Failed Confession

Toyonozaki Academy, located in the Chiyoda District of Tokyo, is a relatively new high school established less than a decade ago.

The school is celebrated for its free spirit, expansive grounds, and popularity among Tokyo's private educational institutions. Its school festival draws large crowds from nearby neighborhoods and other schools, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Kato Yusuke felt slightly annoyed as he walked back to his classroom.

"That teacher is really irritating."

"I think Nakamura-sensei is just performing his duties."

"I understand, but I still dislike his manner of speaking."

"So, are you angry?"

"Between school, a part-time job, and a clingy little sister at home who needs attention, it's normal for grades to slip."

"Wow, Kato-kun, you have a younger sister?"

"That's right, and it's the kind that likes to be clingy... eh??"

Kato Yusuke suddenly turned, eyeing the person next to him with suspicion.

"...who are you?"

The question was directed at a short-haired girl in a dark blue uniform similar to his, with Toyonozaki's school emblem on her chest. She had been following him discreetly.

"Well, I'm just someone offering to lend you class notes."

"Kato... Megumi?"

"Do you remember now?"

"Since when have you been there?"

"Right after your chat with Nakamura-sensei; he asked me to deliver you some notes."

Just before

"Megumi, it's abrupt, but could you lend Kato your class notes to review?"

With her being his desk mate Nakamura Katsu used her without hesitation.

"...You've been here the whole time?"

Kato Yusuke realized.

"That's right."

Kato Megumi nodded.

"Why didn't I notice you?"

"Well," Kato Megumi's expression shifted slightly, "I've been told I'm easy to overlook, so it's not your fault."

Kato Yusuke nodded. "I'm sorry I didn't see you earlier. It won't happen again."

He coughed lightly.

"So, can we forget what was said earlier?"

"Sure."

Megumi Kato agreed immediately, her casual response nearly startling him.

Kato Yusuke gave her a surprised look. "Let's head back; it's almost time for class."

After walking three minutes, they found a crowd gathered at the doorway of Class F, blocking the corridor.

Kato Yusuke paused.

Kato Megumi stopped beside him. "What's going on?"

Kato Yusuke shook his head and moved closer, overhearing the crowd.

"Is that Sawamura-san?"

"And third-year Mizusawa-senpai."

"What's happening?"

"Really! That Mizusawa is not only handsome but also the basketball club's star!"

"What are they doing?"

The answer came quickly.

"Sawamura Spencer Eriri-san!"

Mizusawa shouted, bowing deeply.

"I've always liked you! Please go out with me!"

His voice echoed down the hall.

The crowd held its breath, turning to the girl he addressed.

Ah, it's Sawamura-san from the first-year F class."

Kato Megumi whispered, standing next to Kato Yusuke.

The girl, petite with fair skin and clear blue eyes, had long golden hair tied in double ponytails, reaching her waist, her presence dazzling.

Her beauty and demeanor were mesmerizing, it was no surprise Mizusawa was smitten.

The students and even some teachers paused to see what would happen next.

The environment was thick with anticipation, nerves, and envy.

In this tense atmosphere, the golden-haired girl finally spoke.

"Sorry, I'm focusing on my studies right now."

Her smile was flawless, her poise indicating good upbringing.

"I'll be going now."

She bowed to the frozen Mizusawa and entered the classroom.

"It didn't work..."

A collective sigh rose from the crowd.

"Figures, not even a third-year can win her over."

"But I admire Sawamura-san even more now. She's beautiful and well-mannered."

"I get it."

"It's hard to imagine who could be worthy of her."

The boys expressed a mix of disappointment and relief.

As long as I don't have a chance, no one else should either.

They looked at Mizusawa with a mix of pity and empathy until the teachers intervened.

"Alright, show's over. Head back to your classrooms."

Kanako Hasumi, the youthful and attractive teacher of Class F, encouraged the students.

"And Mizusawa-san, you should be stronger and move on since Sawamura-san has made her stance clear."

Hasumi-sensei helped Mizusawa up, offering a comforting smile.

As for Kato Yusuke, he returned to his class, unconcerned with the drama.

"Here, the notebook."

Kato Megumi handed him her notebook.

"Thanks."

Kato Yusuke expressed his gratitude and then addressed her, "I'll return these as soon as I can."

Kato Megumi waved off his concern. "Don't worry. Even though Nakamura-sensei said that, my grades are just average. If I can help you, that's great."

"Speaking of which, Nakamura-sensei challenged you to move up twenty places in the midterms. Can you do it?"

"It's not about whether I can..."

Kato Yusuke muttered.

"It has to be done."

A translucent blue interface appeared before his eyes.

"Ding, you have a new task. Please check it promptly."

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