That was the kind of conversation only the third- and first-ranked students in the entire grade could have.
Come to think of it, if the deadline was Monday, then even counting today and Monday itself, we only had a mere four days. Finding someone willing to join the Service Club—someone passionate about its activities and determined to change themselves—in such a short time was asking the impossible. Was Hiratsuka-sensei Princess Kaguya or something? Ohhh, I got it. That was why she had never managed to get married. At this rate, her family would probably come take her back home someday, just like that princess.
"That's completely unreasonable..."
I lodged my futile protest and complaint, and Hiratsuka-sensei grinned.
"My, what a surprise. This is me being kind."
"How is that kind...?"
"It's fine if you don't understand. Anyway, that concludes club activities for today. Hurry up and think of a way to maintain the club's membership."
After saying that, she unceremoniously tossed Yukino and me, bags and all, out of the clubroom, then slammed the door shut with a bang.
She swiftly locked it and walked away, her footsteps clicking against the floor.
Yukino called after her retreating back.
"Hiratsuka-sensei, let me confirm one more time. We only need to 'make up the numbers,' correct?"
"That's right, Yukino."
Hiratsuka-sensei left after that brief reply, but when she turned around, she had a smile on her face.
We watched Hiratsuka-sensei leave, then looked at each other.
"All right, how are we supposed to make up the numbers?"
"I don't know. I've never invited anyone before, but I can think of someone who might be willing to join the Service Club."
"Who? Totsuka? It's Totsuka, right?"
Other than Totsuka, I couldn't think of anyone else. If I had to say it, my head