INTERESTED IN THE POSITION

It was finally the designated time after school when we were scheduled to meet Arata at the library to discuss his candidacy for the presidential council. I felt a mixture of nerves and anticipation, as it was the final day before the announcement of who was gonna participate in the president's council. I genuinely believed that he was the ideal candidate for the 

This is the position that Ayu sought. Let us hold onto hope and maintain our faith. Ayu and I were standing in front of the library door. On my right side, I noticed Ayu preparing to take action. As soon as I opened the door, we both scanned the area to see if Arata was present at the library. However, it appeared that he was not there yet. Therefore, I turned around from where Hana had positioned herself at the library desk and proceeded to her.

"Hello Hana, is Arata arriving soon?" I inquired.

"Oh, yes, he will be slightly tardy because the teacher requested to speak with him," Hana replied.

"Very well, we should sit down and wait," Ayu suggested, holding my hand and looking at me.

"Certainly, Ayu. Thank you, Hana. We will wait for him at their tables," I said.

As we were holding hands, I moved the chair back slightly to allow Ayu to sit down first. Ayu was impressed by my chivalrous behavior and thanked me as she settled in. Finally, I took my seat. We were both waiting for Arata to arrive and conversing at the library.

The time ticked by, and it was already past 10 minutes. We were both concerned that he might forget or be apprehensive about attending. However, Ayu was significantly more anxious than I was. She tapped her feet nervously, moved her feet in a rhythmic motion, and simultaneously moved her fingers.

"What if he does not come?" Ayu asked, her voice trembling.

"He will arrive, don't be concerned. He has tasks to attend to," I reassured her.

As soon as we waited in the library, a door opened, and we both saw a shadow of a human figure approaching. It was Arata, slightly tardy.

"Apologies, guys. I was discussing a project with my science teacher," Arata explained, scratching his head and preparing to sit down, As Arata settled into a chair, Hana was delighted to see Arata again. However, she remained slightly apprehensive and flushed, harboring feelings for him.

"We're delighted to have you here. No worries"

"What would you like to discuss with me, guys?" Arata inquired, curious about the purpose of their meeting.

"Well, Arata, we have two reasons for wanting to speak with you. Firstly, we would like to inquire if you would be interested in joining our team. Secondly, we believe you possess the qualities to be the vice president of the council," Ayu explained. She had heard from Daisuke about Arata's hard work and altruistic nature and thought he would be a suitable candidate for this position. However, she wanted to learn more about his aspirations and intentions before making a decision.

"Daisuke has informed me that you are a diligent and helpful individual," Ayu continued. "If you accept our offer and wish to take on this role, we would appreciate it if you could provide us with more information about yourself."

Arata appeared to be contemplating his decision. He placed his hand on the table and looked at it thoughtfully before glancing to the side. While he may have an enigmatic and mysterious aura, Ayu sensed that he would reveal his true intentions once he responded.

"I am hesitant to accept this position, Ayu," Arata admitted. "I have numerous academic commitments and aspire to become the best student in our high school. I am also eager to pursue a career in medicine, but I am concerned about the time constraints that may arise from these responsibilities."

Arata's expression indicated that he was not fully committed to the vice president position. His focus on becoming a doctor was evident, but Ayu was curious about the reasons behind his strong desire.

"I understand your concerns, Arata," Ayu reassured him. "We recognize the importance of fulfilling your academic goals and pursuing your passion for medicine. However, we also believe that taking on a leadership role can be a valuable experience that will enhance your personal and professional development."

As Ayu spoke, I felt compelled to intervene and attempt to persuade Arata to reconsider his decision. However, Ayu anticipated my intentions and intervened before I could express my thoughts.

"It is alright, Arata," Ayu said with a smile.

"We comprehend your aspirations and the challenges you face. We believe that you have the potential to achieve great things, and we are confident that you will make the most of your opportunities."

With that, I approached Hana's desk library and obtained Ayu's phone number, determined to follow up with her regarding the matter. As I began writing the phone number on the note,

"I apologize for wasting your time, guys," Arata bowed his head once again.

"It's alright, don't worry. We hope your goal is successful," Ayu replied with a smile. Arata was rising and gathering his bag, intending to leave the room and head to the library. However, I reached him and stopped him.

"Hey Arata, if you reconsider here, it would have been pleasant to have the position. Ayu is attempting to prevent those who wish to close this school, so please reconsider and call this phone number if you change your mind. Ayu does not want this school to close," I implored him as I urged him to think about it.

Arata took the note and departed without uttering a word. I was uncertain of his thoughts, as he remained silent. I contemplated whether he declined the position, was contemplating his decision, or was simply bothered by my persistence. After all, I genuinely did not want Ayu to fail; she was determined to save this school, and the only recourse we had was to wait for tomorrow before the announcement of his decision. As I turned to Ayu, she was approaching me, holding my bag and ready to leave home.

"Let's go home, Daisuke," she smiled. However, I sensed a hint of sadness beneath her smile, which I chose to overlook.

"Ayu, I-"

"There's nothing you have to say, Daisuke. Don't worry," she replied, looking down with a somber expression. She continued our conversation, her demeanor unchanged.

"I just want to go home, please," she said, gently grabbing my arm and leading me out of the library. On the other hand, Hana felt empathy for us, as we had hoped that Arata would accept the position. Unfortunately, our hopes were dashed.

As the afternoon wore on, Arata returned home. He opened the door and removed his shoes.

"Hello," he said to his uncle, "I am home."

"Well, Arata, how is the intelligent young man doing today? How was school?" his uncle inquired, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth as he messed up Arata's hair. His uncle was like a brother and a father to Arata, and he could never ask for a better person.

"Please, Uncle Isamu," Arata protested, "I am not a child anymore, and you know that."

"Of course, my dear boy," his uncle replied, trying to maintain a serious tone but failing miserably. "So, how was school, young man?"

"Sigh," Arata said, "it was good. I am working hard to become a doctor, as that was my goal to help my mother."

"Kiddo," his uncle said, "we have already discussed this. There is no cure for your mother's condition, as the doctor has informed us. The only thing we can do is wait and hold onto until she gets her memories back."

"Nonsense, Uncle Isamu!" Arata exclaimed, his face filled with upset. 

"I know there is a way!…"

They both fell silent, both lost in thought.

"I am sorry, Uncle Isamu," Arata said, tears welling up in his eyes. "I just wish my mother could talk to me again. I do not want to see her like this."

Arata had witnessed his mother lose her memories before he was born. Before that, she had been able to talk and remember everything like a normal human being. But something unfortunate had occurred before that moment, causing her to forget everything.

"It is okay, my dear boy," his uncle said, patting Arata's left arm. "As long as you are intelligent and believe in yourself, you can achieve anything. There is no need to hesitate. Go for it, Arata."

Arata looked away, trying to hide his tears. He did not want his uncle to realize that he was crying. As he held back his tears, he made a decision.

"Well, there was another incident that occurred today after school," he said.

"Oh? What is it?" his uncle asked, curious about the news.

"Two individuals approached me and inquired if I would be interested in becoming the vice president of the council," Arata explained. 

"However, I am uncertain if I am capable of fulfilling that role. My primary focus is on working diligently to achieve my goal."

"I do not appear to concur with joining them to become vice president of the council. After all, your mother was also vice president during our high school years," remarked Uncle Isamu, reminiscing.

"Wait, seriously?" exclaimed Arata, visibly surprised upon hearing his uncle's statement. 

"Indeed, she is a remarkable woman who has earned the admiration of everyone around her. Your mother was truly exceptional." Uncle Isamu expressed his admiration for Arata's mother.

"Furthermore, Arata, even while striving to achieve her goals, she also harbored aspirations of pursuing other interests. She desired to become a vice president of the council, recognizing her potential while simultaneously yearning for personal fulfillment. Life is not solely about accomplishing one's objectives; it is about embracing a diverse range of activities and experiences that bring joy and fulfillment." Uncle Isamu continued his conversation while diligently washing the plates.

"If your mother were present today, she would be overjoyed to witness your aspiration to become a vice president of the council. Arata, you possess the qualities of a hardworking and compassionate individual, and society values such attributes. If you encounter challenges, do not hesitate to step forward and make a positive difference." Uncle Isamu attempted to convey his mother's perspective if she had been present in the household.

"Indeed, I am committed to this goal. However, I have received information that these two students have said about something closing the school and preventing its operation. They have made it clear that they will not allow the school to be closed but to remain open." Arata shared the concerning news with his uncle.

"Oh no! That is truly unfortunate news." Uncle Isamu expressed his shock.

"Yes, it is. You know, Uncle, you are right. I will not only become the vice

President of the council because of my mother's influence, but I have also come to realize that I possess the ability to assist others, just as she did. After all, I am her son, and I am proud of that." Arata smiled, acknowledging his uncle's wisdom.

"Indeed, you bear a striking resemblance to your mother, Arata. Your demeanor and attitude are reminiscent of hers." As Uncle Isamu finished cleaning the dishes, he wiped his hand with a towel to ensure its dryness and continued the conversation while walking towards Arata.

"Tomorrow, please get in touch with your mother and grandmother to inform them of your decision. They will be delighted to hear about your aspirations." Uncle Isamu patted Arata's head, offering his support and encouragement.

"Very well, I will proceed upstairs. See you there," Arata said as he ascended to his room. Upon entering, he placed his bag on his desk. As he was removing his uniform and changing into his new one, he noticed a phone number note falling onto the floor. He fixed his gaze on the note and retrieved it. He placed the note's phone number on his desk as he completed changing and retrieved the note. Subsequently, he proceeded directly to his bet and began typing the phone number on his screen to call the number.

As Arata finished typing, the phone rang. Consequently, the phone call commenced.

"Hello?" the voice on the other end responded, it was Ayu's voice.

"Oh, I apologize, Ayu. I mistook this number for Daisuke's," Arata replied nervously.

On the other hand, Ayu was surprised to hear that Arata was on the phone call. However, he continued the conversation.

"I also wanted to express my change of mind and express my desire to join you as the ice president council member. Therefore, I am in," Arata responded with confidence. As the conversation progressed, Ayu was overjoyed to hear Arata's decision and eagerly anticipated discussing the upcoming events and gaining more insights into himself. Ultimately, everything transpired favorably for Ayu.

The following morning, as I was walking to school with Fuuto, I was 

Upset that I had given her phone number to Arata without her consent. As she was approaching me little by little, I was a bit nervous about what she was gonna say next.

"H-Hey Ayu good morning" I was nervous as I was saying. But she was quiet and stared at me with an upset face on me.

"Okie I'm sorry for giving him your phone number I just wanted him to think about it again" I apologized to her as I had my hands together up and was looking at her with a nervous face. But as I continued talking, she kissed me on the cheek. I was confused is she upset with me or what did I miss in this situation? As I put my hand on my cheek where she kissed it, then blushing, and confused face. She then started to giggle and smile at me.

"Thanks, Daisuke, you did it hehe" She still smiled at me but I didn't know if this was a trick or not.

"Wait you are not upset at me because I gave your phone number to Arata?" I ask confused.

"Nope" still smiling at me, but she continues talking to me.

"Thank you Arata decided to join the team, his now part of the vice president council," she said as then she hugged me with a big hug. I slowly put my hand to hug her, but in the end, she was really happy and I was too. I was delighted that everything was progressing smoothly for Ayu. Each time I embraced her warmly, I yearned for this moment to continue indefinitely, envisioning a world where we were the sole companions. However, simultaneously, I harbored a sense of trepidation in the absence of others, while simultaneously recognizing that the very presence of people could be unsettling.

In essence, individuals like us are often subjected to the harsh realities of life's cruel twists. On the other hand, there are undoubtedly individuals who embody kindness and compassion. Nevertheless, this is the nature of life, and this is how it operates—a world divided into distinct groups,

Genuinely concerned about Ayu. She was deeply saddened that Arata had declined to accept the position of vice president of the council. I made every effort to facilitate a reconciliation between them and provided him with Ayu's contact information in the hope that they could communicate if he desired to pursue the vice president position. However, I have not received any communication from Ayu regarding whether he contacted her or expressed interest in joining the team. At the same time, I should have inquired with Ayu whether it was acceptable for me to provide him with her phone number. I felt somewhat uncomfortable about doing so, but I intended to encourage him to reconsider his decision to become the vice president. In this world, there are always two options: whether something is acceptable or not, and whether it is right or wrong. Fuuto perceived my mood as if he sensed something amiss, which he already knew. This was about the incident that transpired yesterday after school, following Arata's decision.

"Hey, what are you planning for this weekend?" Fuuto inquired, attempting to divert my attention from the events of yesterday.

"I was considering taking Ayu on a date, which is my first time," I replied.

"WHAT!?" Fuuto exclaimed, expressing his surprise.

"You have never taken Ayu on a date… what kind of boyfriend are you?" Fuuto continued, making a peculiar expression at me.

"I understand you may not feel compelled to share this information, but I would finally go on a date, which is essentially a social outing rather than a romantic one," I clarified to Fuuto.

"Dude, that doesn't count. That's just hanging out with a friend, not a girlfriend and boyfriend. What the heck?" Fuuto continued the conversation.

"Well, at least you will take her on a date, but it is too late now," I responded.

"Daisuke!" It was Ayu who called out my name. To me, her tone did not convey any negative sentiment. However, as I was about to turn back to Fuuto, he had vanished. I felt a slight sense of apprehension, as I suspected that Ayu might be

Shaped by the choices we make along our life's journey. On the other hand, there are undoubtedly individuals who embody kindness and compassion. Nevertheless, this is the nature of life, and this is how it operates—a world divided into distinct groups, shaped by the choices we make along our life's journey.

As we proceeded to class, time ticked by, passing the 30-minute mark. An announcement from the principal interrupted our proceedings.

"Good morning students, today I have an announcement to make. As I mentioned yesterday, I am seeking candidates for the school's president council."

The principal continued, his voice echoing through the paging microphone, "The names of the candidates for the election president council are as follows: Takara Shona from class 3-A for president, and Kenzo Omori from class 3-A for vice president." Takara was exceptionally prepared, his left fist raised in a gesture of encouragement as he admired his popularity and attractiveness. Kenzo was a close friend of Takara, they had known each other since their first year of school. Consequently, they formed a formidable and well-coordinated team. Despite the principal's continued announcements, 

"Emi Daigo from class 2-A will be the president council representative and Michi Yamaguchi from class 2-C will be the vice president council representative."

The principal paused, acknowledging the absence of recognition for the names of the candidates from classes 2-A and 2-C.

"Finally, the president council representative from class 2-B is Ayu Tahakashi and the vice president council representative from class 2-A is Arata Yoshida." As the principal announced Ayu's name, the entire class 2-B erupted in cheers.

"You have our support, Ayu!" a student shouted out.

"You are the best, Ayu!" another student girl exclaimed.

I was heartened by the overwhelming support that Ayu received. It was a positive indication that some of her classmates were standing by her side. In the end, it was afternoon. Ayu promptly took my seat, her excitement palpable as she had found her right path.

"I am astounded by the positive turn of events," Ayu exclaimed, her happiness evident. Kenji and Ryota also approached me, extending their congratulations to Ayu.

Fuuto, seated beside me, shared my delight and offered her support.

"We should celebrate our participation in the game," Kenji suggested, his spirits high.

"Of course, brother. You will cover the expenses for the meal," Ryota replied, playfully patting his twin brother's shoulder.

"Hey, that's not fair!" Kenji protested.

"HAHAHA," we all laughed at the twins' antics. Their playful behavior brought us joy.

Unexpectedly, Arata entered our class.

"It appears you are celebrating without me," Arata remarked, joining the conversation.

"Arata! We were planning to go out to eat to celebrate. Would you like to join us?" I asked, inviting him to participate in our festivities.

"Certainly," Arata replied, maintaining his usual kind demeanor. While Arata occasionally enjoys solitude, this was a new experience for him, as he lacked a close friend. I acknowledge that he has one, but his unwavering positive attitude towards others remained constant.

"Let us celebrate today and embark on our mission plan to become president and vice president, securing victory and preventing the school's closure," Ayu declared with unwavering confidence.

"Hell yeah!" Kenji exclaimed, fist raised in readiness.

"It sounds like a well-thought-out plan," Arata smiled and chuckled with his eyes closed. I am confident that we will have an enjoyable journey ahead with this plan for Ayu and Arata to emerge victorious in the upcoming election.