Chapter Text
Hiyori POV
Scenario:
Date and teach the target ‘Kiyotaka Ayanokouji’ about ‘love’ before the Last Special Exam. Break up with him as Year 1 semester ends.
Objective:
Make an honest confession to ‘Kiyotaka Ayanokouji’ within today successfully.
Difficulty:
Impossible.
Consequence:
Failure of any condition will result in a daily reset via a 24-hour cycle.
Rewards:
‘Partner-in-crime ticket’
Note:
Further instruction will or will not be given accordingly to how ‘Hiyori Shiina’ proceeds with the scenario.
Hiyori blinked. It is the first time she has received what can be perceived as a ‘prank’ letter, yet its absurdity stiffened her.
During this winter vacation, the regular schedule for Hiyori was as dull and monotone as usual. Wake up, perform daily tasks, check which book in the bookshelf she would return to the library, goes to the library to return and borrow books, reads, goes back home, and sleeps. Yet even this dullness is disturbed by a folded paper, stuck at the edge of her letterbox as if tempting her to read it.
The first thing that comes to her mind is obviously, the name.
Kiyotaka Ayanokouji.
He has an interesting atmosphere and character that attracted her interest. In addition, he shared the same hobby of reading with her, so it can be said they shared a certain friendship.
And yet it was just that, friendship. Nothing more, nothing less.
She admitted that layer of mystery was why she has an interest in him, yet by this time she has only encountered him twice, once in the canteen and once in the library, along with some periods to read together, so she didn’t…know him enough to harbor feelings for him, as contradictory as it seems.
So, the question becomes: why her? What is the peculiar instruction behind this prank? What makes her special that this letter is specifically sent to her and not others in Class D-oh, Class C?
As her frown deepens more and more in confusion, she finally decides to set aside the matter. A ‘prank’ should be set aside if she refuses to be played in the palms of the ill-minded culprit. She considered this may be an elaborate plan instead to instill more conflict between Class C and D, considering the consistent challenges to Ayanokoji-kun’s class issued by their leader, Ryuen, but she ultimately judged the evidence insufficient to conclude as such.
And so, she ignored the message, threw the letter so it would not further her embarrassment, and continued her daily morning.
The next day she woke up. It was the same as usual. Wake up, do her daily chore by folding the bed and cleaning herself, and check if there are any books on the bookshelf that she is ready to return to the library. While she usually piled stacks of books for re-read for her interest, she would find herself guilty of hoarding books from the library and robbing others of the same joy and experience she felt when reading them, so she would regularly take out a few of the books from her book to return.
Except this time, a puzzlement came to her.
“Tolkiana’s Journal….Chronicles of an Apothecary…The Last Castle Siege of Han…”
She muttered out loud. These books, which she has supposedly returned to the library yesterday, remained on the bookshelf.
…
…it must be her memory’s mistake. Perhaps she has merely forgotten to return the books even after she made up her mind. She always has her hesitations to part with her books after all.
For once it occurred to her to check the date on her phone or checked if the books she has borrowed remained on her bookshelf.
But then she didn’t remember the date of the supposed ‘yesterday’, as the world of books occupied her mind instead of trivial matters like time. What she did remember is that she didn’t borrow any book ‘yesterday’, as she didn’t find any specific book interesting enough.
And so, she packed up these books and went to the elevator. As a ding sounded and she stepped out to the ground floor, she found a folded paper hanging on her letterbox.
…
After a slight frown and hesitation, she walked toward it and opened the paper.
Scenario:
Date and teach the target ‘Kiyotaka Ayanokouji’ about ‘love’ before the Last Special Exam. Break up with him as Year 1 semester ends.
Objective:
Make an honest confession to ‘Kiyotaka Ayanokouji’ within today successfully.
Difficulty:
Impossible.
Consequence:
Failure of any condition will result in a daily reset via a 24-hour cycle.
Rewards:
‘Partner-in-crime ticket’
Note:
For our entertainment, please proceed with the objective.
Her frown deepened. The dull, monotone schedule has been disrupted by the unusual message once again.
“Hello, librarian Shu.”
“Oh, Hiyori. Here again for the day?”
“Yes. By the way librarian Shu, can I ask for a favor?”
“…yes? Depends on what it is I suppose. There’s only so much I am allowed to help a student though.”
“When I ask you ‘what are the numbers’ tomorrow, can you reply with ‘1, 4, and 309’ as an answer?”
“Okay…? What kind of bizarre flavor is this?”
“Please, librarian Shu. It is important.”
“Alright alright. I don’t know what it is, but given you are a regular here, I can do this much.”
“Thank you, librarian Shu.”
And ‘tomorrow’ arrives. Albeit without any expectation, Hiyori arrived at the library to ask the humble librarian for the answers.
“…what numbers? Uh…maybe you’re looking for some math textbook or something?”
“…nothing. I am very sorry to bother you, librarian Shu.”
“Oh no no, it’s fine. How can I be annoyed at such a cute student after all, am I right?”
Hiyori smiled in embarrassment. This is the 5th time she has heard this similar reply, yet she couldn’t help but feel a certain heat and weight of…disappointment that came along with it.
On the same 26th of December, Hiyori asked the same librarian for a ‘favor’ different from her 19 attempts. Each time she would ask him for the answer or action, be it a prime number, book title, random coordinate, handing out an item like a slip of paper to him to return to her, or assisting in finding a book she requested.
The replies differ, but the core of them all remain the same.
He neither remember such a favor nor did he have the item handed to him.
On her 4thcycle, she traveled around the academy and shopping mall in disbelief.
And yet everything else in the 5th, 6th, and 7th cycle remains the same. The same book titles remained in her book drawer, the same passerby in the shopping mall at a certain time, and the same responses came from the librarian.
Most frustrating of all…
She sighed as she faced the front door of the dormitory and walked in.
The same, dreading paper was still waiting at the edge of her letterbox.
She took it and folded it open.
Scenario:
Date and teach the target ‘Kiyotaka Ayanokoji’ about ‘love’ before the Last Special Exam. Break up with him as Year 1 semester ends.
Objective:
Make an honest confession to ‘Kiyotaka Ayanokoji’ within today successfully.
Difficulty:
Medium.
Consequence:
Failure of any condition will result in a daily reset via a 24-hour cycle.
Rewards:
‘Partner-in-crime ticket’
Note:
This is not a dream. There is no deep conspiracy. You cannot escape. As repeated in the 21st letter, please proceed with the objective.
She pouted in frustration. Though she sensed a certain malice, it is a fact she has never experienced any harm in all the cycles, yet being trapped in a time loop was nevertheless a great annoyance.
Throughout the time loops, she memorized different details, experienced different scenarios with different people, and asked multiple people other than the librarians for ‘favors’. She initially theorized it was an extreme, special exam from the school that contained a hidden objective for her to be accomplished, or else the near impossibility of setting this ‘supernatural-like’ situation cannot be explained. She even resorted to asking different acquaintances for assistance: Ibuki-san, Ryuen-kun, even Ayanokouji-kun himself…
And yet, watching similar, if not the same responses, expressions, and sceneries only continued to dampen her spirit.
Eventually, she sighed in submission.
She admitted it. Either she is trapped in a fictional, virtual world that resets itself or was simply trapped in the time loop.
And there was no other way to remove herself from it other than following the instruction and accomplishing the objective.
…
…
…isn’t this a little unfair?
“Dating someone only to dump them later…isn’t that a little too unfair for me and Ayanokouji-kun?”
She mutters to herself. Indeed, no matter the circumstances, it is an extremely cruel joke to put such a person and many others through this situation, let alone forcing someone’s first love onto others.
She thought those situations only happened online, where she glimpsed through the wreckage that is the ‘shipping war’ in the discussion boards for certain fictional stories, but to think she was dragged into a ‘ship’ herself…
She sighed again. The author of this letter must be an extremely cruel villain.
Nevertheless, there’s no other way for now other than accomplishing the objective, but first…
‘I need some consultations.’
The objective is stated to ‘confess successfully’, which implies to her that a mere confession of love is not enough, but it is likely needed to be ‘accepted’ to be considered a ‘success’.
‘…it is indeed a near-impossible task.’
At best, she and Ayanokouji-kun can be considered ‘friends’, but at worst they were acquaintances. There was only so much they can know about each other with a few encounters after all.
Therefore, she needs a trustworthy acquaintance for advice. It is possible to straight-forwardly confess to Ayanokoji-kun about the situation, but…the likability that he would believe it is extremely low. Forcing him to accept is also an option yet she is not confident in a battle of words and pressure.
…there is also the option to ask him to accept the confession straightforwardly, like in a manner of favors. Something like ‘Please accept this confession and date me within this period. It is important.’
That is also the most likely option to succeed, and one she would try regardless of if it is the right option.
And yet, I lacked experience in negotiation or confession…
She blushed. She admitted that as a book lover, the lack of social experience as well as participation in class activities, not to mention her only ‘romantic’ experiences only coming from romance novels and thesis did not help the situation.
Through this realization, she counted the number of acquaintances.
“Ibuki-san…Ryuen-kun…Ishizaki-kun…”
…
…for the first time, she has a slight dissatisfaction with her past introverted self.
Ibuku POV
Knock knock knock
As Ibuki heard knockings, her legs jumped up on her bed into a sitting posture.
Who in the hell…
She was going to an early sleep tonight, alas it proved unsuccessful as she merely twisted and turned on her bed. The last week has been extremely eventful, not to mention meeting a certain someone in a movie theatre. Even after quite a long time, her mind has still been in distress.
And now, she has a guest. Funny, a guest. How unlikely for a person such as her.
If it was that bastard, I will immediately send him a kick and shut the door on him.
She stood up and walked to the door, boiling this thought along with her annoyance and frustration at that person.
Then as she turned the doorknob and opened the door, bending her knee and readying a kick just in case…
…until she discovered an unlikely guest.
“Y-you…”
“Ah…Hi, Ibuki-san.”
Hiyori Shiina stood at the door with an awkward smile with smiley eyes.
Chapter 2: Chapter 2: First Confession (1)
Chapter Text
“Just sit over there and we’ll talk later.”
“…thank you for your hospitality.”
“Yeah yeah…”
Ibuki grumbled as she slumped down onto her bed, her eyes glancing forward as Hiyori slowly sat down at the chair, before settling both hands onto her thighs, a habit of manners from the tea ceremony club.
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…oi, say something.”
Hiyori blinked, mouth frowning. She was going to greet Ibuki first by asking about her injury, but then the words stuck in her throat.
The basic manner for social interaction is to avoid discussing what others hate, especially if their relationship is not particularly close. ‘Ibuki-san’, to Hiyori, is always a straightforward person who disliked being lost or helpless. If Hiyori guessed correctly, Ryuen must have plotted something before the vacation.
And taking her failure to contact Ryuen, Ishizaki, and Albert by phone, their silences heavily imply one thing.
Hiyori closed her eyes and took a deep, deep breath. She sought Ibuki for consultation, but the name Ayanokouji must not be mentioned here so that Ibuki’s mind can be taken elsewhere to whatever happened before the vacation.
“Ibuki-san.”
And so, she constructed her words in the simplest manner that Ibuki can understand.
“I want to consult you about love.”
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…I want to consult you abo-“
“Wait wait wait wait wait wait-“
Ibuki, flustered, flailed her arm in front of Hiyori, who tilted her head in reaction to the bizarre movement.
“Um…ha?”
As Ibuki gasped, Hiyori blinked again. “I want to know how to confess to someone properly.”
Watching Hiyori’s blank look, Ibuki squinted her eyes.
“…have you gone insane?”
‘Hiyori Shiina’, in Ibuki’s eyes, is a total shut-in.
A girl whose pretty appearance is but a waste to her bookworm nature, a hopeless introvert who would rather spare a glance at a dusty old book at the corner rather than any classmate right beside her.
Little needs to be said, the word ‘bizarre’ doesn’t even cut it for the fact that Hiyori is asking about ‘love’.
“In the first place, why ask me?” Ibuki questioned, scratching her head. “I don’t even know you that well. And you think this…uh, shitty, angry, and impulsive personality of mine is gonna attract any good attention? Let alone lo-love…?”
“On the contrary, your impulsiveness can be described as ‘decisiveness’, Ibuki-san.” Hiyori rebutted without a second thought. “And please do not put yourself down like this. I overheard many girls in our class has already stated how reliable you are, and some boys even openly said how cute and-“
“Stop, not another word or I’ll strangle myself.”
“…I understand.”
Ibuki sighed, before standing her arm on her thigh and resting her head on her palm, gazing at Hiyori who was now smiling.
She had a suspicion at first, that the girl in front of her wished to ask about that ‘incident’, but what came out was infinitely more shocking.
Now that Ibuki cleared her mind, she can…somewhat understand why Hiyori asked her out of all people for a…uh, love consultation. For times like organizing the class positions for sports events, she has a clear head to help things go here and there. Other times, however, her social skill went completely wack. She couldn’t count how many times her classmates went up to her for a conversation, only to be struck with dead air and Hiyori staring at them as if contemplating whether a dragon can eat its own tail.
…it also doesn’t help that I am her only female acquaintance, and it’s out of the question for her to approach other strangers for something this embarrassing…
And so, Ibuki sighed. She didn’t know Hiyori Shiina well, but it would be cruel to reject the girl as her only hope. Yes, call her soft or whatever, but she’s just not heartless enough to reject a fellow female classmate’s genuine request for help.
And yes, she’s really, really embarrassed, but that’s totally beside the point.
“Then uh…what would you have me to answer for?” Ibuki asked. “Like can you at least let me know who you are confessing to?”
Hiyori blinked again. She glanced sideways for a moment, before straightening her gaze and answering with a blank yet serious face.
“It’s someone similar to Albert-san.”
“Al-“
As she almost shouted, Ibuki covered her mouth. She can imagine it, the cursed image of the bulky, tall man beside Hiyori’s short statue, as the deep blush appeared on the man’s cheek was beyond unfit, cringe, and disgusting.
“…tell me the truth.”
“Um…truth?”
“Like hell I’ll believe a damn chocolate macho would be your type. Are you that embarrassed for having your ideal ma-man exposed?”
“Your judgment is half-correct, but I am not lying.”
She is in fact, not lying.
Steady, good at fighting, surprisingly considerate at times, and expressionless regardless of situations. Albert-san and Ayanokouji-kun are surprisingly similar in Hiyori’s mind, which of course is something Ibuki cannot think of.
Obviously, it was an answer Hiyori prepared to dodge around the question, the same trait from Albert helps with the consultation as well.
“Alright alright, I won’t pry.” Ibuki gave up thinking, abstaining from that outlandish imagination.
“So what’s the matter? Can’t you confess straight up and call it a day?”
“No, because that man would reject me.”
“Wow, so it’s a one-sided fling?
“It’s something like that. Though it is simply that I cannot afford to be rejected.”
“Ha? What’s up with that?” Ibuki raised her brow. “What do you mean by ‘something like that’? ”
“Well I-“
The words ‘I don’t like him’ clocked in her throat. Or else it wouldn’t have made any logical sense for this consultation.
…actually, this situation is already bizarre and non-sensical. It’s all the fault of the person behind that letter and this time loop.
“A-anyway…” Hiyori coughed twice, attempting to calm her frustration as she was reminded of the 22-times time loop she faced. “I want to know what you would do to convince someone to accept the confession, regardless of if they harbor feelings for you or not.”
“Even if you ask me that, how the hell would I know?” Ibuki frowned at the unreasonable question. “Maybe something like ‘I will kill myself if you don’t accept’ and whatnot?”
“Um…well, threatening them with your own life and instilling guilt to them is possible…”
“…don’t. I’m kidding. Don’t you f*cking dare.”
“Oh, mm-alright.”
Ibuki sighed. She can’t tell if the girl is a dunce for seriously considering the option.
“Seriously…just get rejected and seduce him later or something. Are you the sort of romantic that believes you can’t pursue a man after being flung off?”
“That’s a viable idea, but it’s necessary for him to accept today.”
“Like I said, don’t be unreasonable…are you afraid of being hurt or something?”
“That is untru-“
Wait…
Upon listening to Ibuki’s words, Hiyori pondered in her mind.
Unreasonable.
Yes, what she’s attempting to achieve is extremely unreasonable. For Ayanokouji-kun to accept a confession, he either must harbor feelings for her or have something to benefit from it. Since she knew the former is not possible, she must now search for something that will convince Ayanokouji-kun to accept her confession.
…but what if that’s not needed? And there is a better alternative that will ensure he accepts no matter the course?
With this option, while there may be repercussions in the future for accomplishing the scenario about teaching him ‘love’, Hiyori determines that it’s more important to escape the current predicament first.
It has been exhausting to walk through 22 loops alone after all…she is not willing to endure another one if possible.
“I understand now, Ibuki-san.”
“Uh…ha? What the hell did you understand?”
Hiyori stood up and smiled. The determination in her mind brought her at ease.
“I am now ready.” Hiyori bowed. “Thank you very much for your help.”
“…your mind really has some screws loose, you know that?”
“Thank you for your compliment.”
Ibuki sighed. She supposed that’s what it means by romance turning a person into an idiot.
But given how Hiyori can ask all these questions with a blank face, maybe she was already not right in the head a while ago.
--------
After parting her thanks to Ibuki-san, Hiyori headed off to Ayanokouji-kun’s room door.
…before making a U-turn to walk back to her room.
About 40 minutes passed, Hiyori left the room with a new attire. Mostly a simple blue blouse paired with a simple light-brown skirt. While it is not a confession of love, it would not do to look clumsy when it came to an important experience such as this.
But as to why she came to the thought of changing clothes, it remains completely unknown.
Come to think of it, Hiyori pondered as she walked to Ayanokouji’s room. There is no need for me to be careful if she’s going to ‘force’ Ayanokouji to accept the confession anyways.
This is indeed correct. Hiyori’s plot is simple yet barbaric, as she would describe. So, no matter what clothes she wore, what expression she brought, and what greetings she talked, the ‘forceful’ nature of the confession would not change.
Even worse, there was even a slight guilt tinged at the corner of her heart, so she would not allow herself to ever imagine how Ayanokouji would react, though she admitted the anticipation remained unbudded.
…what have I really been doing…
She sighed. She has been so focused on resolving this absurd situation that her mixed feelings began dangling at the back of her mind. Reality began to slip by her as the time loop scratched open the walls of her logic, revealing the blinding light of fantasy.
Sincerely, she hoped there would no longer be any more ‘time loop’ consequently after this confession.
It would serve better if it is an ‘all a dream scenario, even though she always disliked the overused cliché.
The thought drifted as she arrived in front of a door. She took a deep, deep breath.
Knock knock
And she knocked on the door.
Behind her, the moonlight illuminated as the door was opened, revealing a pair of lazy, brown eyes. His figure was tall and fit, and his brown hair was a little tousled as if just woken up.
An ordinary appearance. Hiyori remembered her rude, first impression when greeting him for the first time. And yet, maybe it was after the second meeting, or maybe it was after some book sessions with him, or maybe it was merely after Ryuen’s desperate search for ‘X’, that ordinariness was not an unmemorable display, but a free-spirited, mysterious curtain, which hid a layered, dangerous mystery that should never be told or written.
This man, her intuition can tell, was the person ‘X’. He is the schemer behind the Cruise ship exam, the culprit that threatened one of her classmates, and the merciless who beat down Ryuen and his underlings.
And more than these, he is her book buddy that promised a few readings together.
Kiyotaka Ayanokoji.
He’s the man she would need to confess to.
…
…
…Hiyori’s eyes moved to the ground.
“Hm? Oh, Hiyori.”
Her shoulders stiffened. That’s right, she told him to never mind formalities.
…she wished she never told him that.
“What’s the matter, Hiyori? Is there something wrong?”
Exhaustion, frustration, desperation, feelings Hiyori once bottled up over the time loop has suddenly popped, like a needle to a balloon.
For countless ‘todays’, for 526 hours and 30 minutes, her body was completely submerged and drowned in this bottomless crisis. Deny it, escape it, experiment with it, none of what she attempted works. She was still trapped, trapped in the lonely abyss, unable to tell a soul what she experienced in the timeless world.
…Hiyori…
Yet with just one word, one word that symbolized closeness, one that implied not even love but mere friendship, one that she suggested nevertheless for convenience and happiness she first found not mere acquaintances of circumstance, but a kindred spirit, a book buddy she can read with.
With just that one, tiny needle of words, the ocean of feelings burst, accumulating, and flushing into one, crucial realization.
That this is her first confession.
And that, her first confession was to the first ‘true friend’ she has made.
…Hiyori felt a heat spreading across her cheek.
Ibuki was always honest. She is truly insane to never think of this utter embarrassment.
“…Hiyori?”
Please stop…
Unfortunately, Hiyori’s shivering plead was not heard, as Ayanokouji slightly frowned at the current circumstance.
To him, it was just to greet the guest who knocked on his door. As an unfeeling person, a rare confusion took root in his analytical mind.
Hiyori is the last person he would expect a visit. His friend was never truly one that would be this…forward, and the conflict between him and Ryuen is not something she would care enough to interrogate him in the middle of the night.
So then, why would she visit? What happened this week that would force her to come tonight instead of messaging a request for the meeting by phone?
…it could also be Nagumo’s trick. But that would not make sense since most of his effort should be onto Manabu so…
As Ayanokouji dug through his mind to search for an answer, Hiyori lifted her head.
…
…
…a tomato.
That’s the first thought Ayanokouji had after a severe brain lag. With a blush from cheek to cheek, Hiyori’s mouth was stuttering as if in discomfort. Even her breathing, if he listened carefully, was unusually quick and irregular, as if her lungs were strapped by the rib cages.
At that moment, he has a quick thought.
Oh, so that’s what it is.
It is the first time Ayanokouji was scared by his own non-existence charisma.
“In anyways, please come in first. We can talk later.”
As he invited her, his whole body shuttered into a pause.
…did he just-
…well, maybe Karuizawa was right that I have more ‘spec’ than I look.
He glanced at Hiyori. Her face is redder than ever at the prospect of entering his room alone.
…he promised her internally that he would not have pervert thoughts.
--------
To people who are hurt that I put through poor Hiyori through this, admit it.
You wouldn't read this far if you are not even slightly entertained. You and I are sadist in nature, readers.
Sugar and ??? warning for the next chapter.
Chapter 3: Chapter 3: First Confession (2)
Chapter Text
"Sit here, Hiyori."
"..."
Bearing the rising heat on her cheek, Hiyori sat at the seat Ayanokouji pulled for her.
As Ayanokouji sat on the bed facing her, she remarked how this scene is like how she talked with Ibuki earlier. Nothing changes aside from that the room she was in with was a male and said the male was someone whose veil of mystery she took an enormous curiosity in.
Normally, there should be nothing that would embarrass her at all. Given she is going to lightly push him into accepting her confession, it's all the more important to stay firm, or else the scheme she concocted earlier would not work.
And thus, she began by calling out his name.
"A-Ayano...a-achoo!"
Hiyori, attempting to take the initial, covered her mouth with a small sneeze. Her sickly blush overlapped with her original embarrassed blush molding her face into a perfect shade of red.
"Sor-I apologize..."
Ayanokouji didn't react. After all, it was winter, and here Hiyori is wearing a blouse and a skirt without a jacket, so it was no surprise the cold got to her.
Making up his mind, he gripped the blanket as he stood up, before walking over and pulling the blanket over Hiyori's shoulder.
"Thank you..."
Wordlessly nodding, he headed to where his room's kettle is.
He pulled his palm over it to check if it was still warm. After that, he grabbed a mug on the side, filling it with the kettle's water.
As wordless as he initially was, Hiyori dazedly gazes as he stepped towards her with the mug of water, smoke still protruding from the surface.
"Warm up first." He spoke, with a soft voice as if caressing a small animal. "And settle your emotion. I'm willing to wait for whatever you have to say."
Hiyori blinked, her blush subsiding as she nodded, before lowering her gaze and grasping the mug with both her hands.
——————
A couple of minutes passed, and Hiyori sighed deeply.
She was going to do something 'terribly impolite', yet she ended up at the receiving end of her target's kindness.
There are no words to describe how complicated she felt right now.
Her grasp over the mug tightened as she glanced at her book buddy, who was now, in fact, reading the book.
Calm and static, as she would describe Ayanokouji, as he scanned through the novel he was reading with his bored eyes as if they are the lens of a computer scouring data to collect.
Hiyori pouted. She wished she had a bit of his calmness and carefreeness right now.
At times like this, she also wonders what Ayanokouji was feeling when he is reading right now. Curiosity over the story development? Appreciation for the plot execution? Or simple satisfaction of reading? Hiyori can only sympathize with these kinds of feelings of a reader, but for some reason, she felt as if he was beyond them.
He is also a reader, yet she could tell the knowledge he accumulated has already formed a realm without a limit. That realm was shrouded in a mystifying abyss, swallowing every world the books have to offer, before dangling them one by one like countless stars as if they are mere decorations contained in the boundless night that is his mind.
She wondered for a moment if she could even comprehend his ‘world’ if she could even have a glimpse at the endless night, and if she looked up and reached out to the night sky, she could be embellished as one of the dangling stars as well.
All of that, however, is irrelevant to the current predicament she is now placed in.
Hiyori took a deep breath.
She has lost her patience. 22 loops are more than enough for her to tolerate, and it even resulted in forcing her to damage her precious relationship with her book buddy.
It is frustrating, and exhausting most of all, so she should resolve to close off her conscience…
…and resolve this as soon as possible.
And so, as planned, she stood up. After putting down the mug aside on a table somewhere, and folding the blanket onto the chair, she walked to the bed and took a seat beside Ayanokouji, whose eyes now looked up from the book to her.
“Ayanokouji-kun.”
She gazed down on her thighs so that she would not meet his gaze.
“I know it is unreasonable and mostly incomprehensible.” She frowned, sensing her heartbeat quickening. “But I will now confess to you, and I hope you will accept my…my confession without condition.”
Her body fidgeted a little. It was still more embarrassing than she thought.
After the consultation with Ibuki, Hiyori figured that for an unreasonable objective, you need an unreasonable method, and there remains one method to guarantee success:
Directly requesting him to accept the confession.
Any trickery such as ‘I am confessing to you as practice’ cannot do because the confession must be ‘honest’, and any negotiation is impossible because Ayanokouji harbors neither feelings for her nor benefits to gain from the confession.
If so, she can only unreasonably request his acceptance, hoping that his faith in her character will not view this unfavorably.
After an awkward silence, Ayanokouji closed the novel he was reading and settle it on the side.
“…reasoning?” Ayanokouji asked.
“…I will explain tomorrow.”
“You do realize your request sounds a bit absurd, yes?”
“Y-yes, please accept my confession.”
Hiyori then bowed to the air in front of her, still unwilling to face his gaze. Normally, it is against etiquette to not face the person you’re bowing to, and it is against her conscience to force someone to do something despite their unwillingness.
However, this circumstance is far from normal, and Hiyori is blushing like a tomato.
She sincerely hoped her book buddy would forget this unsightly side of hers.
There is another silence between the two. As Hiyori rose a little from her bow, Ayanokouji spoke again.
“So what you’re saying is,” Ayanokouji analyzed. “That I should accept your confession and not ask any reason why. I can see that said reason is what forces you to accomplish such a task, but it is also something that is either too complicated to explain or impossible to believe in. Am I correct in assuming all of that?”
Hiyori snapped her gaze to Ayanokouji, her eyes trembling in both joy and surprise. She appreciates his quick wit at desperate times like this.
“Yes!” Hiyori nodded before her eyes glance away. “I-I understand it was very unfair, but it is the situation.”
“Hmm…”
Ayanokouji put his chin between his index and thumb. A very curious situation arose before him, and he can’t help but to fall into deep thought.
A reason to force Hiyori into this scenario…even though he cannot think of anything in particular. Pacifistic yet sharp, he can tell Hiyori is not the sort to easily fall into some malicious scheme. To be able to force her into this corner…the schemer must have a certain amount of influence or authority over her, or maybe they are just playful individuals who would waste their cunningness for a mere prank.
However, from how Hiyori is reacting currently, he can also tell there is immediate harm. Or else he would have met a paler, more serious Hiyori, instead of this bobbing, squishy tomato.
“… all right,” he responded after concluding there was no harm to check what Hiyori can be up to. “I will listen to the reason tomorrow. For now, you can freely make your confession.”
Hiyori felt a clock in her throat. “Um…Ayankouji-kun?”
“What?”
“Don’t you feel…um, embarrassed over this situation?”
Ayankouji blinked. He contemplated before answering honestly.
“Hiyori, I merely view you as a friend with the same hobby.” He responded. “And so, I wish our friendship would not be awkward after this incident, so at least one side should act composed.”
“A-ah…I understand.” Hiyori nodded.
There is a bitter taste in Hiyori’s mouth. Though her logic dictates him correct, her bias doesn’t. To think of the implication, if Ayanokouji was not even slightly excited over a confession from her, wouldn’t that mean he’s not even slightly interested in her as the opposite sex?
Hiyori pouted. It was the first time she felt frustration over her appearance, but she soon shook her head.
After all, resolving the situation comes first.
“Then,” she stared straight at Ayanokouji’s brown eyes which are still hanging. “Please allow me to confess.”
“Mhm, go ahead.”
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…um, Hiyori?”
Hiyori yelped, before lowering her head in shame.
“…please do not gaze at me like that. It’s embarrassing…”
“Well, I think it’s you that looked straight into my eyes first.”
“I-um…sorry.”
“No, you have nothing to apologize for.”
Ayanokouji felt a slight surge in his mind. This situation is beyond amusing, and the fact that Hiyori is dropping her formality constantly when she was embarrassed was the cherry on top.
“So,” he decided to spare her from the tease he had in mind. “Do you want to try again? You can do so while looking in the air or closing your eyes.”
Hiyori’s gaze rose again, the shading red following her on her cheeks.
She is indeed aware, aware that there should be no embarrassment. There’s no feeling harbored between them after all, and if it is Ayanokouji-kun that she knew, he wouldn’t mind the situation no matter how bizarre it is.
That’s right, the only thing she had to do is remain calm.
“Alright,” Hiyori closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Then, I will confess now.”
“No problem, go ahead.”
“I-I will confess now.”
“No problem, go ahead.”
“I-p-please forget all of this after tonight…”
Ayanokouji nodded. He will never forget this after tonight.
Hiyori took a deep breath again. She felt her resolve strengthened, her focus intact. Her drumming heartbeat, which should have been beating non-stop a second ago, began to calm itself.
She finally felt ready, at least readier than the time she greets Ayanokouji.
Then, with her eyes closed, she let out the words that she would have never said in her life.
“I love you, Ayanokouji-kun.”
And there, she finally did it.
Her first confession, given away to her first friend and forced with no choice by her first ‘prank letter’.
A bizarre scenario that would have never, ever happened.
Hiyori Shiina confessed to Kiyotaka Ayanokouji.
And most importantly, to that confession, the recipient himself…
“I accept your confession, Hiyori.”
…fulfilled her wish to accept the confession.
She opened her eyes, meeting the lazy gaze that answered her wish.
Then, she puffed a big, big sigh.
…that should stop the time loop, right?
That’s her first relieved thought of the day.
Hiyori Shiina, after much experimentation, exhaustion, and embarrassment, was finally relieved for a moment.
She sincerely hoped this was the end of it.
“…thank you for your assistance, Ayanokouji-kun.”
Hiyori was truly thankful. Without Ayankouji’s faith in her character, she would not have come this far.
“No problem,” he shook his head. “If it’s necessary, I will help as much as I can.”
“I…well, I would not wish for such a circumstance to arise again.” Hiyori chuckled tiredly. “There’s nothing I can return to you for the favors I owe to you after all, so it would be very impolite of me…”
“Well, I can’t say I haven’t any reward.”
“What?”
Hiyori frowned in confusion. It was then Ayanokouji searched for something inside his pocket, before eventually taking out a phone.
Hiyori blinked. For a moment she comprehended the reason for such an action.
And then, for another moment, her mind clicked in realization.
“Ayanokouji-kun, you…”
Ayanokouji glanced away. “It’s just for insurance.”
It was, however, not for insurance.
He grabbed the phone and turned it on. After a tap, the phone sounded an audio, a strangely familiar recording.
“I love you, Ayanokouji-kun.”
“…”
“…”
An awkward atmosphere ensued. As Ayanokouji failed to read the room, he tapped the ‘play’ button once again.
“I love you, Ayanokouji-kun.”
“Hm…the audio is pretty sound and clear.” He stared at his phone. “The equipment of Advanced Nurturing High School is indeed well-deserved for its fame. Even in a necessary situation such as this, it never failed to succeed our expectation.”
“…”
Before long, Ayanokouji heard a shuffling beside him. As he glanced away from his phone, he found Hiyori, whose concern is etiquette and manner, has now curled into a ball with her legs on the bed and her face buried facing her lap, hiding all her features besides the reddened ears behind a strand of hair.
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…”
“…”
“I love you, Ayanokouji-kun.”
“…please stop…”
Listening to her shivering voice, Ayanokouji held back the urge to press the ‘play’ button again.
------
“Did you delete the audio properly?”
“I deleted it.”
“…please delete it.”
“I did.”
He didn’t by the way.
Repeating the same conversation for the 5th time, Ayanokouji is now facing Hiyori outside of the doorway. Her body was now framed by a jacket he lent her, in caution to the unrelenting cold.
“I-In any case,” Hiyori coughed twice, before bowing. “Allow me to properly thank you again. And…apology for the trouble I’ve caused.”
“No problem, I will not refuse a request for help if I can. Let me know if there’s any trouble again.”
He said that, but he was mainly curious about the culprit who forced this happenstance.
Well, whether it was to harm Hiyori or him is unknown. However, it is better to be cautious than never.
“Well…I hope not.” Hiyori lifted her gaze before looking away. “I wish this will end today.”
“…”
A silence enveloped them. It has been a strange night so far, and both are still failing to process the situation.
“…um…Ayanokouji-kun.”
Hiyori once again stared straight at him, her eyes now lacking the meekness she once had, but instead embodying a certain courage.
“This is a weird question but…” Hiyori blushed, again. “Do you see me…as a woman?”
“…”
Ayanokouji frowned at the question.
“N-no, not like what you are imagining, but…” she lowered her gaze. “What I mean is just…you don’t seem to see me…that way, and you don’t seem to have any thoughts or behaviors identical to a male facing a female in a room…”
“…”
“…what I mean is that in a novel, it’s usually those who are someone like a…cold Duke of the North or maybe… an unsuspecting sociopath that would not react to an opposite sex in the slightest. I…of cause I did not see Ayanokouji-kun as ruthless or cold but-“
“Hiyori.”
“Y-yes?”
Ayanokouji breathed in and breathed out, pretending to be frustrated.
“Are you asking me to have perverted thoughts about you?”
Hiyori blinked, and then blinked again.
Afterward, like a heat suddenly surging, her trademark blush returned.
“… please forget that I ask the question.” Hiyori whimpered, blocking her face with her palms.
Ayanokouji nodded. He noted Karuizawa now has a competitor when it comes to ‘teasing reaction’.
-------
The first objective has now been completed.
The reward will be distributed next chapter.
Readers, how are you enjoying Hiyori suffering so far?
Chapter 4: Chapter 4: And so, today begins again.
Chapter Text
Summary of last chapters:
A mysterious letter was sent by an unknown author who 'kindly' instructed Hiyori to 'confess' to Ayanokoji. If she failed the instruction at 24 hours, the day will reset and ridiculously, this time loop will repeat until she succeeded! Fortunately, Hiyori manoeuvred around the instruction and finally got out of time loop! Hooray! Happy ending! Ayanokoji still had the 'I love you' recording! The end of this fanfic!
...of course not. The show must go on.
(Also I'm thinking of leaving readers' comments in the letter for the lols. Let me know what you guys think. And uh...not sure if anyone will be reading or I'll just be talking to myself, but thanks for reading this fanfic, again if you've returned.)
———————————
Hiyori stretched on her bed. Her arms finally loosened after all these days of looping and stressing over the 'confession' scenario, something she'll not ever wish to experience again.
But look! She finally was freed. Or so she thought anyways, as she stared at the empty desk that had the books returned to the library, the books that would have dreadfully stayed should the time loop still remain.
"I guess I can finally relax a bit more..."
Hiyori smiled, yet sighed. Magically, her body was not exhausted. It seemed the time loop also adjusted her health or sleeping cycle properly, yet nevertheless, it was extremely, mentally taxing to deal with a bizarre danger that she had no control over.
"Well, that's it." Hiyori murmured. She'll be dishonest to state that she didn't hold any grudges, that she wasn't spitefully curious of whoever was behind those 21 letters, but it felt those letters...did not contain any malice towards her. So she wasn't in a hurry to find the culprit.
If anything, it could also be stated that she wanted to thank the culprit! It had been a really fun adventure, mysterious, frightening, uh...weird, but it is memorable in more ways than one, and certainly she got to spend more time with her dear friend Ayanokoji as well!
Hiyori's smile got brighter. She almost felt...regret that it ended just like this. Unceremonious, anti-climatic ending that left many questions unanswered. It was not the first time she felt this since the last cancelled series of books she's read, yet this remanence within her certainly didn't spark any joy.
Oh speaking of ending...
She had to explain properly to Ayanokoji! Right now! Given how...embarrassing and awkward yesterday's situation has been, she felt deeply apologetic over the situation, but was too mentally exhausted last night to mind any manners...
...actually it was because of Ayanokoji's fault that she was embarrassed. Hiyori pouted.
And yet, manners are manners. So she got out of bed and walked to the desk where her phone is neatly placed. She also should reveal the letter as well, before offering to investigate the sender behind it together.
However, as she grabbed her phone with two hands and turned it on for the opening screen, there was...a notification, a notification from a mysterious sender that she should have, but didn't expect from.
Oh no...
A wave of foreboding, crisis and disbelief washed over her. As she clicked the notification and was sent to the SNS page, there was only one message by this mysterious sender...
Scenario:
Date and teach the target 'Kiyotaka Ayanokouji' about 'love' before the Last Special Exam. Break up with him as Year 1 semester ends.
Objective 1:
Make an honest confession to 'Kiyotaka Ayanokouji' within today successfully.
Completed.
Reward: 'Partner-in-crime' ticket
(Effect: Upon gifting the person the ticket, allow someone other than 'Hiyori Shiina' to experience the time loop that was resulted from the failure once. Memories of that time loop, however, will be removed after completing the objective the ticket was used on.)
The reward has been sent to your mailbox.
...objective...completed? There was even a reward?
No no, this is not the most important. What's more important is under it...
Updated Objective:
You have successfully not captured the heart of Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. But as love starts when you least expected, go and apologise to Ayanokouji by fulfilling whatever he desires. Success will depend upon Ayanokouji's satisfaction.
Difficulty:
Hell.
Consequence:
Failure of fulfilling the objective, or any attempt of directly or indirectly revealing this letter will result in a daily reset via a 24-hour cycle.
Rewards:
'Beep, beep, Cat Ears!'
Note:
As stated. Further rules have been added in accordance to your clever manoeuvre of our rules.
I hope you had a good rest.
Hiyori blinked. She closed her eyes and took a deep, deep breath.
She even set aside the phone for a while. Did her daily chores such as cleaning the house, brushing her teeth, reading a new book she borrowed a week ago, cooking a plate of breakfast, eating the breakfast, and lying on the bed for a long, long while, thinking about...life, life and how great her life in the school campus has been. Oh yes, life, and all the blessing she's been given...
But she sighed. She sat up and staggered to the desk, picked up the phone and turned it on. The dreaded message still remained.
I hope you had a good rest.
She retracted the statement that she would thank them. This sender is truly a villain who did not deserve it.
——————————
"..."
"..."
"...G-Good morning, Ayanokouji-kun."
"Good morning, Hiyori. I didn't expect you to arrive early. Come in."
And so she did. Once again, two teenagers, in the middle of the afternoon, alone together in one spacious room, yet still closer than ever as they were bound once again by a bizarre twist of fate.
As Hiyori was taking off her shoes at the door, Ayanokouji noticed how Hiyori was dressed with more considerations this time. The same blue blouse from last night, but this time she also wore a light brown, leather coat, paired with a scarf wrapped around her neck. He was grateful that his friend was more considerate of her health this time.
But...he also noticed she didn't bring back the jacket she borrowed. That's odd, Hiyori was not the type to forget a favour. Though, let's just listen to what she had to say for last night.
"Sit down, we have a lot to talk about."
As Ayanokouji invited her to sit on the seat, the seat that was pulled last night and remained as if untouched, Hiyori couldn't help but wonder if he was anticipating her return.
"Y-yes." She quickly cut off her thought with her response as she settled herelf onto the seat. How silly, did she really think of her dear friend as a pervert?
"And so," Ayanokouji sat on the bed facing her. "Ready to explain last night?"
Hiyori gulped. She knew out of anyone, Ayanokouji-kun deserved the rights to know the reason she troubled him.
"A-about that..." She quickly reminded herself the failure includes 'revealing the letter'. "I would not be able to inform you about that. Um...please do not worry. I believe not knowing so would not harm you in any manner."
Asides from the further unruly disturbance from me...of course, she gulped down her thoughts.
"Hm...is that it?" Ayanokouji frowned. "Hiyori, are you sure you are not being troubled right now?"
"Well...I...in all honesty, I felt extremely troubled." Incredibly troubled, actually, she sighed, before quickly reminded of her purpose here.
"However, because of such a disturbance, I felt the need to...um, apologise and repay you in some manners. Do you have anything you desire?"
Ayanokouji mused. Dodging around the topic now? How curious, Hiyori seemed to be honest about her personal feelings of the situation, yet reassure in full honesty that there would be no harm derived to him from her predicament, which given Hiyori's personality, was unlikely a deception.
Ayanokouji caught his chin as he sunk in deep thoughts. His curiosity behind the culprit or cause behind Hiyori's perculiar behaviours grew, but given her reluctance, he should find another opportunity to push this aside for another time.
"What do I desire..."
Good question. Ayanokouji thought of multiple answers to that, but suppose it's a mere response to her friend, he should not trouble her with any abnormal request.
As he was about to answer, he felt the earnest gaze in front of him. Hiyori, in her seat, was shivering with widened eyes as her brows sloped. For a second, he compared her look with that of a cute puppy, waiting for her owner's words, almost as if she waited for his patting and ordering.
...wait, what weird kink was he thinking of?
"For now, let's just hang out for a while."
"...is that it?"
Ayanokouji nodded. "I haven't hung out with others in this holiday since a while ago. Come with me."
That much is true. For his normal life, hangouts with friends should be part of it.
————————
"This is..."
"Yes, it's the library."
"But Ayanokouji-kun...this is just what we normally do."
"And doing what we normally would is what I want."
"Oh, uh...alright."
And so, they arrived at the library, and everything went as they usually did. Separating, they found their books to read, found an empty table with seats, and found each other at said table and sat. Nothing more went on as they read their own books. An ordinary day shared by two friends of a shared interest.
What is different this time, however...was the newfound uneasiness within Hiyori.
Hiyori sighed as she peeked at the bookmate on the other end, seemingly immersed himself into the documentary he was reading.
She understood for some people, a normal life is more than satisfactory, and so a normal hangout can bring more fulfilment than they ever could ask for. She is the same and she wouldn't deny the joy being with...Ayanokouji, be that she would be a little embarrassed to admit it.
And yet, she didn't know Ayanokouji. She neither discern if a lifestyle of normality is what brings him satisfaction, nor if he didn't directly reveal any outrageous request out of consideration.
And so...with this heavy weight in her heart, she closed and settled her book on the table.
"A-Ayanokouji-kun..." Hiyori whispered as she blushed at her stutter.
Ayanokouji snapped out of his immersion as he peeked at Hiyori's blushing gaze. Strange, Hiyori rarely whispered in the library in respect of rules, let alone disturbed him during reading, for she understood the perturbance that would have come with it.
She must be embarrassed as she was aware of her impoliteness, so let's finish the conversation quickly. "What's the matter?"
"Is merely reading in the library...truly what you really desired?"
She did not know how to converse properly, so she could only directly ask him.
Ayanokouji blinked. "Yes, not much else."
"I...would not like to be rude if possible, but are you sure you're not asking much in concern for me?"
Ayanokouji blinked again. "Yes, would you like me to ask for more?"
"Yes! I-if you would like so!"
Ayanokouji blinked and blinked again, as he was faced down by the wide, purple pupils that exudes pure intent. She had no idea how perverted that sounded. Or maybe the one perverted is him.
"I believe this is it, Hiyori." He lowered the book to face her gaze. "I can't think of anything else."
"I-is this truly it?"
"Yes, hanging out with you is the best moment I could ever ask for."
It is true. Hanging out with a friend is the best he could ask for, in a normal life of course.
Hiyori widened her eyes as a redder blush came to her cheeks. She fidgeted as she quickly, awkwardly picked up the book she settled on the table earlier and covered her face.
"I-I'm glad. Sorry for the disturbance..."
"It is alright."
Resisting the urge to pull down the book and squish her reddened cheeks, Ayanokouji went back to his book.
And so, their days ended. A normal, undisturbed day with no surprises. A day that was shared by the two friends merely passed by in a swift manner.
Mayhap a day enjoyed by one, and yet mayhap a day too ordinary for one.
———————————
...
...
...A sense of foreboding.
As a reader, she knew this feeling all too well. Red flag, foreshadowing, set-up...she had experienced this countless times in the world of fiction.
Hiyori frowned in sadness as she hugged the book in her arms. This unease. Will today be once again repeated?
"What's wrong, Hiyori?"
She looked at the boy besides him. They were just walking home at night after their reading in the library. Nothing of surprise had gone on then, even during their walk right now.
That's what worries her though. Nothing is happening.
"...Ayanokouji-kun. I'm so sorry."
"Hm?"
She shouldn't, but she found herself guilty of being envious of her friend's obliviousness. It is too much to demand a person to comply however she wished for completing the objective, yet the heart yearns for otherwise so that she would not suffer another time loop so quickly.
"Ayanokouji-kun, is there...really nothing else you desire right now?"
"Like I stated, this is all I ever wanted."
"...really?"
"Really."
"..."
A deadly silence loomed between them as they walked in the campus. The night was dark as only the streetlight towered over them. The two silhouette's shadow lied by each other, unaware of each other's shade. If only she knew he thinks, if only he knew what she thinks. And yet, their thoughts were never shared just as the shadows never intersected.
It was going to remain this way, for paths ultimately diverged when two did not explore the others, and when one did not allow entry for the other.
Hiyori lowered her head. Was she upset of the time loop? Or was she upset of her helplessness? Or...was she upset of her inactiveness for exploring what her friend's heart desires?
Either way, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
"If there's anything, Hiyori. Don't hesitate to find me."
She gazed at him as Ayanokouji sounded his concern. Not asking too much, but reassuring her by lending his help if requested.
Hiyori smiled in response. "Please, do not be worried about me."
Don't worry, my dear friend. There is nothing that can't be righted now.
For till this year's end, today will not be the end.
——————————————
Chapter 5: Chapter 5: No Risks Without Firsts; No Firsts Without Risks
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Current objective:
You have successfully not captured the heart of Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. But as love starts when you least expected, go and apologise to Ayanokouji by fulfilling whatever he desires. Success will depend upon Ayanokouji's satisfaction.
Difficulty:
Hell.
——————————
And so, the day ended with them returning to the dorm. After their farewells and separating, Hiyori returned to the bed, yet unable to sleep due to her anxiety.
Yet something felt...odd. One second...two second passed...three second...five...six...eleven...or was it ten?
Time felt oddly slow as Hiyori counted down in her head. Eventually, her eyes grew weary as her limps relaxed without warning, as she drifted off into sleep.
And when the dawn came, she woke up. She sat up as her eyes slowly panned towards the phone on the desk, just as if it was never touched 'yesterday'. The book she borrowed yesterday at their hangout, which should have been at the side, gone without warning.
Hiyori looked away. Today begins anew.
—————————
"Ayanokouji-kun, do you really want nothing else you can think of right now? No? Um...okay."
"Ayanokouji-kun, please...you really can ask for more from me, you know?"
"Ayanokouji-kun, may I...suggest something else? Like going for a drink or...something..."
"Ayanokouji-kun, do you have any books you would like to borrow? Need my recommendation? Oh...you've read it already..."
"Ayanokouji-kun, would you like to have some teas from me? They are..."
"Ayanokouji-kun, how about we...um...go-to-have ice cream today?"
"Ayanokouji-kun, have you tried this restaurant before?"
"Ayanokouji-kun, do you need anything? I-I can buy it for you! Ah-please something not too expensive though...."
"Ayanokouji-kun, have you run out of clothes? Would you like to do shopping with me? ...ah, You haven't? O-okay..."
And so, '15 todays' gone by, and no process has been found.
First, she tried asking what he wanted or more. He claimed a hangout is more than enough. Then, she tried suggesting ideas. He didn't reject it yet the loop still happened. So now, she tried probing if he needed or lacked anything. He insisted his life was sufficient.
All ideas experimented, exhausted and tended to. And yet, the dreadful loop still remained, and she woke up still frustrated.
She sighed. Now she was now sitting on a bench at the shopping mall, alone and lamented. She was going to Ayanokouji, but she figured she would face the same failure. Why wouldn't she? It had been 15 times after all.
She faced the crowd coming and going. Same scenery, same people and same conversations. One couple at the side laughing at the dastardly Christmas decoration. Another shop keeper at the door shouting for promoting new skincare products. A line of students queuing for the newly opened restaurant. It felt bizarre, she was not used to being in a crowded area before, and yet after '7 times' with Ayanokouji in this place, the familiarity oddly calmed her.
She chuckled exhaustedly. She must have gone mad, for growing used to such an unfair situation, isolated as everyone blissfully unaware that their shared times will be worthless under the cruel time loop.
...
...wait, what's wrong? Why would she think like that?
No no, she shook her head. Let's not...well, be like that first. Focus on resolving the core issue:
Why is she considered 'failing the objective'?
Is it because her understanding of Ayanokouji was not enough? Or is it because he did not understand his own desire? Maybe the latter was the case...there are people not satisfied with their lives and yet cursedly unaware of it...
Hiyori shook her head again. No, how could she make such an assumption? Ayanokouji is a dear friend of hers. She could not assume what other's issue lie at without understanding her own!
In the first place, the fault lied on her for not conversing clearly on discovering what he actually desired. Ayanokouji-kun was just responding to a friend's request, and...it is a possibility that he genuinely felt fulfilment on his normal request in the first place!
So...what now? What else could she be missing?
She sighed again. Before taking out and glancing at her phone, that dreadful message was the only 'real thing' that accompanied her till this 'loop'.
...
Updated objective:
You have successfully not captured the heart of Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. But as love starts when you least expected, go and apologise to Ayanokouji by fulfilling whatever he desires. Success will depend upon Ayanokouji's satisfaction.
...
The objective...right the objective!
Hiyori's mind snapped, as if a wire to a heavy weight was cut. She avoid thinking of the time loop, so much so that she missed the bigger picture the whole time!
The objective...specifically how it is worded, is how to resolve this issue.
...but, what then?
Hiyori reread the message. For about five minutes, she stared at the message, unperturbed and unmoved. Nothing around seemed able to disrupt her, and only the message still lingered in her head.
And yet, after minutes of deduction...she could not figure out the solution to the objective.
She sighed again. There were at least three things she discerned. One, fulfilling whatever he desires. The message implied that 'desires' did not mean 'requests', so merely 'fulfilling his requests' would not be enough.
Second, satisfaction. This could either indicate as a stimulus where Ayanokouji would be more excited than usual upon fulfilling his desires, or as a fulfilment as in he felt nothing would be amiss after such. Hiyori pondered. It is best that to complete the scenario, both stimulus and fulfilment should be fulfilled for her 16th attempt.
Third, and most important one...
She frowned. Harder as she was unsure of this . It would be hugely impactful if she guessed correctly, and yet aside from the immoral implication, it...felt insufficient to conclude as such.
Most of all, if that's true, then there is an one-way ticket to resolve this issue...
She smiled. For a 'hell' difficulty, should she risk it immediately? That may be the biggest loss if and when she realised it is not the case.
...no. It is the opposite.
It is impossible to figure out how the instruction works without some risk and experimentation.
And therefore, she shall risk it all.
Everything that could be first to her, she will sacrifice it all, for this quest, for her freedom, and for Ayanokouji.
She nodded to herself, before standing up and heading back to her room.
Let's allow another 'today' to continue, before truly ending it all.
Even though at the end...she may lose everything.
——————————
"Hiyori, where are you taking us?"
"We're going on a date."
"...alright?"
"Oh, you agree. Thank you."
"No, I don't mind."
And so, Kiyotaka was taken to a shopping mall.
He blinked as he followed Hiyori's back. A linen blouse with a long, blue skirt. As they passed through the entrance, Hiyori spoke.
"Ayanokouji-kun," her back still against him. "You're...a smart person, right?"
Well, that's a sudden question.
"I won't deny it." He closed his eyes for contemplating the right answer. "But Hiyori, why is it you're asking me this?"
Hiyori stopped in her track, before turning around to stare straight at him.
"No, it means that it is...difficult to surprise you." She smiled, which he could a hint of sadness.
Hiyori continued. "I truly like our relationship, Ayanokouji-kun."
She smiled as she put both hands over her chest. "A pure, silent, mutually interested friendship. Every moment when you read with me, when you shared with me your honest thoughts, when you walked with me back to our domintory, I truly cherish it."
...?
Wait, is this a confession flag?
Ayanokouji frowned. No, Hiyori and he only met for a short time. She may be isolated, but not desperate. She's stronger than that.
But then, what is this? What is this sense of dread he felt that is behind her?
He closed his eyes to contemplate. Is this because of last night? Is she mad over his recording?
Or...is she mad at the mastermind who forced her to do the bidding?
How intriguing. Yet, it's best that he comforted her first as a friend before resolving his curiosity.
But right as he cleared up his thought, Hiyori's smile grew wider.
"But first, let's continue our date. Please follow me."
Ayanokouji blinked at her nonchalance, before nodding.
And so, the date went smoothly.
Overall, nothing much happened. Crowds coming and going. Normal scenery, people and conversations. On the way, one couple at the side laughing at the a Christmas decoration. Another shop keeper at the door handing out samples for the new products. A line of students queuing for the newly opened restaurant.
It would be more fitting to call instead this date a walk, a very very long walk.
And so, they passed by more sceneries. A group of friends taking a selfie in front of the theatre. A old woman walking across the road with a wooden stick. And a convenience store closing with a broken glass door.
He glanced at Hiyori, in which Hiyori glanced back.
She smiled at him, before turning away.
Ayanokouji's suspicion grew.
As they finally walked through all of the shopping mall, they stood at the exit.
"I apologise deeply if the date is boring, Ayanokouji-kun."
He shook his head. He didn't mind. In fact, boredom is more than normal to him.
No, it is more that boredom is part of the normal.
"Is there anything else, Hiyori?" He asked. "I can tell you're hiding something. You're not being yourself."
It is obvious again. Hiyori is being forced into this.
The mastermind behind her must be skilful enough to force such a smart mind as Hiyori into doing their bouts twice.
However, she shook her head.
"I will be honest, Ayanokouji-kun." She frowned, her smile still unfaltering. "I am aware fully of what I am doing."
Hm? Then what is the reason? She's not being forced? Then did she merely want to have a date with him?
...no. He may not be a person that grasped emotion himself, but he can tell when someone is being forced into doing something she didn't want to.
Hiyori's weird behaviour today, although she was always silent, she's instead content with the silence rather than utilising it for ulterior motives.
And now, he is confident that the latter is more possible.
"But thank you, Ayanokouji-kun."
...what is it now?
As he attempted to resolve this situation, he watched as Hiyori bowed.
"Thank you. For being my friend. For being the intelligent person you are. And for being concerned with someone such as me."
"...it is only natural."
...
He is not lying.
He is not telling the truth either.
Friends, they are supposed to help each other.
Yet for him, his heart has never grasped the meaning of helping another.
He had never a need for it after all.
He frowned at Hiyori's unmoving smile, at her violet eyes that were staring at his.
In a long time since he went to this school, he had never fallen into confusion.
Even now, it is more curiosity than anything.
Everything can be resolved with logic, and logic dictated that everything has an origin.
The 'mystery' behind Hiyori is the same.
...
...
...and so, Hiyori needs something that prevails over common sense.
"There is something I want to give you, Ayanokouji-kun."
Then, from her pocket, she took a slip of paper.
Ayanokouji blinked. No, from its shape...
...a ticket?
It has an unordinary appearance. White coloured background, a chibi-character in the middle with a tifora hat and sunglasses on the side, grinning widely with his teeth, as if welcoming whoever received this ticket.
"What is this?"
"I recommend merely taking it, Ayanokouji-kun."
He glanced at Hiyori, her eyes had never moved from a while ago.
It was uncanny from someone as kind as her. She's not one to make another uncomfortable without their wishes.
Her hand proceeded to him with the 'ticket'. "Ayanokouji-kun, this is the 16th time I ask you."
...16 times?
"What do you truly desire?"
His true desire? A normal life.
It is what it is.
Everything flows as a streaming river, and the world turns ignoring the wishes of its inhabitants.
They are all natural laws that no one questions.
That is the same as his wish, to live a normal life.
A life where he truly can take for granted.
A life where he would not question everything.
A life where he can make friends, have fun and hang out as he wishes.
That is his end. Before he returned to that room alone.
And yet, this sense of incongruity...is a first.
"I will help you." Hiyori was still smiling. "Please, take this ticket. I insist."
He felt that if he took this ticket, everything about what he truly desire...will change in an instant.
Every knowledge he built over the years, and every logic he has established for the world in a long time, and every absolute law he has taken for granted.
Just with this ticket, everything will be flipped upside down.
That includes his wish for a normal life.
...no, or is this ticket...just another gateway to a new perspective?
Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.
A menacing man who manipulated 'tools' to his bidding.
A calculating man who trapped Ryuen with his own game.
A powerful man who earned the approval of president Manabu.
For the first time in his life, as the only 'survivor' of the 4th gen 'White Room'.
"Alright. I will looking forward to it."
He willingly walked into a trap, unprepared yet full of pure curiosity.
As he received the ticket, he watched as Hiyori's smile faltered, as it gradually sunk into a frown.
"Please...forgive me for later, Ayanokouji-kun."
"...no, it is fine."
Hiyori will bring no harm to him.
It is not blind confidence. It is how it is.
Hiyori is simply a person that will avoid actively harming others.
This will not change in the present or the future.
And yet, he never knew at this moment. How much he will regret this thought.
He has never been wrong in his life, so why would he now?
But Hiyori Shiina, the kindest person and friend he met at this high school.
She will be the first person to open his heart.
And she will be the first to tear it out.
——————————
Notes:
Sorry for the cliffhangers after the hiatus.
Adjusting next chapter. May upload the day after tomorrow. Promise to do so within this week.
Hiyori will surprise you, readers.
Chapter 6: May Today Last Eternal (Part 1)
Chapter Text
Current objective:
You have successfully not captured the heart of Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. But as love starts when you least expected, go and apologise to Ayanokouji by fulfilling whatever he desires. Success will depend upon Ayanokouji's satisfaction.
Difficulty:
Hell.
——————————
There is no winning without losing.
Hiyori is well aware of this.
From her 15 times of failures, she finally had a realisation.
And losing her 16th today, she set up the piece for another.
With that, everything is simply set.
What Ayanokouji truly desired. How Ayanokouji can be truly satisfied. And how this trial can be truly cleared.
Whether she will pass the objective...is dependent entirely on whether she is right.
At least she hoped so.
Because she will sacrifice everything on this loop.
And so, the 17th today begins.
A today that will be forgotten by one. And a today that will be unforgotten by another.
All traces of joys and regrets...all the meanings they carried...
May it last forever in her heart.
——————————
...
Ayanokouji woke up with his eyes frowning.
"I'm pretty sure I put the seat aside yesterday..."
Yesterday, after they came and went from the shopping mall, Ayanokouji took time to clean up the room, including putting the seat beside his bed back to where it belonged.
And yet, what greeted him in his morning is the same seat, right beside his bed as if untouched.
The sense of bizarreness didn't end there.
He explored further as he stood up. An exploration usually involved the unknown, yet this time, it is his own room that was unfamiliar to him.
The table with the uncleaned tea cups, the the kitchen sink with none of the plates he cleaned was found, and the table with none of the book he read is placed.
In this instant, his own room felt familiar yet distantly forbidding.
Ayanokouji closed his eyes, not out of tiredness or panic, but calmness.
Let's reevaluate the situation.
He recently received a ticket from Hiyori that would allow him to fulfil his 'true' desire.
And now...his room is in a state where everything is out of place.
...no, it isn't like that.
Come to think of it, isn't the seat always placed beside his bed 'yesterday' as well?
The tea cup that should have been cleaned, the plates that should have been put aside in the sink and the book that should have been placed on the table.
All of them...should've already been part of 'yesterday'.
...
...no, he cannot jump to conclusion yet.
His years worth of logic and knowledge demanded him to await more evidences.
At the very least...until everything is put in place.
Later, he got a message that Hiyori would arrive at his door.
Everything should be clearer right after their meeting.
—————————
"Good morning, Ayanokouji-kun."
"..."
...there is something different about Hiyori.
Ayanokouji pondered as the girl stood in front of him. No, there is technically...nothing different. Same blouse with a blue skirt, and the same smile on her face. Everything is the same.
...no, there is still something uncanny among this.
He was told yesterday that his true desire will be fulfilled. More than that, he knew something was going to be different after receiving the ticket.
He is wrong. There is nothing different. Even Hiyori herself is not different.
Yet it is precisely why everything stays the same, it begins to feel off.
Just like the state of his room when he woke up.
"It is early. I'm glad you're awake and dressed up already."
"Yes, I did. I was preparing to go to the library today."
Just like a normal resident in a normal world.
"Mm. Then, shall we go? Please follow me."
...wait.
"Hiyori, where are you taking us?"
His lips...moved before he could think twice.
"We're going on a date."
"..."
Hm, interesting. Is she trying to lead him into the same conversation as yesterday?
Well, for now...
"Alright."
Let's play along first.
"Oh, you agree. Thank you."
"No, I don't mind."
Ayanokouji glanced, as Hiyori hid her hands behind her back.
It is clumsy. The whole conversation felt off. Her smile was stale. Her tone stayed flat. He can even observe a slight tremble from her arm even if she tried to hide them.
Hiyori is acting, for one reason or another.
Is it because of the mastermind again?
"Then, let us go."
"Alright."
As Hiyori headed off, he took out his phone from his pocket and glanced at the time.
It was the exact time they went to the shopping centre yesterday.
...interesting.
He stared at Hiyori's back as he followed her. He willingly moved into a trap; he was more willing to see through the end of it.
And so, he was taken to the shopping mall, once again.
Little did he forget in his excitement, he should have also checked the date.
---------
Ayanokouji blinked. And then blinked again.
As he followed Hiyori through the shopping mall, curious scenes were happening. No...to be precise, the same scenes were reenacting right before his eyes.
"What is it, Ayanokouji-kun?"
He watched Hiyori's back turned to him as he stopped, he observed once for the slight frown Hiyori had.
Stopping mid-way to ask a question, it seems a natural transition, but slight quivering of the lips gave off the acting.
So, she must have stopped here intentionally.
Ayanokouji blinked, then take a look around.
As expected, everything was the same.
Crowds coming and going. The same scenery, people and conversations. On the way, the same couple at the side laughing at the a Christmas decoration. The same shop keeper at the door handing out samples for the new products. Even the same line of students queuing for the newly opened restaurant.
He always observed his surroundings as hobby, especially when he was bored. Which is why he clearly knew at this time.
That everything is the same. Same location. Same people. Same phenomenon.
As if the day returned and went back to yesterday.
Or...is it more precise to call it another 'today'? Since the 'today' is a result of everything being put back to place?
Interesting.
However, he couldn't play along with Hiyori forever.
He walked to the shopkeeper handling the free samples, as he heard Hiyori following close behind.
"Excuse me."
The shopkeeper turned to him. "Oh I see you. Want a sample of our new favoured energy drink?"
The man handed it out to him. It is the same product as 'yesterday'.
Of course, he should waste no time.
"Are you also here yesterday as well?"
"Hm? Oh, last time it was a different shift by a different colleague, what's the matter?"
As expected, an excuse? Is that a lie or did time really turn back?
Ignoring the confused gaze, Ayanokouji frowned and contemplated with fingers on the chin.
Based on Hiyori's weird behaviour the night she confessed to him, as well as her invitation to this date, the weird 'turning-back-time' like phenomenon, not only in his room that should boast security worthy enough of a privileged high school, but also everything being the exact same in the same place at the same time...
He could see, Hiyori's initiatives of her behaviours are connected to this series of weird events.
Taking a glance at his back, Hiyori's smile greeted him. Unlike this time, it was unfaltering, and implied she looked forward to...something?
Intriguing. Very intriguing.
The mastermind behind her, the intention behind her behaviours, and the weird mechanisms occurring behind this 'pseudo-rewind'.
Everything was interesting, that for the first time in a while, he could claim he is genuinely intrigued at a mystery-like puzzle.
However, this is too early to conclude everything.
He needs more evidence. More verbal proofs. More experimentations.
Whether this is some elaborate pranks or supernatural phenomenon would be found out later.
Ayanokouji walked away from the shopkeeper, as he approached the line of students waiting at the restaurant.
He continued his questionings, forgetting even his dear friend behind him who brought him to this 'date'.
——————————
As expected, he is only interested at the 'mastermind' of the incident.
Hiyori recalled as Ayanokouji walked ahead and approached an old woman with the wooden stick from the 'the loop'.
The condition for the objective is quite simple: fulfil whatever Ayanokouji desires.
And despite the nature of the objective, the desire does not have to be a life-long desire or a personal goal.
It could also mean resolving a confusion, clarifying your confused thoughts and having answers on a matter.
For example, the entity behind her.
The mastermind who forced her behaviours. The superpower who possessed the ability to rewind time. And the...frankly, weird entity who had a perverted, ill-tasted obsession for both her and Ayanokouji.
That entity is also part of the equation. No, it is an absolutely must that if she wanted to pass the objective, this desire for answer must be resolved.
As Ayanokouji finished asking, she observed as he once again blinked before moving to another person.
Hiyori sighed in relief. Despite the roundabout, she could sense Ayanokouji is starting to accept that this is indeed a 'supernatural' phenomenon.
In his mind, he must beginning to comprehend everything. The time loop and her behaviours coz of objectives.
And as a result, his 'stimulus' and 'fulfilment' would be accomplished.
After being 'stimulated' by a unprecedented, unnatural and supernatural phenomenon that broke his years of common sense and intellect....
Then his 'fulfilment' would be reached, by figuring out the intention behind her behaviours, and the 'goal' of the entity.
...
...however, this is far from enough to complete the objective.
She glanced at Ayanokouji's bored expression. Despite still asking others, his facial expression is still as calm as ever, his tone still smooth and rational, as if he is not experiencing a confusing situation or crisis he had never faced.
Yes, as expected from him.
The objective is 'hell' difficulty for a reason.
And it is that Ayanokouji is extremely difficult to be truly called 'satisfied' with something.
Rather, after facing this supernatural phenomenon, he is still as calm as ever, despite the crisis he was in uprooted the foundation of his knowledge and understanding of the world.
Yes, this is not enough. Far from enough.
Having to face this bizarre situation, he would still retain calmness and rationality, as he merely extended his inquisitiveness.
What is the mechanism behind this time loop?
Can the entity behind her truly control and rewind everything?
Is it possible that the time loop would be infinite? Or does it have a limit?
Only more questions than ever would be sprouted in his mind.
And so, his 'fulfilment' would not be acquired.
Therefore, it is possible that despite figuring out the time loop and the entity's intention, he would remain not satisfied.
On the contrary, he would only be more curious than ever.
His 'satisfaction' is that difficult to be fulfilled.
"Hiyori."
As he watched the old grandma stumbled away, he asked, his back still turned against her.
Hiyori smiled. His back still seemed more distant than ever.
Yes, if things went on like this, Ayanokouji would not be satisfied.
And thus, she will fail this objective.
He turned towards to her. His eyes still as flat as ever.
Hiyori's brows loosened. She knew all along. He was testing her. He knew she was acting. He knew there was something more behind her, behind this.
But this is a mere beginning. It is never her true objective to begin with.
Therefore...
"Ayanokouji-kun. Please listen to me."
Until this point, she 'acted' as a part of the mystery. By intentionally 'hide' everything.
This is to respect the failure condition: not to directly or indirectly reveal the letter, which likely did not account for the use of item or the objective itself.
It also did not account for Ayanokouji figuring out everything himself. It is part of why Hiyori deliberately lead him here in the first place.
However, this is a mere secondary goal.
Once an investigator is immersed in a investigation, he would compile new evidence and new clues, to resolve his mystery.
Right now, the clue of 'Hiyori' is part of Ayanokouji's investigation. Part of the mystery. Part of the clues.
And so, in order to truly complete this objective...
"Have you been ever happy with your life here?"
She will completely uproot the mystery, tearing apart the investigation.
She will position herself outside of the mystery, depriving her role from a mere 'victim' of the 'entity'.
She will dig deep down into Ayanokouji's true desire, opening a new 'case' for him to study.
"Because I want to find an answer for you, Ayanokouji-kun."
And so, the new mystery begins.
The mystery that did not have Hiyori as the centre, but one that she has been curious about since she found him in the cafeteria...
...no, since she became her one and only friend.
The mystery that is Ayanokouji.
The real investigation starts here.
——————————
Ayanokouji frowned. It is only natural, Hiyori's comment is extremely strange.
After asking around, he has finally determined that he is in a sort of supernatural phenomenon.
Which is to say, the time is rewinded.
He asked around to confirm this. It is only through logical elimination and analysis that he finally accepted this bid not a test set up by the school, or some elaborate prank by one class.
And so, he concluded. Time rewinded. A very surprising phenomenon that would no doubt uproot the foundation of our world.
Though did not know for how long. However, based on the exact time when they left for the mall, and the date he just checked not long ago.
24 hours. That is his guess. As everything was in the exact same place at the right time.
How does the time loop explain Hiyori's behaviour though?
Simple. Very simple to guess.
She simply has to achieve a certain 'objective' within the time loop.
This is guessed because of her weird behaviour of her 'false confession' yesterday.
Which is why, he was going to ask her to confirm the theory.
And yet...
"May I ask what do you mean with answer?"
His frown loosened, as he began to probe for answer. Maybe this is related to the time loop again.
As if figuring his intention, Hiyori continued on her own, her smile unfaltering. "An answer for happiness, Ayanokouji-kun."
An answer for...happiness? Is that the objective?
"I see." He nodded. "So what is it about?"
Let's play her game for a moment, then he will ask the questions about the time loop itself.
The extremely curious mystery can wait. His friend's antic can come first.
Though he won't hope this is a waste of time or ploy by his friend.
Hiyori answered. "Ayanokouji-kun. You deeply wish for a normal life, am I correct?"
Hm, so she figure it out. Not surprising.
She continued. "I cannot guess the reason based on what clues I have. Maybe you had a tragic childhood where everything that is taken for granted to others cannot possessed by you. Maybe you honoured a request from a friend or family to enjoy a normal school life for once, in which your capability would be overqualified for, otherwise."
Wow, those are some-
"All imaginations of my own. Are they impressive?"
He must admit they are. He would not have the emotional capacity to process trauma or honour requests from a closed one.
"Yet all of these are far from the truth. The truth...is much simpler."
Yes, it is.
He is a tool for learning, nothing more.
His mindset is conditioned by the White Room. To learn for the sake of learning. To acquire knowledge simply for the sake of it.
He admits, emotions do matter sometimes in the equation. Maybe it is only 'emotional intelligence' that he needed, but a couple observations are more than enough to see how ones feel, to predict how ones act, to unveil what ones intent.
Emotions...never, ever mattered to him.
They are simply part of the knowledge he had, nothing more, nothing less.
And so, the reason he joined this school is simple.
Of course, it is never for the sake of acquiring emotions, or any sentimental reasons.
"You simply want to know, am I correct?"
Yes.
"What a normal life is like. Out of pure pursuit for satisfying your curiosity."
That is also true.
It may not be the full context, but it is undeniably one of the reason.
He wants to learn more.
He wants to know 'how' to be a normal person.
He wants to know 'what' exactly constitutes a 'normal' life.
That, is why he is here in the first place.
Ayanokouji tilted his head. It is impressive Hiyori figured it out without much context.
Is it because he is her friend? That he has spent some time with that she can clearly observed him? Or that she had a similar experience of her own?
No, Hiyori is more 'sentimental' than that. More naive than him who can be called a 'machine' for the sake of learning.
Well, it does not matter in the end.
So what?
What if she could figure out his intention? What would come after that?
Would she be part of the normal life he desires? She already was by his 'friend'.
Would she find a straight answer for what a 'normal' life is l? That is impossible. Different people have their own interpretation of 'normal', and it is only him that could find his own interpretation.
So what is it? Why did she reveal his intention?
"Why are you asking this question, Hiyori?"
Hiyori is smart, really smart.
She would not have asked this question without a second thought.
And so, it must be either the objective of the entity that commanded her...
...or it is something else entirely.
No, could it be something in-between? Something of a desire for her friend?
He is curious. What exactly is she thinking?
But then, she gave him an answer.
An answer that he...no, he expected it to a certain extent.
Yet still an answer that has shaken him, if only ever so slightly nonetheless.
Hiyori smiled widely, as if unaware of the impacts of the words she would have on him.
"Ayanokouji-kun."
She stared straight at him, her eyes as pure as the sea.
"You will never learn what a normal life is. Someone like you will never learn that."
Ayanokouji's eyes widened slightly, as he continued to meet Hiyori's confident gaze.
And so, the first ripple has been casted to the calm river.
Let the 'game' truly begins.
————————
Author's note:
This is only part 1. Because I got inspired...I decide to post this as a teaser.
The next chapter will be within this week.
Chapter Text
Current objective:
You have successfully not captured the heart of Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. But as love starts when you least expected, go and apologise to Ayanokouji by fulfilling whatever he desires. Success will depend upon Ayanokouji's satisfaction.
Difficulty:
Hell.
------------
May Today Last Eternal (Part 2)
“Someone like me?”
Ayanokouji is flabbergasted. No, it would be more accurate to describe his confusion as ‘betrayed’.
Hiyori is by no means a naïve girl who is blind to her surroundings, even to him. Rather, she was too pure and kind-hearted to involve herself in the class ordeals. Like a bystander, you are not guilty if you are not directly involved, and you are not guilty if you act in the name of the ‘greater good’. Ryuen’s tyranny is that ‘greater good’, which is why she allowed and complied despite both having such contrasting ideologies.
If given an opportunity, Hiyori would sacrifice herself for the welfare of her class and friend if proven necessary as well, precisely because she is weighted down by her kindness.
This is not a subjective comment. It is something he concluded after being a friend of Hiyori, despite the short while they had.
It is the same in this situation, the usual Hiyori would not be selfish and prioritise her wish and selfishness over others. Not to claim she didn’t have them, but she had neither the incentive nor maliciousness to act on them.
So…what is this?
He blinked as Hiyori stepped close to him, stopping just near his chest. Her height is short compared to his, yet as she gazed upwards with a wide smile, paired with the cardigan that showed a modest appeal to her chest…
…Ayanokouji is evaluating her violet, clear, wide eyes from above. For a moment, he was…entranced in a calm, undisturbed sea.
“I’m very sorry, Ayanokouji-kun.”
Hiyori drew out her hand, as its finger stopped short at his thigh. He can feel the fingernails protruding his trousers, right below his manhood.
“Your normal life…I know more than anyone it is unachievable.”
Slowly, her finger snaked upward, tickling his thigh as it traced along the trouser. His teeth shivered, as the finger entered the zipped-up jacket, where it stopped at the t-shirt around his stomach.
“I am an arrogant person. I would like to assume even the worst thing about you.”
The words drummed in his head as his cold, dead heart slowly vitalized itself. The warmth of her finger still lingered on her stomach.
And yet, she didn’t stop. His shoulders trembled as the tickling sensation trickled upward once again before Hiyori dragged her shoulder forward. Staring down, a blush became apparent on her face, as her fingernail scratched near his heart.
Then, with one step, her chest stopped right before his. Her eyes now trembling more than ever, her blush grew wider from ear-to-ear, and her brows furrowed themselves in visible discomfort.
The only consistent, unfaltering was her smile. And her eyes never left his.
“A normal life depends on both expected and unexpected, Ayanokouji-kun.”
Her breath, as she spoke, tickled his face. “You are too brilliant. Too calculated to experience the latter.”
Then, her finger drew circles around his nipple, appeasing just around the bud. His heart drummed at the unfamiliar sensation. He could tell, now her lips were even trembling. He could tell, Hiyori didn’t like this. She is not the kind of person for such perverted endeavor.
“Which is why despite my arrogant assumptions and analysis, I can tell nothing would surprise you.”
And yet…what is this? What is Hiyori doing right now?
Then, her finger stopped. At the loss of a comforting touch, his heart was drumming harder, louder, and faster. His chest now quivering at her finger, heaving against the nail as if desperately seeking back the sensation.
This is beyond torturing. Especially when not only if it is his friend, but also someone as pure as Hiyori seducing like this is corrupting beyond the depth of his soul.
“However, I would like to seize this moment with you.”
To put the final nail in the coffin, her chest moved forward for one final time, hitting his in the progress while her hand on his nip spread out, fingers sliding across it as her palm was felt on his heart.
Her shivering eyes staring upward at him, as if he is her whole world, paired with the severely reddened cheeks were so, so adorable.
“Just for once, even if it is bothering you…”
Ayanokouji, for the first time in his entire life, even in the White Room, gulped in nervousness.
“I will rob everything from you. Even your aspirations for normal life.”
And then, with her eyes still meeting his, her hand finally left his chest as it exited his jacket, and she looked up with a snickering gaze, her chest still touching his.
“I will be everything you do not expect me to be. Just for this ‘today’, I will be the only unexpected variable you cannot predict.”
She snaked both her arms around his waist, as she tilted her and rested her ear on his chest. Then, with a pull, she hugged him tight.
“Just for this ‘today’, boredom will not be part of your life.”
Indeed. Boredom has always been part of his life.
It is part of why he is amused at the smallest tinge of observations and sensations in the first place, to the point he will be interested in the chilling snow piled up on his body.
And now…the warmth of Hiyori’s chest, and her strict hug as if never letting him go is part of them, part of what appeased his ‘boredom’.
To nail the final head in the coffin, her head tilted as her eyes met his for one more time.
While an intense blush remained, her trembling gaze was replaced with confidence and clarity. As if an unwarranted determination was lit up somewhere in her mind.
“Please, just for this today.”
Her hug grew tighter.
“Allow only me to be part of your ‘normal’.”
Staring straight at those eyes that were fuelled by nothing but pure sense of goodwill, attachment, and hope, Ayanokouji was drowned in a sea of deep thoughts.
Within a second, he nodded.
For now, he will leave behind everything. Even the supernatural phenomenon.
He knew to a certain extent, Hiyori was not at her sincerest here, and she may only do this in response to the entity behind her. The very truth that he was brought here to explore is very likely that Hiyori wanted him to find about it out himself in the first place.
And yet, not a sense of malice could be found, as weird as it may feel like. He felt if it was Hiyori, she would not be the kind of person who truly changed overnight and seduced him for selfish desire.
And so, he will allow this.
This is totally not because he was looking forward to her blushing seduction, which was utterly out of character yet so fitting at the same time.
Then, Hiyori’s chest backed up for a little, still nearing his.
He looked away from her eyes to her thighs, which were visibly wobbling.
Yes, this is a clear syndrome of being so embarrassed yet unable to tell anything about it.
Holding down a smile, he retained a poker face as he grasped Hiyori’s shoulder.
Hiyori’s reddened cheeks loosened at his touch, before she raised her hand to her shoulder and lightly bummed his hand back.
She then took a step back, grasping his hand straight.
“S-s…shall we go? To somewhere else this time?”
Ayanokouji nodded again. Without any hesitation.
He was more than willing to fall into the ‘honey trap’.
----------------
It is a success. It shredded all her dignity and politeness, but it was a success.
Grasping Ayanokouji’s hand tight, Hiyori walked with him with her gaze lowered to the ground, still blushing from ear to ear.
From what she could tell earlier, Ayanokouji is probably looking at her with the utmost amusement now.
This only makes it worse for her. She knew she would never live this embarrassment down for the rest of her life.
And yet still…
Letting go of his hand, she instead hugged Ayanokouji’s arm as they continued walking.
She bit her lips to avoid squealing from the bottom of her soul, as she looked upward at his cold, calculating eyes as if observing a cute pet.
…this is not enough, so she forced her eyes into snickering and her lips forced open into a slight grin, though her cheeks were still heating up like hot water.
Then her face grew tired, before she turned away, with a whimpering stuck in her throat.
Yes, she was seducing him. Yes, she was embarrassed. Yes, she was utterly devastated at what she was doing.
And yet it had to be done.
The clear condition of the objective was hinted at a long time ago: ‘love starts when you least expected’.
It fits and makes complete sense when concerning ‘satisfaction’ as well, in terms of stimulus and fulfillment, the unexpected but welcomed surprises were always effective, yet with the wisdom of Ayanokouji, he would either not be impressed or remain calm even under this kind of situation.
And yet, she did not believe Ayanokouji was completely a machine. Otherwise, his curiosity as well as his hobby for reading would not be found in the first place.
In his very core, a part of him is still human, which means he…yes, he must contain the desire for the opposite sex in some form, be it affection or…lust…
Most of all, from what she could tell, Ayanokouji trusted her. Or else beneath this supernatural phenomenon, he would have neither followed her nor listened dutifully at her request to falsely confess last time.
So…what other ways to perform the ‘unexpected’, shattering that trust by performing the exact opposite of what she would usually do?
It is simple, yes. Really, really, simple. Just breaks every boundary possible that a friend would set and sedu…no no no, physically interacted with him in an inappropriate manner.
She grasped Ayanokouji’s arm tighter. It is fine, everything about this, Ayanokouji would not remember anyway. And she could tell he enjoyed this rather than be disgusted by it.
It is fine for her to sacrifice everything for ‘today’, so that they both can greet a safe dawn.
So she would think of it as saving herself and Ayanokouji from the loop, ignoring the guilt, embarrassment, and exhaustion that came with her antic.
It will be over soon. Other than her ‘sense of shame’, there are two more ‘sacrifices’ to be made.
Hiyori kept silent. In their journey, sometimes her finger would draw circles on his arm, sometimes her finger would poke his waist, and sometimes her finger would…tickle his thigh.
Yet despite her sexual harassment, Ayanokouji continued forward as if not minding them, occasionally sending her curious gazes along the way.
Her heart pounded at those calm brown eyes, in contrast to her trembling gaze, but she still forced a smile like nothing happened, before looking away.
Time went on like this before they finally arrived at a clearing.
Hiyori glanced upward. The sun had risen above their heads as they were in the middle of a piece of land without anyone. Snow still piled up from the side as the traces of a passing Winter, and their shadows stood side by side, yet unlike last time, they were linked together with the touch of their arms.
Hiyori took a deep breath. From now on, she would throw every bit of shame and dignity out the window.
“Ayanokouji-kun.”
At her words, his eyes turned to her. Still flat as back when they met, yet they contained something…something beyond them. Curiosity? Interest? Or lus…
In any case, let’s start the second step.
“There is…no one here, Ayanokouji-kun.”
She couldn’t believe what she was spouting just now.
No, more than that, the thumping in her heart…is this excitement? No no no, how could she be this vilely lustful? Towards her own friend no less?
She watched as Ayanokouji frowned, and she responded by grasping his arm tighter.
And then, she took another deep breath…
…before pulling him down to the ground with her.
Her back hit the cold, hard surface, as she gritted her teeth a little at the pain despite the cardigan she was wearing, before looking upward at her friend as her body spread out on the ground, her friend’s hand landed beside her, as he supported himself on top of her, staring down like a beast to his prey. Her thighs in the middle of his, caged with no way out.
She blinked at his gaze, which is slightly more widened than usual. This may be the first surprise she has observed in a long while.
Mellowing in her joy and mischievousness, she curled up her lips. The scorching heat on her cheeks offset by the cold, injured back.
“Ayanokouji-kun, what are you doing to your friend?”
Her one and only friend frowned, and yet he remained on top of her. As if still observing her.
She was a little upset at the frown, the guilt she buried resurfaced a little. But she couldn’t afford to stop now.
And so, despite her legs shivering, she raised her ankle, and hesitated a little, before tapping Ayanokouji’s thigh.
Then, for the first time, Ayanokouji responded with words.
“Hiyori. Are you tempting me right now?”
The question he spouted…Hiyori gulped as a slivering lump was stuck on her throat. Up until now, Ayanokouji didn’t respond to her…advances. It is only now she realised that words from the…opposite gender could be as chillingly embarrassing as this, all the more impactful that the first question he asked is directly asking her action.
Yet it is one of many expected scenarios. Calming her turmoil, she stared straight at Ayanokouji. “Yes, Ayanokouji-kun.”
She smiled widely, despite the weight in her mind, head, shoulders and her painful back, her muddled and heavied mind rather served as a convenient deterrent to ride the momentum. Is that the reason she was able to se-physically interacted with him earlier?
Either way, looking at the calm eyes, it seems that Ayanokouji is still merely watching the situation. And so, he needed a final push.
Without a second thought, following her own instinct, her hand reached out to Ayanokouji’s cheek, before uttering these words.
“What if I tell you, you can do anything to your friend here?”
Ayanokouji’s eyes widened, even further than last time. For once in her life, she felt her shame was worth it for this reaction, for the surprise to appear in the ever-expressionless friend.
Up until now, she has been on the control over the situation. And now, she willingly ‘submitted’ back her control to Ayanokouji. With this, her sense of agency was now completely sacrificed to him, all so her friend would be potentially unable to contain his calmness, because of a momentary control over.
Her another hand reached out, cupping both of Ayanokouji’s cheek. His eyes still calm, but Hiyori felt from her touch, that Ayanokouji’s face is trembling. Did he need another words from hers to let loose?
Yet, right as she was about to spout another shameless statement, Ayanokouji responded by extending another hand right between her two hands, before cupping her cheek back.
In an instant, she felt another surge of fire returned to her face and ears, to the point a hiccup was now stuck in her throat. But she gulped again. She could not back down now.
Above all else, she had full faith in Ayanokouji. Her friend would refrain from furthering his advances more than possible, at least not enough that would ruin their precious friendship as a…rational person. Which is the entire reason she thought of such a sacrifice of her agency in the first place. She believes in her friend.
Though her friend spouted a more shameless claim than she thought.
“Hiyori, my friend…what if I touch your chest now?”
“…”
“…”
“…”
Hiyori blinked, then blinked again. What did her friend just-
“I’ll take that silence as a yes.”
And so, the hand that just cupped her cheek has been raised.
“W-wait, hicc-”
She hiccuped, before lowering her hands to cover her chests.
“Hiyori. What’s wrong?”
At her friend’s teasing, Hiyori’s lips quivered. Her cheeks scrunched as she could not bear the heat, as she turned her gaze to the ground beside her.
“I’m hurt, Hiyori. You touched my chest not long ago, yet you were not willing to lend out yours to me?”
Even as her friend is being reasonable, Hiyori gasped at Ayanokouji’s words. Right, she did touch him like that! She was so heated at the moment that she forgot.
Biting her lips, she turned her gaze back to Ayanokouji’s, eyes calmly looking down as if waiting patiently for her response.
She pouted a little. She understood fully she is being a hypocrite, but why won’t her friend be a little bit as shameful as her in this situation? Could he really not think of her as a woman at all?
And so, before she knew it, she responded as she tightened the chest. “It-it is fine, Ayanokouji-kun.”
“Really?”
“R-really…”
“Really?”
“…”
“Really, Hiyori?”
Hiyori bit her tongue in frustration, as she slowly, but surely settled her arms aside on the ground, before closing her eyes. Her chest puffing out a little.
“Please…”
“…”
From her lost vision, she was entirely reliant on her hearing. So she was all the more sensitive when she heard a rustle beside her, as she…felt Ayanokouji’s arm grasping around her waist.
An uncontrollable cluck sounded from her, before she bit her lips. Her cheeks were unbearably hot, her throat was dry and coarse, and her whole body was itchy despite the pain behind her back. She was not herself at this moment, but only a…doll for her friend to play with.
Yet even then, she didn’t feel the…anticipated feeling on her chest. Instead, she felt as his arm sneaked around to her back. As she winced a little, she was then lightly lifted off her back.
Opening her eyes in surprise, she was now lying on Ayanokouji’s chest, whose back was on the ground now instead of her. At her confusion, her friend answered calmly.
“You shouldn’t play your games while injuring yourself, Hiyori.”
She widened her eyes in surprise. She scoured the brain for her memories, as she realized something. That frown from earlier…when she pulled him down, was it because her friend was concerned for her?
Yet her friend didn’t stop here. Instead, he patted her head and muttered.
“I understand now. Is surprise part of how you will resolve the time loop?”
Hiyori blinked, as Ayanokouji was stroking her injured back as if soothing the pain. Her heart was thus lightened a little as she lifted her head from his chest and peeked at Ayanokouji’s expression, which is still as calm as ever before.
Even in this unexpected situation, he was still rationally analysing everything…her friend is more incredible than she could ever imagine.
Ayanokouji continued. “But that didn’t mean you had to injure yourself for this endeavor. I would like you to know I am more displeased than I am surprised at such a behavior, Hiyori.”
He patted her head, the ruffled hairs straying to her face, hiding her trembling her eyes.
“Hiyori. I would like you to think about yourself before anything. Is it alright?”
“…”
Under his warm hand, she didn’t answer. No, she couldn't.
She was ashamed of herself, her seductive behaviors, her tactless demeanor, her hypocritical thoughts, and her selfish intention. Worse than all of these, it is her friend that reacted more calmly than she thought, not only rendering her ‘surprise’ useless, but also makes her heart even heavier because of his considerate thoughts to her own injuries, unlike her selfish desire to complete the objective single-mindedly.
But most of all, her addiction to the warmth that was patting her head, and the hardened chest below her that served a more comfortable cushion than her own pillows.
Right now, Hiyori truly forgot everything. Her objective, her embarrassment, her guilt, as she huddled herself into Ayanokouji’s embrace, closing her eyes and resting for a while.
It has been mentally exhausting to her, the time loop, the shameless behaviours from earlier, the unexpected request from her friend…everything has shocked her brain for eternity. She felt as if in this moment, that she could fall asleep as if forgetting everything.
But she couldn’t. She hasn’t completed everything yet.
There is still one more left to go. One more step to ensure everything succeeded.
After all, the time loop would not wait for her to rest.
And so, she merely pretended to be asleep, while her mind scrolling through the memories of today.
She believed it is not enough. Her heart did not feel enough guilt, enough sadness, enough selfishness.
Everything must pile on, over and over until they overflowed her existence.
To clear the objective, her heart must bear such a weight.
So reflect more, the guilt, the impatience, the selfishness, even down to the ugly desires right now to stay in this warmth, and her unkempt joy at her friend’s concern for her.
Everything about today…let it overwhelm her.
So that the end she ‘desired’ may approach.
-----------
As Hiyori snuggled herself into his chest, Ayanokouji frowned. There is a bitter feeling inside him right now. She didn’t know why.
He didn’t understand. Maybe he was upset that he couldn’t touch her chest earlier or…
…no, let’s analyse this more appropriately and rationally.
Hiyori is seducing him for a reason, that reason being the ‘unexpected’, or the ‘surprise’. In other words, it is simple to deduce that ‘surprising him’ is essential in getting out of this time loop.
He must compliment her whole-heartedly then. Because he was not expecting Hiyori would come this far just for ‘surprising him’. It is amusing to watch a person’s personality change this much overtime because of one thing.
He stroked her back and head as he continued his thoughts, before hearing Hiyori muttered something.
“Ayanokouji-kun. I’m sorry.”
“…”
Ayanokouji didn’t answer. It is alright, he expected this much. Hiyori is forced into this, and he is not the slightest bit mad about it. If anything, he is enjoying this more than he thought.
Yet as if interpreting his silence as wordless reprimand, Hiyori only snuggled her head into his chest further as she continued. “I enjoy being with you, Ayanokouji-kun. The kindness that you exuded to me, the shared interest that connected our thread of friendship, and even the warmth now that you willingly lent to me…everything about you is addictive and comforting, so much so that I want to forget everything now.”
And right as she said so, he stopped stroking her as both of Hiyori’s arms reached his back, hugging him tightly.
“And so, please. Forget my request to be your ‘unexpected’ for this moment. And allow me to make a selfish request of my own.”
She then gazed upwards at him. “Can we go now…to the place where everything started?”
Ayanokouji blinked, Hiyori’s eyes were now trembling. The confidence from when she seduced him earlier was long gone, replaced by tinges of sadness and…regrets? Is this how he was reading her emotion? No, then…why…
…why does she still smile? What is she currently thinking about right now? Did she force herself to smile like that…no, he could tell that was false from the loosened cheeks and brows. Hiyori is now currently not controlling her facial expression as much, so why…why was she upset right now?
“Hiyori-”
“Ayanokouji-kun, it is alright.”
As she cut off his words, she then stood up, her saddened eyes staring at him from above.
She then extended her hand. “Shall we now go?”
“…”
Ayanokouji didn’t answer. Instead, he took her to stand back up.
Eventually, both of them walked hand-in-hand, looking forward as the sun dawned on their figures. This time, Hiyori didn’t try anything, but at this moment, Ayanokouji felt it would be more fitting for him not to look at her expression.
He didn’t know the reason at the time. He hoped he would not know, so this peaceful silence between them may be everlasting in his mind.
----------
And so, they arrived to where it all started, at least where their friendship first began, and the first destination Ayanokouji requested to go to in their first loop.
Ayanokouji watched as Hiyori pushed open the door. No one is here, how bizarre. The dutiful librarian, the diligent students who should have been even studying in winter vacation, everyone was not here. More bizarre is how the light was turned off, with only illuminating spots of sunlight on the ground, desk, and shelves in the darkness. He blinked at this new sight of the library he had never seen before, as the ever-quiet library grew quieter and more distant from what she was used to.
It seems someone has created this environment for them, possibly the entity behind Hiyori again.
As he was pulled by Hiyori’s hand into the library, he watched as he looked around, frowning a little as he was possibly as puzzled as she initially was.
However, she couldn’t allow this puzzlement to grow. As stated, his focus must be on her instead of the mystery behind the time loop and this phenomenon.
And so, let’s start straight away.
“Ayanokouji-kun.”
As she was pulling him through the bookshelves, she stopped at a certain spot between the bookshelf, it is where they first met.
He watched as she let go of his hand before turning around. Her enchanting, purple eyes now carry a certain mystique behind them.
“I am a bad liar, am I not?”
…? A liar?
As if clearing up his confusion, she continued. “You know I do not like to be like this, correct?”
He nodded, and contemplated with his fingers in his chin, before clarifying. “I know. It is very clear that you’re being forced into this ordeal.”
“No,” she shook her head. “Not now, Ayanokouji-kun.”
He blinked, before frowning. “What is it?”
What else is there other than it then?
Then, Hiyori gave another unexpected answer, as she took a deep breath.
With blush still apparent on her face, she smiled. “The truth is that I enjoyed being with you today, Ayanokouji-kun.”
“…”
Ayanokouji stayed silent. Spots of light shifted to her expression, as Hiyori’s brows raised into a relaxed expression. Her silhouette in the sunlight was sacred like an actress on a stage, untouchable and undefilable by an audience like him, yet still pulling him towards that performance of hers.
She continued. “Yes, it may sound inappropriate and…frankly depraved. Yet, if given a choice to be like this again, even if the result is a time loop that never ends…I would be willing to experience all that again.”
Ayanokouji widened his eyes in amusement. “Are you admitting you’re a pervert, Hiyori?’
At his joking answer, Hiyori chuckled. “Maybe. I don’t think you have the right to judge me, Ayanokouji-kun.”
Then, her eyes stared at his, smiling. “Do you also enjoy being with me today, Ayanokouji-kun? Are you satisfied?”
He blinked again at her purple iris, before lowering his gaze in contemplation.
Staring back, he gave his answer. “Yes.”
It was fun. It’s been a while that he had this much fun in a while.
In hindsight, everything seems bizarre, confusing and unreal. Yet the mysteriousness of everything is what entertained him. The time loop and Hiyori’s seductions. Everything about today offered him more joy and fun than he could ever imagine.
Sure, he might not have an answer for what Hiyori meant for allowing only her to be part of his ‘normal’. But that didn’t mean he was not satisfied. If given the chance, he would also like to return to today some times for the experience.
Overall, he has been sufficiently entertained.
…
…yet, something is missing. A puzzle of this is missing.
Ayanokouji frowned as Hiyori’s smile widened at his answer. His thought went back to earlier, when her expression was saddened instead. Is that sense of sadness…a lie? Is she still forcing herself to smile right now?
At this curiosity, he asked. “How do you truly feel, Hiyori?”
“…”
“Hiyori?”
“May I have a hug, Ayanokouji-kun?”
He blinked again at the confusing answer, but nodded.
And so, Hiyori spread out both of her arms towards him. Wincing at the spot of light shining at his eyes, he walked forward, as he reached her back with his hand, and she hugged back in response, burying her face in his chest and hiding her expression.
He was an audience that was merely enjoying the show, and now, he literally and metaphorically has been pulled into the spotlight by the actress.
And the actress herself, as if shedding all her acting, pretenses and masks, continued.
“It was hard. Really hard.”
“…”
“At first, I was really confused. I tried everything to go back, to deny the reality in front of me, to make sure everything is as I recognised. Yet, nothing work. After so many, so many failures…I eventually gave in to this curse.”
“...”
“Would you allow me to confess something, Ayanokouji-kun?”
“…go ahead.”
“I hate you, Ayanokouji-kun.”
“…”
“I hate everything that came with this unexplainable phenomenon. I hate everything that forced me to act outside of my comfort zone. I hate everything that confused, depressed and dampened my heart as I faced each and every failures.”
“…”
“I really…really don’t like to blame others. A-and I know it is not your fault, Ayanokouji-kun, and yet…I am the worst. I can’t stop myself from hating you for everything that has happened. I really, really hate you.”
“…”
“You are the reason this has happened. You are the reason I feel like my entire logic, rationality and existence have been a lie. You are the reason that I remain in this frustrating, bizarre turmoil in the first place. You are the reason that I…I was so upset at myself for my helplessness.”
Hiyori’s shoulders shivered, as he felt her hug was tightened.
“Hiyori.”
“I hate you. For this despair that may never end.”
“I know.”
“And yet, I hate myself even more for hating you.”
“I…know.”
“You don’t. Ayanokouji-kun. You don’t.”
“…”
“…”
“…you’re right, I don’t.”
He doesn’t understand her. No, in the first place, absolute understanding is impossible.
Everything in his life always had a solution, a resolution, and an end. Hiyori’s troubles to him were no different. As long as there is a pattern, there will be an answer to him. There always will be. It is simply how it is.
And so, he felt no sympathy for her.
He couldn’t understand why she was upset.
He couldn’t understand why she was frustrated.
He couldn’t understand why she despaired.
Maybe the worst of all, he couldn’t really understand why she hated him.
To be precise, he knew why. In order to be out of this predicament, Hiyori needed something from him. And he constantly, albeit unconsciously, has been refusing him. Which is the reason why she was upset in the first place.
He is the reason for all her troubles and frustrations.
Yet even then, he felt no guilt for that.
Because he was not born, nurtured and built to sympathize with anyone.
His body is his tool, his brain is his library, and his mind is his end. Everything was built from the start as an experiment, and he ended up as a tool for learning. And he willingly accepted that fact as well, compromising with any desire or inspiration he came across.
And so, Hiyori would be no different to him. A friend to help him gain knowledge of what it is like to be normal.
…
…he should not, but he must confess his indifference to her.
He felt it would benefit their friendship more if he was more honest to her about who he is right now, as up until now he has been only playing the role of what he thought a friend should be, but not exactly himself.
And he owed Hiyori that much, he guess.
“Hiyo-”
And yet, he was cut off before he resolved to be honest. No, to be more precise, he could not.
Because a second afterward, his neck was pulled, and his lips found a newfound sensation he had never tasted before.
He blinked, then blinked again. Her lips on his...it tasted salty and sour, unlike the sweetness described in the novels he read. As he glanced at Hiyori’s expression, now right in front of his, tears were streaming down her closed eyes, blush that reached from her ears to her nose, and the hands on his neck were shivering, yet even then, he could sense that she was…calm. As if also comforted and enchanted, her lips pushed further into his little by little, unafraid of the shame that would come after, and confident at her advances that would not be rejected.
And he would not, as he reciprocated her advance by placing a hand on her head, pushing her lips further into his.
All of these…lasted only a few seconds, yet it felt like a long time had passed, like when you were submerged in the turboing emotions expressed in a novel.
With regrets, however, Hiyori pulled back as her hug on his neck loosened. Then, she lowered her gaze to the ground, eyes tired and out-of-this-world, as she hiccupped with tears flowing down her lips.
“Ayanokouji-kun. Do you know why I seduced you? Why I kissed you?”
“…”
“It is because I wanted to…prove something. I was…desperate.”
“…”
“I would like to think of myself as more than a friend to you, Ayanokouji-kun.”
----------------
Hiyori loosened her expression. She no longer had to lie, no longer had to act.
Here, she will be as honest as she could.
“Back when I first falsely confessed to you, you were not embarrassed at all, were you?”
“…”
“Why is that?”
“Because someone has to remain rational to keep our friendship normal.”
“Why were you able to remain rational then?”
“…”
“…it is only that you merely viewed me as a friend, correct?”
“…”
"Are you thinking now that all those actions earlier were my attempts to change your opinion of me?"
"Yes. Is it not?"
"Mm. Did your opinions change? Could we go back to being normal friends like this?”
She squinted through her tears, as she watched Ayanokouji frowned. While his eyes never left her, his expression still remained neutral as if unaffected.
She didn’t know. Whether or not her words affected him. Whether all that she did was really for naught. Whether the guilt for confessing her trauma and hate for Ayanokoji, as she dumped her emotional weight on him was truly something she should have done.
…no, she didn’t need to think more.
No need for more acting. No need for more lies. No need for more reflections as to whether her actions constitutes as ‘right’.
Love starts when you least expected. This is the last surprise she must complete, by confessing all her honest thoughts to Ayanokouji, as she attempts to challenge and shake his foundation of how he would understand emotions.
And so, she would sacrifice everything. Every complex emotions, every entangled despair, every unwarranted hatred, every bits of her…affections for him. She would lay them all out in the open.
Before she knew, her muddled, light-weighted mind dangled her, as her lips moved involuntarily.
“I am arrogant. Ayanokouji-kun. I already told you so.”
“…is it?”
“Mm. And I would like to think that my place in your heart is more important than it should be.”
“…”
“But it was not meant to be, Ayanokouji-kun. I know that, because you simply viewed the world, the people, and me differently from how we normally did.”
“…”
“Which is why I thought to at least seize this moment of yours. I want you to only think of me alone, even for one day.”
The first of everything usually meant something extremely heavy to some people. Hiyori was no different.
“Ayanokouji-kun, I still couldn’t help but hate myself and you.”
That feeling of guilt would not change. For as long as she would be forced to accomplish the objectives and trapped in the time loops of failures, she was afraid that the bottom of her soul would forever be tainted like this.
“But I had no regrets, truly.”
She did not know. Whether her actions were right or wrong. Whether it is justified to seduce someone for selfish intent. Whether it should be what it is and that she should merely accept this inescapable situation without any words or feelings.
Everything…everything was so tiring that she didn’t know.
But she knew this. This one fact would not escape her mind no matter what.
“If I had my first kiss, I would not regret if it was with you.”
Because he is her only friend. No, he is more than that.
“You’re the only one that reached out to me that day. The only one that shared and understood my interest.”
It may seem meagre and meaningless to him, but for her, that gesture of friendship was everything to her.
If a normal life is defined by however satisfied you would be by the expected and unexpected, she will claim her ‘normal life’ is fulfilled at the moment they both reached out to the same book.
“Because you’re a person more dear to me than anyone else.”
People are irrational, it is irrational to claim your everything to someone else to the point it would be burdensome.
But she would shamelessly claim he was her everything, for she could not claim she would live a fulfilling live without him.
“It is fine that you felt nothing, even at the end of this.”
The surprise. The unexpected…do they really matter at the end?
Right now, she merely wants to bare everything open.
“I love you, Ayanokouji-kun.”
Her second confession. A lie? A truth? A mix of both? Her mind could not process which.
Yet, it felt those words felt right, as if they have been stuck at the corner of her mind for a while.
Her eyes dampened as she wiped off her tears. Failed, as another stream of tears flowed. And so she covered her face in her palms, as her shoulders slacked in tiredness and shame.
Her emotional turmoil could not be captured in words.
Helplessness for being trapped in the timeloop?
Frustration at Ayanokouji for being the cause that failed her objective?
Guilt at her weakness in blaming others and herself for despairing over something she absolutely had no control over?
There are many words she could mutter. There must be more that she didn’t know even if she dug through to the bottom of her heart.
…no, there is one more she…wants him to listen.
And so, she muttered, with no pretenses, and no formality befitting that of a pure girl she once was.
“I’m sorry.”
She is sorry that she blamed him. She didn’t mean to.
She is sorry that she couldn’t fulfill the objective. She was too dull to realise the solution.
She is sorry that she confessed her burden to him. She would never like him to share her burden like this.
And…she is sorry that she loved him. She should have cherished their friendship more than anything.
But all has been said and done. Hiyori has stopped thinking. She was already too tired to think.
The burden of 16 time loops finally caught up, and her mind has finally given out.
She could not bear to think. She could not bear to take another step. She could not tolerate another shameless behaviour.
She has truly and literally exhausted everything.
And if the man in front of her still found it lacking…she might really give up right then and there.
“…”
A silence prevailed between both of them. As she slowly let down her hands, her mind still in the cloud as the tears continued to flow down her cheeks. Her gaze was hanged downward, like a puppet that lost its string, and a puppet that dared not to think anything about her master.
Ironically, the spot of light that remained on the ground served as a great comfort. She found a solace in knowing that some warmth still remained at this cold, dark place where she was alone in her helplessness and despair.
But what she didn’t know is this. Her friend…was more than willing to share that weight with her.
“Hiyori.”
She flinched. Her eyes remained on the ground.
Not for long though, as eventually, her cheeks were covered by two large, warm hands, before she was forced to stare at her friend’s calm, brown eyes.
“Can I be honest? About how I feel?”
“…”
“I feel that at this moment, you are the most precious person to me in this world, Hiyori.”
At his answer, Hiyori’s eyes widened, vitality eventually returning to her tired, lifeless eyes.
“You’re right, Hiyori. I am not a good person. Everything you claimed about me is true. I am merely a person that seeked knowledge more than anyone else. Nothing more, nothing less. I am aware I have capacity to be normal, but as long as I am the way I was born and nurtured, my nature will never be shaken. It is how it is.”
“N-no…I never wanted to…”
She couldn’t finish her words, as Ayanokouji wiped the tears off her cheeks with his thumb, then he closed in on her with his forehead.
“Ayanokouji-kun…”
“Hiyori. You truly have seized everything that I thought I knew about a normal life.”
“I-I…”
“Do you remember when I lifted you off of your back earlier? Back when you’re injured?”
“…”
“I thought I did it out of ‘concern’ for a friend, and that’s it. I didn’t think more.”
“…”
“But that was untrue. At that time, I was not concerned for a friend, but for Hiyori, a person I was deeply interested in.”
Hiyori’s shoulder shook, her exhausted eyes on his neutral eyes. It is said that they are the window to the soul, yet at this moment, she could not tell whether his soul has truly been touched. Whether he was telling the truth. Whether he was merely…telling her lies to soothe her.
And as if answering her confusion, he continued. “It is fine that you find it untruthful. I do not quite understand as well. I’m not omnipotent, I’m willing to admit to things when I do not truly have a grasp on what is happening.”
“…”
“But know this, Hiyori. Because you succeeded. Your efforts have not been in vain.”
“…yes?”
“Because I thought the same as you.”
At his words, her heart lightened as her tears began to roll down her cheek once more. The spot of light that once was shone on her as a lone actor on stage, that once comforted her loneliness and nothing else, now shone on another, someone that would not allow her to wallow in solace.
“I was truly glad that my first kiss was with you, Hiyori.”
And so, the words that affirmed everything. The actress met her end. Her loneliness was answered, her feelings were reciprocated, and her efforts were not wasted.
A moment where the heroine met her hero.
Life was truly as strange as a novel.
Because despite the relief she felt, she lowered her eyes. These tears from her eyes…these were not of joy.
She knew she succeeded. Yet…this weight she felt…
…right. It is simple why.
Because everything now would exist as a lie to her.
After all, he would not remember anything here.
“Hiyori.”
Regrets started pouring in. Maybe she should have not used the item? No, or else her actions here would not have made sense to Ayanokouji. How else would her explain her bizarre behaviours to counteract the equally bizarre phenomenon otherwise?
She bit her lips. She hated everything. She truly did.
“Hiyori.”
Stop. Stop calling her that.
For every joy she receive she would endure that much more suffering at the end.
This should be the end. Please let this be the end.
Yet unforgivingly, Ayanokouji lifted her chin at her, once again facing her with a neutral expression.
Nonchalantly, he suggested something that was utterly unfit for the moment.
“Can I kiss you again?”
“…”
Hiyori blinked through her tears. What is her friend suggesting?
“I like the kiss from earlier. Shall we kiss again?”
“…”
“Hiyori?”
“Ayanokouji-kun…”
No, she shouldn’t even think about this after all that she did to him, yet she couldn’t help but ask.
“Were you perhaps…by my crying face?”
“…”
She did not utter those words out of respect for her little shreds of shamefulness. Yet, her friend instantly understood what she meant, before nodding.
And so, she squinted her eyes at him. His friend was suffering alone, yet what is he thinking? Kissing a friend because he found her crying face…that?
“You’re a pervert, Ayanokouji-kun.”
“…”
They said silence is best medicine when you have no excuses for your own faults, so is Ayanokouji admitting his own faults now?
At that thought, she let out a tired chuckle.
“Hiyori.”
“Yes?”
“…did you not tell me that you would think the worst of me? Does that not mean you would accept all that you found disgusting about me as well?”
“…”
“…Hiyori?”
“That is cheating, Ayanokouji-kun.”
She smiled widely, as she raised her toes to close in her eyes with his.
Yes, today may be a lie to everyone else, and the one that mattered to her the most.
“Because I will be worse than you, worse than what you could ever imagine me to be.”
To this emotionaless, nonchalant man, she would continue to share everything with him.
Until the true end arrives, she would give it all to this man.
The reason is very simple.
“I will still cling to you regardless, Ayanokouji-kun.”
And so, she met her lips with his once again.
At this very moment, she prayed that ‘today’ may last eternal in her heart.
Notes:
Author's note:
Objective completed. Rewards will be distributed next chapter.
Subject Hiyori has completed an impossible task! Additional reward 'Obsessive Rewind' would be distributed.
A new challenger will soon enter! Difficulty will be adjusted accordingly.
All jokes aside, readers, it has been really fun working on this chapter.
Sincerely (pun intended) thank you all for sticking around to read this fanfic. Please let me know if you find this fanfic, be it lacking or entertaining.
And with that, next chapter will be posted within this week.
Chapter 8: Social Distancing: the Challenge(?)
Summary:
Lighthearted chapter this time. Enjoy.
(PS: Sorry for the maybe unexpected angst last chapter)
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Time: 11:55 am
Remaining time for the challenge: — —
Hiyori blinked, then blinked again. She was now lying down on her bed, facing the ceiling that seemed to stretch infinitely in her vision.
This is not her room's ceiling, however.
Did she succeed? Did the time loop pass?
She frowned a little, eyes still a little dry from...yesterday's episode as she sat up. Spotting her phone next to her, she viewed the phone's notification.
Scenario:
Date and teach the target 'Kiyotaka Ayanokouji' about 'love' before the Last Special Exam. Break up with him as Year 1 semester ends.
Objective 2:
You have successfully not captured the heart of Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. But as love starts when you least expected, go and apologise to Ayanokouji by fulfilling whatever he desires. Success will depend upon Ayanokouji's satisfaction.
Completed!
Reward: Beep Beep, Cat Ears!
(Effect: What is this? Oh, a pill that once swallowed, allows you to have cat ears spawning on your head and tail coming out of your back? What else does this item do?Nothing! But it makes you cuter though)
You have completed an impossible task! Additional reward will now be distributed!
Reward: 'Obsessive Rewind'
(Effect: Flashbacks, who doesn't love them? The precious pieces of a person's past. And the moments that define a person's future. So, would you not like to experience it yourself? Select a target by gifting this envelope. If the target doesn't open the envelop, you will be able to peek into a person's past, the past that defined all of them. If they open it, a randomly allotted but terrible consequence would happen. Use it wisely!)
...she-
...
...she did it.
The thought swirled in Hiyori's head, before forming into a tide of happiness that swarmed her mind.
She did it. She completed the objective. She once again escaped the time loop!
...
...there is another one coming, isn't there?
Hiyori sighed as she tapped the notification and logged into her phone with a password. Now at message board, she scrolled downwards.
It is fine. After the emotional turmoil yesterday, she was able to numb her emotion for a while. Yes, she would get through this without a trouble.
Choose your difficulty.
...?
What is this? Why is there suddenly an option like never before?
Option 1:
You have successfully completed an impossible task. Now rest up, and prepare for the next objective with full energy!
Difficulty:
Easy.
Rewards:
'No Objective Distributed For One Week'
Consequences:
None!
That's...
...
That's an excellent reward!
To be honest, it is unexpected, but the entity behind this message board was merciful for once! All the mental anguish she felt over the past loops...she could rest it off just with this reward given!
...but given how luxurious this reward already is, just what is the next reward that would measure up to this one...?
Option 2:
Never to be forgotten! You have successfully completed an impossible task, and your supposed friend remember none of it! That was not, however, the end. Upon the wish of the world, there shall be no unhappy ending for a fairy tale as 'sweet' as this!
No reward is free, of course. Select this option for a random challenge! Upon selecting, you will enter a quest chain of 5 objectives to revive your 'lover's' memory. Good luck!
Difficulty:
???
Rewards:
???
Revival of Subject Kiyotaka Ayanokouji's 'complete' memories (0/5)
Consequences:
???
...
Even the difficulty now is unknown. This option is a trap.
It is once again the trick by the entity to rope her into further challenge. Further pulled her down into swarms of frustrations.
And yet.
Hiyori selected option 2 without hesitation.
If given an option so that her confession of love would not be a forgotten lie...she would select it without hesitation.
It is how it is, despite the various...embarrassing endeavours she did to him.
She would converse properly with Ayanokouji after that.
After the shared memories remained and imprinted back onto their stage.
You have selected option 2! A random challenge will be given!
...loading...
Challenge selected!
Time: 12:01pm
Remaining time for the challenge: 23 hours, 59 minutes and 56 seconds
Updated objective:
Rest up! You have completed the objective without a fault, so it is time for a well-earned rest! Oh, what is this? You're now in your friend's room? As an advocate of purity, formality and politeness, it is not good to violate the sanctity of your friendship, yet is it not an opportunity to advance your relationship regardless? Upon his arrival, prevent physical contact with Subject Kiyotaka Ayanokouji while you rest in his room for 24 hours!
Difficulty:
Hard.
Rewards:
'Miss Cupid, Please Help Me!'
Revival of Subject Kiyotaka Ayanokouji's 'complete' memories (1/5)
Consequences:
None! (But no rewards would be received upon the first failure)
...no consequences?
She gasped. Yes, it is great that no consequences will be suffered upon failures, however, that also means...
"I've only got one opportunity..."
Because, there will be no time loop that will rewind her back should she really fail.
...
...this is too difficult already.
No, maybe she could fail this quest intentionally to cycle through the next one which would be with a time loop? No, she had to calm down. There's no telling if the next quest given would be included in the 'quest chain' that the message mentioned.
In other words, there's no telling if failing one objective here would effectively fail the entire quest chain.
Which means...she had to succeed this one no matter what.
She took a deep breath. As she looked once again at the objective.
Luckily, the difficulty concerned now is merely...hard. Which means luckily, the objective is not almost impossible like the second objective.
From her mind, she began to classify objective types in terms of difficulty.
So far, when it comes to emotion-based objective, such as satisfying Ayanokouji's desire, the objective's difficulty will shoot up a thousand fold.
However, if it is action-based, like the false confession in the first objective she received, it means the difficulty always could be bypassed by easy tricks.
This quest is the latter, which means regardless of difficulty it mentions, she could bypass it the same way she did the first objective!
...right? She had an ominous feeling it won't be as easy as a honest communication with Ayanokouji. But...how else is she going to complete it?
Wait come to think of it, there is one extremely curious requirement from this objective...
She scrolled back up the message board.
Updated objective:
Rest up! You have completed the objective without a fault, so it is time for a well-earned rest! Oh, what is this? You're in your friend's room? As an advocate of purity, formality and politeness, it is not good to violate the sanctity of your friendship, yet is it not an opportunity to advance your relationship regardless? Upon his arrival, prevent physical contact with Subject Kiyotaka Ayanokouji while you rest in his room for 24 hours!
"...while you rest in his room..."
...
"...for 24 hours...?"
She muttered in disbelief, heats began rushing into her cheeks.
Wait, does that mean the reason she didn't recognise the ceiling earlier was because-
A click from a door cut off her thoughts. What she thought was an easy quest now became the worst quest possible upon seeing his friend's neutral expression at the room's entrance.
"Oh, Hiyori. You're awake."
"..."
...she sincerely wish to faint, right here, right now.
——————
Time: 12:04 pm
Remaining time for the challenge: 23 hours, 56 minutes and 43 seconds
"Hiyori. Here, some tea I bought from the store."
"N-no, thanks..."
"Come on, you need something to warm up your body."
"...I apologise. P-please first put the teacup aside first. I'll drink it later."
"Okay...?"
As Ayanokouji sat down on a chair in frowned brows, he settled the cup aside on the table beside him.
He watched as Hiyori sighed, before clenching her skirt with her fingers. Her blouses still here as if reminding her today's 'true reward' once again.
"So," Hiyori asked, eyes still on her thighs. "May I ask how did I end up in your room?"
Ayanokouji blinked. "I was hoping you would tell me. I was baffled when I woke up next to you today."
Wake up next to...Ayanokouji? Does that mean...no, there is gap in her memory right now for yesterday.
Hiyori shook her head. The last objective, she was truly exhausted so she didn't remember a lot after kissing Ayanokouji for the second time. Maybe she...fainted out of exhaustion at the end?
Assuming that's the case, then does that mean Ayanokouji carried her into his own room and-
Hiyori widened her eyes before clutching her chest with two arms as she squinted at him.
"...don't worry. I haven't touched you anywhere inappropriately."
"I-I apologise..."
"No, please don't."
Because he lied, by the way.
Upon waking up, he found out a silver-haired, cute pet right beside him. Confused, he scrolled through his memories, found nothing, so he merely accepted the moment and squeezed Hiyori's round cheeks. Oh and he also rolled a hair out of her lips after he played with it.
The missing chunk of memory he felt is incredibly suspicious, something he seeks to ask today. But upon seeing his friend asleep, he figure his concern can wait.
After all, Hiyori could never harm him. He just know, so he might as well wait for her to rest well, wake up and explain first.
A silence loomed over them as his thought flowed, before Hiyori coughed twice.
"Ayanokouji, you wondered why there seems to be some missing memories?"
"Mm, that's right."
Oh, it's great that he didn't need to wait for an explanation.
"It's because of something I cannot explain, Ayanokouji-kun. But I know what's causing it. And I know how to fix it."
Oh, Hiyori's explanation seems...peculiar. As if she is not explaining anything at all.
"Which is why, Ayanokouji-kun. Please follow me on what I'm going to do for 5 days. I will know how to have your memory back by then."
"..."
Ayanokouji stayed silent, before furrowing his brows as if 'doubting' Hiyori. "How should I know if I can trust that? In the first place, is missing my memory worth such a big deal? It's merely one day after all."
Hiyori huddled. Yes, she could not explain properly how 'the time loop forced her act extremely inappropriately towards him yesterday, and due to a magical item's effect, he is now missing memories of her sexual harassment.'
Though, the logic stays the same for how she resolved the first request. Honestly converse with Ayanokouji about your objective, your intention and do not converse to them whatever you could not explain properly.
Same strategy. Just a little difficult for how long the objective would be.
"It is...very difficult to explain."
"May you please explain regardless? I promise I will trust you no matter what."
"Then if I tell you that your memory is magically wiped without any trace, and the only method to get it back is to follow my order, would you do it?"
"Yes."
Hiyori widened her eyes. "R-really?"
"Unless what you demand of me would be harmful, I would not refuse, and I know well what would harm me and what wouldn't. But you won't do so, will you?"
"..."
"...we're friends, after all. And I know you're not the type to harm another person willingly or even unwillingly."
She has constructed some plausible, temporary and elaborate excuses, like how she was suspicious her class was preparing an advanced prank, or she was curious how school rules would react to certain things done by them, yet now her rhythms were completely thrown off by her friend's unconditional trust.
Though in this case...she suspected the unconditional trust is more than that. It was like Ayanokouji was attempting to pry open a secret without her knowing.
No maybe this is the explanation. She understood her friend's nature after the last 17 loops, so there is no reason not to be cautious of his inherent curiosity of the entity behind her as well.
While in reality, Ayanokouji was staring Hiyori's eyes darting everywhere, before landing ultimately on her cheek again, puffed up and reddened a little as if begging him to squeeze them again.
He seriously did not care if the memory came back to him. He has judged that if Hiyori didn't tell her what happened straight up yesterday, then it means there was nothing urgent that happened yesterday which would threaten his normal life or safety at school. The reason behind Hiyori's weird behaviour is a concern, but again, if no harm's done, he would rather ignore it and enjoy Hiyori's weird antics for a while.
Yet, Hiyori herself was still desperate for him to know. So something crucial did happen yesterday without his knowledge...what is it, maybe it's his first kiss?
Either way, leaving aside the extremely curious nature of how he was missing his memories in the first place, Hiyori told him she could fix it, and he could easily sense no lies from his friend, and so he will leave her be, until the right time for her explains comes up anyways.
As both contemplated, Hiyori spoke up again to break the silence.
"I'm very glad that you listen again. Like yes...I mean, that night when I falsely confessed to you, I apologise again for the trouble."
It felt weird for Hiyori to state this after their...episode yesterday, but not now. She would not be easily embarrassed by it until Ayanokouji had his memories back.
"Mhm. So what is it this time?"
"It is simple. I have to stay in your room for 24 hours."
"..."
What?
"Hiyori, how will that help me get my memory back?"
"I know...it's....well, complicated. Yet please, trust me in that by doing so for 5 days, your memory will be back in no time."
"...alright."
To be honest, Ayanokouji thought that his friend was merely looking an excuse to stay in his room, not that he mind of course. It is his honour.
"Thank you, Ayanokouji-kun. And also one more thing."
"Sure, go ahead?"
"You will not touch me for this 24 hours that I stay here."
"..."
"...I-I understand the bizarreness, and I deeply apologise for bothering you in such a way. And yet-"
"Then it already has failed."
"Yes?"
Ayanokouji tilted his head. "I touched you during when you're asleep. Doesn't that mean whatever you require me to do has...already failed?"
"..."
Ayanokouji blinked, then blinked again. As a stream of tears came out of Hiyori's eyes.
...
...
...
...ha, what?
Is Ayanokouji's thought as his eyes gaped at Hiyori hiccuping with teary eyes, as she began to hug herself, wiped her streams of tears and wept like a child who lost something important, her usual dignified manner was nowhere to be seen.
...no, he was glad that Hiyori had some humanising moments. But not this far, this just made it confusingly awkward. What did he do wrong?
And so, the challenge was off to a really incredible start.
—————————
Time: 12:26 pm
Remaining time for the challenge: 23 hours, 34 minutes and 24 seconds
"Hiyori. I warm up some tea again at the table."
"..."
"...Hiyori, you can turn around from the wall. I seriously apologise if I offend you earlier."
"You didn't."
"Alright, I'm grateful for it."
"I still hate you, Ayanokouji-kun."
"..."
No, how is that fair? It's really just one squeeze...
Baring the words in his throat, he turned away to the kitchen to cook lunch.
After witnessing Hiyori's crying, she had largely calmed down afterwards, stating something along the lines of 'the timer started upon your arrival, so we haven't failed'...? It was a confusing statement, but she has largely settled her emotion upon muttering it, so he left it alone.
The problem is that Hiyori is now throwing a childish tantrum, in which she clutched her thighs with her back now facing him. Her reddened ears visibly shown, likely embarrassed about whatever happened a little while ago.
Though Ayanokouji didn't mind. It was a sort of...oddly humanising moment? Like when Hiyori blushed at him trolling her last time. She always tried to maintain her formality at all cost after all.
He stated that, blissfully unaware her formality took a completely broken form on whatever happened yesterday.
Yet as he was cooking in the kitchen by heating up a pan on the stove, he heard a rustle behind him, as something on the table was being picked up.
He looked behind him, Hiyori was now sipping the tea he made, sitting on the chair at the side.
She glanced at the tea, before glancing back to him.
"I'm sorry, Ayanokouji-kun. I was...embarrassed, that's all."
"..."
He could tell that is not all, but he could also tell pointing it out would only further her sadness.
And so, he merely turned around and popped an egg on the pan. Nothing settled emotion quite like a good meal, that he would know after eating something proper coming out of the white room.
And so after some work, five pairs of sandwiches were made. Ayanokouji judged three for him, and two for Hiyori, as he knew that Hiyori didn't eat much for her statue.
Setting the sandwiches on a plate, he carried it over to the table. He watched as Hiyori dodging him, likely being aware not to touch him.
And so, he sat at another chair at the side, before grabbing one of them. "So, I have two sandwiches for you. Eat them however you like."
"Mm, thank you."
And so, she prayed a little with two palms closed together, before grabbing one of the sandwiches before biting onto it.
Not much reaction, but given her half-awaken eyes sparkling a bit, it seems that she enjoyed her meal.
Taking another bite off of his own sandwich, he took a glance at Hiyori who was merely enjoying the sandwich. Completely clueless at the sensitivity that was having one male and one female close together in a room.
In fact, now they were a arm's length distance, he could merely reached out and poked Hiyori's arm if he wish to. He was not going to, of course. His friend's request came first, but maybe a little tease wouldn't hurt.
And so thinking that, he decide to break the comfortable mood by scooting his chair a little closer.
Hiyori's shoulder shook as her eyes widened at him, who is now only within half an arm's distance. He watching amusedly as her cheeks reddened, before squinting at him as if scolding him, before standing up.
...?
He now watched less amusedly as she walked to his bed before sitting lightly on the mattress, biting small bits off of the sandwich without taking a glance at him.
...no, he didn't mean to do this.
"Um...Hiyori? There is still one more sandwich here..."
"I apologise, but my appetite is quite full today."
"..."
Which is polite way of saying 'I told you not to touch me, how dare you'.
Ayanokouji blinked as she continued to avoid his gaze, blinked again as he couldn't figure how to appease her with his socially inept brain with socially inept experience, before continuing to finish his sandwich.
The challenge was off to an incredible progress by the two.
——————
Time: 13:11
Remaining time for the challenge: 22 hours, 49 minutes and 5 seconds
"Hiyori, do you want another tea?"
"No need. Please stay 5 steps away from me."
"..."
...how is this fair? He literally cooked her lunch not a long time ago.
And so, Ayanokouji went off and washed his dishes in the sink. Nothing of note happened by the time, but she occasionally glanced at Hiyori who was now staring at her phone.
He watched as she frowned at the phone, before putting the phone at the side.
"Ayanokouji. May you please sit over there?"
She stretched out a hand towards the chair, in which he nodded, strode and sat himself upon it.
"So what is it?"
"Can you stretch out your palm?"
"...okay?"
And so he did. After that, she threw something at him.
It is a green card. To...where?
"That's the card key that will access my room's door."
Oh, alright.
...wait, why did she give him the card key to her room.
"From now on, I'm going to rest in your room, so please, you can rest in mine."
"Oh alright."
...
...wait, what?
Something is wrong, something is terribly wrong with what she just said.
"Hiyori...what did you just say?"
"Hm? I can rest in your room while you rest in mine."
The ultimate solution. The win-all-be-all. There is no need to prevent physical contact if it is impossible in the first place.
The challenge only requires her to stay in Ayanokouji's room, not be with Ayanokouji in his room. So, it is a simple matter.
Just have him rest in her room while she rest in his. Very simple and effective, but it works perfectly.
Not in the eyes of the room-holder though.
"You do realise this is a ridiculous request, correct?"
"Ayanokouji-kun...I'm hurt."
"...yes?"
"After what we did yesterday...would you not trust me?"
...
...no, so what exactly happened yesterday?
Regardless, something is off with Hiyori as well. She is not one to take advantage of others with mere words, let alone be this good at it. Did she have practice with manipulation beforehand?
...still...
"It is fine but..." he frowned. "This is going...a little too far for a request."
"Ayanokouji-kun, I'm very sorry that you may be embarrassed about this."
"No, I'm worried about another matter."
Letting him stay in her room is not a problem. In fact, he is confident in his calm demeanour that he would not have done anything that would disappoint his friend.
The opposite is also fine. Hiyori is too pure to be a self-aware degenerate like him, so he wouldn't mind.
And yet, this is far from the worst problem.
"I originally thought it was a home date for us, Hiyori."
"Home date-"
Muttering this out loud, Hiyori covered her blush with both her palms.
Yes, this is the problem. It has a weird condition attached, but it is a home date regardless. His first one as well (minus all the intrusions his room has gotten).
As if expressing his sentiment, Hiyori nodded, her expression still hidden. "I understand, Ayanokouji-kun."
"I'm glad you do. Beside, would you not trust me? I'm a person of promise, I will not touch you for as long as you stayed in this room."
"...really?"
"Really."
"...seriously?"
"Seriously."
"I don't trust you."
"..."
He was a little hurt, not going to lie.
"To be precise," her palms slid down as she squinted at him, cheeks still blushing. "I'm very sorry. But I would like to think my...feminine charm would allow excuses for you to lose control."
"...that's a very weird wording of 'you'll accidentally seduce me'."
"I...yes, I'm sorry."
"No, don't apologise."
Because he would. He definitely would do exactly that, while she was asleep of course.
"Little need for this but..." Hiyori glanced at him with her head down. "Don't return to this room at least until...12:01pm, is it alright?"
"Alright."
"A-and also..."
...? What else?
"I love the sandwich. Thank you very much for making lunch for me as well."
"...no issue here."
Well, this isn't so bad after all. A short home date, but yes, it is still enjoyable just with this.
...wait.
"But how would you prepare your own dinner? Let alone shower without any clothes of yours here?"
"I...do you still have ingredients in the fridge?"
"No, I'm sorry."
"...I can skip it for now."
"I refuse. You must have a proper dinner, Hiyori."
"No, it is fine and..."
He furrowed his brows as Hiyori scrunched up her skirt. "My appetite already felt full after that sandwich."
"I insist, Hiyori. You must be healthy for-"
...wait, since when he was this drummed up? Sure she is his friend, but if it's the usual, why wouldn't he instead respect his friend's choice to skip meal but instead keeps bothering her?
...this is weird. He does not recognise this. Why does his chest feel tight all of a sudden?
"Ayanokouji-kun, please. I really don't mind."
His brows further furrowed into themselves at Hiyori's determined gaze, before loosening.
He felt his composure flowed back, before continuing. "I will call someone."
"Ayanokouji-kun...please don't."
"I will. Don't be worried. She is trustworthy. So you have no need to mind her questioning you in my room."
"..."
"I'll take the silence as your agreement. She will bring you whatever I ask of her. Just accept them by then."
Whatever the case, it is true that he...'felt' something, as if something void and formless him enveloped his entire existence.
Interesting. He has never felt this before. He wondered why.
"Th-thank you, Ayanokouji-kun..."
"No worries."
After all, he for sure was going to tease her afterwards for such a trouble.
And so, the challenge was completed before it ever began properly.
——————
Time: 13:46
Remaining time for the challenge: 22 hours, 14 minutes and 12 seconds
"The tea leaves are in the bottom shelves at the kitchen."
"...Ayanokouji-kun. May I ask is there any reason for your sudden interest in tea?"
"Because you would be interested as well. Is there any problem?"
"...no."
Hiyori felt her cheeks heated up. She stared back at Ayanokouji, who was now wearing a mask and carrying a bag of necessities, clothes, towels and all.
"As I stated," Ayanokouji reminded her. "Someone will come to get you the stuff you need."
"Al...alright."
"Don't worry. She's fairly sociable. She'll definitely not trouble you."
"I understand, thank you again."
"No worries."
And so, Ayanokouji opened the door and and was about to step out.
"Wait, Ayanokouji-kun."
"Hm?"
Hiyori blurted out to stop him, words stuck in her throat as if ramming her tongue not to speak further.
But she had to. For...both of them.
"I want to clarify I..."
"...I?"
"I...I claimed that I was afraid of my...um, feminine charm, didn't I?"
"Yes, so?"
"The opposite is also true, Ayanokouji-kun."
"..."
"I-I'm sorry. I don't know what I'm-I...I..."
"Hiyori, you're blushing from ear-to-ear again."
"Ah, really..."
"Yes, so I will take advantage of this moment shamelessly and ask you: will you sleep with me after I fulfill your request?"
"..."
...ha?
"Sleep? With..."
"Oh I don't mean it in an inappropriate manner. I merely wish to sleep together in a bed together. Will you agree?"
"B-but we're friends...do you not mind?"
"Do you, Hiyori?"
"..."
After what they did yesterday? He...he really shouldn't ask questions with obvious answers...
How convenient of him not to remember anything at this moment.
"I...Ayanokouji-kun I..."
She looked down as she tried to bear the heat in her cheeks. "I don't mind..."
"..."
"...Ayanokouji-kun?"
"Hiyori, mind if I pinch your cheek just once?"
"Su-wait, no, please don't..."
"You're right. I can pinch you however I want afterwards anyways. Why bother now?"
"..."
"Then, I look forward to later."
And so, in a trance, she watched as Ayanokouji closed the door.
In the first 5 second, she let out a squeal.
Then in the next 5 second, she hugged herself on his bed.
After 15 seconds, she jumped up in embarrassment upon the belated realisation that she was shamelessly lying on her one and only friend's bed.
Though the next 60 seconds, she merely stood, as she glanced around. Unable to contain her excitement, she explored around the room in wonders. The simple layout of the room merely added to the mystique of Ayanokouji as a simple person, with no hints on whatever he liked in this room.
Afterwards, she sat on the chair, staring at the air.
And so, she covered her face which were in scorching heat.
It was confusing, embarrassing, and most of all shameless.
In a span of two days, she had inappropriate physical all over Ayanokouji's physique, stole his first kiss on top of that, and also slept in his room like a newly wed couple.
And now...she was going to stay in his room for an addition twenty-plus hours.
There is no telling how long her sanity will last.
...actually now that her clarity has returned a little, the room smelled nice...like the library's smell. Fresh, clear and pure with no smells of air freshener, much like the owner himself.
Then without a thought, she went to Ayanokouji's bed, kneeled down on it and sniffed.
It was the smell of...wait. Wait wait wait.
"What am I doing?!"
She squealed again as she lied her cheek at the pillow as she gripped it hard, unable to bear her shame for a second longer.
And yet for an additional 5 minutes, she still stayed on the bed.
Had Ayanokouji know this, he would no doubt be amused for someone as secretly degenerate as him, on top of his betrayed trust on Hiyori's tainted innocence.
Afterwards, her emotions were mostly calmed.
So she got up and prepared to the desk. Ayanokouji told her that the desk would have some books she will be interested at, so it would be nice to pass the time with-
Her thought, however, was cut off with the doorbell ringing.
Her eyes widened. First, she thought it was her, the one who Ayanokouji entrusted to deliver her necessities she needed.
Then, it is easy to deny the theory. 6 minutes is too short for anyone to prepare all of what she needed.
Luckily, or unluckily, her question was quickly answered.
"Ayanokouji-kun. Open the door. We need to talk."
"..."
That voice sounded of authority...no way.
"Why would she be here...?"
A bundle of possibilities passed up in her mind. Yes, beside someone she secretly have more information on, the person at the door was...publicly the second closest female she could think of.
But why? She thought the relationship is that of mere acquaintances, and at best close friend. Yet, why would she openly sought him out...
Hiyori gulped her nervousness down. No, it should not matter...as long as she is at the door, there will be no avoiding her. She considered waiting her out, but given her personality, she could tell that the person would be stubborn enough to wait in front of her door.
Outside was now about probably -2*C. There is no way she would allow a person to wait in cold for this long. Her heart would not allow it.
And so, taking a deep breath, she went to the door.
Upon opening the door, she greeted a long, black-haired female, who was now wearing a large jacket on top of a grey shirt.
"...why are you here?"
Upon her questioning tone, she lowered her gaze, before staring back at her.
"May I also ask that question to you, Horikita-san?"
"...rejected. I have no obligation to answer you."
She winced. As expected, this is not going to be easy.
"Actually," Horikita gripped her chin in contemplation. "This is not bad, maybe this will be resolved quicker than I thought."
"...?"
"I will be straightforward with you. I don't know who you are."
Horikita stared straight at her, before uttering a command.
"But give up on Ayanokouji. He would never answer your advances.
"...eh?"
"I mean what I said. Student of Class 1-C...actually, it should be Class 1-D, shouldn't it?"
Horikita glared at her. "Nothing you can do to that man will shake him, so why bother with it?"
"..."
Hiyori's mind is now in shamble. She has zero clues as to what is happening.
And so, the supposed-completed challenge met an unexpected hurdle.
——————
Time: 13:54
Remaining time on the challenge: 22 hours, 6 minutes and 52 seconds
"And so, I hope you'll be able to deliver the clothes and food I mentioned to my room. Any question?"
"..."
"...what is it?"
"Screw. You."
Then, his phone line is cut off.
Huh, this may not have been the right time to request her. Though, he has confidence she will follow through.
Meanwhile, he looked in front of him, the door to Hiyori's room.
And so, Ayanokouji knocked on it, even if there is no need to.
...then he knocked on it again, amused at the sounds of knocking the door when the owner is not even in the room.
Upon knocking, however, he realised he was here to sleep in Hiyori's room.
...that's right. Hiyori's room. Someone who was a mere friend to him, no less.
He blinked in both curiosity and excitement, as he accessed the key to the door before twisting the doorknob...
"Hey, Shiina! What the hell is up with you-"
He stopped mid-way, before glancing to his left.
But before he could look properly, a kick was sent immediately right at his face.
He titled his head to dodge, before blinking.
"Ibuki?"
Without a word, Ibuki landed and sent a punch to his face again, not before he dodged and grasped her arm, flinging her sideway and stumbling.
"You-" she steadied herself as she pointed at him. "What are you doing here? Why.in.the.fuck, do you have her card key?"
"...it's a misunderstanding."
He raised both his hands, calmly. "Hiyori has something she needs me to retrieve, so I'm going in with her card key."
A plausible lie to drive off the stubborn pursuer. Though he expected-
"Don't be ridiculous!"
...as expected.
"After what you two did openly at the mall yesterday?! You fucking kidding with me?!"
...
...what?
He blinked, then blinked again, at Ibuki who was glaring at him.
"You bastard..." she growled. "Playing with the class is not enough, and now you have to touch someone as naive as that airhead? The fuck is wrong with you?!"
...no, he...well...
...
...actually, what did he really do yesterday?
And so, the challenge has long been casted aside for now, as another impossible hurdle arrived before them.
Notes:
Author's note:
You might notice. This chapter is a lot more quick paced. Coz I tried a new writing style.
Also I realise the last chapter was...not exactly up to my standards, as I want to lean this fic to a more lighthearted standard. It is what it is.
I will still keep the chapters as they are for plot continuity.
The next chapter will be within this week. Hope you enjoy this chapter as always!
a8tart on Chapter 3 Thu 13 Jul 2023 06:46PM UTC
Last Edited Thu 13 Jul 2023 06:48PM UTC
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ArielOrion on Chapter 3 Fri 21 Jul 2023 06:32PM UTC
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therupture22 on Chapter 3 Tue 31 Oct 2023 08:04AM UTC
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Dan (Guest) on Chapter 3 Fri 26 Jul 2024 07:35AM UTC
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Gary (Guest) on Chapter 4 Wed 06 Mar 2024 12:17AM UTC
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yarukinaiDerp on Chapter 4 Thu 14 Mar 2024 11:50AM UTC
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yarukinaiDerp on Chapter 6 Sun 14 Apr 2024 11:51PM UTC
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a8tart on Chapter 6 Mon 15 Apr 2024 04:20AM UTC
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yarukinaiDerp on Chapter 6 Mon 15 Apr 2024 08:26AM UTC
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therupture22 on Chapter 6 Mon 15 Apr 2024 08:00AM UTC
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a8tart on Chapter 6 Sun 21 Apr 2024 02:36AM UTC
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therupture22 on Chapter 7 Sun 21 Apr 2024 05:30AM UTC
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a8tart on Chapter 7 Sun 21 Apr 2024 01:44PM UTC
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yarukinaiDerp on Chapter 7 Sun 21 Apr 2024 08:32AM UTC
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a8tart on Chapter 7 Sun 21 Apr 2024 01:46PM UTC
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Dan (Guest) on Chapter 7 Fri 26 Jul 2024 08:07AM UTC
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yarukinaiDerp on Chapter 8 Tue 23 Apr 2024 08:16AM UTC
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a8tart on Chapter 8 Tue 23 Apr 2024 10:25PM UTC
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Pratibha Singha (Guest) on Chapter 8 Tue 29 Jul 2025 07:19AM UTC
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Blink (Guest) on Chapter 8 Mon 06 May 2024 04:48PM UTC
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Tsugikuni on Chapter 8 Thu 30 May 2024 06:12PM UTC
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Dollfyssane on Chapter 8 Sat 01 Jun 2024 10:10AM UTC
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Tsugikuni on Chapter 8 Sat 09 Nov 2024 02:39PM UTC
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cgs (Guest) on Chapter 8 Wed 08 Jan 2025 07:31PM UTC
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