Chapter 266: Shizuka Down
"Allergic to cat fur? Then it seems this method won't work. What a pity."
As a devoted cat lover, Yukino absolutely cannot accept being allergic to cat fur.
"But I don't really think there's any regret." Hachiman's lips curled into a smile.
"After all, it allowed me to see such an adorable side of you, Yukino."
Upon hearing him bring it up again, the girl's cheeks slightly puffed.
"You just won't let it go."
"Okay, okay, I won't mention it anymore. Let's consider it a little secret between us." Hachiman knew when to stop; pushing too far wouldn't be worth it if Yukino got too embarrassed.
"Hmph."
To his words, Yukino gave a light snort, not saying much more. With the plan failed, they had to end today's activities, calling back Yui and Saika.
The group dispersed to their respective homes after school, each dealing with their own affairs.
On another day after school, they resumed their activities. Today, they decided to try Saika's method – seeking someone to confide in.
Huddled behind the shoe lockers, Saika spoke, "I think it might be challenging to open up to parents due to the closeness of the relationship. Turning to another adult might make it easier to share."
"We'll definitely succeed this time," Yui encouraged.
Referring to an adult, they meant Shizuka. When Hachiman approached her, she readily agreed. Being the homeroom teacher of Hachiman's group, listening to students' concerns was part of her duties.
In the corridor, Shizuka leaned against the wall, arms crossed, still wearing her white coat, looking quite composed. Soon, Saki approached.
"Here she comes." Yui quickly called out from behind the shoe lockers.
At this moment, Shizuka also addressed her, "Kawasaki-san, may I have a word?"
Seeing it was Shizuka, Saki sighed but approached.
"What brings you to me, Hiratsuka-sensei?"
"I heard you've been coming home quite late recently. Where have you been running off to?" Shizuka adopted a rare teacher-like demeanor.
"Who told you?" Saki responded in a calm tone.
"I can't disclose that. I must keep it confidential for the person who entrusted us," Shizuka said, standing upright and facing the girl.
"Now, answer my question."
"I go wherever. It's none of your concern, Sensei," Saki maintained her indifferent tone.
"How can it not be my concern? Lately, you've been skipping classes frequently, looking lethargic, even sleeping during lessons, and your grades have plummeted significantly. As your homeroom teacher, how can I not be worried?" Shizuka spoke with a mix of concern.
"If you have any difficulties, you can talk to me about it."
Hearing the concern in Shizuka's tone, Saki's expression softened a bit, but she still didn't open up.
"Thank you for your concern, Hiratsuka-sensei. I'll get back on track soon. Besides, I'm not causing trouble for anyone now, am I?"
"How can you say you're not causing trouble? You're a high school student now. Haven't you considered your parents' feelings? Coming home so late every day, don't you think it worries them?" Shizuka spoke earnestly, mentioning Saki's parents, which stirred some agitation in the girl.
I work part-time precisely because I don't want to burden my parents.
With so many siblings at home and my desire to go to college, the expenses for high school cram school and university tuition are significant.
To gather enough money for tuition, I have no choice but to work long hours.
But who understands these struggles?
Saki's frustration has added a touch of bitterness to her tone.
"Parents' feelings? Sensei, you've never been a parent, so how can you understand their thoughts?"
"As far as I know, Hiratsuka-sensei, you don't even have a boyfriend right now."
This statement seemed like a critical hit, causing Shizuka to metaphorically collapse.
Shizuka down, major damage.
Saki continued her ruthless remarks while walking away, "So, instead of worrying about me, Sensei, perhaps you should consider yourself more, like finding a boyfriend and getting married sooner."
Facing her departure, Shizuka didn't attempt to stop her. At this point, she was completely defeated, looking utterly defeated in the ORZ posture.
Seeing this scene, the group hiding behind the shoe lockers couldn't help but feel sorry for her.
"Sensei... it's really pitiful."
"Sniff..."
After Saki left, Shizuka slowly got up, crying in sadness.
"I won't bother with this matter anymore. I'm going home."
Watching her leave, no one stopped her, understanding how pitiable she was.
Hachiman also decided to cook some delicious food tonight to comfort her wounded heart.
In any case, the second operation ended in failure once again.
After another day of school, the group gathered once more.
This time, they adopted Yui's plan.
"Yui, do you have a solution?" Yukino looked at Yui with some confusion.
"Hehe, I've come up with a great idea." Yui's face was full of confidence at this moment.
"The best way to change a girl is through romance."
"What kind of solution is this..."
Hachiman sighed helplessly, then turned to look at the dumbfounded Hayama brought in by Yui.
"So, Hayama, you're the secret weapon silly Yui brought in."
"Huh, stinky Hikki, I'm not silly."
Yui immediately frowned upon hearing Hachiman's remark.
Regardless, they had to give this method a shot.
Following the plan, Hachiman and the others concealed themselves while Hayama attempted to strike up a casual conversation with Saki.
Unfortunately, the outcome was evident. The girl completely ignored Hayama, pedaling away on her bicycle, leaving Hayama standing there awkwardly, with a forced smile.
"Another failure..."
Experiencing yet another unsuccessful operation, Yui and the others felt a tinge of disappointment.
In that moment, Hachiman's phone rang.
"Komachi, what's up?"
"Listen, Onii-chan, it seems there's a strange shop calling Taishi's sister. It's called Angel something, and the business hours extend until dawn."
Open until dawn? And it's called Angel...
This revelation surprised them all, as the combination didn't sound like a legitimate establishment.
"But having a lead is good. Now, all we need to do is narrow down the scope," Yukino analyzed with a serious expression.
"Leave it to me." Hachiman nodded, taking out his phone to start searching.
"Found it. There are only two places in Chiba with 'Angel' in their name, and they operate until dawn."