Chapter 513: The Chocolate War
After leaving the Kawasaki sisters, Hachiman made his way over to Iroha.
Seeing him approach, the mischievous girl excitedly presented her finished chocolates, looking for praise.
"Look, senpai! My chocolates are done!"
Glancing at the petal-shaped chocolates in her hand, Hachiman nodded in approval. If judged purely by appearance, Iroha's chocolates were definitely above average. But he couldn't help but wonder how they tasted.
Just as that thought crossed his mind, Iroha spoke up, her voice full of anticipation.
"Senpai, want to give them a try?"
Seeing her hopeful expression, Hachiman couldn't refuse. He picked up a piece and popped it into his mouth.
The texture was smooth, the sweetness perfectly balanced, and the milk added a rich creaminess to the flavor.
As he savored the taste, Hachiman reached out and gently patted her head, smiling.
"Not bad," Hachiman said approvingly.
Feeling the warm hand on her head, Iroha was momentarily stunned, her face turning a faint shade of red.
"Senpai… please don't treat me like a child."
Although her tone carried a hint of reproach, Iroha couldn't help but feel a thrill of pleasure. After all, Hachiman, who had previously been indifferent to her, was now initiating contact, even if it was just a pat on the head. This was a significant breakthrough for her.
Keep going, Iroha. You can do it. Just keep trying, and you'll definitely make Senpai like you.
With this thought in mind, she maintained her cute junior persona.
"Senpai, how does my chocolate taste?"
To be honest, Iroha's chocolates were quite good, even better than the typical ones sold in stores.
Just as Iroha eagerly awaited Hachiman's response, a commanding voice interrupted.
"Hold on."
Looking up, Hachiman saw that Yumiko had somehow joined them.
When did this first-year girl start competing with me for Hachiman's attention?
Seeing Iroha, who was constantly clinging to Hachiman, Yumiko felt a surge of irritation. It was one thing for Yukinoshita, Kawasaki, and Yui—they were all second-years and had known Hachiman for about the same length of time. A bit of rivalry among them was expected.
But this girl who had barely known him for a short time was trying to butt in?
Move aside!
"Hmph, you there, try my chocolate," Yumiko said, holding out a piece to Hachiman.
Given the choice between Iroha and Yumiko, Hachiman's preference was clear.
He took a bite of the chocolate Yumiko offered and tasted it.
"How is it?"
Seeing Hachiman eating her chocolate, Yumiko was visibly anxious.
She wasn't particularly skilled in cooking, and this was her first attempt at making chocolate. It was natural to be nervous.
Truth be told, Yumiko's chocolate was just average. She had simply melted and re-shaped store-bought chocolate, and it lacked the depth of flavor and sweetness of Iroha's handmade version.
However, Hachiman wasn't foolish enough to be completely honest. He was well aware of Yumiko's sensitivity about her skills and always tried to preserve her pride.
If Hachiman were to criticize the taste of her chocolate in front of others, it would definitely lead to trouble.
"That's very good, Yumiko's chocolate," Hachiman said with a smile.
Although it wasn't the most impressive answer he could give, it was still quite good.
Yumiko's face lit up with a satisfied smile at the praise.
"I'm glad you like it."
With that, she shot a challenging glance at Iroha.
See that, little girl? You're still a long way from competing with me.
As if she understood Yumiko's meaning, Iroha pouted unhappily.
"Senpai, how about mine?"
"Ah, Iroha's chocolate is also very good. As expected from the Isshiki family," Hachiman nodded.
What does that even mean, "as expected from the Isshiki family"?
Iroha felt a bit annoyed at Hachiman's comment. While it was true she was part of the Isshiki family, she had put in a lot of hard work making these chocolates herself, and it had nothing to do with the Isshiki family.
"The Isshiki family?" Yumiko asked, puzzled.
"Yeah, the famous culinary family, the Isshiki family," Hachiman explained.
"Iroha here is from the Isshiki family and is also a cousin of the current member of the Totsuki Ten Masters, Isshiki Satoshi."
"Oh, that sounds impressive," Yumiko said, though her face still bore a hint of smugness.
So what if she's from the Isshiki family? In Hachiman's eyes, she's just a newcomer.
Newcomers should just stay in the background.
Think you can surpass me?
Dream on!
Seeing Yumiko's smug expression, Iroha felt even more frustrated.
Ugh… I can't stand that Miura-senpai.
Just wait, I'll show you. Hachiman-senpai will be mine!
It seemed as if the two girls could sense each other's thoughts, and they exchanged glances filled with tension.
In the next moment, sparks seemed to fly between their gazes.
....
Ignoring the subtle clash between the two girls, Hachiman left the scene of conflict and soon found himself beside Yukino and Yui.
At this point, the two had finished making their treats and were trying them out themselves.
When Yui saw Hachiman approaching, she happily lifted the tray of her creations.
"Come try some, Hikki!"
Hachiman looked at the tray and saw that, rather than chocolates, they had made chocolate-flavored cupcakes. He hesitated for a moment, remembering how Yui's cookies had turned out in the past.
However, the cupcakes looked quite appealing, and he could even smell a faint, pleasant aroma.
Maybe I should give them a try?
Hachiman thought to himself.
Sensing his hesitation, Yukino smiled and reassured him.
"Don't worry, I made these with Yui, so they should be fine."
"Oh, is that so? Then I'll give them a try," Hachiman said, relieved.
Yui's face fell at their comments.
"You two are so unfair. I've improved a lot since then, you know."
"Haha, then let me give them a try," Hachiman chuckled, picking up a cupcake and taking a bite.
As he tasted the cupcake, both girls watched him intently. After all, these cupcakes were a joint effort, and they hoped for a positive review from him.
Hachiman chewed thoughtfully. The taste wasn't bad at all; in fact, it was quite good, comparable to those from professional bakeries.
He was pleasantly surprised, especially given how much Yui had improved. Although Yukino's efforts were evident, Yui's own progress was clear. After all, Yui had once turned cookies into charcoal, and now she'd made cupcakes this good—there was definitely improvement.
"How's it, Hikki?"
Seeing Hachiman's thoughtful expression, Yui asked nervously.
Hachiman smiled and gave a thumbs up.
"It's great, Yui."
"Really? That's wonderful! Hehe~~"
Hearing his praise, Yui happily touched her head, grinning widely.
Seeing her delight, Hachiman couldn't help but smile fondly.
At that moment, Yukino's voice reached Hachiman's ears.
"Did you find Yui's improvement surprising?"
"She must have been practicing hard," Hachiman observed, his gaze growing more affectionate as he watched Yui revel in the praise.
"That's right. Yui has been practicing diligently lately," Yukino said, her face also showing affection. "She's been dragging me along to practice with her and has been working hard every night after she gets home… all to make the best chocolate for you."
"I see…"
Hachiman looked at Yui with added tenderness, feeling more sympathy for her.
"She's worked really hard."
"Indeed, she has," Yukino agreed, nodding.
Through the recent days of practice, Yukino had witnessed Yui's determination firsthand. Despite numerous failures, Yui had never once considered giving up; her sole focus was making the best chocolate for Hachiman.
At that moment, Yukino heard Hachiman's voice again.
"Not just Yui, but you've worked hard too, Yukino."
"Thank you for your efforts in making such delicious cupcakes," Hachiman said gratefully.
At that moment, Hachiman's voice was softer than ever. Seeing the two girls who had given their all for him, his eyes glistened with a captivating warmth.
"Hikki…"
"Hachiman…"
Seeing the gentle light in his eyes, both girls were mesmerized. If it weren't for the circumstances, they would have embraced him immediately.
"Why don't you both try my chocolate chip cookies?" Hachiman said softly.
"Mm!"
…
The cookies were now ready, having been baked to perfection in the oven. Hachiman took them out and began packaging them.
Having tasted the girls' chocolates, it was time for him to return the favor. He carefully packaged his own chocolate chip cookies for the girls and also prepared some extras on a plate to share with Zaimokuza and Saika.
Since the cookies were already made, it would be a waste not to share them.
The girls were delighted to receive Hachiman's cookies, with Iroha particularly thrilled, seeing it as a sign of Hachiman's initial approval of her efforts.
To Hachiman's surprise, besides Yukino and the others, Ebina, Saika, and even Zaimokuza had also given him chocolates or sweets they had made. Although unexpected, he gratefully accepted their offerings and reciprocated.
As everyone in the kitchen completed their chocolates, the atmosphere turned into a tasting party. The entire kitchen was filled with the tantalizing aroma of various chocolates and desserts.
However, more enticing than the aroma were the joyful smiles on the students' faces as they exchanged their treats, creating a truly festive atmosphere.
Watching this scene from outside the door, Shizuka couldn't help but smile with satisfaction.
It looked like they had organized a wonderful event.
But why did she feel this pang of sourness in her heart?
Shizuka, feeling a pang of annoyance as she watched Hachiman playfully interact with the girls, thought to herself, "It's that jerk's fault. Does he think I'm too old, just because he's busy flirting with those young girls?"
Her feelings of grievance grew as she thought about being left out and alone outside the door. However, her intense gaze must have attracted Hachiman's attention, and before she knew it, he had spotted and pulled her into the room.
"Why just stand there? Come and join us!"
"Hey, don't pull me!"
The presence of Shizuka surprised everyone momentarily, but they soon greeted her warmly.
"Hello, Hiratsuka-sensei."
"Hello, everyone!"
Caught off guard by being discovered while spying, Shizuka felt a bit embarrassed. But, as one of the most popular teachers in the school, she quickly received invitations to taste the desserts made by the students.
"Hiratsuka-sensei, would you like to try our chocolate?"
"Yes, please give it a try!"
"Since I'm not sure about the quality, it's perfect to have Hiratsuka-sensei taste it first."
…
Seeing their enthusiastic offers, Shizuka's face softened into a pleased smile. These kids…
Feeling touched, she jokingly said, "Hey, I heard that! Don't think you can use me as a test subject. Watch out, or I'll deduct points!"
"Don't do that!" one of the students exclaimed in mock terror.
This playful exchange lightened the mood in the kitchen immediately.
Just then, Hachiman's voice reached her ears.
"Here, this is for you."
Looking over, Shizuka saw Hachiman holding out a package of chocolate chip cookies.
Her heart lifted at the sight. "Looks like he hasn't forgotten me."
Taking the cookies from Hachiman, Shizuka felt a weight lift from her heart. She smiled broadly, her mood improved.
"Alright, kids, don't forget to clean up your stations after making your chocolates!"
"Eh, why do we have to do that?"
At Shizuka's command, the students grumbled but complied, aware of her authoritative presence.
And so, the Chocolate-Making Festival came to a close, leaving behind a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie among the participants.
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