Chapter 368 (Self Edited) – Introducing Himself to a Friend
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When a rare transfer student arrived, it was almost guaranteed that the barrage of questions will begin. And it seemed that the homeroom teacher, Camilla, was quite tolerant in that regard. After giving permission to use homeroom time as they pleased, the result was a rapid-fire of questions directed at the transfer student. It started in the beginning with discussions about previous places of residence and. Questions delved into personal matters like preferred types, or the presence of a boyfriend, prompting half-impressed thoughts about how there really people were who asked such things.
Responding to these questions with a smile, calmly and politely, was a sight to admire. It was impressive how Aina handled each one. Naturally, there were also teasing questions about her relationship with Soma. Well, given the reaction earlier, it was not surprising. However, Aina’s response was calm. Without any signs of panic, she explained things and dispelled misunderstandings. Her demeanor was enough to show cla.s.smates that there was really nothing to it, eliciting sighs of disappointment here and there. It seems they weren’t satisfied, despite being at the curious age.
“Hmm…” (Soma)
As he observed Aina, he suddenly felt a gaze. It wasn’t from Aina, but from Felicia sitting in front. I tilted my head at her scrutinizing gaze.
“Is something the matter, Felicia?” (Soma)
“No… I just thought Soma-san might also be curious about that person.” (Felicia)
“Hmm… Well, if you’re asking whether it’s on my mind, then yes, I am indeed curious.” (Soma)
Though the significance of the question differed greatly from those asking, curiosity was certainly present. However, he didn’t intend to vocalize it until he had a better grasp of the situation.
“…I see.” (Felicia)
“Well, it’s only natural to be curious when a transfer student suddenly appears. Though there seems to be one exception in this cla.s.sroom.” (Soma)
His gaze landed on Iori, who was still slumped over his desk as usual. He seemed to be lacking interest in the transfer student alongside motivation. Obviously, Felicia chuckled as she watched him.
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“Certainly, only Iori-san would show no interest in a transfer student out of season.” (Felicia)
“Well, he could show a bit more interest, to be honest.” (Soma)
As he said that, he squinted at Iori’s demeanor. From Soma’s perspective, Iori’s att.i.tude was also of interest. From Aina’s expression, it seemed she was indeed unaware of our situation. Perhaps her earlier reaction was simply due to something that happened on her way to school. Plus, Aina didn’t show any reaction towards Iori. Iori also showed no signs of reacting.
Although Aina had already finished her self-introduction and stated her name as Kanzaki, still… This could mean that they coincidentally share the same last name. Well, maybe. Attending the same high school in the same grade as a parent and child would only lead to contradictions. To accept that, there must be some explanation. For now, it was clear that understanding the current situation wouldn’t come easy, even with this knowledge. If this were just a dream, Soma would chuckle at how ridiculous it was, but… it didn’t matter.
“Well, have you all finished asking what you wanted? We’re out of time even if you say you haven’t. Well, if you have anything else, ask individually. Oh, by the way, you should be able to figure out your seats, but Aina, you’re next to Soma. If you’re in trouble, let him know. Is that okay, Soma?” (Camilla)
“Why are you telling only me…?” (Soma)
There were people sitting to the right and in front of her seat as well. Soma wondered why she was singling him out, but Camilla left without receiving any objections. She waved her hand and said she was leaving the matter of Aina to him.
‘Isn’t she a bit too laid-back? It’s typical of Camilla, but still.’
Those left behind might find it overwhelming. Aina stood there looking a bit puzzled for a moment, but soon seemed to realize it wasn’t a joke or anything. Without further instruction from anyone, she took steps forward. She walked all the way to the back of the cla.s.sroom, right beside Soma.
“Um… So, your name is Soma, right?” (Aina)
She seemed to still be puzzled, but she spoke to Soma probably because she overheard the conversation with Camilla earlier.
‘Or maybe… she already knew from the beginning?’
Regardless, he responded.
“Yeah, as you heard earlier, that’s correct.” (Soma)
“I see… so, it’s okay for me to sit here, right? Also… well, nice to meet you, I guess? I was told to ask you if I have any trouble or something.” (Aina)
“That’s right… well, it was a direct request, even if it was one-sided. And as for my circ.u.mstances, you wouldn’t know. Although, it’s not guaranteed that I can handle everything even if you ask me for anything.” (Soma_
If it was unclear to her, it would be unclear to Soma as well. In fact, considering his current understanding of the situation, there might be even fewer things he could answer.
“There’s no problem. I’m not planning to rely on you that much. Actually… if anything, I should be the one apologizing, shouldn’t I?” (Aina)
“Apologize…? Ah… for this morning’s incident, is it? I don’t really mind, you know…” (Soma)
“It’s not about what you think, it’s about how I feel. Well, for now, I’m the one who needs help, but… I do hope I can repay the favor someday.” (Aina)
“Hmm, there’s really no need to worry about it… Well, if that’s the case, I’ll look forward to what you’ll do.” (Soma)
“Even so, there’s no way I’d have the courage to joke about something like that.” (Aina)
Shrugging, Soma turned his gaze to Iori. He didn’t seem to be aware of the two of them, but even Soma didn’t have the courage to say such things in front of her father.
“…It’s good that you’re a gentleman sitting next to me. Oh, by the way, I think you overheard it earlier, but… I’m Aina Kanzaki.” (Aina)
“Hmm… indeed, the self-introduction was still pending. I am—” (Soma)
At that moment, I briefly stumbled over my words, wondering which name I should use. From Soma’s perspective, the current world was very similar to the previous one. So, I thought my name should also be the same. But my hesitation lasted only a moment. Despite most of the people he had met being from this life—
“—Soma Neumont.” (Soma)
Regardless of the world or memories from the previous life, I understand that I am nothing but myself at this moment.
“I see… Well, nice to meet you again, Soma.” (Aina)
“…Yes, likewise, Aina.” (Soma)
It felt strange, but there was no need to say anything unnecessary now. As he pondered, a voice came from the front.
“Oh, since our seats are close, nice to meet you too.” (Felicia)
“You… Oh, now that I think about it, you were with Soma this morning too.” (Aina)
“Yes, I’m Felicia Leonhart.” (Felicia)
“Hmm… Well, there might be things only women understand. Nice to meet you, Felicia.” (Aina)
“Yes, nice to meet you too, Aina-san.” (Felicia)
As friends became acquaintances, Soma tilted his head slightly. There was a feeling of strange sensation. Aina’s gaze seemed to briefly probe for something. It didn’t seem like there was such a thing when between them…
‘Is it because they’re both women, or is it something else?’
As Soma pondered this question, he glanced at Aina, who hurriedly took her seat as the bell rang. Thus, he wondered what would happen next.
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