Arc 1 – Episode 12: [Behind the Scenes] “The Academy’s Princess is a ‘Thieving Cat'(LOL) – Part 1”

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In the usual empty classroom, we gathered for another strategy meeting.

We planned to hang out as a group of three, but this time, we arranged it so that Aria-chan would need to leave halfway through.

“Since Aria-chan has canceled twice already, it would look bad if she did it again. Let’s schedule it for a day when she already has plans, so she can leave halfway without any issues.”

This way, Aria-chan could manage her own plans while helping me out—two birds with one stone!

“Got it, leave it to me.”

Aria-chan agreed to the plan.

She mentioned she had a family dinner planned with her grandfather on Saturday.

Her grandfather, huh? If I recall correctly, he’s the chairman of this school.

There’s no way she’d cancel something that important just to tag along with us. Either way, it doesn’t matter.

And so, Saturday came.

I went all out for this plan.

I let my usually braided hair down straight, swapped out my glasses for contacts, and even put on some makeup to sharpen my features.

I wore the branded blouse and skirt I had bought specifically for this occasion.

Looking in the mirror, I barely recognized myself.

Sure, I’m usually plain-looking, but I’ve grown into my looks. With the right care, I can shine too.

People have told me that if I dressed up more often, I could date Kyo-kun without being underestimated for my appearance.

But honestly, I don’t see the need. I prefer keeping things simple. It feels more satisfying when Kyo-kun chooses me over other cute girls, knowing my usual look.

Today, I had a reason to dress up.

When I arrived at the meeting spot, purposely a little late, Aria-chan’s eyes widened in surprise when she saw me.

Kyo-kun, on the other hand, had seen me like this before, so he wasn’t too shocked, though he did compliment my outfit.

It had been a while since we complimented each other, so I was happy to hear it.

Aria-chan seemed to accept my ‘I put in a little extra effort today’ explanation, but I could tell she wasn’t too comfortable.

I get it. Deep down, Aria-chan has always looked down on my appearance.

It's understandable. I look down on people who aren't as smart as me too.

Aria-chan's especially easy to read.

She’s always been confident in her looks, probably assuming that if I ever confessed to Kyo, he’d reject me because of it.

She likely figured that once I got turned down, she’d have her chance to go after him.

That’s why she’s never tried to interfere directly, right?

Kyo-kun once told her he didn’t care about appearances, but she probably convinced herself he’d still prefer someone prettier.

Kyo-kun treats me the same, whether I’m all dolled up or plain. He genuinely sees beyond the surface.

But now, dressed like this, I can match Aria-chan in terms of looks.

And that's what's making her nervous.

Without her visual advantage, she probably fears I might win Kyo-kun’s heart.

Since she’s tied up with her plans today, she’ll have to leave partway through and won’t be able to keep an eye on me.

I wouldn’t mind if she canceled her plans and stayed. That would be amusing too.

In the end, Aria-chan was too responsible to skip her family obligations, so she left as planned, casting nervous glances at us the entire time.

Is it really okay for her to show that much anxiety?

How does it feel?

How does it feel, knowing the person you supported is now about to take someone you care about?

After that, I enjoyed a normal date with Kyo.

He seemed relaxed, finally able to spend time alone with his true girlfriend, and everything felt natural between us.

As we walked home, Kyo-kun hinted that he wanted me to confess soon.

It seemed I couldn’t keep him waiting much longer.

I asked him for just one more week, saying I needed a bit more time, and he agreed.

It’s almost time to bring everything to a climax.

***

Monday at lunchtime, in our usual empty classroom.

“Aria-chan, I think I'm finally ready! I plan to confess to Kyo-kun this weekend.”

“I see… That's great news.”

Aria-chan's congratulating me, but her face is pale.

“Oh, and get this—I found out recently that Kyo-kun and I live in the same apartment building, in rooms right next to each other! Isn't that fate? If we start dating, it'll basically be like living together!”

I put on an act, pretending to be shy as I held my cheeks in my hands.

Aria-chan's face turned ghostly white at the new information.

“Thank you for everything, Aria-chan. Now it's my turn to help you out. If you ever need anything, just ask. You know I'm smart enough to handle whatever comes my way.”

Smart enough to push you right off the edge and into Kyo-kun's arms.

“…Thank you. I'll take you up on that if the need arises. I hope your confession goes well.”

Aria-chan's voice trembled as she tried to keep up the supportive act.

Come on, I'm playing dumb, but you're being too obvious. You don't actually mean that, do you?

It's clear you're planning to steal a march on me and confess first, isn't it?

***

The very next day after school.

Aria-chan made her move, using an excuse about the student council president to pull Kyo-kun aside.

She's trying to use any extra time she can get with him to increase her chances.

So predictable.

I know the student council thing is just something she arranged yesterday, and it's nothing more than a trivial task.

With my wireless earbuds hidden under my hair, I eavesdropped on their conversation.

“I've actually been thinking a lot about Ichigo lately, so I don't want to give her or anyone else the wrong idea. If you could stop asking me for help so often, I'd appreciate it.”

“I… see.”

Kyo-kun was giving Aria-chan some unnecessary ideas, but it's fine. His words will only have the desired effect.

This will make Aria-chan even more desperate.

And sure enough, it hit the mark.

Distracted by Kyo-kun's confession, Aria-chan stumbled on the stairs, and Kyo-kun caught her as they both tumbled down a few steps.

Luckily, it was a short flight, so neither of them got hurt.

“Um, Aria-chan? You can let go of me now—”

I couldn't hear the details, but the sudden silence and heavy breathing said enough.

Oh, Aria-chan must have kissed him!

A kiss that's indirect through me!

Did the thrill of being saved by him get to her?

God, just imagining it is making me feel all tingly inside, and… yeah, I'm getting wet.

“I love you, Kyoichi-san.”

And there it was. Aria-chan confessed.

Hah, she's completely fallen for him.

Oh, this is going to be fun, Kyo-kun~! You're about to have another cute girlfriend soon.