There was still an hour before class started, considering the four had arrived early in the morning at half past 7, the classroom was deserted.
"Wow, It's empty in here, huh? " Nao remarked, gazing around the quiet classroom.
The empty seats and tranquil atmosphere gave her a sense of peace, a stark contrast to the bustling hallway they had just left.
Shiro grinned as she sat at one of the desks, leaning back and crossing her arms. "Early bird catches the worm, they say," she quipped.
Kuro, always the attentive one, took out his notebook and stationary, "It's a good time to get organized and prepare for what's ahead," he said, a pen poised at the table to jot down any important information.
On the other hand, Yumi decided it was the perfect moment to relax. She stretched out in her chair, letting out a contented sigh. "I suggest we enjoy the calm before the storm. Once the semester starts, we won't have much time to relax."
Nao nodded in agreement, taking a seat and allowing the stillness of the classroom to wash over her. The gentle breeze coming through the open window carried with it the promise of a fresh start.
As time passed, more students began to trickle into the classroom, and the once-quiet space began to fill with chatter and laughter. The air was filled with a mix of excitement and curiosity.
Chin-ching
The school bell rang, signaling the start of the new academic year.
Upon entering the classroom, the teacher announced, "Please take your seats," and the students settled down. The first day of the semester officially began.
I hope I'll be able to do well this year. Nao thought anxiously.
She couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what the new semester would bring. With her friends by her side and a classroom full of opportunities, she was ready to embrace the adventure that lay ahead.
"The girl in the front with glasses will lead the greeting. " The teacher stated, making Nao shake her head in search of the person she was referring to. Until she realized she was the only girl who wore glasses in the front row.
Huh? M-me!? She froze upon noticing that The teacher was addressing her.
Shit, I have to get myself together! Come on, I-I can do this!
"S-stand up, Bow," she said as the students stood up at their desks, faced the teacher, and performed a deep bow as a sign of respect.
T-though I stuttered... I still did it! She rejoiced.
"My name's Masami Hashimoto, I will be your homeroom teacher. "
"For our first meeting, let's just introduce ourselves. We'll start the lessons next time." The teacher started the class by asking the students to introduce themselves.
"We'll start on the first row, from the left side of me!"
Nao immediately went into an internal panic.
I haven't prepared myself for this! She cursed inside.
"Aki Hirata, It's nice to meet you all."
"Aoi Furukawa, nice to meet you! My hobby is hanging out with friends. " She said, a bright smile painted her face.
One by one, the students stood up and introduced themselves. Finally, it was Nao's turn.
Nao stood up and spoke, "H-hello, my name's Naoko Ito. My hobby is drawing. I hope we can get along!" She bowed deeply and felt a tiny surge of confidence as her classmates applauded her.
I think that was not a bad introduction! She thought.
As she burst into soft giggles, she quickly covered her mouth with her hand, unable to contain her amusement.
Throughout the day, It was nothing but self-introductions and light quizzes to assess the retention of prior knowledge from middle school.
When the day ended, Nao felt a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. She knew this semester would be different from the ones before. She was determined to make the most of every opportunity that came her way and push herself out of her comfort zone.
It's the end of the first day, huh? She thinks, looking at the window beside her table.
The sun was still high, casting a warm afternoon glow over the campus with the dancing sakura flower petals painted a magical scene.
Though we're in the same class, I haven't seen him anywhere...
Where's Minamoto-kun...? Nao exhaled a long breath as she gathered her belongings and returned the stationery to its rightful place.
"Naoko-san, Let's go! " Yumi exclaimed, standing at the front of the classroom door with Kuro and Shiro behind her.
Nao finished packing her bag and met up with her friends as they left the classroom, ready to call it a day after the exhausting first day of the semester.
As they walked down the corridor, Nao couldn't help but reflect on the day's events. The self-introductions had gone smoothly, and she was pleased with the positive response she received from her classmates. It felt like a promising start to the semester.
I felt anxious today and didn't interact with anyone in class... I regret not trying to talk to them, but I didn't know what to say... I hope to do better next time...
Once they were outside of the school building, Yumi initiated the conversation.
"Hey guys, want to go to the bathhouse and soak? " She asked.
"Sure, Why not? " Replied both Kuro and Shiro simultaneously.
At times like this, I can see how they're twins. They're jarringly similar at times. Nao thought.
"How about you, Nao? " Yumi asked.
"I'd like to go too! " Nao burst out with joy.
But suddenly, her eyes darkened, causing concerns for the trio.
"what's wrong? " Kuro asked.
Nao looked up at them, her brows furrowed, "I didn't pack a pair of spare clothes with me. " She complained as she was expecting to bathe with Ema in the evening like usual.