Chapter 34: now you say it's all my fault!
I don't know how long I have been unconscious, but the gentle sensation beneath me provided a sense of comfort, prompting me to prolong my rest period with my eyes shut. I racked my brain, trying to recall the events that unfolded following Meiko and Hana's resounding conquest over the boys, a triumph that exceeded their usual level of dominance.
'Had they finally decided to take us to the school infirmary?' I couldn't fathom their kindness, yet the unmistakable softness beneath me confirmed it was indeed the mattress. The occasional breeze that gently cooled my body whispered of the air conditioner's company.
"Is he dead?" As soon as I heard the wicked remark, my eyebrows instinctively twitched. The voice, attempting to sound adorable, gave away the identity of its owner - none other than Hana.
"It's all because of your powerful kick. I wouldn't be surprised if he wakes up with a case of amnesia."
'Hey, aren't you guys too relaxed? What if that really happened? Would that be all your reaction,' It's truly astonishing how these women persist in mocking me despite the multitude of wrongs they have committed.
"Don't be too dramatic. All my opponents have been fine even when I kicked them in the back of the head," I am quite certain that Hana is currently sporting a smug grin, which only serves to intensify my disdain for her. However, the subsequent words uttered by Meiko elicited a weary sigh from my lips.
"That's enough. You may return now and observe the progress of their work. I will remain here until he wakes up."
Hana let out a dissatisfied grumble, and as if on cue, the door swung open and then shut, enveloping the room in silence once more. But my body tensed up when it became apparent that Meiko had caught on to my little trick.
"How long are you going to pretend? It's just you and me now."
I gradually opened my eyes, taking a moment to adjust to the blinding sight of the infirmary room, bathed in a sea of white. As my vision cleared, I noticed Meiko sitting by my bedside, her figure coming into focus.
With a glance, Meiko's form was adorned in a splendid array of shimmering crystals. Perhaps it was the gentle touch of sunlight streaming through the window or the lingering haze in my mind, but she appeared undeniably enchanting in this moment.
As I gently rubbed my eyes, Meiko's figure gradually returned to its usual state, her alluring curves once again taking center stage. She appeared to catch on to my peculiar stare, causing her expression to shift into one of seriousness as she spoke:
"I don't know if discussing this with you is the right choice, but it's about Mari."
"There's no need for you to go through the trouble if you believe it's unnecessary for me to be informed. I'll simply remain focused on Chiyo," I am aware that expressing this might potentially put a strain on my relationship with Meiko. Still, I simply do not wish to constantly feel intimidated by her.
I felt a slight unease as she silently fixed her gaze on me, but I tried to appear at ease by readjusting my pillow. Before long, her voice reached my ears.
"You're quite strange, and I must admit, I'm no different as I rely on you for my trivial troubles," I sensed a subtle shift in Meiko's demeanor, even if it was just a slight one. After inhaling deeply, she pressed on:
"Regarding Mari's decision to cancel your holiday, I tried to voice my opposition. However, she provided vague justifications that ultimately led to a heated exchange between us."
That's the crux of it—that woman, Mari, is truly an enigma. Her actions, far from being mere luck, are a testament to her remarkable intellect. Her exceptional leadership skills are a testament to her undeniable talent. Her ascent to the presidency and the widespread admiration she commands are no mere coincidences.
"I think this is also Meiko-senpai's fault-" Before I could even finish, Meiko's expression shifted to one of offense. In a swift motion, she rose from her seat, her body language suggesting she was ready to strike me. Her intentions were crystal clear to me.
"After I took the risk and followed your advice, now you say it's all my fault!" Without a moment's hesitation, Meiko yanked on my collar, causing my head to lift from the soft embrace of the pillow. In moments such as these, I find myself hastening to clarify my words.
"This is your fault because you were too hasty. Maybe we could have thought of a way out together if you had told me first."
Meiko's icy gaze pierced through me as she finally let go of her grip, causing my head to slump back onto the plush pillow. However, instead of returning to her seat, she strode purposefully towards the door. She had just left a message that resonated with an air of menace.
"I expect to find you among the others within the next five minutes."
I let out a weary sigh with a hint of resignation.
As I found myself abandoned, I took a moment to collect my thoughts. Gazing up at the pristine ceiling, a sense of tranquility washed over me, soothing my frayed nerves. I had hoped to remain in the infirmary room for an extended period, but unfortunately, that was not possible. Therefore, I vacated the bed once I had confirmed that my head was in satisfactory condition.
"What should I do now?" I mumbled under my breath as I strolled down the corridor, seemingly lost in my own world. However, amidst my apparent distraction, I couldn't help but catch snippets of conversation from a group of female students who happened to be discussing me. Initially, I found myself under the impression that they were uttering scathing remarks about me. However, I accidentally caught their conversation.
"Look, that's Kiyoshi... kyaahh, he's as handsome as the rumors."
"I heard he was innocent, and the Underground Student Council punished him just because he was a boy."
"You both don't defend him too much. While I acknowledge that he is more attractive than the others, I have heard rumors of his playboy nature."
As I listened to their conversation, a wave of embarrassment washed over me, causing my face to flush. Hastening my steps, I made my way outside, where I took a moment to reflect on the recent events. The behavior of the female students had been far from playful, leaving me to ponder the gravity of the situation.
I am aware that numerous rumors are currently circulating about me. Nevertheless, I believe that things are heading in a positive direction. Personally, I am content as long as I am not linked to the boys.
'Isn't it preferable to be accused of being a playboy rather than being labeled as a sex criminal?' Lost in thought, I found myself standing behind the school building. The boys were diligently working on their assignments under the watchful eyes of Hana and Meiko.
"What's going on here?" My surprise was impossible to conceal as I took in the gloomy ambiance of this place. It became increasingly evident that Shingo, Andre, and Joe resembled desolate inmates devoid of any will to carry on with life.
"Ohh, Kiyoshi-dono, you're back. Thank goodness you're fine," As I listened to Gakuto's voice, a strange shudder ran through me. It sounded so hoarse, sending a chill down my spine. When I mustered the courage to turn around and look at him, my voice caught in my throat, preventing any words from escaping.
"What's wrong?..." Gakuto's head tilted slightly as he gazed at me, a look of confusion etched across his face. It was as if he had aged a few years in an instant. Peering through his broken glasses, I couldn't help but notice how his black pupils seemed to have grown even deeper. After a brief pause, he proceeded to speak, realizing that he had not received a response.
"Actually, forget it. I'll catch up with you later."
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