CH 15

After school.

Finally, I got through the day without anyone bullying me.

Seems like being together with Chieri is quite effective as a countermeasure against bullying.

“Come, Ruka. Let’s go home.”

After homeroom, Chieri naturally asked me out.

Normally, I would have gotten down on my knees begging this beautiful girl to leave school with me, but I instead shook my head.

“I have club activities today. I’m in the Literature Club.”

“Really? The Literature Department… you don’t seem to have a problem with it, but I’m asking just in case. Do you need my help?”

“It’s okay, I’m not being bullied there.”

Hearing my words, Chieri smiled, a little relieved.

I felt Chieri’s kindness in her distant way of asking.

“Right, if you want, why don’t you join our club, Chieri? We have activities every week on this day. They’re all nice and kind people.”

“Unfortunately, I have piano lessons almost every day. I don’t think I’ll be able to participate in club activities.”

“You can also play the piano, that’s great.”

I was amazed, once again, wondering why she was even staying with me.

“However, I’m not at that point yet. I would like to play on a big stage someday, though I don’t think I’ll get any offers. For now, I just have to keep practicing and winning prizes at competitions.”

“You can do it, Chieri. Please let me know someday.”

“Yeah, I promise. See you tomorrow.”

Seeing Chieri going home by herself, I reconsidered.

“ — Nevermind, yes. I’d better give you company after all… Well, you know, it’s dangerous in a lot of different ways. I’ll just go to the Literature Club afterwards.”

“You know, I live right by the school, so there’s no need—”

Chieri laughed as she was about to say that.

“No, I’m begging you.”