Chapter 309: Imagined Little Mafuyu
"It's just some not-so-pleasant memories."
Recovering the white cloth, Kirisu spoke in a calm tone.
However, Hachiman was somewhat puzzled, "This should be holding memories of Mafuyu-sensei's glorious high school days."
"Glorious... If it could continue, maybe..." Kirisu's tone now sounded somewhat subdued.
"Hikigaya-kun, do you know? The competitive lifespan of figure skaters is very short, especially for female skaters..."
"Typically, the age of female skaters ranges from 15 to 25, and very few continue beyond 25, perhaps even shorter."
"Compared to other sports, figure skating has too many limitations—physical conditions, financial conditions, environmental conditions... these factors make the career in this sport extremely brief."
Hearing these words, Hachiman raised an eyebrow. As a good listener, he chose not to interrupt.
As if finding someone to confide in, Kirisu paused for a moment and continued, "But there was a foolish girl who, due to a moment of impulse, wasted that golden period. When she realized it, it was too late to turn back."
"What a hopeless idiot..."
After saying this, Kirisu fell silent.
Seeing her like this, Hachiman didn't know what to say for a moment.
Clearly, what Mafuyu-sensei just shared was her own story, something that could be deduced from the trophies and medals seen earlier.
It seemed that Mafuyu-sensei had exceptional talent in figure skating from a young age, winning numerous awards in middle school and high school. However, for some reason, she didn't become a professional figure skater and chose to become a teacher instead.
In Hachiman's perspective, if Mafuyu-sensei's words about the short lifespan of a figure skater are accurate, choosing to become a teacher appears to be a much wiser decision.
Teachers in Japan receive decent treatment, especially at Japan Academy.
Compared to the fleeting glory of a professional figure skater, becoming a teacher is undoubtedly a more stable and fulfilling option.
While pursuing a career as a figure skater may bring momentary glory, what follows after retirement is uncertain. Some may become coaches, but that's a rare occurrence. Most athletes find themselves blending into the crowd, facing the challenges of everyday life.
Devoting the prime years of life to a sport, coupled with limited knowledge of other fields and potential physical issues from rigorous training, raises questions about the quality of life afterward.
Those from affluent families might have fewer worries, but for individuals from ordinary backgrounds, the post-retirement options may be restricted to lower-tier jobs.
Recalling stories from his previous life about the often tragic experiences of retired professional athletes, Hachiman posed a question, "Sensei, do you regret choosing to become a teacher?"
In response, Mafuyu Kirisu decisively shook her head, "Certainly not. I just feel sorry for my parents, for disappointing them. But luckily, I have Miharu now..."
"Miharu?"
"My younger sister, who is now a more talented figure skater than I was back then."
"I see."
"..."
"Sorry, Hikigaya-kun, for burdening you with my complaints earlier." Kirisu smiled apologetically.
Hachiman shook his head with a smile, "It's okay. I actually think being a teacher is great. At least, Mafuyu-sensei, you are quite popular among the students."
"That's only because they don't know what I'm like at home." Kirisu's tone carried a hint of disappointment as she looked up at Hachiman.
"Similar to you, Hikigaya-kun. After seeing this messy room, do you still think I'm as good as you imagined?"
"It's just not being good at tidying up, nothing as serious as you described." Hachiman reassured with a smile. "No one is perfect, and it's okay to relax a bit at home."
"In fact, compared to the serious and perfect Mafuyu-sensei at school, I prefer you as you are now. It feels more authentic."
After all, in this world, appearances still play a significant role. Is the room of a pretty girl messy? No, it's just a manifestation of a carefree spirit.
It's like a handsome otaku and an overweight one.
Girls would say the handsome otaku is aloof, shy, and all that, while the overweight one is naturally disgusting, socially awkward...
However, upon hearing Hachiman's words, a blush appeared on Kirisu's face, and her tone became somewhat stuttered.
"L-Like or something."
"N-Not... inappropriate. Just a kid making random remarks. I-I'm your teacher."
Hearing her words, Hachiman raised an eyebrow.
What's wrong with being a teacher? As long as you're brave enough, teachers can take maternity leave.
Do you know, the last one who called me a kid was also a teacher? And as long as I make a bit more effort, she can actually go on maternity leave.
But seeing Kirisu blushing and acting shy, Hachiman chose not to further tease her. He stood up, preparing to leave.
"Now that the room is tidy, I won't overstay. Time to go back and cook for Komachi."
"I'll bring some over for you later, Sensei."
Hearing this, Kirisu waved her hands repeatedly, "Oh, no need, no need. It's too much trouble, Hikigaya-kun."
"It's okay. It must be inconvenient for Sensei to go out for dinner with your ankle injured," Hachiman said with a smile.
"I can order takeout," Kirisu pointed to her phone.
"So, Sensei, which do you think is better, takeout or my cooking?" Hachiman's face bore a confident smile.
This time, Kirisu was stunned. In her heart, of course, Hachiman's cooking was more delicious, but...
Before she could refute, Hachiman waved his hand and said, "It's decided. I'll bring you a meal later, Sensei. I'll be going now."
With that, he left the room.
Watching him leave, Kirisu opened her mouth but didn't say anything.
Thinking about Hachiman's delicious cooking, she couldn't resist.
Remembering the word "like" that Hachiman mentioned earlier, Kirisu couldn't help but mumble to herself.
Could... Could it be that Hikigaya-kun really likes me?
No, it can't be. It must be my imagination.
But why does he insist on bringing me a meal? Could it be...
Inappropriate! I... I'm his teacher.
When Hikigaya-kun brings the meal later, I'll just reject it outright.
However, as she thought about the delicious taste of Hachiman's cooking, she hesitated once again.
Hmm... Maybe I should wait until after eating?
Yes, that's decided. I'll decide after eating.