Hashiba Hikaru sat down across from her and opened the first book he had picked out.
"It's fine. I'm happy to have found someone who shares my interests." Shiina Hiyori nodded, a gentle smile appearing on her small face.
"Then let's each get started."
Although he planned to buy her stock and earn some money, Hashiba Hikaru was keeping his attitude restrained for now. Being overly enthusiastic would seem strange. It was enough to use detective fiction to open up a few topics; there was no need to rush things.
It would be best to pique her interest and get her to start a conversation herself. That would make it easier to take things further.
So after saying his last words, Hashiba Hikaru focused entirely on the book in front of him.
He had to admit, classic detective fiction really was captivating. The interlocking plot kept the boy staring motionless at the pages, without making a single unnecessary movement.
Across from him, Shiina Hiyori had been reading her own book with her head down for a while, but she gradually began to pay attention to the boy.
She had finally found someone at this school who shared her interests. And from the way he was completely absorbed in his book, he seemed to be someone who truly loved detective fiction.
Shiina Hiyori wanted to talk with him more. Even though he was a student in Class A, she didn't want to let class competition intrude on her one sanctuary.
So, for now, she would think of him as an ordinary student in her year.
Shiina Hiyori made up her mind in silence, then turned her gaze back to the book in her hands.
A little over an hour passed. It was nearly six when Hashiba Hikaru finally closed his book.