— You can't constantly rely on the wise Komachi!
I saw no point in refuting her words, as there was a grain of truth in them. Even if my conscience and sense of pride suffered noticeably from this fact, sometimes my little sister seemed much more mature than me.
Thank Kami that was only sometimes.
— Anyway, got any more interesting news?
I sighed, rubbing the back of my head.
— Well... — Without much thought, I dutifully recounted all the day's events.
By the end of my story, Komachi was uncontrollably giggling, wiping away tears that had appeared in the corners of her eyes.
— I never would've thought... whew... that someone would be jealous of my Big Brother. I mean, you're handsome and smart, but still... — The girl burst into laughter again, covering her mouth with her palm.
— I agree it's funny from the outside, but I have to spend another half-year in the same class as that guy.
I tried to inject as much grief into my voice as possible, but my little sister instantly sensed the fake tone and gave an amused snort.
— Don't tell me you actually care about that guy.
Exhaling, she finally calmed down.
— Me? Absolutely not. The people around me? Yes.
— That's not surprising. It's typical for friends to worry about things like that.
— That's the main problem.
— Get used to it.
Making a strange sound, my little sister jumped off the armchair and leaped onto the couch next to me, instantly leaning her head on my shoulder.
— What's up? — I instinctively put my arm around her.
— Nothing much... — Komachi purred. — I'm happy.
— About my failures? — I raised an eyebrow.
The girl rolled her eyes.
— Sometimes you are incredibly stupid.
Adding nothing more, she closed her eyes, burying her nose in my chest.
Shaking my head, not quite understanding what she was talking about, I leaned back against the couch.
The delivery guy was expected in about thirty minutes. In principle, I could take a quick nap until then.
Funny.
The only person I feel completely comfortable with is my little sister. Not my parents, whom I sometimes don't see for weeks. Not Yuigahama, Totsuka, or certainly Yukinoshita. I even act cautiously with acquaintances online, unconsciously monitoring my words.
Only Komachi's presence allows me to relax my guard and just genuinely breathe.
Why is that?
Where did this feeling of attachment and warmth come from, growing in my chest whenever she is near? No, of course, my emotions for her are only the purest, without any ulterior motive—even the thought that someone might misinterpret our relationship causes intense irritation.
What is the source of these emotions? Hormones can't be the sole reason for their appearance. Why do they affect us so strongly?
I know perfectly well that if the person sitting next to me were to suddenly vanish from my life, I would literally go insane with grief. But why does that grief arise? What builds that binding thread, the severance of which makes it easier for people to die than to live on?
Why do people get friends and pets? When they die or leave, they feel bad. Is it for the sake of momentary happiness?
Is it worth it?
Wouldn't it be easier to live if we were deprived of all these emotions, submitting only to reason and cold calculation?
Or do emotions make us who we are?
— Big Brother, are you okay?
Blinking slowly, I shifted my gaze to Komachi, who was looking at me with concern.
Relationships are a double-edged blade without a hilt.
I reached out and slowly ruffled my sister's hair.
— Big Brother?
By prolonging them, we knowingly share the pain with our partner.
Are we looking for solace?
— Hey, don't scare me like that.
She pouted, tugging at the hem of my t-shirt.
Sighing, I leaned down and kissed the back of Komachi's head.
— I love you.
— Huh?! — The girl exclaimed, dumbfounded, at which I chuckled briefly.
Sometimes questions have no answers.
Perhaps that's for the best.
***
I greeted the next morning in a much better mood, which, unfortunately, was immediately ruined by Hiratsuka-sensei catching me before class.
— Hikigaya, after school, grab Sagami and haul yourselves to the conference room. The first organizing committee meeting will be held there. And yes, it's mandatory, no excuses accepted.
Shizuka shot me a stern look, cutting off any objections before they could even form.
She's studied my personality so well it's almost flattering. If only she spoke to me for reasons other than dumping work on my plate.
Dreams, dreams...
— What exactly will be happening there?
— An introductory briefing and distribution of duties.
Noticing my lack of fierce opposition, she smiled with satisfaction.
— So, if you don't want to find out later that they've dumped the most tedious and heaviest tasks on you, I advise you not to slack off.
— Oh, so you're worried about me? My heart just can't take it.
Fortunately, there were no witnesses around, allowing the woman to tolerate such remarks.
— Of course.
Hmm, the "perfect teacher" tactic? I approve.
— By the way, I heard you proposed the idea of temporarily closing the Club?
She decided to abruptly change the subject, after all. You're giving ground, Sensei.
— Why me, suddenly? Yukinoshita came to the exact same, logical conclusion.
I shrugged.
— Or did you expect us to combine committee work with Club activities?
— I don't see any particular obstacle, given your "heavy workload," — Hiratsuka-sensei smirked.
Yeah, right.
There wouldn't be any obstacles at all if you didn't keep throwing problem students at us.
Wait.
If she brought up that topic, I can safely assume...
— Are you suggesting we postpone it?
I tilted my head.
— No, not at all. You can, but just... help out anyone who needs it, if the chance arises.
Shizuka confirmed my fears.
The woman standing before me, despite her attractiveness, possessed a sharp mind.
However, a legitimate question popped into my head: was that always an option? I wonder if she would allow us to make this practice permanent—only coming to the Club when necessary, since most of the time we just stare at the ceiling.
She'll call us in advance, and we'll act based on that.
Genius...
— By the way, is it absolutely necessary for you to commit violent acts against my brain?
I involuntarily voiced the thought that had been tormenting me for a while.
— That is the sacred duty of any self-respecting teacher.
Shizuka replied with a poker face.
I gave her a weary look.
— You definitely enjoy tormenting me.
Accepting temporary defeat, I quietly sighed.
— I won't deny it. Either way, I'll see you in the conference room. And no tardiness!
With that, Shizuka, her heels clicking, disappeared around the corner, leaving me standing alone in the hallway, deep in thought.
— Hachiman, are you going to class? — Turning my head, I noticed Saika looking at me with interest from the doorway.
— As if there's any other choice.
Scratching the back of my head, I walked past the guy and headed to my desk.
— Hmm?
Instead of a full answer, I waved my hand and slumped into my seat, ignoring the stares of my classmates, who had recently started paying me far too much attention.
Whatever.
There are much more important things right now.
Last night, I overcame my laziness and decided to scour the internet for information on the upcoming festival, as estimating the scale of the future work was necessary.
Fortunately, I stumbled upon a couple of posts related to our school, specifically last year's event. One message was particularly comprehensive, filled with many details, allowing me to glean some details that required consideration.
The thread author—presumably a current or former student here; it's hard to tell, as people try not to publicize their identities on image boards—told a long, flavorful tale about all the "delights." Starting from the general assembly where the committee chairman was chosen and ending with the bureaucratic hassle that accompanied all the event's paperwork. Based on his words, it was reasonable to conclude that the guy was a direct participant in the whole mess.
However, that discovery didn't make things any easier.
Let's go through the basic minimum.
First, we will need to put someone in charge. Last year, Meguri Shiromeguri, the current Student Council President, led the parade. If I recall correctly, she's in her third year, and traditionally, the chairman is a second-year student. Therefore, in the worst-case scenario, this fate could fall to me. It's an extremely small chance, but it still shouldn't be discounted.
It's more likely they'll nominate someone more suitable for the role, like the Snow Queen—I'll bet a hundred yen that she was definitely nominated as the Class Representative. I find it hard to believe she'd decide to do it herself. Besides, however cold and indifferent the girl might be, she is capable of succumbing to popular opinion. And Hiratsuka-sensei won't miss the chance to push her protégés into the thick of it.
Question: will she agree to take the reins of power? Doubtful.
From that same thread, I learned a couple of funny tidbits. One of them was information about the involvement of the infamous Haruno in previous festivals, predictably, in lead roles. Considering the relationship between the sisters, I'm not sure everything will go smoothly.
Hmm...
Nothing else comes to mind on this topic. Many unknown variables, little existing data. They wouldn't choose Sagami, would they? The girl barely agreed to act as the Class Representative—and in some strange way, at that. Manage everyone?
I glanced sideways at Minami, who was cheerfully chatting with her friends.
No. Definitely not.
Then we move to the next point.
Choosing the sector where I'll be busting my butt.
There are five chairs: advertising, procurement, volunteering or working with volunteers, accounting, and quality control.
The budget option. What should this entail, ideally? Working with payment documentation, expense reconciliation, constant communication with the administration, since public funds are involved. I have enough experience to go to a store; all the rest of the bureaucracy is alien to me. In perspective, I'd gain useful skills. In return, immense responsibility and stress; at least, I've never heard of a calm accountant.
Quality control. Monitoring the quality of purchased products, checking dishes, and most likely supervising sanitary conditions. Not very appealing. The bonuses: a chance to grab something to chew on, proximity to the kitchen.
Volunteering or working with volunteers. Straight to the trash, no second thoughts. Working with people is definitely not for me. Better to leave that to those who are ready for communication and new acquaintances, who know how to charm strangers. Like Sagami, for instance, this wonderful process can be left to her. Based on first impressions, she's quite capable of handling that activity.
Advertising. Promotional activities, not limited to school grounds. The goal is to encourage people to attend the event while simultaneously building interest. Considering modern society, that means actively promoting the festival online, visiting the local radio station, though classic announcements and flyers shouldn't be overlooked. In a way, it sounds interesting. Manipulating people's minds, creating memorable images, and a relative knowledge of the market.
...I think I'm overthinking it. The scale is a little off.
Procurement. In plain language—manual labor. Bring, carry, set up, do. To be honest, it's the most straightforward and simple job, where I won't have to use my brain. I have enough strength for that, and with enough skill, there's a chance to constantly disappear somewhere or stretch out the process, because as soon as one assignment is finished, another will be dumped on me. I think I should put this option at the top of the list. Then advertising, quality control, budget, and rounding out the procession—volunteering.
— Ahem, Hikigaya, would you care to pay attention to the board?
The biology teacher's cool tone yanked me out of my musings.
— My apologies.
I bowed my head, pretending not to hear the snickers from my classmates.
— That's wonderful.
Clearing her throat, the teacher addressed the class again.
— And so, we continue. I advise you to memorize the following points, because they will definitely appear in the final test...
Clicking my pen, I set about working on my notes.
Thoughts are thoughts, but I really don't want to lose my scholarship.
***
Stretching until my vertebrae cracked, I slowly got up from my chair, tossing my school supplies into my bag. Classes had successfully come to an end, and the only thing left was to sit through the organizing committee's general assembly.
To my quiet pleasure, Sagami, who had already rushed off toward the conference room, was aware of what was happening, so I didn't have to interact with her unnecessarily, for which I was separately grateful.
— Hikigaya.
Hearing Yumiko's voice behind me, I slowly closed my bag and turned around.
The blonde-haired girl gave me an inscrutable look. For some reason, Hayama and his hangers-on had already left, so Yuigahama and Ebina were standing next to her.
— Something wrong?
— Don't you dare disgrace our class's honor.
Yumiko tossed the line, adjusting a strand of hair that had fallen onto her shoulder, and then immediately walked past without waiting for my reaction. Hina smiled brightly, waved at me, and followed her friend.
— Should I take that as a threat or an attempt to cheer me up?
I glanced sideways at Yui, who remained nearby.
— The second... probably.
The girl gave an awkward laugh and, coming closer, beckoned me with her finger so I'd lean down. Sighing, I obeyed the instruction and barely flinched when her hot whisper brushed my ear.
— Good luck, Hachiman, I believe in you.
I pulled away, slightly bewildered and shaking my head, to the sound of her giggles.
— You can definitely take that one as support.
Then, flashing me a thumbs-up and a wide smile, the Golden Retriever scampered off to catch up with her friends.
It feels as if I'm being sent into my final battle, not a regular meeting.
They're mocking me. One hundred percent mocking me.
Checking the time, I let out a noisy sigh. I had fifteen minutes left. Just enough time to arrive and claim a suitable seat.
Reaching the necessary room, I cast a sidelong glance at the couple who had decided to make out near the doors. They couldn't have chosen a better spot, I'll admit.
Restraining myself from making a caustic remark—the nervous tension was getting to me—I silently walked past, going inside.
There was plenty of room, feeling like two classrooms merged into one, except for the tables arranged against the wall, leaving open space in the center. Despite the large number of people, I managed to spot a few comfortable positions.
Oh, perfect, slightly past the middle, by the window. Given that the light would fall on my back, people wouldn't be looking in my direction.
Walking past the table closer to the center, which, judging by its size, was intended for the future chairman and his deputies, I paused briefly, quickly analyzing my chosen spot from this vantage point.
Ideal.
Not too close, not too far. Despite the popular opinion, the back rows are far from the most suitable place to hide, because classrooms are usually arranged so that from the lecturer's position—which I confirmed again when choosing the second representative—you inevitably scan the room, focusing attention on two points: the front and the back.
The most optimal location is just past the middle. In most cases, the gaze skips right past, allowing you to avoid unnecessary attention.
Having made my final decision, I confidently took the chosen chair, trying to make myself as comfortable as possible while observing my future "colleagues," checking the next point—whether they had taken out notebooks for notes or not. Most had done exactly that, especially the neighbors I didn't know, so, not to stand out, I placed paper and a pencil on the table. Not that I intended to write anything down, just for the sake of formality.
Hearing laughter opposite me, I slightly turned my head. Well, look at that. Sagami, having already hit it off with some girls, was sitting directly across. Noticing my gaze, she paused for a second, frowning, then continued chatting with her new friends as if nothing had happened.
Gradually, the room filled up, causing the noise level to exceed all comfort limits. Does everyone really have to exchange a couple of words with someone? Even the guys sitting on either side of me had managed to find conversation partners, thus depriving me of the only chance to distance myself from the ongoing events.
Fortunately, I didn't have to suffer long. About five minutes later, the classroom door swung open noisily, and Yukinoshita walked in, briefly interrupting the hubbub. She was followed by Hiratsuka-sensei, the P.E. teacher—I think his name was Atsugi—and a couple of other guys carrying stacks of printouts, accompanied by a pretty girl.
After the Snow Queen found a place to sit—predictably, the spot closest to the chairperson's table—the girl whispered something to her "attendants," who then swiftly spread out across the conference room, handing out sheets of paper to everyone.
— Great, I see everyone is here! Allow me to introduce myself to those who don't know me: Shiromeguri Meguri, Student Council President! It's a pleasure to meet you all!
The student who stepped forward clapped her hands cheerfully, drawing attention to herself.
She was short, with curly brown hair of decent length tied into pigtails with colored bands. Her features were pleasant and soft, not off-putting. Her proportions were fine, though the school uniform made a perfectly accurate assessment impossible. Based on her tone and relaxed posture, she was comfortable in this environment.
— The first topic of our meeting will be choosing the Organizing Committee Chairperson.
Judging by the increased murmuring, no one expected this? Strange.
— As you know, by tradition...
I already knew what she was going to say, so I decided to spend the time on a different activity: observing the behavior of those gathered in the room after the question was raised.
...Tch, I don't see any wild enthusiasm from anyone. Most lowered their gaze, avoiding eye contact with Meguri; the rest were either quietly chatting with acquaintances or pretending to be extremely interested in the handouts.
As I've noted before: few people want to shoulder such responsibility. It's much simpler to execute orders than to give them out.
— N-no one wants to?
Shiromeguri's smile faded slightly.
— I understand you might be nervous, but I assure you, there's nothing scary about the upcoming work!
Well, I'd say they're not afraid of the work itself, but of the unknown that comes with it. From your perspective, everything might be fine and familiar, but for us, it's akin to the first parachute jump. Here, you either need a kick in the butt for acceleration, or to be brought to a state where it's easier to jump than to shuffle your feet. The latter is easily achieved by simply keeping the audience stewing in tension for about ten minutes; someone is bound to snap. However, I don't think Meguri's goal is exactly that outcome.
— All right, why is everyone sitting around?!
Atsugi stepped forward, practically thumping his chest with his fist.
— You're being offered such an opportunity, and you're turning up your noses?!
Honestly, Sensei, that approach will only stir up enthusiasm in athletes or drill-lovers who respond to being challenged with "Are you chickens?" Look, Hiratsuka-sensei is covering her face with her palm; she understands you're only making things worse.
— Understand that you will be representing our school! A chance like this comes along...
Yes, now let's ramp up the nervous tension even more, so that the slightest desire is stomped into the ground.
Bravo, bravo, bravissimo!
— Um...
Meguri gently nudged the man aside.
— Please don't forget that this will especially look good on your recommendations. Many universities...
Now, these are the beginnings of the right approach. It's like dealing with a stubborn horse. You either lure it with a carrot, or—my gaze involuntarily fell on Shizuka again—you put a gun to its head.
Meeting my eyes, the woman gave a barely noticeable, promising smile, which sent a momentary shiver down my spine.
Speaking of tigers and rabbits, then.
For some reason, a nasty feeling is growing that if no one is chosen, the decision might be made by the curators of this whole spectacle. I didn't have to wonder for long whose way the Sensei's pointing finger would be directed.
Listen, Hiratsuka-sensei, I may be sinful, but not that much!
— Oh, by the way, aren't you Haruno's little sister?
Atsugi, having again interfered in Shiromeguri's attempts to find a volunteer, stared quite tactlessly at Yukino.
The Snow Queen gave the teacher an unreadable look, then slowly nodded.
— She did wonderfully! So why don't you try following in your older sister's footsteps too?!
If there were an award for the worst phrasing, you, Sensei, would be the main candidate for it.
The shadow that crossed Yukinoshita's face confirmed I was right.
— No.
In the ensuing silence, her answer sounded pure and clear.
— I am not interested in a leadership position.
Atsugi, meeting her gaze, involuntarily recoiled. That's it, you've conceded ground; continue, and prepare to become an icicle. If there's one thing both Yukino and Haruno know how to do, it's spot a fleeting weakness.
The P.E. teacher, sensing this, wisely decided to drop the subject.
At that very moment, a quiet voice spoke up:
— W-well, if no one wants to, then I'm ready to become the chairperson...
Wait, I know who that belongs to.
Sagami?
— Really?!
Meguri exclaimed happily, with clear relief in her voice.
— Then introduce yourself to everyone!
Minami, hesitating, awkwardly stood up, shrinking under the intense scrutiny of all those present.
What are you doing? Why?
Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed her friends whispering something to the girl.
— My name is Sagami Minami, second year. It's not like I'm completely ready... but I'm really interested! I know there are people here who are truly capable and willing, b-but I think...
She took a breath and, gathering her strength, finished:
— But I believe this will help me grow as a person and gain an unforgettable experience!
General platitudes, obvious discomfort, uncertainty in her voice coupled with self-sacrifice.
Tough luck. Someone decided to jump out of the plane after all, unable to withstand the tension.
— Wonderful words!
Shiromeguri gushed and clapped her hands.
And, just like an audience in a theater, everyone else, timidly at first, then repeated her actions, ultimately giving Minami loud applause, which utterly flustered the girl.
The masses, as they are.
As Canetti wrote: "Even applause must ring out at the appointed moment, and people clap, as a rule, when clapping is necessary." Someone must start, set the direction, so that people, in a single impulse, support it, merging into a single knot composed of palms and one desire—to match the rhythm of the person sitting next to them. And involuntarily, those who don't want to participate, without noticing it, submit to the general motive, blending in with everyone else.
— All right, now that we've decided on a chairperson, it's time to decide who will handle what. Please look over the printouts for five minutes!
My turn had come to participate in all this.
Lowering my gaze, I scanned the sheet. In principle, the thread author hadn't lied, except for one thing: the list additionally included the position of a sort of secretary, whose role was to compile reports.
Hmm...
At first glance, it looks appealing: just sit, write reports, and hand them in. However, there's a catch.
As I understand it, reports on the activities of all departments. Given the number of people and the upcoming workload, there will be a lot of paperwork. Consequently, I'll have to stay late, which means less time at home with Komachi or dealing with my own affairs.
And I'd also have to slave away next to Sagami and whoever she chooses as her deputy. Do I need that?
No.
Then, I'm dancing between procurement and advertising.
What exactly do I want to do, since the possibility of refusal doesn't exist?
Closing my eyes, I crossed my arms over my chest, analyzing the choices presented from all angles.
Despite the downsides of workload and mandatory social interaction, working in the advertising sector could serve as a good addition to my resume. In any case, if I want to work in the IT field, this knowledge might be useful. Understanding what the consumer wants to see, possible tricks and stratagems capable of attracting attention and gaining clientele...
Procurement is a little simpler. The biggest difficulty would be logistics. Can I handle it? Well, in the modern world of gadgets, connecting with all participants wouldn't be difficult. The factor of utility is also there...
...Wait, why am I looking at everything from the perspective of someone who's going to manage something? Hachiman, wake up. Your task is to occupy a niche position with minimal responsibility and workload, and not draw attention to yourself. Why would you want this kind of hassle?
Procurement, period. Work as a mover for a few days, sweat it out, and forget it like a bad dream. What am I even thinking?
— All right, Sagami, time's up.
Meguri called out loudly to Minami, who had been trying to merge with the desk until now.
— Huh? Me?
The girl pointed a finger at her chest.
— Of course! The chairperson must handle such matters! Come on, don't be scared, you yourself wanted to gain experience!
Under Shiromeguri's urging, Sagami, shrinking, took the place among the Student Council members.
Glancing sideways at the president, the "chairperson" cleared her throat and, lifting the trembling sheet of paper, stammered:
— S-so, who agrees to work on a-advertising?...
Silence ensued.
Sit tight, Hachiman, don't move. Procurement. Remember your goal.
Initiative is punishable!
"They chose you as the Class Representative? That's awesome!"
Komachi's delighted face flashed before my eyes.
— Guys... w-who wants to do advertising? I-I'm waiting for suggestions...
Sagami's voice grew quieter and quieter. The lack of reaction to her words further undermined her already small self-confidence.
I wonder how happy my little sister would be if she found out I made a significant contribution to the festival?
Would she be proud of me?
Tilting my head back, I sighed loudly.
To go against myself, stepping over my own desires, just to please a partner.
So absurd and meaningless...
I glanced sideways at Minami.
She had lowered her head, feeling that she had failed, her fingers nervously clenching the paper.
She was sweating; she was scared, out of her depth.
I should feel sorry for her, perhaps, but I could only shake my head.
Why did she volunteer? She must have known she couldn't handle it. You need to soberly assess your own capabilities.
Like me.
— I agree.
Sagami snapped her head up, her eyes fixed in an incomparable look of surprise.
Hiratsuka-sensei's expression changed, too, raising an eyebrow and slightly opening her mouth, but she quickly recovered and smiled contentedly.
— Excellent!
Shiromeguri laughed joyfully and turned to Minami.
— You need to write down the name on this form. What's your name?
— Hikigaya Hachiman.
Sighing, I stood up and calmly met Meguri's gaze.
— I am applying for the title of Head of the Advertising Department.
Ignoring the whispering from all directions, I noticed Yukinoshita staring at me in shock. Smiling at her with the corner of my mouth, I closed my eyes.
...Relationships are a double-edged blade without a hilt.