Walking reluctantly, I trailed behind Emiko towards the Student Council room. I couldn't help but grumble under my breath, wondering what trouble I get into. Even though I (my character) am a scumbag, I was sure I didn't do anything that would further tarnish the school's reputation.

  Upon entering the room, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly brewed tea and the sight of an array of expensive-looking snacks arranged neatly on a ptter. My stomach grumbled in appreciation at the tantalizing spread, despite my guilt at indulging in such vish treats.

  "Wow, this looks amazing."

  "Take a sit, Ryosuke-kun. I'll be pouring you tea." she then slowly pours the tea at a small cup, release a sweet-smelling fragrance. Taking a sip of the fragrant tea, I felt a wave of rexation wash over me, the stress of the day melting away with each sip. Emiko's thoughtful gesture didn't go unnoticed, and I found myself grateful for her kindness.

  Setting down my cup, I turned to Emiko, curiosity piqued. "So, what's the reason you dragged me here?"

  Emiko's expression turned serious, her gaze meeting mine with determination. "I need your help, Ryosuke," she admitted, her tone earnest. "There's something important I want to discuss with you. "she continued, "I need you to assist someone, just for today." states Emiko as she gently puts down her tea cup.

  "Hmmmm... But why me? Wouldn't it make more sense to ask one of your council members?" I inquire, puzzled by her choice.

  "That's the issue. The Vice President is at the hospital since st week and he won't return until Friday this week. The Secretary is currently negotiating with other stores for the festival. As for the Treasurer..." Emiko trails off momentarily as she slowly takes another sip of her cup.

  "I'm here, Emiko-san. If it's not urgent, you're gonna have to buy me a cake— Oh," Akari's voice trails off as she notices me. Her expression seems a bit startled. Did I do something to spook her?

  "Hello there," I greet Akari, trying to maintain a casual demeanor despite the unexpected encounter. Is there something off about my appearance?

  "Perfect timing, Akari. I've already found a suitable partner for your task today. Ryosuke-kun, meet Akari. She's our Student Council Treasurer and also a cssmate," Emiko introduces, ushering Akari into the Student Council room.

  Ah yes, Akari Fukumoto. I recall reading some details about her on a fan wiki page. She has striking vermilion hair, is about the same height as Emiko, and is also 16 years old like us. Oh, and did I mention she's a C-cup? Emiko also falls somewhere between a C and D cup. Why do I remember such trivial details?

  "Huh??? I've already made it clear on RINE that I prefer to work with council members only!" Akari protests.

  "But if you don't handle this, we won't be able to secure the festival budget. And the deadline is Friday, remember?" Emiko expins patiently.

  "Didn't you assign this task to the Vice President st week?" Akari counters.

  "Unfortunately, he's in the hospital due to unforeseen circumstances and won't be back until Friday. I told you about this st night, did I?" Emiko responds.

  "Yes, but..." Akari's gaze flickers back to me just as I reach for a biscuit. Well, this is awkward. Can I eat in peace, please?

  "Can I even trust this guy? Do you even know who he is, Emiko-san?" Akari questions.

  "Hm? Oh, him? He's a cssmate of ours, known for his troubled retionships with girls and a somewhat questionable character." Emiko replies bluntly.

  "Ouch." I mutter under my breath. Her honesty stings, but she's not wrong. That was the old me, or rather, the old character me, before ending up in this game world.

  "But," Emiko interjects, "I can vouch for him. He's a good person and someone you can rely on."

  Emiko... Can I give you a hug right now? I wonder silently. I'm gonna do that when it's just the two of us.

  "Well, even if he does something barbarian to you, he already knows what would happen to him." says Emiko as she gave me a scary looking face.

  "I don't want that to happen, thank you very much." Messing around with the Student Council is like poking a bee's nest, both of which is a bad idea.

  "Fine, fine. I get it. He'll be my assistant." Seemingly give in, Akari says.

  "That's great! Then, how many days can you finish this task?" seemingly gd at Akari's decision

  "I can finish it by tomorrow." Akari replied.

  "Tomorrow? But don't we have csses tomorrow?" I said. Unless something really bad happened to you, attendance really is a MUST in this school.

  "No worries. I'll be writing an excuse letter for the two of you tomorrow. Just make it sure that you'll finish it by tomorrow, okay?"

  "I know, I know. You don't have to say it twice. Are you mother or something?" Akari says as she sat down beside me. Emiko then gently pours tea into her cup, to which Akari gave her thanks.

  The information about her size made me unconsciously look at her. Looking it up close, I thought it was small but no. it's not small, it's not big either, but just the right size. Fuck, why am I thinking about this? Let's just go back enjoying this tea Emiko made.

  .

  .

  .

  .

  As the afternoon csses drew to a close, I found myself wandering through the bustling streets of the city, lost in my own thoughts. The chatter of passersby and the steady hum of traffic provided a backdrop to my introspection.

  Listening to Emiko and Akari's conversation earlier left me feeling somewhat left out. I couldn't grasp the topic they were discussing, but seeing them enjoy each other's company was heartwarming. It felt like witnessing a rare and pleasant moment. Is this what they call 'girl talk'?

  "Man, I wish I had friends like them," I mused aloud. It's been over a week since I arrived in this world, and besides Kazama, I haven't really found anyone I can connect with. Unlike Kazama, who seems to have some popurity, I'm pretty much on my own here. It's a bit disheartening. I do have acquaintances among the other girls, but can I truly call them friends?

  But amidst my doubts, a spark of hope emerged. Maybe, just maybe, there's someone out there who will accept me for who I am, fws and all. Someone who will see past my insecurities. But that might just be wishful thinking from a guy stranded in another world.

  "Snap out of it, me. Stop with the negativity," I scolded myself, shaking off the gloomy thoughts. "Just keep moving forward, and things will fall into pce, I hope."

  Lost in my thoughts, I stumbled upon a fancy café. Deciding to take a detour from my usual route home, I stepped inside. The café exuded an elegant atmosphere, with soft jazz music filling the air and the scent of freshly brewed coffee tantalizing my senses. The décor was sophisticated yet cozy, providing a welcome respite from the city's chaos.

  I was relieved to find that the café wasn't too crowded, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle outside. With only a few patrons scattered around, each immersed in their own quiet contemption, it seemed like the perfect spot for some much-needed rexation.

  Approaching the counter, I ordered a simple coffee and sandwich, grateful for the chance to unwind. As I waited for my order, I noticed a waitress moving gracefully among the tables, her short, silver hair catching the light as she went about her duties, delivering orders to different customers. She approached my table with my order, and I couldn't help but notice her striking resembnce to my earlier seatmate, Mochizuki Fuuka.

  Could it be...?

  Our eyes met across the room, and for a moment, time seemed to freeze. Recognition dawned in her silver eyes, mirroring the surprise written all over my face.

  "Eh? Ryosuke-kun?"

  "Fuuka-san?" I echoed, equally stunned by our unexpected encounter. This is an interesting development.