After concluding his conversation with Horikita Suzune, Hashima Hikaru put away his phone and began planning their next meeting.
With his partnership with Kushida established, using Horikita's connection to arrange meetings with Suzune was straightforward.
Previously, these meetings aimed to lower Kushida's stock price, involving superficial conversations. Now, he needed to build trust with Suzune to gather information about her, as their classes differed, and their distance remained unchanged despite private dinners.
Hashima recalled an overlooked issue: Suzune's stock situation. Her high initial price of 100 points required 300,000 system funds for a full position, so he'd never used the Stock Analyzer on her.
Now, aiming to boost Kushida's stock, the 1,000-point Stock Analyzer cost was negligible. Analyzing Suzune's stock could prove useful later.
"Let's proceed. I'll work on building trust with Suzune, at least establishing a foundation. This will facilitate information gathering."
"Even if she's unwilling to share, demonstrating my attitude will satisfy Kushida. Handling both aspects simultaneously ensures perfect returns."
With his plan clear, Hashima's eyes gleamed.
He didn't fully understand the complex dynamics between the Horikita siblings, but that was fine. Playing both sides was a skilled manipulator's job.
---
The next day after school, Ichinose and Ando, now student council members, headed to the council room, leaving Hashima more freedom.
He'd considered this when selecting council candidates. While he enjoyed Ichinose's company, keeping her busy reduced unnecessary explanations and prevented overthinking.
Before leaving the classroom, Hashima declined Shibata and Shinzaki's dinner invitation. Why dine with men when he could eat with a beautiful girl?
Outside the family restaurant, Hashima waited for Suzune. She arrived promptly, punctual as always.
"Good afternoon, Horikita." Hashima greeted her with a smile.
"Good afternoon, Hashima." She nodded briefly, offering no further words.
"Let's go in. I've reserved a table."
Hashima led her inside and immediately spent 1,000 system funds on the Stock Analyzer for Suzune.
Horikita Suzune Stock
Info: A academically gifted black-haired beauty with an aura of "don't talk to me." She avoids social interaction, prefers solitude, and distrusts everyone.
Price Increase: Build trust, support her growth, help her gain Horikita's approval.
Price Decrease: Undermine her philosophy, belittle her abilities, act against Horikita.
"Hmm..."
Hashima memorized the analysis. Suzune valued Horikita's opinion, and acting against him would lower her stock price.
Though he hadn't bought her stock, he understood her situation differed from Kushida's. Manipulating her price through Horikita was complex and risky.
Using words to provoke her? Worth considering.
Seated, Hashima handed Suzune the menu. Post-analysis, he knew what mattered to her.
Since he hadn't bought her stock, helping her catch up to Horikita wasn't necessary. Building basic trust sufficed.
"Order freely, Horikita. It's not our first dinner."
"Indeed. But I hope you'll invite me normally next time, without using..."
Suzune's cold gaze swept over him. She was tired of him using her brother as leverage.
"Just a simple idea. I didn't actually report to Horikita," Hashima shrugged. "Since he asked me to help you grow, I must fulfill the promise. I received his favor, so mutual benefit sustains cooperation."
"Then why are you here today? I have no issues needing your advice." Suzune placed the menu down, her gaze flat.
"Don't be so cold, Horikita. I met your brother yesterday. Aren't you curious?" Hashima smiled, observing her reaction.
"...What happened?"
"Wait until we order. We'll talk while eating."