At those words, Horikita Suzune's hand paused almost imperceptibly as she held her tea.
Of course she remembered what Sakayanagi Arisu had just been fishing for with her roundabout questions.
Now that Kazehara Tetsu had brought it up, her ears threatened to grow warm again. She hurriedly took a sip of tea, suppressing her discomfort and keeping her face stern.
"We were just making harmless small talk," she said.
"Oh... small talk."
Kazehara Tetsu wore an expression that said he understood perfectly. "What kind of small talk makes the president's ears turn red? I'm very curious."
"Kagihara."
Sakayanagi Arisu suddenly spoke up, rescuing Horikita. "If you keep pressing, I can't promise I won't tell you certain things. Such as the look on a certain president's face when she was discussing a particular 'partner.'"
"Classmate Sakayanagi." This time, Horikita Suzune raised her eyes.
"All right, all right. I won't say anything."
Sakayanagi Arisu raised both hands in surrender, but she couldn't suppress the smile tugging at her lips.
Kazehara Tetsu watched their exchange and understood everything perfectly, but he had the sense not to pry any further.
He knew all too well that these two girls were each sharper than the other. If he really pushed them into a corner, he would probably be the one left embarrassed.
Just then, the server brought their food. A steaming hot pot was set in the middle of the table, bubbling away, its milky-white broth churning as its aroma instantly filled the space around them.
Grilled dishes, stews, and seasonal vegetables followed, set down one after another.
"Everything's here. Let's eat."
Sakayanagi Arisu picked up a ladle and served Horikita Suzune a bowl of soup first. "President, try this. It'll warm your stomach."
"...Thank you." Horikita Suzune accepted it with both hands.
Kazehara Tetsu