After leaving the library, the two walked hand in hand back to the dormitory. The girl's hand remained firmly clasped in his throughout the journey, and Hashima let her lead.
Upon entering the room, Ichinose Honami stood by the stove, skillfully removing her apron, while Hashima stood behind her, ready to assist.
"Have you been reading with Shiina-san often lately, Hashima-kun?"
As Hashima tied the apron for Ichinose Honami, he finally heard her question. Though she had been silent during the walk, it didn't mean the matter was forgotten.
"Not really. Shiina-san and I met by chance at the library. Later, we realized we both loved mystery novels, so we became reading buddies."
Hashima's tone was calm. After expertly tying the apron, he smiled warmly.
"I see. That's quite a coincidence. Finding a fellow enthusiast in school isn't easy."
Ichinose Honami turned on the faucet to wash her hands, feeling the water flow over her palms. Her face remained expressionless.
"Just a coincidence. If Ichinose-san has any hobbies, maybe you'll find a fellow enthusiast too," Hashima said gently, trying to shift the topic. Today's encounter was indeed unexpected. Normally, Ichinose's student council duties ended around 6 or 7 PM, while he and Shiina Hiyori usually finished before dinner, so they had never crossed paths before.
"I don't have any particular hobbies. I'm too busy with other things," Ichinose replied.
"If you ever find one, be sure to tell me, Ichinose-san."
Hashima acted as if the encounter meant nothing, washing his hands beside Ichinose. His demeanor and movements were natural, without a hint of awkwardness.
Watching him, Ichinose's earlier discomfort faded. Having already asserted her claim, there was no need to dwell on it. Showing magnanimity would make Hashima trust her more.
The pink-haired girl convinced herself. After all, it was just a reading buddy. A little extra attention would suffice.
Ichinose didn't think Shiina Hiyori posed a threat to her relationship with Hashima. After suppressing her dissatisfaction, they began preparing dinner together.
For the rest of the time, they avoided the topic, maintaining a harmonious atmosphere.
--------
July passed quickly. With the final exams at the end of the month, Class A resumed their group study sessions.
Though Ichinose had student council duties, their study group adjusted the schedule to accommodate her, moving sessions to after dinner so all five could study together.
As a result, Hashima's dormitory saw more visitors, forcing him to compress his stock manipulation time.
He relied mainly on his phone for communication, meeting Sakura Airi and Shiina Hiyori only once a week.
As for Kushida Kikuno, she embraced her role as Class C's angel, actively organizing study sessions as finals approached.
This gave her a perfect excuse to spend time with Horikita Suzune, inviting her daily to join study groups and tutor classmates.
Though Horikita disliked Kushida, her resolve to change herself led her to participate fully in helping others.
Thus, Kushida rarely visited Hashima, which he found convenient. Compared to the other three, she was the most troublesome.
Soon, the final exams arrived.
"Good morning, Hashima-kun."
"Good morning, Ichinose-san."
Hashima greeted the pink-haired girl with a smile. Unlike last time, they didn't buy past exam papers. After the midterms, everyone understood the exam format and scope. They consulted Hoshinomiya Chie for details and held a class meeting to create a detailed study plan.
Knowledge points and challenging problems were organized systematically, giving everyone confidence for the finals.
"Let's do our best today, everyone."
Before Hoshinomiya arrived, Hashima stood at the podium, encouraging the class. "Summer vacation is calling. We've worked hard this month, and I believe we'll achieve great results."
"Are you all confident?"
"Yes!"
The class responded in unison. After months of maintaining their Class A ranking, they were determined to excel. No one wanted to be overtaken, so everyone studied diligently.
Ten minutes later, Hoshinomiya Chie entered with the exam papers. Final scores would be announced next Monday, along with details of the summer cruise trip.
"Final exams begin now!"
The young teacher distributed the papers, her expression serious.
In the first semester's four months, her class had been Class A for three, making her proud. She had outdone her rival and increased her salary—a double victory.
Hashima sat at his desk, answering questions smoothly. He wasn't overly concerned with the exam; his focus was on the upcoming cruise.
After his earlier thoughts, he shared his idea with Ichinose, asking her to gather information about special exams during her student council work.
If they could prepare in advance, Class A would have an edge. Midterms and finals were basic; special exams were key to earning more class points.
Only special exams were the true battleground!