Study study

"Anyway, that's not what I wanted to ask you. I wanted to know if you're free to help me study for the exams," Ken finally got to his actual question.

I was sure he would ask me something like that sooner or later. Being one of the popular guys, he's been going out regularly and isn't particularly studious. He mostly relies on me to teach him. Luckily, he's smart enough to grasp the concepts quickly, so it isn't too bad.

"I was wondering when you were going to ask. Are you sure you can learn everything within two weeks?" I replied with a smile.

"You know I'm a quick learner, so you don't need to worry about that. Plus, I've studied enough not to be completely clueless."

"No way, you actually did something like that? You're making me proud," I teased with a lighthearted tone.

"Yeah, yeah, enjoy it while you can. So, is it a yes or a no?"

"You know I can't leave you hanging like that. If you fail, who will I hang out with next year?"

"Playing high and mighty, I see. So when do we start?"

"I'll text you the details once I've made a study plan. I assume you want help with all the subjects?"

"Everything except English. I can pass that without help," he replied proudly.

Our conversation was cut short as the teacher entered the room. Ken took his seat along with the other students, who were engaged in conversations with their friends. Both Ken and Sato-san were unusually attentive to the teacher, considering their usual behavior. But I suppose it's because of the upcoming exams.

Feeling relatively prepared for the exams, I decided to take a quick nap at my desk, attempting to hide behind the person sitting in front of me, hoping the teacher wouldn't notice.

Suddenly, I felt someone touching my cheeks. Opening my eyes, I saw Sato-san poking my cheeks, trying to wake me up. Startled, I pulled back so forcefully that I almost toppled over my chair. Confused about why she was doing that during class, I glanced at the clock and realized that the class had ended, and it was now break time. I must have fallen asleep. Although I have to admit, it's more comfortable to sleep in a bed.

"Hey, Takahashi-kun, wake up."

"What is it?" I mumbled groggily.

Instead of answering, she grabbed my hand and led me out of the classroom. Still feeling half-asleep, I stumbled multiple times as she pulled me through the corridor. Once we reached the schoolyard, she slowed down and guided me to a spot under a tree. Surprisingly, there was no one around.

I expected this place to be bustling with students seeking shade from the sun. But it seemed they preferred the air-conditioned building instead. Strangely, the location seemed like a perfectly convenient and beautiful spot for a confession. Could it be that Sato-san wants to confess to me?

I glanced at her, but any thoughts of a confession vanished when I noticed her uncharacteristically serious expression.

"Takahashi-kun, I want to ask if you can also help me with my studies."

To be honest, I was expecting her to ask anything but that.

"You want me to help you study? But you're already getting good grades. You don't need me."

"Um, there's something I haven't told you. Do you remember Yukino?"

"Satoru-san? What about her?"

"She's the one who always helps me study because I don't pay much attention in class," she explained apologetically.

And here I thought she was one of the smartest students in our school.

"But don't worry, I'm a fast learner, so you don't need to be concerned about anything," she added with confidence.

"I see. But why don't you ask Satoru-san for help? Why the sudden change?"

"Well, that's because she fell ill yesterday," she replied, scratching her head.

"Will she be able to prepare for the exams then?"

"Don't worry about her. She's pretty smart."

"In that case, both of you can come to my house," I suggested. "We can't study outside, can we?"

"I guess not," she said, lowering her head.

"I'll text you the date and time later, then. I'm going to get lunch. Want to join me?" I asked, unintentionally heading towards the cafeteria. I knew that whenever I asked Sato-san this question, she always had plans with her friends.

Unexpectedly, without saying a word, she grabbed my hand and walked alongside me.

I guess she must be hungry this time. I haven't seen her eat anything since we got to school.

I suppose lunch is on me this time.