ARATA YOSHIDA and the CLASS 2-A

"Hello, my name is Arata Yoshida. I am in class 2-A," he introduced himself. However, he appeared uncomfortable while introducing himself.

"I apologize if I am interrupting you, Arata," I apologized to him because I felt I had been interrupted by his reading book.

"Oh no, you are not bothering me. I am usually here reading books or doing my homework, but sometimes I talk to my only friend here in the library," he replied as he returned to reading. I resumed reading my light novel. However, there was something about this individual that seemed intelligent. Thirty minutes passed, and we were still reading. Arata appeared to be thoroughly enjoying his book. He certainly resembled the type of person who would prefer to spend time reading in the library without distractions or social media. Therefore, I closed my light novel and approached the library girl. It had to be him; he was perfectly suited for the position, even if he desired to be vice president of the council. However, before that, I needed to learn more about him. My first step was to inquire with the library girl if she knew him. If she did, I would need to know him better. I understand that this may appear unusual, but I do not intend to make it creepy; I merely want to know as if it were a job I am performing. I know Ayu had advised me not to assist her today, but there was something about this individual, Arata, that seemed to align perfectly with Ayu's desires and what she was seeking. When I reached the library girl, standing in front of her desk, I began asking her about Arata.

"Hello, sorry if I am interrupting you, but do you know anything about Arata Yoshida from class 2-A?" I asked the library girl. However, when I asked her, she suddenly blushed. I was concerned that she may have a cold or something.

"I am sorry, but are you alright?" I asked.

"Y-yes, I am okay," she replied, still blushing, continuing the conversation as she tried to calm

As she blushed, she took a deep breath and began responding to my question.

"Yes, I am familiar with Arata Yoshida. He is in class 2-A and is exceptionally intelligent, diligent, and responsible. He consistently completes assignments ahead of schedule and is a well-liked individual." She smiled and blushed as she touched her hair. I couldn't help but sense a hint of admiration in her words. I had a feeling that she harbored feelings for Arata at some point. I considered asking her directly if she had any romantic feelings for him, as it could potentially be an enjoyable conversation. However, I recognized that it was none of my business, as I was not well-acquainted with her. Furthermore, I feared that she might perceive my inquiry as bullying. Despite these concerns, I felt compelled to mention her positive qualities about Arata, as I believed it could be beneficial for her.

"But why the question? Excuse me, what is your name?" she inquired.

"My apologies for the oversight. I should have introduced myself. My name is Daisuke Ito, and I am from class 2-B. I asked you because I am seeking someone to become the vice president of the council." I continued.

"I believe Arata would be an excellent candidate for the vice president position for a girl who aspires to become the president."

"Oh, really! Wait… Who is the girl?" she asked, her expression slightly skeptical.

"Her name is Ayu Takahashi."

She was visibly surprised when I mentioned her name and seemed a little downcast. Ayu Takahashi is a well-known and esteemed student in our high school, possessing exceptional intelligence and a kind disposition. However, out of the blue, she inquired about her relationship status.

"Is Ayu single?" she asked, her curiosity evident.

"No, she is not single. She is already in a relationship." I replied.

"Oh, thank goodness," she mumbled, a hint of relief in her voice.

"And that concludes I'm her boyfriend," I concluded, ending the discussion abruptly.

"What?!!" she exclaimed, her voice echoing through the library. She quickly covered her mouth in embarrassment. I discreetly shushed her to prevent

Upon overhearing the unexpected revelation, Arata approached me with a sheepish expression.

"I apologize for the surprise," she mumbled, scratching her head in embarrassment. She rose to her feet and walked directly to where I was. Given the nature of her work at the library, which primarily involves sitting, she likely felt fatigued.

"I did hear rumors that Ayu has a boyfriend," she began, "but some were unaware of his identity."

"Oh, really?" I responded, scratching my head in curiosity. "I suppose people will eventually become acquainted with him."

Despite my initial hesitation, I decided to engage in conversation to change the subject.

"But what makes Arata a kind person?" I inquired.

"Well, you know that Arata does not have many friends," she replied. "Nevertheless, he enjoys assisting others by being pleasant." She touched her hair again and continued the conversation, her face lit up with happiness as she spoke about him.

"As much as I have heard how kind he is, but not particularly adept at making friends, he still makes an effort to cheer people up," she explained. "There was an instance when a friend of mine mentioned him, and I was genuinely curious about his character. However, when I walked into the hallway, I failed to notice him. Fortunately, he grabbed my hips and reassured me that everything was alright. As I looked into his face and beautiful eyes, I realized that he embodied the qualities of a kind and sweet individual." She blushed profusely as she spoke.

"He is a prince," she chuckled, closing her eyes and moving her head while simultaneously placing her hands on her cheeks. She seemed to be thoroughly enjoying herself in the company of Arata. While it was slightly annoying, I refrained from commenting, as I had similar feelings towards Ayu. She is an exceptionally kind and gentle person.

"So, you like Arata?" I asked playfully, a smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. However, she responded abruptly after only thirty seconds, as if she had been waiting for the opportunity to express her feelings. Her cheeks flushed even deeper.

"Why would you ask that? She was blushing when I interrupted her question."

"The way you're describing him suggests you have feelings for him, and I must admit, it does sound that way. How are you telling me about Arata?" I asked, closing my eyes and giggling at her. However, as I turned to see if Arata was in his seat, he had vanished. Suddenly, I was surprised.

"There's no way Arata left," I said, my eyes wide with shock. We were only seven feet away from the door, and I don't know if he heard our conversation. The girl from the library started to feel embarrassed and blush, looking down at her feet. She was probably wondering if Arata had heard what she said and how it sounded that she liked him.

"T-T-There's no way he heard us. Right, Daisuke?" She asked, still embarrassed and blushing. She turned her face a little red and stroked her arm gently. As I turned to her, I didn't want to make her feel worse. I wanted to make her feel better, just like Fuuto does when I feel negative. So, I made the same moves as Fuuto.

"It's okay, don't worry. Everything will be okay. Maybe he didn't hear us. Maybe he heard us mumbling from a distance, where he was barely hearing our conversation. But if it makes you feel better, I can ask Arata if he heard us. So don't you worry, I'll handle this." I said to make her feel comfortable and patted her shoulders. To my surprise, she seemed to calm down and happy. She looked at me and thanked me for calming her down. I was genuinely glad she was feeling better for a little while. However, I knew I had another task to do: to ask Arata if he had heard our conversation about him. I hoped he hadn't heard because I didn't want him to think of us as creeps. Also, he sounded perfect to be the vice president of the council. I would do my best in everything I could. Despite still holding her shoulder,

In an unexpected turn of events, Ayu unexpectedly turned to face us. As she fixed her gaze on me, the library girl was visibly shocked.

"M-Ms. Ayu," the library girl stammered, her eyes wide with surprise. "I-I didn't expect to see you here."

Ayu's popularity in high school was undeniable. She was the smartest girl in her class, and her beauty made many boys seek her attention. While she had rejected their advances, fate had other plans. I had become her boyfriend, and she had become the center of attention at school.

However, Ayu could also be a formidable person. As the library girl nervously called out her name, I instinctively reached for her shoulder and turned around, my face flushed with embarrassment.

"A-Ayu, how are you?" I managed to say, my voice trembling slightly. "Did you find someone for your vice president council?"

"Ms. Ayu, it's not what it seems," the library girl replied, bowing her head in embarrassment. "He was just asking me a question."

"What was he asking?" She inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"He was asking me about Arata Yoshida from class 2-A and what his personality is," the library girl explained. "Then Arata arrived, but he left as I was talking about him to Daisuke."

"Daisuke?" She repeated, as her interest further aroused.

"Yes, Daisuke," the library girl confirmed. "He was the one who made me feel calm down."

"How so?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

"Because the way I was talking about Arata sounded a bit like me… well… of me liking him," the library girl explained. "He was going to ask Arata if he had heard to calm me down if he had."

"Daisuke?" She repeated, as her interest further aroused.

"Yes, Daisuke," the library girl confirmed. "He was the one who made me feel calm down."

Ayu's face turned red with anger, and she crossed her arms over her chest, glaring at me. But in the end, she sighed and calmed down, realizing that I was not the type of person to make her feel uncomfortable. She knew how much I cared for her,

In understanding my actions, Ayu recognized that I did not intend to cause her distress.

"Sigh… It's alright, sorry for my attitude, but unfortunately, none of us have found a candidate willing to become vice president of the council, which is why I am somewhat disappointed not finding one, and now this," Ayu expressed, her disappointment evident. She had only one day left to find a candidate before the names of students anticipated for the presidency were announced.

"Well, Daisuke says that Arata is a suitable fit for the position you are seeking, Ms. Ayu," the library girl informed her, attempting to assist in resolving her dilemma.

"I apologize for not asking your name, and may I know yours?" Ayu inquired, her mind preoccupied with various matters and feeling tired and stressed.

"Oh, my name is Hana Higasa. I am from class 2-A. It's a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Ayu," Hana replied, bowing respectfully.

"Please, just call me Ayu. I am not a famous person," she said with a smile, tilting her head. As I observed her, I noticed that she seemed to enjoy the respect and positive interactions she had with others. However, it was possible that she simply preferred this type of behavior.

"Anyway, you have mentioned Arata repeatedly. Who is this person?" Ayu asked.

As I glanced at the clock on the library's ceiling, where Hana was seated at her desk, I realized that it was quite late to close the library. It was already 4:10 pm. However, Hana turned around as well and gasped in surprise at the timer. It was time to close the library.

"If you want to go home with me, I will explain to you on the way because Hana has to close the library," I replied to her, who remained silent, not answering her question about Arata. In the meantime, I would gladly explain the way home to her.

"Y-Yes, please. I apologize for making your stay a bit late," Hana apologized, feeling remorseful for causing inconvenience. Ayu walked over to Hana and patted her shoulder, reassuring her that there was

There is no need to be concerned about today's events. Hana smiled at me, indicating that she was content.

"Thank you, Hana, for your honesty. Your candor and explanation were truly commendable."

"A-Ayu, thank you very much," she replied, feeling a sense of gratitude.

As we were about to leave the library, Hana approached me before I departed.

"Daisuke, please remember your promise to speak with Arata about today's events," she said, her voice trembling slightly as she clasped her hands together.

In the end, I nodded in acknowledgment, assuring her that I understood and would not forget her request. Hana smiled, feeling more comfortable and confident that everything would be alright. She bid us farewell and left our way home, accompanied by Ayu.

On our way home, as we were walking, Ayu caught my attention and asked me something.

"So handsome are you just staring all day or are you gonna tell me who this Arata person is?" she playfully inquired.

I smiled and replied, "Oh right, my bad. His name is Arata Yoshida, and he belongs to class 2-A. He is a friendly person who is always willing to help others, even if they need assistance. He is also very diligent and always completes his assignments on time. I believe he is quite intelligent."

As I continued our conversation, I scratched my head in thought.

"But the only thing I want to know more about him is how to get to know him better in person. I think it would be beneficial for you to meet him, as you will be working together on a project."

"Hmm, you are right. Well, how about we meet him tomorrow morning before class starts for a brief conversation? If that is not possible, lunchtime would be a better option."

"But the problem is, we do not know where he goes during lunchtime. It would be more appropriate to schedule a meeting with him during the morning before class and politely request a brief conversation during lunchtime.

I gave her another choice of plan, and she chose the one that she liked.

I was pleased to concur with her plan.

"Not to be overly blunt, Daisuke, but your plan is considerably superior to mine. Behold your display of intelligence!" she teased me with a playful smile.

"Well, you know, sometimes men must impress someone, don't you?" I looked at Ayu with a smile, smoking on her, attempting to impress her.

"Jeez Daisuke," Ayu kissed me as she stopped walking and we shared a minute of passionate kissing on the lips. I could sense her lips, the flavor of strawberry-flavored lipstick, as she placed me against a wall and then stopped. She maintained a direct gaze at me, her face filled with an endearing beauty. She then placed her hand on my chest and whispered in my left ear, a cute smile playing on her lips.

"So Daisuke, when will you finally ask me out?" she inquired. In the end, she embraced me. This realization struck me: I had never asked Ayu on a date. I had forgotten numerous things, including the identity of the man who had been stalking me and following Ayu, while I remained oblivious to his intentions. When the voting period concluded, I planned to discuss this matter with her. However, I remain curious about this situation. Speaking of voting, I solemnly pledge my assistance to Ayu in her bid to win the presidential council, thereby saving the school and preventing its closure. She is currently pursuing her goals with the support of her friends, Futou, and especially since I am on her boyfriend's side. However, she also cares about another student who is unfairly being denied an education and the opportunity to learn from school, despite the inconvenience of relocating far away. I must admit, that I am concerned about Ayu's father. While I should not dwell on this matter, I cannot help but feel uneasy. We are discussing Ayu's father here, the man I must respect. On one occasion, he looked at me with hatred, expressing his disdain for me. I am somewhat apprehensive that he may harbor negative feelings towards me in the future

Consequently, this situation may lead to unfortunate outcomes. However, this may be simply a father's reaction when his daughter has a boyfriend. I must now speak with Arata to ascertain if he is the appropriate individual to serve on the president's council. This is an unexpected turn of events, and I never anticipated it would unfold in this manner.

"Oh… you are correct, I have never asked you out on a date, so I apologize Ayu. It has been a busy time, but there is no excuse for me to ask you out. You are the most important person to me." I continued the conversation.

"I should have never put your side, Ayu. As for that, I apologize." As I said that and stopped the conversation, I bent down to be romantic as she was my angel prince. I placed my left arm on my chest and raised my right arm slightly, speaking in a manner befitting a prince to a beautiful angel like Ayu.

"My Ayu… would you like to go on a date with me?" I asked, gazing at her with a smile while still kneeling.

"Hehe, yes, my Daisuke. I would love to go on a date with you." She giggled with delight and immediately embraced me as we both fell to the ground.

"Agh!"

I was slightly hurt by her tackle, but on the other hand, she was delighted that I finally asked her out. She continued to hug me as she rested her face on my chest. As long as she is happy, I am extremely happy. I gently patted her head and looked at her, savoring the moment.

The following morning, it was pleasant to see Fuuto walking alongside us. I miss walking with the three of us. With Ayu and my best friend Fuuto, I am always smiling. However, as soon as Ayu arrived at school, we still had time to attend Arata's class 2-A. We woke up a little early to arrive at school and speak with Arata, as was our plan. Ayu, Fuuto, and I proceeded directly to class 2-A. 

Fuuto has asked if we are ready to speak with Arata. I am curious about this individual and excited to meet him. However, Ayu appears to be somewhat nervous, clutching her chest. I am concerned and inquired about her well-being.

"Um, Ayu, are you alright?" I asked, placing my hand on her right shoulder. I have never seen Ayu so nervous. Has something transpired?

"Y-Yes…um…if you proceed with speaking to Arata, please inform him to meet me in the library at lunch if he is interested. Thank you," Ayu replied, walking away with an unusual demeanor.

"Ayu!" I called out to her as she turned back. She halted in her tracks. Upon seeing my face, she appeared uncertain.

"I am fine, Daisuke. Do not worry," she smiled and resumed her walk to the library.

"I am perplexed by her behavior," Fuuto said, turning to me with a concerned expression. However, I instructed Fuuto to accompany Ayu, as her attitude seemed uncharacteristic. It would be prudent for me to approach Arata directly, as I had briefly spoken with him at the library. If I left Fuuto with him to speak with Arata, there is no guarantee of a positive outcome. Therefore, it was best for me to engage in conversation with Arata promptly.

In the end, Fuuto followed Ayu. I appreciate his assistance, as he is like a brother to me. As I observed Fuuto depart, I turned and entered class 2-A, searching for Arata. I focused intently on his location and then approached a female student.

"Excuse me, do you happen to know anyone named Arata Yoshida?" I inquired.

As she was licking her lollipop, she pointed towards the right middle section seat. Upon looking, I confirmed that she was correct. I thanked her and proceeded to Arata. While reading the same book he had read yesterday at the library, I noticed that there was no one sitting in front of him. So, I sat down on the seat and turned it backward to face him. As I sat there, I felt compelled to initiate a conversation with him. 

As Arata moved his book down, he noticed my presence and exclaimed, 

"Oh, it's you!" Surprise had washed over him at seeing me in his class. 

"Yes, it's me," I replied with a smile, continuing our conversation.

"Hey, do you have any plans for lunchtime, Arata?" I inquired.

"Unfortunately, no, besides eating," he answered. 

"Why the question?"

"Well, there's something we'd like to discuss with you, me, and Ayu. Would it be convenient for you to take some time to talk?"

"Oh, Ms. Ayu…hmm," Arata pondered, but ultimately decided to agree.

"Would it be nice to meet with you guys after school at the library?"

"Sure thing," I replied with a thumbs-up and a wink. As I stood up, I thanked him and apologized for taking up his time reading. He was understanding and accommodating. Of all the events that transpired, this one was relatively straightforward. I had anticipated that it might be challenging for him to agree or persuade me, but everything turned out as planned. However, as I rose, I remembered Hana's request. She had asked me to inquire with Arata if he had heard what she had said about him during our conversation yesterday at the library. I turned to him and inquired.

"Oh, and one thing, Arata," I said.

"Yeah?"

"Did you happen to overhear our conversation with the library girl?" I asked, hesitant to mention her name to avoid making Hana feel embarrassed. As Arata attempted to recall the conversation, he remembered it.

"Honestly, no because I'm not fond of gossiping. Conversations are not my forte, and if I had engaged in them, I wouldn't have heard your conversation because of the distance when I was leaving the library.

The only thing I did hear was mumbling, 'You guys,'" he replied. However, I found it reassuring to hear that he had not overheard anything.

Hana can find peace and not feel embarrassed by Arata to hear what she said about him.

"Why the question?" he inquired. I abruptly interrupted his conversation and responded swiftly.

"It's nothing, no worries. See you after school, Arata. Bye,"

In a hurry, I hastily approached the exit. However, as I emerged, I noticed Hana outside, concealing herself at the door as she entered class 2-A.

"Um, Hana?"

"Eek… oh, it's you, Daisuke," Hana was visibly nervous, still harboring embarrassment from yesterday.

"Oh, and Hana, you don't need to worry anymore. I inquired about it, and he responded that he did not hear our conversation. The only thing he did was us mumble, which was difficult for him to comprehend." I continued to explain to Hana.

"Besides, he is not that gossipy. That is what he told me, so no worries, Hana. Everything is alright." I smiled at my accomplishment.

"Thank goodness… thank you, Daisuke. I feel much better now." Hana placed her hand on her chest as she was relieved that everything was back to normal. At the same time, Hana harbored a desire to express her feelings to Arata, but she was too apprehensive.

"Just tell him, for goodness sake!" I teased her.

"Don't you have somewhere else to go?" She playfully hit my back, but not too hard.

"All is well, hehe. Take care, Hana. See you later. I am certain that one day you will make him confess."

"Daisuke," she became embarrassed and retreated to her class. As I departed Stray for my class, Louis Pearly arrived at his class 2-A, made a normal face as he observed me as I walked was oblivious to his gaze, and proceeded to class to take his seat.

Back in Fuuto, attempting to chase Ayu, Fuuto reached her.

"Wait, Ayu… you walk quite fast," Fuuto exclaimed as he regained his breath.

"O-Oh, I apologize, Fuuto. I did not notice you were following behind me." She halted as she waited for Fuuto to recover.

"What was that all about, Ayu? I have never seen you act like that before, aside from that incident involving the roach you saw." Fuuto attempted to remind Ayu about that time she encountered a roach, but Ayu interrupted him.

"Fuuto, please do not remind me of that day!" she exclaimed, mortified by the memory, Futu was giggling. 

Ayu attempted to explain her nervousness to Fuuto, but she abruptly excused herself from class 2-A.

"Fuuto, if I promise you this, please refrain from telling Daisuke," Ayu confided, averting her gaze.

"Very well, but if you disclose the reason for your nervousness, you must promise to do the same to Daisuke later," Fuuto responded, serious about the matter. Fuuto is known for his tendency to conceal information from others, particularly those he cares about.

"Damn it Fuuto" Ayu protested. However, she continued to explain.

"Fine, I will tell him, but if anything goes awry, I will hold you responsible," she playfully retorted.

"All right, what seems to be the matter with you, Ayu?" Fuuto inquired.

"…"

"It is alright, take your time, Ayu. Class begins in fifteen minutes," Fuuto remained composed.

"Well, Daisuke is aware that I once had a best friend, However, he is unaware that he is enrolled in the same class as 2-A. " Ayu's nerves were palpable as she awaited Fuuto's reaction.

"Oh…wait, did he do something to your best friend? Is she or he?" Fuuto asked.

"He…" Ayu replied, as she sighted

still apprehensive that Fuuto would overreact due to the gender of the individual involved. However, she continued the conversation.

"Additionally, he did something wrong, which Daisuke already knows about his actions towards me in the past. He is simply an unpleasant individual, that is all I can say. It is as if he desires to exert control over me, which is a lengthy explanation."

"Oh, I am sorry to hear that, Ayu," Fuuto expressed his condolences.

"It is alright, I understand, Fuuto. Daisuke is your best friend, and you have always been on his side during your childhood"

"He is like a brother to me," Fuuto smiled at Ayu.

"I mean that was also the reason I changed classes. I was supposed to be in class 2-A, but I changed to class 2-B Due to his actions." 

"Indeed, that explanation is logical, considering your intelligence and admiration for Ayu." Fuuto continues the conversation.

"This explanation is entirely logical and coherent."

"Well, you now have that information."

As they conversed, Fuuto realized everything and mutually decided to return to class before its commencement. However, as they were on their way to class, Ayu and Fuuto noticed me approaching. Ayu called out my name as they saw me."How did it go, Daisuke?" Ayu inquired, curious about the outcome.

"Well, he agreed to meet us in the library today during after-school hours," I replied to Ayu. Despite her initial surprise, she expressed her happiness that the meeting was taking place. She sincerely hoped that he would join Ayu's team.

Ayu then embraced me warmly, while Fuuto patted me on the arm, expressing their pride. I turned to Ayu and inquired, 

"Ayu, is everything alright? I apologize if I didn't go forward with you. I would have instructed Fuuto to talk to Arata, but I anticipated that he wouldn't talk to him due to our lack of acquaintance."

Ayu interrupted me, assuring me that everything was fine and that she understood my actions. She emphasized that Fuuto was a kind and considerate individual, and she was grateful for his friendship with Ayu. She expressed her belief that I should cherish the people I had in my life, as I would never find someone like Fuuto. Fuuto smiled in agreement.

"Aww, thanks, Ayu. On my part, Daisuke… don't let this opportunity slip away. Regardless of any challenges or negative circumstances, work together to overcome them," Fuuto hugged me, and Ayu joined us, intertwining their hands. I felt a sense of happiness and confusion, but I decided to accept it and move forward.

"Well, let's proceed to class, shall we?" Ayu suggested, observing both of us. They continued their journey to class, sharing another wonderful moment of timing.