Chapter 36: I’m in a hurry.

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Translator: Soafp

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Ding dong—-

The bell rang, signaling the end of today's classes.

“…”

And beside me was a very cheerful Momiji-san.

What happened was—

I slid another scrap of paper to Momiji-san, for the “20th time” today.

“…”

Her face brightened again, seemingly delighted to be able to crush it (demon).

Yes. During this art class, I had continuously offered her scraps of my notebook.

Following the great teaching of “revenge breeds tragedy,” I just kept writing.

Even if it was erased by an eraser or crushed in her pocket, I never wavered.

Sure, I was scared at first.

But by the third time, it was clear she was happy, so I wasn't afraid anymore.

In fact, it became enjoyable (adaptability ↑).

“…”

I stood up without saying anything.

Momiji-san, looking down. The papers I had given her were still in her pocket.

…My impression of her had really changed a lot.

But I'm sure—Momiji-san isn't a bad person.

“…Ah, um…”

“Eh?”

As I was thinking about this, I realized a moment too late that she had spoken.

“—”

“Eh, wait…”

Before I knew it, she was running away.

I don't understand. I don't know, but Momiji-san must also be fighting something.

Something devilish within her. Her actions until now were probably caused by that (speculation).

So, I won't give up.

…I vowed to follow the path of exorcising demons.

Huh? (returning to sanity).

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“Well, there's no special announcement—so see you all tomorrow!”

The sixth period ended, and homeroom followed right after—

Finally, the day was over.

The class was the most peaceful and enjoyable part of the day. It felt like this sixth period went by in an instant.

Normally, it's the other way around!

“Ha…”

Exhausted by the demon and the demon lord, featuring Yumesaki-san.

On the brink of collapse. Actually, already past the limit.

“Well then, see you tomorrow, Toumachi☆”

“…See you.”

“Ah, um, yeah… see you tomorrow.”

The two next to me were full of energy, unlike me, as if they were draining my stamina.

Well, they're always like that.

Sunny people are amazing (respect).

“…”

Oh.

Come to think of it, it's the first time I've said goodbye like this at school.

My heart warmed as if I remembered.

Ah… I'm really tired, but even though I was teased a lot.

It wasn't so bad, was it?

“…Time to go home.”

Sentimental feelings can wait for later.

I stood up and walked out of the noisy classroom.

For now, I need to get home.

I want to start making the bottle ship. But first, I need to use up the naan I made too much of.

And review today's lessons—

“…Ah”

“Ah.”

Just as I thought about leaving the classroom with my bag, I unexpectedly bumped into her—the tallest girl in the class.

“…Hatsune-san.”

I remembered.

Sunday, in the park.

Last night.

[“I want to be friends with Icchi!”]

Just recalling those words made me happy in that moment.

But—

“! What? I'm in a hurry.”

“Ah—no, sorry. It's nothing, sorry.”

Her response was tinged with irritation.

I quickly apologized and hurried out of the classroom.

The noisy hallway was a welcome escape.

“…”

…Ah. What am I so pleased about?

The best friend of the class’s most beautiful girl.

She's kind to a lonely, introverted person like me.

She's bright, fun to talk to.

She even shows interest in hobbies that would normally make others cringe.

For someone as charming as her, I'm just a speck of dust.

Damn it.

More than being teased by the two next to me.

More than being rejected by the mysterious quiet girl.

The realization that I am so far removed from my first friend—her.

Today. Right now is the most—emotionally draining moment.