Are You All Right? Part 1! Paying Back 4K Words!

Because she and Kushida were rivals in love, Ichinose knew very well that Kushida was now on the same side as her.

In other words, Horikita was actually her rival in love too?

Indeed.

The classmates who did not know the truth even felt that Horikita going to Hachiman's class seemed to be because she wanted to follow him. It seemed rather romantic.

So what did Horikita herself think?

"Love? I can't understand the way you people think." Horikita rejected the idea outright. "The high school years are so important, especially at this school, which is different from schools outside. I think studying here and gaining personal growth are what matter most."

"Then you went to Class C, where Hachiman is..." Ichinose continued asking.

"That was to follow Hachiman." Horikita said, "I want to grow, but I believe I can only gain enough experience by staying at his side."

Though saying this made her waver somewhat, Horikita felt it was better to make her position clear.

After all, during high school, studying and growing were what mattered most. Matters of romance and fluttering hearts could wait until university.

After all, her brother had only started dating Akane Tachibana after entering university.

Thinking that, Suzune found herself feeling much more at ease.

Even so.

"I've soaked for a little too long." Horikita said. "I'll head back first."

Ah.

Kushida could only watch helplessly as Horikita briskly departed.

Just like that, Horikita finally found a chance to withdraw without embarrassing herself, using the excuse that the bath had made her dizzy.

Meanwhile, Kushida watched Horikita's retreating figure.

"Um..." Ichinose seemed to have something she wanted to say as she looked at Kushida.

She had delayed her bath tonight because Kushida had invited her.

Now that Horikita had left, did Kushida have