Did I usually look that smug?
Was there anything wrong with smiling all the time? What was that saying again? The most important thing in life was to be happy.
As he got to his feet, Aoyama began grumbling to himself. While he grumbled, he glanced around to make sure there weren't any students from other classes nearby who might see Kushida looking like this.
For Aoyama to have leverage over Kushida, her true nature couldn't be exposed.
"Take out the food in your backpack. I'll pick what I want."
After venting for a while, Kushida felt much better—but also hungrier, and her feet were starting to hurt.
When she turned and saw Aoyama keeping watch, she knew her guess had been right.
As long as she was still useful, Aoyama would protect her. He didn't mind even if she cursed him out.
"Heh. You're not shy about it, are you? Still, that's better than your fake, sugary act." Aoyama opened his backpack and sat back down. "You don't have to pretend around me. It makes both of us uncomfortable."
"That's just what you say. Men still like women who are gentle and considerate."
Without changing her expression, Kushida crouched and rummaged through the backpack, helping herself to Aoyama's precious snacks.
Tender, aromatic pork belly and soft, sweet little cakes.
"Leave me at least a little. Toss me a few."
Aoyama hadn't planned on bringing Kushida along, so he hadn't packed much that could serve as lunch.
"Here. Take these."
"Give me two pieces of meat, too."
"You're such a pain. Why are you so demanding?"
"Is this my fault? Maybe think about whose food you're eating."
Leaning over, Aoyama took out a few small packets of jerky, then pulled some neglected compressed biscuits from his backpack.
They sat facing