After Sakayanagi and Kamishiro left his sight, Hashima Hikaru glanced at the system notification before heading back to his dorm.
After showering, he sat at his desk, reviewing the day's events—a habit of his.
First, Nancloud Masa's second recruitment attempt. Hashima remained firm, having already exposed Nancloud's "misdeeds" to his class. Joining him was out of the question.
If he wanted council influence, Horikita was a better ally. Though cold, their unique connection through Horikita Suzune made him a viable option. Even without plans to join the council, future plans could change.
Next, Sakayanagi's council membership. Competing with Katsuragi for class control, her council position gave her an edge, potentially pressuring Katsuragi's faction.
Today's conversation troubled Hashima. Sakayanagi's strange attitude during casual chat was odd.
Class A and B were rivals, especially with close competition. Distance was necessary. Yet, Sakayanagi showed no aggression, unlike her confrontation with Katsuragi.
Though he was the "enemy," her attitude was oddly proactive.
Why had she known about his council visit? He'd avoided Class B's route.
"Sakayanagi is enigmatic. Caution is essential when dealing with her." Hashima tapped his desk, deep in thought.
He checked Sakayanagi's new stock. With a low starting price and only 2000 shares, potential profits were limited.
Hashima held many stocks, mostly unrelated to class competition—ideal for him.
Without the Stock Analyzer, he couldn't determine Sakayanagi's price drivers.
"I'll assess next time we meet. If it's class-related, I'll hold off."
Since adopting time management, Hashima wore masks when dealing with girls—to boost stock prices and hide his true emotions.
Kushida had sensed this but didn't probe further. Hashima had controlled the situation, leading to their final deal.
He sighed. Ichinose's confession had changed his perspective.
People weren't game characters. Girls' feelings could shift unpredictably. He couldn't read minds; only guidance and communication worked.
"Enough worrying. One step at a time," he muttered. "As long as relationships don't change, I'm in control."
Setting aside his thoughts, he ended his review.
Two classmates were now in the council—not a unique advantage but a numbers edge. Their impact on class plans remained to be seen.
His phone buzzed—a text from Kushida.
Kushida: Hashima classmate, are you free?
He smiled, replying immediately.
Hashima: I'm free. What's up, Kushida?
The short-haired girl on her bed saw his reply, her eyes cold.
Horikita Suzune, usually aloof, had agreed to a study group with her classmates. This surprised Kushida, who immediately contacted Hashima.
Kushida: Don't play dumb. You forgot our deal?
Hashima: Of course not. I've been busy, so I haven't found a chance to approach Horikita. Have you seen her talking to anyone?
Kushida: Yes, otherwise I wouldn't have messaged you.
Kushida detailed her findings, then typed:
Kushida: When will the busy Hashima be free? Can you investigate for me?
Hashima: Tomorrow, Kushida. I'll handle it.
Kushida: Then hurry. I want to know what Horikita discussed with those girls. Can you find out?
Hashima: I'll try. I'll inform you ASAP.
Kushida: Good. I'm waiting.
After typing, Kushida stared at her phone. Though active in class, she preferred solitude alone.
Hashima had controlled their deal, but she didn't mind. His skills and Horikita's trust made him ideal.
Kushida dismissed her initial misunderstanding but sensed his ulterior motives.
From the handshake to their deal, she'd exposed her true self, yet Hashima remained composed, offering solutions—mostly lies. But she sensed no annoyance from him.
This puzzled her, but she knew he wanted something from her.
Strangely, she didn't mind physical contact with him and even considered maintaining their connection.
So she'd shared the info, though he'd done nothing yet.
"Why? I..."
Lying on her bed, Kushida was confused by her feelings.
Their deal bound them temporarily.
He can't ditch me easily!
---
Meanwhile, Hashima contacted Horikita Suzune. Their relationship had deepened—he was her assistant and creditor.
She owed him 75,000 points. With only 36,200 from June's evaluation, repayment was distant.
Hashima: Good evening, Horikita. Are you free?
Horikita, reading at her desk, rubbed her temples.
Whenever he messages, trouble follows.
Horikita: What is it, Hashima?
Hashima: Nothing major. Are you free after school tomorrow?
Horikita: Yes. What's your plan?
Hashima: I'd like to treat you to dinner.
Horikita prepared to refuse but saw his next message.
Hashima: You'll accept, right? I helped you recently. As Horikita's sister, you wouldn't want him to know you treat his helper poorly, would you?
"..."
Again, using her brother to force a meeting.
Horikita had no counter.
Horikita: What time?
Hashima: 4 PM tomorrow at the Zelkova Mall's family restaurant. I'll reserve a table.
Horikita: Understood.