When you're carrying a heavy burden, there's a natural urge to open up to those you trust and share what's on your mind.
But don't you think that might come off as a bit arrogant?
No one enjoys being bombarded with your confusing rants, especially when they decide to listen. They feel obligated to offer some reassurance.
That's also why I struggle with listening. When someone opens up to me about their life issues, I struggle to offer helpful advice.
Fortunately, out of the many students at Hachimitsu Academy, there was a particular female student who gave me a sense of trust.
So, here I am.
During my break, I had a secret meeting with Chiyo Kurihara. She's the girl I chose to trust.
I don't see her often, but whenever we do meet, it feels like our connection is evolving, almost like an unseen force is shaping our feelings.
"So, have you sorted out the issue?"
"I'm not fully convinced that this issue has been fully resolved. They can be quite reckless, you know."
We were standing next to each other under the tree, and I glanced at Chiyo, who was fixated on the ground. Initially, I got the sense that she wasn't really into our conversation. Given my recent bold moves, it's understandable that she might feel that way.
As we chatted, I noticed something peculiar. It was inevitable that our eyes would meet each other, and seeing her so bashful, I began to understand her thoughts a bit more.
"If I allow them to have their way, I'll end up in situations that could lead to me getting kicked out of school."
I decided to try it out again by leaning my body and positioning my face directly in her line of sight. There's a part of me that feels a bit playful and wants to tease her.
"Uhh… that would be bad."
Chiyo looked up and turned her attention to something different. Her hands, previously resting on her buttocks, clenched into tighter fists.
"What would be bad?"
Hanging out with her is definitely the best way to spend my time while I'm at this school. Since she's a new student, just like me, her mind is still open.
She's a great girl with a strong opinion, so as long as I avoid doing anything she disapproves of, she won't be swayed by gossip.
Chiyo Kurihara is the kind of person who doesn't easily buy into rumors unless she witnesses them firsthand. Having her by my side makes it easier to stay calm, even when life gets stormy.
"I don't want you to get expelled for something you didn't do," she said with concern.
After I shared with her about the big fight I had with the boys and how Meiko showed up just in time to break it up for all of us, Chiyo might not have been aware of it, but she instinctively sided with me.
I completely left out the part about the escape plan from school, and I didn't explain the reason why I wanted her to meet her older sister.
I was absolutely sure she was the perfect choice to help me with my upcoming plan.
"What's wrong? Why didn't you say it?"
"I'm feeling unsure about everything right now. It's hard to think straight… I'll bring Mayumi and Satou along next time."
Look, Isn't she just lovely? But I can't allow her to do that. I want to gradually influence her mind without anyone else getting involved.
"I might come off as selfish, but honestly, I just need you... When others are around, I have to hold back."
I got up and stood in front of Chiyo. I gently stroked her cheek with my right hand, and when she tried to turn away, I gently held her head in place with my other hand.
In the end, only her eyes were able to break free from this intimate situation.
"W-Why are you touching my face so casually?... if you haven't washed your hands after all the activities you did before, I won't forgive you."
As I held her head, I noticed how silly she looked, so I lowered one hand, but I kept my eyes on her the whole time.
"I had no idea you cared so much about that. Now that I've washed my hands, am I good to go?"
I couldn't help but smile. She was an innocent girl who had never faced a situation like this, and I was more than willing to use it to my advantage.
"N-No... you can't do it... things like this can only be done by c-couples... I'm still not ready."
It was a whole different experience compared to when I went up against Meiko, Hana, and Mari. Whenever I'm near them, I feel like an easy target, while they act like aggressive predators who are quick to assert their dominance.
Experiencing this rare sensation, where I assert control over an inexperienced girl like Chiyo, feels as exhilarating as being hooked on a powerful drug.
"I've mentioned this before. Feel free to be honest about your feelings. It's actually a good thing since we're alone, so there's no need to worry about anyone mocking you for being truthful about how you feel."
I wanted her to be more courageous when she met her older sister, so I made sure to emphasize this point. I hoped she would be able to express what I wanted to convey.
"W-We can't... Kiyoshi, hey, don't... mmmh..."
I couldn't contain myself any longer, and finally, my lips met hers. Her surprise only fueled my determination to carry on with my actions.
My hand naturally found hers, fingers intertwining as we moved closer, our bodies almost touching before our chests met.
"So, how are you feeling at this moment?"
I tried to keep the moment from being too frightening for her by speaking in a gentle tone yet making sure my authority was clear.
"Kiyoshi, you jerk... that was my first kiss."
"No worries, here's another one for you... so tell me."
Watching her shed tears doesn't bother me. In fact, her embarrassment just adds to her charm.
"I feel so overwhelmed by these messy emotions... whenever you kiss me, it's like I can't catch my breath, and it's scary..."
"Good, you can let it all out... Believe me, over time, your emotions will become more clear. I'll make sure the kiss is something you'll enjoy."
After I mentioned that, Chiyo shot me an annoyed look right away, but when I kissed her again, her emotions seemed to fade away. I kept repeating it over and over until the recess bell rang for the second time today.