"If Saiki also noticed that we're being watched, it means he has incredibly sharp observation skills. He's definitely not someone to underestimate."
Wait, did he really notice just from a subtle head turn?
Saiki Kusuo thought to himself, keeping his gaze fixed in the distance without turning back. He pretended to be lost in thought, hoping to ease Ayanokōji Kiyotaka's suspicions.
"Could it be... is he also a psychic?"
Saiki felt helpless but had no choice but to keep up the act.
"Saiki, what are you looking at?"
At that moment, Horikita Suzune noticed Saiki's wandering gaze and asked sternly.
"Sorry, I was just thinking about what you said earlier. I zoned out for a bit."
Saiki quickly made up an excuse.
"Then repeat what I just said."
Horikita's eyebrows furrowed slightly, clearly doubting his words.
Saiki quickly paraphrased what Horikita had said. Though not word-for-word, the main points were there. Horikita's expression softened, and she nodded.
Was I overthinking?
Ayanokōji's gaze remained on Saiki, far more intriguing than the surveillance of Class D.
"Let's continue."
Horikita cleared her throat and resumed her explanation. However, she wasn't exactly a great teacher—her delivery was dry, and she used advanced methods for some problems. For Saiki, Ayanokōji, and Kushida Kikyō, it was easy. But for Sudō Ken and others, it was incomprehensible.
What is Horikita even talking about? Linear regression? Sounds like gibberish.
Sudō was completely lost. He'd tried to follow along at first but quickly gave up. Too proud to ask for simpler explanations, he zoned out during Horikita's lecture.
Honestly, I'm a jock. What's the point of this for me?
I'd rather practice basketball right now!
Positioning... catching the ball... cross-step... slam dunk!
Sudō's mind vividly imagined a basketball game, as if he were on the court.
Wow, he's imagining it so clearly.
Saiki could not only hear thoughts but also "see" them. He clearly understood Sudō's daydream.
Though weak academically, Sudō had exceptional athletic talent.
"Sudō, were you listening?"
Horikita noticed Sudō's wandering gaze and snapped.
"Uh, yeah!"
Sudō jolted awake, quickly responding.
"Then solve this problem."
"Uh... transform X... then... then..."
He's wrong from the start!
Horikita's eyebrows tightened, her impatience evident.
Can't he solve even this? Where's the knowledge from earlier?
If he can't handle basic equations, I doubt his intelligence. No wonder he's at the bottom of the class. He's not listening at all. Why waste time on him?
Maybe they should just get expelled!
She looks really angry.
Horikita's personality means she'll probably mock him, and Sudō will likely argue back. This study session will probably end.
Ayanokōji thought the same.
Can't wait for Horikita and Sudō to clash!
Kushida muttered, anticipating the drama.
If it means avoiding these sessions, it's fine. I could use those two hours for something better.
Saiki smirked.
No, if someone gets expelled, it could affect our path to Class A.
Yesterday, my brother said I misunderstood loneliness and pride... Was I wrong before?
Maybe I need to change my approach.
Horikita's eyebrows remained furrowed:
"You're completely off from the start! Go review these problems properly!"
Though disgusted with Sudō's abilities, she forced herself to stay calm.
Everyone was surprised.
Horikita didn't mock him? She usually would.
Ike Kanji looked shocked, while Ayanokōji glanced at her.
It seems forced, but she's definitely changed. Why?
"That's it for today. Meet here after school tomorrow until you understand this."
Horikita gathered her materials and left the library.
Saiki felt slightly overwhelmed.
This study session won't end until they understand?