TakuJo

"Ugh, why can't I just die in peace?!"

Sugiyama Jo had a morbid plan: to join his family in death as soon as he graduates from high school. And now on his second year, this scheme of his is coming closer into becoming a reality. To him, pointless things such as youth and romance are but mere distractions that could potentially deviate him from his death. Which is why he abides by a strict code to never get involved in anything that will expose him to "a rose-filled youth".

But it seems that fate had other plans. Due to the meddling of his guidance counselor, Jo now finds himself cascaded into a series of events that forces him into his "romantic comedy youth era". With his plan at risk of failing, Jo desperately tries to escape the clutches of youth.

My Funeral Was Ruined By The Start Of My High School Rom-Com

"I'm sorry for showing up like this so suddenly. I hope I didn't disturb you."

"Nah, it's fine. I was just… M-meditating."

Kurebayashi tilted her head to one side, her eyes wide with curiosity as if to say "what is this guy on about?" but with no trace of animosity or disgust. Not the kind of questioning look I'm used to, but I'll take it over the looks of absolute repugnance I sometimes get from other people.

"Nevermind that… Anyway, why did you come to my classroom?"

"Ah… I wanted to apologize to you. I made you listen to some very personal things earlier. It must have made you feel uncomfortable."

She starts shifting from side to side, and it looks like she's really bothered by it. Surprisingly, it seems that Kurebayashi is the type of person to wear her heart on her sleeve. From her usual demeanor, I would have guessed that she'd be good at putting up a facade, like most people. But this is actually good for me. I won't have to think too much when talking to her, since I won't have to worry about her saying one thing while thinking another. At least, that's what I hope.

"I told you, there's nothing for you to apologize about. I really didn't mind at all."

Upon hearing this, Kurebayashi casts her eyes downward.

"But still… There must be something I could do to make up for the trouble I caused."

Before I could even finish what I was saying, my stomach decided to intervene and let out what could only be described as a bellowing roar coming from the third circle of hell. It lasted for a good 3 seconds before getting replaced by the sound of complete and utter silence. This is now the third time today that I solemnly wished for death.

I brace myself for the inevitable laughter, but I hear none. No giggles, no chuckles, and no hyena ha-has. Instead, there's only the look of concern from Kurebayashi's face.

"Did you perhaps not have anything to eat yet?"

"No… I left my wallet at home and didn't bring any food with me."

She reaches into the small bag she was carrying and takes out what appears to be an ornate lunch box.

"I was planning on having my lunch outside. Would you care to join me? I'd be more than happy to share with you."

She says as she extends her lunchbox towards me, acting like an invitation of sorts. Under normal circumstances, I would outright refuse and go about my day. I mean, sharing in someone's lunch sounds like a horrible endeavor. You'd have to be careful not to take too much, otherwise the original owner will wind up getting upset. You'd also have no escape if the food turns out to be something you don't like to eat. There are too many cons and not a lot of pros in such a scenario.

But then again, I am really hungry.

I feel a lump form and go down my throat as I graciously accept her offer. I guess this is how peasants felt when they received food from their lords.

Part 14: A Peasants Life