Author's Notes: Attention, all readers!

For the maintenance of public order, this chapter can only be read with the condition that the reader is situated in their homes. Noncompliance shall be taken as an offence for attempt of spreading diseases and erotic things, as it is a direct violation to Section 69 of the Fanfictions Act 196-

Okay, I'll just stop there with the jokes. Sorry as always for the late updates. More from my part is said in the end of this chapter. Please stay indoors. Thank you for reading.

Without further ado, let's have these lewd thoughts fly.

There's a lot to be expected from a person's physical capabilities when tested in times of urgency and danger. I've heard that adrenaline does a lot to allow one to surpass normal physical limitations by somehow ignoring any common inconveniences like exhaustion or injury until a certain threatening circumstance is evaded. Such circumstance varies, and as life goes by, such circumstance occur often as well.

Take this unfortunate situation as an example; the fear of being late to class.

"Come on! Press the pedal in your body, Hacchi!"

Let me rephrase that; the fear of being punished by Hiratsuka-sensei.

"Wha- I'm already waving the white flag, though. You should go and save yourself while you still can, Yui-"

"Being dramatic isn't gonna make ourselves go a lot faster you know?!"

All the same if you're trying to drag me like this!

If it is not made obvious already, Yui and I are currently dashing for our lives towards the classroom, with hardly a minute to spare for homeroom to begin.

I have no idea what she's so anxious about. As evident from our past criminal records, the most she can get as a sanction for this tardy behaviour is a short verbal warning. A fair treatment, I would say. But I won't until the executor-teacher stops exercising capital punishment on my stomach, despite the apparent injustice.

I could feel my gut cowering in terror for its impending doom. However, due to the overwhelming feeling of numbness and lassitude, the other parts of my body had little to no vitality to cooperate in avoiding such future.

Well, exhaustion is a probable feeling, considering what Yui and I did this morning. Sadly, or rather conveniently, adrenaline do not flow within my veins in our current situation. Conveniently, or rather sadly, I can't say the same for her.

I turn my sullen eyes to the energetic figure beside me. Some of that energy was expended to wrap my right arm in hers, rendering me bereft of any chance to escape and materialize my previous suggestion.

The awareness I have of my fatigue shifted my slight annoyance to genuine concern towards this person pressing herself against me.

By virtue of our deed this morning, my following behaviour obviously reflected the burnout overwhelming me. What is baffling is that Yui didn't seem to show a similar condition.

During our walk, I keep an observant eye to her figure as she makes every step forward with vigour. Much to my dismay at my self-control, several extra seconds were spent staring at the curves of her alluring chest that is enveloping my arm in its between. That reality serves as a worthy description of how close this girl is clinging to me right now.

How does she not feel physically bummed out? I guess losing memory of what occurred could lessen the sensation, but to the extent of moving around like nothing happened? I never thought Yui to be physically resilient.

Rather, could it just simply be that I'm weak? I like to think the countless chores I had to commit for Iroha and the gruelling sessions I had to endure with Saki had garnered benefits to my physique. All of that and I'm barely on my feet after having sex once? I guess there's a lot more work for me to do than I thought I have to.

...

My eyes widen at an abrupt realization that came inside my mind.

... Twice.

I had sex twice. Not to mention both events came at a span of less than a day. Might I say, less than a half of a day.

I welcome a strand of my hair that was rubbing my scalp by pulling it further down to my nose. This is a common gesture for me to exercise whenever I feel frustrated, tired or embarrassed. I hope Yui haven't caught up to it yet.

To think that I could forget the memory I had with Nanako last night. Who do you think you are, Hachiman, a casanova? That you can't even keep in your mind the person you had your first with. These experiences are twice in a lifetime, you know that? You're not getting anymore than this.

As an effort to lightly enliven the memory of yesterday, I keep my head down to the floor, entrusting my fate to this person dragging me along. However, due to the similarities of the two events, my mind had allowed the experience from last night to overlap with that of this morning.

Though I say there were similarities, that remark only refer to the nature of our activity. Since even though my time with Nanako and Yui were equally fulfilling, enticing and exciting, there were stark differences that made me feel, in an overwhelming extent, the way that I did.

Their lips were different. Due to the lipstick she wore that night which coloured her lips with captivating red, it was clear that Nanako's were plump in its width and surface. It was made clearer during the agonizing minutes she enveloped my member with those lips. Whereas Yui's were soft and thin, apprehending me with the fear of damaging its beauty every time I collided it with mine. She wouldn't let me avoid it either way, as she was incredibly eager to share its softness with each forceful push of her lips.

Other than that were their best physical traits, or rather, the part of theirs I was most enamoured with. Perhaps credit could be given to her maturity and growth, but I remember not being able to get my hands off Nanako's corpulent ass. Her melodic giggles at my squeeze and grope were engraved deep into my mind. I admit that due to the incredulity of it all, I couldn't give her breasts the same amount of attention, but as evident with my rich and early release, the ones I could get my grasps on were more than enough. As for Yui, the matter is very much self-explanatory. I could vaguely remember the sensation of her pulpous breasts as it fit firmly into my hands. The sight of her erect nipples on her ripe mounds had addled my animalistic senses to run my tongue in every area possible. I shook, pressed and massaged, implanting the erotic view of her bust into my mind which was much to the girl's amusement and desire.

Their distinct voices of pleasure are significant to note as well.

... My god, their voices.

"Umf... Hahhh, you're loving this aren't you, Hachiman? Yeahhh? Let's make your first time worthwhile, honey... Ahhh~!"

Oh man, those moans...

"Hacch- Ahh... Hahhh, this feels too good. Hikki... Umf, just like that! Hah, haah, hah, yeahh... Please... let me have your lips, Hacchi... Uhmmm..."

Let's not go there. At least not right now.

Much like my pretentious rants, I could go on about this matter forever. But an immoral a thought such as this must be put to an end, lest a companion of mine would establish its presence at a troublesome time such as now. Might as well talk with Yui rather than entertain my childish thoughts.

Just when I was putting the stops, another sudden thought came to my mind.

Yui entrusted herself to me without the knowledge of me having done it with Nanako.

... Is that okay?

Did I treat Yui the way I should back then?

... Was that genui-

Shaking my head the instant I realize my attention had gone astray, I turn towards the pink-haired girl.

"Come on, you don't have to exhaust yourself too much for this either," I remark with a flimsy attempt to shake off my arm from her grasp. "Since I haven't asked at all today, how are you feeling right now, Yui?"

As a wordless response, the girl begins to raise both her hands to display eight of her small fingers with a pout.

I asked that many times already, huh? Also, that pout sure is cute.

"Don't try to worm your way out of this, dummy. You know how much I dislike seeing you hurt yourself."

"I thought that was confined to the social aspect of myself."

"It's confined to all aspects of yourself!"

All things considered, it seems my question wasn't entirely fruitless. By all things, I meant the gradually calm grip she has on my arm.

Upon her enthusiastic line, Yui had assigned her arms to treat my right arm in a more comfortable way. One of her hands kept my arm close to snuggle her chest while the other thought it was sneaky in its descent to my palm. I honestly lack the energy to reprimand her as she caresses my fingers. Her movement was calming; loving and affectionate.

Woman, did my prior warning mean anything to you? We might as well continue to keep our hands held together when we arrived if you're still going to try something like this.

Hesitance welled up inside me as I take a glance to our surrounding. Fortunately, since many of the classes already had teachers coming in for attendance, there weren't a lot of students standing around the corridors to ogle at this embarrassing scene. Adding to that, for those that do have the opportunity to observe, paid only as much as a single look at our condition to then continue doing whatever that is their doing.

My guess is that we, or precisely Yui, had done this sort of physical gesture often enough for people to find less significance each time they had to gaze upon it. In a way, I suppose I should be grateful. Yui isn't the only one responsible for the current state of affairs to begin with.

Give it a few more minutes and the entrance to our classroom was within sight. While keeping her motherly touch to my being, Yui increase the pace of our stride to bring us closer to the hopes of arriving to class on time.

With the knowledge of the possibility that our arrival would garner considerable attention, I adjust my facial expression to be as stoic as humanly possible. Even before she reached the door, I knew by instinct that this girl is going to announce our presence excessively. Just as grandeur as her entrance to the clubroom, Yui pulled the door to the side with unbounded energy.

"We're here!"

I'm unaware of the prior situation in the class that brought our current environment into deafening silence. Perhaps the woman had already started her lecture, but as evident with the attendance sheet that Hiratsuka-sensei is presently holding, it seems that wasn't the case. Yui's incessant yell had undoubtedly been the dominant cause.

Whatever the case, it appears that we made it to class in the nick of time.

"Right on time, at that," the teacher with her signature lab coat affirmed my thoughts. "I was just calling the name of that indolent log beside you."

"I'm here."

"I can see that," she quipped. "I wanna punch it too." As socially obtuse a person that I am, even I know that isn't something a teacher should be saying to a pupil. You could be reprimanded for that, you know? Isn't anybody else hearing this?

Accompanying the threat she made was an amused scoff I hear coming from the audience. I don't even need to turn my head; that was obviously Hina. The girl finds entertainment in anything I'm a part of, apparently.

"Well, go ahead and take your seats. Consider it your lucky day." At the grace of our arbitrator, Yui let herself beam a blinding smile.

"Thanks a whole bunch, Hiratsuka-sensei!" However, I couldn't let myself feel the same way. This was mainly due to our prevailing situation.

"H-Hey, Yui…"

Our teacher was already skimming through the attendance sheet, only to bring her attention back to us upon a small glance.

"The gesture is cute and all, but Yuigahama..?" Hiratsuka-sensei raise a finger to point at the area between Yui and I, which is almost non-existent. "Hikigaya can't move with you clinging to him like that."

"Huh?"

It took the girl a blink of the eye and a slow glance to her left for Yui to commit a swift motion of letting my arm go. If that wasn't enough to give people ideas, Yui continue to keep her hands straight at her front, bringing her head down as a vain effort to conceal the redness invading her cheeks.

"R-Right. Hehe… My bad, Hiratsuka-sensei…"

Why are you apologizing to her? Just move ahead to your seat, woman. What are you doing still standing here?

I'm so frustrated at myself. How was I so oblivious to all of these signs?

When a situation gets tense or awry, you can always count on the joker in the party to lighten things up. Although this sentiment doesn't come often, I'm glad that in this world an idiot like Tobe exists.

"Man, just get a room you two, lovebi- Guah!"

"And you need to get your mind out of the gutter, Tobe."

"I don't think I deserve a purse to the face though, Yumiko!"

Even in the presence of a joker, the supremacy of a queen remains. That's just the law of the land.

Upon Yumiko's divine punishment, the attention of the class was diverted to the boisterous scene. More eyes came to enjoy the sight, and safe to say, all of them were taken away when Hayama came into the fray to play the role as the mediator.

Taking advantage of the welcomed distraction, I nudge Yui's shoulder to get us moving without any awkward attention.

Well, I planned to nudge her shoulder. But then a small finger made its ascension to poke my cheek during the chaos that was happening. I turn to her, and she gingerly pose a faint wave of her hand.

"See ya, Hacchi."

"R-Right…" I only managed to form a pathetic stammer and a robotic nod as a response. Before walking towards my seat, I maintain a longing stare at the back of the woman I just spent the unforgettable morning with.

I miss her body already.

Eliminating the disturbing thought that crossed my mind with a shake of my head, I start my stride to the designated location.

Then a sudden chill crawl its way into my spine, and the fact that I know its reason isn't making me feel any better.

The chaotic situation had deprived me of the cognizance that to make my way to my seat which was by the window, I would be required to go through a hazardous site i.e. the lecture stand. It would be precise to say that the stand was only hazardous for it is currently housing the walking hazard i.e. Hiratsuka-sensei.

It would also be precise to say that the sudden chill I felt came the moment I raised my head to glance at her, only to find her already keeping an eye at me.

That wasn't all. Judging from her expression, which was oddly vacant and livid at the same time, I could say that the woman might've been staring straight at me throughout the whole ordeal. The entire time.

Damn it, she must've been pissed that we're wasting so much of her time. Not only didn't she get an opportunity to vent her frustration by abusing my stomach, the very person she couldn't beat up decided to bring her more inconvenience.

I'm not entirely out of the danger zone yet, am I? Is it possible for me to get out of this? Can I make a swift turn to the table here and déjà vu like I have been in this place before?

The distance I didn't realize I covered during my inner turmoil made me devoid of any possible escape routes. I decide to accept my fate with a sigh.

Keeping my head down like the coward I am, I walk through the front of the stand that was harboured by endearing silence.

"Please spare and excuse me.. Woah!"

I had expected for her to sneak an opportunity to deliver a jab to my wrist, but what I didn't expect was for her to take that opportunity to swiftly pull on my rugged collar.

Fortunately, it was by instinct that I make use of my arms to get a good grasp of both sides of the stand to maintain my balance. We didn't end up making much noise and the attention was still towards the commotion behind me.

It wasn't by my intention though, that I would end up surrounding with said arms, the body of a woman that was bent closer than ever to my own. She seems to relish in the close proximity that she instigated, moving forward without an ounce of hesitation. Only when our noses grazed each other that she finally stops her advance.

We stayed with that position in silence, not garnering the attention of anyone but our own. Her hand was still having a strong grip on my collar. Both her elbows within the spread of my arms were rested on the stand. I was going to ask for an explanation, but the lecherous part of my mind brought me to find priority in admiring the shape of her concealed breasts that were squeezed between her arms.

… Is she trying to show me this? Is this her new way of teasing my adolescent senses? Can't say it's new to be coming from her, but this kind of thing would usually happen when we're out during her night escapades. Even that was only when she was drunk.

I immediately raise my head after having enough of the sight of her shapely breasts to meet her eyes.

I would be lying to say I wasn't embarrassed of having caught ogling her womanly physique by her observant eyes. Her irises were sharp like a predator's, and they were dilating like the surfaces of an enchanting sea.

The movement of her smirking lips that are inches from mine. The smell of her perfume that glued itself to her coat.

Before I could begin to let out my discomfort at our proximity, Hiratsuka-sensei whispers after a lick of her red shining lips.

"During recess. ASAP. No flimsy excuses," she began forming words that require me a few longer seconds to be understood.

It's ironic how despite the lack of booze or its smell that was coming out of her mouth right now, it was this tone of voice from her that, for me, was very much intoxicating.

"I want you in my room."

Chapter 4

Admire Me

I'm not big on watching movies, but at the rare times that I do, I always find myself attracted by dialogues. For one, it serves as a faithful reminder for me that the perfection of a story lies greatly as well to the expertise of the people behind the camera, which in this case, are the scriptwriters.

And for another, it is that little quote from a conversation which sometimes provide me a sense of enlightenment in order to gain a better outlook in life.

One story made it beautifully tangible on its perspective of fate. While it is considered as a predetermined future, the story regards fate as something determined by nothing but our own past actions.

The foods that we eat.

The books that we read.

The friends that we meet.

It is those miniscule things in life that lead to a ginormous consequence.

This narrative is incredibly helpful for me. For as long as I live, I always find myself putting blame to others whenever I was faced with an unfavourable situation. Perhaps most of the time it wasn't done outwardly, but I did feel that way.

Now bearing the idea that is opposite to that, I say that I'm growing closer to a better person. While it doesn't make me any less of a cynic, I feel that I'm more wary and accountable in life by owning up to my mistakes, even towards those that are rationally not mine.

My fate is what I made, and for that I have to live with it.

However, putting aside any feeling of acceptance or denial towards a particular future, there is one sentiment that both sides of the coin can go hand in hand.

You could feel happy or sad for your fate, but there is no denying the feeling of absurdity when you face a certain future at an incredulous degree. The times where you find difficulty in rationalizing the reality in front of you, that your mind goes blank and your body frozen to the core.

Looking back at my life, I can list an abundant of instances from the top of my head, but the situation I'm in right now could serve as a fitting example.

I'm not sure yet of how I should feel about this predicament, but I'm certain that I'm feeling immensely absurd.

How did I end up in this situation?

"Umhh, yeah, just like that, Hikigaya..."

Of course, I am a man of my word. When I say that the aforesaid philosophy is one that I embrace in my life, than that philosophy shall I embrace.

"Press harder, Hikigaya... Uhhh, my god, yes..."

There's no one to blame for the current state of events but me.

If I hadn't make it difficult for Yui to drag me along to class, I wouldn't be here. If I didn't adhere to her command of meeting her during recess, I wouldn't be here. If I decided to bail at the last minute just now, I wouldn't be here.

If I haven't known Hiratsuka-sensei, I wouldn't be here.

"Yeah! Oh fu- That's the spot..! Hah, hahhh, right there..."

I accept this current situation is duly part of my own doing. Now, as is tradition, is the existing sense of vacuity at my present quandary.

How did it even come to this?

"How are you so good at this..? Umhh, Hachiman..."

With the foods that I ate.

The books that I read.

And the imaginary friends that I met.

"Uhh, you're pushing so deep into me... At this rate, I'm hahh, I'm gonna..."

How...

"... I'm gonna be energized for work in no time!"

How did I end up giving this woman a massage in this consultation room again?

I make no mystery of my dissatisfaction to her remark with a grumble of the laziest degree. Reluctance is a dominant feeling inside me as I continue pressing my exhausted hands to her welcoming shoulders. Feeling that this ordeal had taken long enough for an activity that was commenced without a proper explanation, I breath for an answer.

"That's great and all, but please remind me how I ended up with the chore of being your personal slave again?"

At the rational complaint, Hiratsuka-sensei chuckles with her distinct mature tone.

"It pains me that you're labelling repaying the hardwork of your teacher as a chore, Hikigaya..," Her response came as she lightly laid herself back to the headrest of the sofa, bringing her body closer to mine. "Besides, if you were my personal slave, giving me a massage is the least probable thing I'd have you do."

That's scary. That is absolutely terrifying. During your drunken phases, I've heard enough of your intricate schemes for torturing men that bailed on you to understand exactly what you are imagining.

Survival instincts driven my lips to formulate a question that diverts the subject.

"I don't reckon you're calling me here to invite me for another one of your drinking sessions."

"Uhmm~ a thoughtful reckoning, but that's not exactly it." Hiratsuka-sensei continues to be difficult about this, all the while lacking the decency of controlling her pleasure at the massage. "Can that wait, though? I really want to enjoy this to the fullest..."

Her words were justified with the closing of her eyes and a serene smile forming on her lips. Due to the energy, or the lack of it, that I fortunately have, I was going to comply with her request. However, a certain factor remains to be an obstacle for me to maintain my concentration right now. For mutual benefits, I let it be addressed.

"I'm sure I can do a better job if you could keep your voice down. Please don't make it sound like I'm pleasuring you." I've been trying to ignore it for the past few minutes, but there was certainly something wrong with her verbal reactions, right? Didn't she call me by my given name at some point? I didn't hear that wrong, did I?

The woman keep a melodic hum to play around her throat after I laid out the matter.

"But you are pleasuring me, though." What the..? What is she saying? Was Hiratsuka-sensei always this playful? "There's no helping it, Hikigaya. You're really good at this, surprisingly."

Figuring there's no point in pushing the issue, I relent with a grumble to the side. To put matters into an entire perspective, her sultry moans of satisfaction weren't exactly the only factors disrupting my concentration.

With the rationale of wanting to fully relish the sensation of the massage, Hiratsuka-sensei had pulled away her signature lab coat to rest on the edge of the sofa. I initially remained indifferent, if that was all the careless woman did.

Was it necessary for her to take of her black vest as well? No idea. According to the wearer, the area on the shoulders are a bit thick apparently.

I realized the moment she heedlessly gave me a full view of her pulling off her vest that I could never be able to maintain a stolid face. The curves of her bountiful chest seemed to beg for my attention and the owner remained unaware of my existing dilemma. What keeps her cleavage from greeting the eye was her heroic tie that was also already hanging loosely on her neck at that time.

Might I add, that as now I was standing behind her, with her self sitting in nonchalance on the sofa, the angle had significantly changed. Significant it was because the view I have of her right now allowed me to glance clearly at the clear white surfaces coloring the upper portions of her breasts. Much to my self-loathing, I only had the conscience to stop ogling at the scenery when I observed that her bra was an enchanting colour of black.

Am I so impassive that women around me seems to constantly lack the decency to cover their allure? In a way, I'm glad this kind of trials had been tested on me numerous times already.

It appears that Haruno became a bad influence. For the sake of accuracy, I'll add Iroha to the list as well.

"I often do the same for my mom during the rare times she came back home when we're still up. Most likely I honed my skills from there."

"She's a lucky woman."

"For having a son with a vexing personality like this? Hardly a worthy exchange."

"She gets to have you run your nimble fingers around her entire body, Hikigaya... Uhhh, if that really is up for trade, I'd exchange you with anything I have."

I attempt to change the subject again with a distinct cough. This woman keeps bringing the conversation to a ludicrous tangent. What, does she get drunk by having a massage as well?

I keep my perverted eyes to the opposite sofa in front of us. It had been a lot difficult to pay attention to her when she pulled herself back. Her cleavage is definitely visible without me having to look at it a second time.

I bring up the topic concerning the situation outside, or rather, the lack of a situation outside.

"You said there was a meeting?"

"Hmm? Oh, yeah that's right," Hiratsuka-sensei replies. "All teachers were called for attendance, even those that were supposed to have class right now. So as I said, you don't have to worry about skipping a subject after recess."

"Doesn't something like this warrant an announcement, though? I don't recall hearing anything about this."

"Teachers in classes before break were told to relay the information, though."

"... Right, I dozed off."

"Don't give me a reason to punch your gut, Hikigaya..."

Just like that, our massage session continues with a little bit of clarity for me regarding my present situation. But then a question that should've crossed my mind earlier on hit me.

"Wait, then shouldn't you be over there too?" The pending matter made me turn my head down by instinct to get a better look at her. At the sight of her alluring bosom that is now couldn't be anymore obvious of its size, I swiftly retreated to the wall again after a few seconds of weakness. Her voice saves me by diverting my indecent thoughts from remembering her distracting curves.

"I've already had my fill of hearing the things that they're going to be discussing," she mentions with a palm to her forehead. "Remember the counselling initiative I told you about?"

"Yeah, the one you are pioneering. You sure you shouldn't be there?" To further emphasize my concern, a little more force was exerted to my presses on her shoulder.

Long story made short, Hiratsuka-sensei is currently leading a formal proposal from the Counselling Services Department to create an effective consultative measures for students to benefit from. From what I've heard, there were plans for additional syllabus, weekly surveys and online consultations. I'm sure those are only details on the surface. There seems to be a lot of work for the people involved, if the frequency of our night-outs to vent her stress is anything to go by.

"Luckily, I'm not the only person passionate about this, so I've got someone else covering the briefing for the other teachers." Her response was concise, and I could hear a sigh of relief accompanying her words.

"With how drunk you got yourself to be at night, I would've thought you're working on this on your own, Hiratsuka-sensei." It's the truth, though. When she said she is passionate, from my perspective, the woman was positively livid. For the past couple of weeks, it became a common sight for me to see Hiratsuka-sensei engrossed in stacks of files or occupied in a discussion with school personnel. At first, I thought this whole thing was a scheme she got roped into doing, but I can't be more wrong about it. She is passionate about this. "Glad to know that you're not forcing yourself."

Her pride at my remark was delivered with an elegant hand to her chest and the cross of her legs.

"As what you should expect from an an exemplary member of society. You should exercise this degree of self-care to yourself as well, Hikigaya..," she began boasting with an aura emanating wisdom. "It's only things done with passion that work can actually work, after all."

Like any other advice she had occasionally passed on, I keep that one also to the heart. Her words had always able to worm their way into my memories. However, rather than it being so due to their relevance to my life, I feel it was because of the standing of the person from whom they're originated from.

Hiratsuka-sensei is my teacher. Additionally, it is possible to say that she is my exclusive advisor as well, much like I'm that of hers at times. Apart from several others surrounding my life, she had been a prominent reference for me to consult in gaining a better way of thinking and living.

"How admirable."

Following my train of thoughts, it felt as if those words came out so naturally. I didn't intend to express the compliment. But now that it's out in the open, I realize there would be no harm done regardless.

Silence reigned the atmosphere, and I relish in the serenity of it without much care at her lack of response.

"... What is?"

"Hm? What is what?" I bring my attention to the woman at my front with a slow glance down. Impeccable will incensed my determination to keep my eyes at the top of her head instead of the scenery closely in front of it.

"Your comment just now, I mean." Her tone was delicate; soft and sultry. "Hnghh, what is it about me that you find admirable?"

Perhaps the woman was finally feeling the cold temperature after neglecting her common attire, she began to clasp her hands together with her arms stretched to her legs.

My answer for that question should've come out without much difficulty. But I found myself fumbling at my earlier words at the sight of her accentuated breasts that were squeezed when her arms were brought closer together. Yeah, feel cold right at this moment, why won't you?

"W-Well, how do I say it..." I call my eyes to fall back to the wall upon her oblivious attack and muster up a coherent response. "Your work ethic, I guess."

Curiosity at my response was reflected from her with a quiet hum.

"Kind of different from what I was hoping." What does that supposed to mean?

Since it took some time for me to interpret what she possibly meant, my jest came out delayed.

"If you're referring to the way you treat your students, then I'm afraid that's not gonna happen, Hiratsuka-sensei." To be fair, I have seen her during occasions where she would relay helpful inputs to troubled students, and even hear people speak kindly of her empathy towards the issues that they're facing. But can it reach the point of admiration if she still wouldn't hesitate to exercise violence on one innocent delinquent? No way.

Taking my jab in a casual manner, she chuckles with a stretch of her arms to level with her head.

"I guess so... Uhmm..."

We keep our mouth shut for the next few seconds. The woman was starting to stretch her limbs during this brief moment of silence. With a few pops of her veins and grunts of her voice, Hiratsuka-sensei finally delivers the line that I've been wanting to hear since I began to press on her shoulder.

"Hmm~ I think this much should be enough. You have my sincere gratitude, Hikigaya."

Asking her if she's sure about it will only raise the possibility of the woman changing her mind. Without wasting time, after a final firm squeeze of her shoulder, I retreat from her form and make my way to the opposite sofa that I've been staring at for so long.

"Pleasure to be of service." No. It was undoubtedly not a pleasure to be of service. I was saying that purely out of courtesy and respect for what you've done for the betterment of this school. Please be grateful.

The black-haired woman keeps a considerate eye to me as I make my descent to the comfortable piece of furniture.

"Something I can do to give you in return? If it's within my capacity, I will do anything you want," Hiratsuka-sensei asks with the gesture of raising her left leg that was on top of the other higher than necessary to land it on the floor. At this distance, I could confirm that her legs were being spread wider than usual too, or wider than it should be if she has a person sitting in front of her.

I wouldn't have taken her careless question the wrong way if she had not done something like that with her legs. Immature thoughts had to be disposed from my mind before I could formulate an answer. Like my previous expression, I can tell I was lightly blushing.

"Less homework, maybe?" I suggest in a hopeful manner.

"Haha, of all the things you could have wanted and you wish for the impossible." Hiratsuka-sensei stood up with her hands on her waist before making steps to the small counter behind her. "You can't be anymore stereotypical, Hikigaya."

I was hoping she would take with her the lab coat and vest that are sprawled at the edge of the sofa.

"Stereotypical of what?"

"Of yourself."

To my dismay, she seems to find comfort with her current appearance, standing around like it was normal. I can't say the same for me, however.

It took her standing and stretching her arms upwards for a good ten seconds for me to realize I had been careless during the massage. The times I applied a little bit of force out of spite had caused her uniform to be a lot more dishevelled than before. Her tie was looser than before, and for the most troubling part, is that I don't even need to be so perverted to sneak a glance at her underwear from the top of her head now. The edges of her black bra is now visible in plain sight. By implication, the cleavage that had been calling for attention is there as well.

"You should put your coat back on if you feel chilly in here."

"Hm? It kind of feels a lot more on the warmer side, though."

The objective of my suggestion was not accomplished. Judging from her immediate action of tugging down her tie, I grumble that it had somehow backfired.

It appears Hiratsuka-sensei was preparing our drinks during her short time at the counter. I watch her attractive figure as she makes her way towards me with two cups in hands. Due to the new positioning of her tie, I found myself inadvertently watching as well the two cups jiggling above her hands.

I cough while steering my eyes away from her nearing body.

"Thank you for the hospitality."

"A thoughtful hospitality, I hope. I added a few more sugar and milk on your cup to suit your tastes," she informs while placing the mugs on the coffee table. "Let me know if you want me to make it sweeter for you. There's more where that came from."

Leaning my body forward to grab my drink gained me a quick view of her hanging cleavage as she bent her body down to place down the cups. My movement was swift, since a peek was hardly necessary. Her allure is already in sight by me sitting here. There's hardly any need to exert my already depleting energy to see her exposed skin.

I take a sip of the hot coffee after a few light blows. The warmth of the liquid flows through my throat like a gentle river, and I found myself releasing a relieved sigh from the same tunnel. I wasn't going to express my delight for the delicacy of the coffee, but it appears I've to do the otherwise when I glance at Hiratsuka-sensei keeping her eyes at me on her seat.

"It's perfect. Thanks again, Hiratsuka-sensei." I raise my mug slightly to her as a congratulatory gesture. To my comment, the woman curls her lips to a gentle smile.

"Pleasure to be of service."

We allow a few minutes of silence to arrive, indulging into our respective cups of tea. After having my fill for now, I place down the mug and turn my head to the person at my front.

"Now should be a good time to ask, right? What exactly did you call me here for?" It doesn't make sense that she was calling for me to only relieve her stress. Thus, I didn't even consider the possibility.

Hiratsuka-sensei takes her time to have another gulp of her drink before holding on to the mug's ear with her right hand.

"It's my bad if I gave the wrong idea, but it's not actually anything urgent. I was just going to ask you on how you've been doing," she reasons with a light smile. "Anything interesting happened lately?"

It might be the excessive sense of paranoia I feel due to the secret I'm currently concealing, but I sense a faint inquisitory tone emanating from her short inquiry. Due to that, I have myself scratch my mess of hair with a tumbling look to the side.

"W-Well, nothing out of the ordinary." Nothing like a blatant lie delivered through a wavering voice. Classic, Hachiman. If this woman can catch you being deceitful while you're at your best, then don't bother imagining what would happen while you're at your worst.

"I see. Since you would say that even if a meteor strikes Chiba, I kinda expected it." I turn my head in pleasant surprise back to her upon the easygoing response.

That's surprising. I didn't think she would let my lie go that easily. She's probably thinking I was upto one of my childish antics again.

"If I may ask; what begs the question, Hiratsuka-sensei?"

"The expression you had the moment you entered the class was a dead-giveaway." What? Am I that expressive? I had thought someone would require the skillset to decipher hieroglyphics to understand the facial expressions that I make. "It's not rare per se, but you looked like you were really in deep thought."

"If anything, I'm in deep thought right now." A grumble was stringed together with my response. "I never knew I was that easy to read."

Before I could wallow in self-deprecation at my weakness, Hiratsuka-sensei chuckles.

"If it makes you feel any better, I'm sure I gained this supernatural ability due to the times I spent together with you," she began in a soft volume. "Not to forget the countless nights we indulged in each other's company."

Of course, she had to say it that way.

I stop scratching my head with a dull glance to her being. It was quite the contrast when compared to the motherly gaze she kept on my own.

"Something tells me you're not treating me like you do with other students, Hiratsuka-sensei."

"Well, you're not like other students, Hikigaya."

I keep a blank eye to the woman in front of me taking in a sip of her coffee with grace. Much like she didn't seem to care about what she just said, I should do the same as well.

A slight thirst envelops the inners of my throat and tells me to pull the mug and take in a drink as well. Momentary seconds of quiet came joining once again, and I take that time to sort out my actions.

I can't count with my two hands anymore on how many times I came to her for advice for the troubles that I faced. Can't I do the same for my current dilemma so as to preserve that tradition? Not necessarily for that objective alone, I honestly think Hiratsuka-sensei can provide for a helpful input.

Then again, how exactly am I planning to tell her about this?

The thing is, Hiratsuka-sensei, I had sex with Yui just this morning, thus finding out that she's in love with me. Plus, she didn't remember it happening for asinine but scientific reasons, and this sexual activity is possible to occur every week. Grant me your wisdom.

Like hell I could let it all out just like that. Feeling immensely embarrassed is one thing, but having to convince her that I'm telling the truth is another. This is sure to bring her head for a rollercoaster ride, and the woman's already got plenty in her plate. Totally not worth the risk, sanity and dignity.

I keep my head low and elbows planted on my knees, seeing at the corner of my eyes her legs swaying in slow movements. A quiet sigh escapes my lips as I came to a decision.

"Well... I suppose there's one thing that I can share," I begin to murmur. "Though I don't think it reaches an interesting degree."

"Hoooh?" She raises her eyebrows signalling a faint curiosity. "Then, let's hear it."

I rub my fingers as a sign of sudden discomfort. I wasn't entirely sure about this plan, but this is the only route I can take to have her understanding while concealing the key information.

"I think... I mean, probably... I don't know..." The words were crawled out with heavy hesitation. My eyes were darting at her left and right. "I just found out there's a girl having a crush on me."

I wasn't surprised by her reaction. Even I would be numb for a moment of time if Yukino ever tells me that she's come to hate cats. But that doesn't mean I could just stare straight-faced at her dumbfounded eyes without making a fool out of myself. I need to get myself together first and get this redness out of my cheeks right now.

"That's..," Hiratsuka-sensei fills in the short silence by clearing her throat. "Well, that's surprising."

"I see..." Wait, what kind of pathetic response was that, dumbass? Why are you acknowledging her acknowledgement?

When I was able to finally steel myself to look at her, my teacher was absently drawing circles at her mug. I understand her pause also. Even I would be stunned to make an answer if Yukino told me she was being serious. Before I could amend my vague remark, the woman breathes out.

"To be honest, it's about time that finally happened."

I throw a light scoff to that. "I wouldn't really say it was inevitable. But yeah, I can understand it being inconceivable that someone actually has feelings for me."

She passes a brief chuckle of her own in return. "That wasn't what I was referring to, though..." Her words trailed to the point of a whisper as she mutters to the side. At the oddity that was before me, I tilt my head with slight curiosity. Before I could ask for her to elaborate however, she carries her head in a swift motion back to me.

"Then? Is there an issue you like to share?"

"Hm? Oh, right..." It took her request for clarification for me to realize that the whole story had not yet been told. The abrupt change of attention made me fidget in place once again. "L-Like I said, a girl likes me. But... due to a certain chain of events, the girl doesn't know that I'm aware of the fact."

For now, that is how I'm going to construe the introduction of the story. I think being aware of a girl's feelings for you before her own confession is a probable event. I recall seeing it play out in a show Komachi and I used to watch.

Probably assessing the current information, Hiratsuka-sensei rests her chin on her arm at the armrest of the sofa.

"Quite the certain chain of events for that to happen..." I gulp in silence at the possibility that she's going to inquire about that even further, but then the woman hums. "So I presume you're bummed out on what you should do now?"

I raise a hand to bring this discussion at the desired course, albeit hesitant and slow.

"Yeah, you can say that's the ultimate question that I want to be consulted," I further clarify. "But there's another tiny piece of the story that I have to add."

Asking for advice from her with that much input alone isn't going to help me in my present situation. I'm the only one knowing there is another fact material for my counsellor to comprehend.

"Hoh? And that is?"

"I kind of..." A bite mark to my lip was made before I could complete the statement. "Exploited... her..?"

Time gaps for deliberation didn't give me a better word to explain my predicament than that. Even then, the statement was made like I was having second thoughts.

Putting it in logical and essential terms, because of Yui's immense feelings for me, I was able to enjoy one of the most mind-blowing experiences of my life. Because she likes me, I got to taste the sweetness of her lips. The softness of her breasts. The tightness of her insides. All of them. I admit that I'm using the term loosely here, but the concept is there, right?

The eyes of my listener widen and her mouth slightly agape.

"'Exploit' is a strong word, Hikigaya. What does that supposed to mean?"

I had expected for her to question about my use of words. Hence, my response cannot come any more swiftly.

"Taking her vir- I mean, taking her money." Holy sh- I almost blurted out saying I took her virginity. If that had been registered, the only thing swift here is my death. Get yourself together! "Right. I often borrowed her money whenever I'm out of cash. And, other stuff c-corresponding to that."

I feel myself shiver in anxiety under the interrogative stare of my homeroom teacher. Her eyebrows would scrunch sometimes, probably in disbelief at the borderline absurdity of my story.

However, it didn't take too long for her to place her mug on the table with a sigh of resignation.

"Simply put," she grunted while crossing her nimble legs. "You're trying to figure out a way forward in dealing with a girl that likes you and does not hesitate to give her money, body and love to you. All the while, she doesn't know that you're aware of her feelings."

"That's a... broad way to look at it. But if I may add, Hiratsuka-sensei? The girl, due to her mental capacity, uh, wouldn't remember that she lends me her money."

"Don't make this story more complicated than it already is, Hikigaya," she sighs with her hands caressing her temple. "Who is this troublesome chick that you're somehow able to attract?"

Woman, you tell me. I'm as bewildered about this stuff as you are, and you haven't even heard the whole story.

I scratch my nose with a silent grumble, hoping that her question just now was merely rhetorical. Fortunately, after a few presses to her head, she turns her attention back to me with a remark prepared.

"Usually, just by looking at the surface, I would have simply advise you to stop 'exploiting' her and patiently wait for her to gain the courage to confess," she starts as a single finger points towards me. "But considering the fact that you are the one telling me this, and that your inquiries often require me to read between the lines, I'll have to ask you some questions myself."

"R-Right..."

I gulp at the dominating tone that she suddenly equipped. It was clear that she demands for my attention, and that the truth is something that she wants to come out of my mouth. Sweat begins to permeate my body upon the fear of disclosing the highly classified information.

Alike several other women that I know, Hiratsuka-sensei is perceptive. If she hadn't, many of the internal strife within the Service Club wouldn't even come to make amends. I often realize the disadvantage I have whenever her skill was put up against me, and right now was no different.

Her eyes were glued on mine and I felt restricted from looking away. I wait with increased heartbeat until her lips are seen to part.

"...Was she happy?"

We stay in that stagnant pose for a few seconds. Me, with my mouth hung open and her, with the finger still pointing at me. I don't know why I blinked for several times, but doing so didn't give me a better bearing to her puzzling question.

"Huh..?"

"That girl; in your observation, was she happy?" By now, she elaborates on the matter with her hand retreating to her knee. "I'm sure that you're more observant after knowing her feelings, Hikigaya. During your times with her, how do you think she feels?"

"Uhh..." At the question that begs me to recall certain memories, I raise a palm to my messy head of hair. "W-Well, I did say that she has feelings for me, so it's a given that she looks happy most of the time."

Happy. Now that I think about it, whenever that word crosses my mind, it is always her face that found its way to shape at the top of my head. There are other effeminate faces as well, but Yui's image had never loss prominence.

Her melodic giggles. The energetic tone of her voice. An enchanting smile that at the most times expose her pearly white teeth, signifying the invaluable bundle of kindness that I always want to protect.

I was fortunate enough to also experience and help her through some setbacks, but Yui's happiness will never be something I trade for anything in the world. To an extent, I feel the same to the other important figures surrounding my life.

I honestly think I've been lucked out because of this, but Yui is often happy. But now that I really put it into mind, I realize that she's probably feeling that way because I'm always by her side.

A tinge of discomfort poke into my heart at the pretentious assumption.

My response to her was all that I was going to say. Hiratsuka-sensei keeps her eye at me for some time, perhaps assessing the credibility of my words rather than waiting for further explanation.

"I see. Now, be truthful with me..." At this time, her compelling aura was revived and she leaned her body forward for attention. The intensity of the situation steeled my vision from getting distracted by her cleavage that bears itself in display upon her forward movement. "...How do you think she feels when she gives herself to you, Hikigaya?"

I was going to immediately retort that 'giving herself' are pretty strong words themselves, considering how vague of the information I gave to her for those words to be compatible. However, due to the precision of those exact terms to my actual situation, I stammer to make a quick response and retreat to my mind, recalling my memories of this morning to provide her an accurate answer.

Without much time, Yui's amorous face make its way back into my mind. The silky pink hair disorganized due to her bun being gradually undone. Her delicate lips that quivered from smiling too much. And the faint tears flowing from her eyes that she claimed to be the by-product of a particular sentiment overflowing inside her as I pull her into an embrace.

"...It was the same; the girl was happy," I begin at a slow pace. I open my mouth again after knowing that alone wouldn't do Yui's genuine feelings justice. "She was livid even. Letting me do as I please and it was clear that she places her trust on me. It's that... passion that is making me have a hard time to pursue the matter."

To my relief, the reliable advisor continues to nod her head throughout my explanation when I already had a blur idea of where I was going with it myself. Drowning herself in thought, she folds her arms below her chest, unknown to her closed eyes that a childish student made a short glance to her ample breasts.

I was planning to give her the time she needs to properly digest the newfound information. But after a few sips of my last remaining coffee, the woman undoes her arm fold and stares straight into me.

Ears peeled and eyes attentive; I was ready to instil the wisdom she has to share. My hands were gripping by instinct as she begins to raise her lips.

"I'd say just go with it."

"Huh?"

I remain dumbfounded with the silent anticipation that she was going to correct herself, or at the very least elaborate further. But there she sits, a face so casual that it becomes oddly befitting for someone who just spouted something absurd.

"A-Are you serious?" I begin to mutter, eyes widening. "You're telling me to do that after I was outright telling you I'm exploiting her?"

"No. That is what I'm telling you to do after considering the things you said after that." At my request for her assurance, the woman looks confident in affirming her opinion by resting her arms to her kness. " sure you can agree with me when I say the paramount consideration in your situation here is that girl's happiness. By what you said, if she's happy in whatever she does with you, then why is there anything that you need to change?"

I found myself shaking my head at the negligent suggestion she was making. The dryness in my throat was indicative of my anxiety regarding our lane of discussion that is finally treading areas that I crave enlightenment for.

"That's exactly the weighty gripe I have about this whole thing." Mirroring her actions to signify my disagreement, I lean my body forward also, keeping my demanding eyes glued to hers. "Hiratsuka-sensei, is she truly happy? This whole situation of liking someone unconditionally to the point of giving anything you have. We've heard stories like this, and seldom any of them leads to a happy ending. How is it okay for me to go with it when I'm clearly taking advantage of her?" Due to the seriousness of our conversation that allows no line of banter to be made, I refrain from making reference to my sad teacher's past experiences. I wouldn't want to instigate her bad side, especially not now.

"Hikigaya, there are things that don't require deep and intricate analysis for you to come up with a solution. Whatever you're doing with her, the girl is happy." Much to my annoyance, she continues to repeat herself. The woman speaks further before I could articulate another dissension. "Humans are not entirely idiots, Hikigaya. You pride yourself in knowing that. She should be capable of understanding the extent that her affections should lie. If you're interested in someone, wouldn't you at some point come to ascertain which interest that you should prioritize?"

"I..."

A retort was already prepared from my side at the initial, but even a word was struggling to find its way out of my throat after taking in the logic behind her arguments. At the mention of human capacity to determine their own interests, it became difficult for me trace the flaw in her principal opinion.

Alike any other time that my thoughts came to a stalemate, I pull my head down to stare at the hardwood floor. Contrary to my previous retreats, I brought my head down to the point I couldn't even see her figure. I let Hiratsuka-sensei relish in her victory of our brief back-and-forth, my hand grazing against the other as a sign of vain contemplation.

Sweet coffee isn't going to get me anywhere, and even then I think my mug is already empty. In my current state of mind, I don't think I can construct a retort worthy to oppose her arguments. But I can't force myself to agree with them all the same.

During the internal quagmire plaguing my head, I can hear a soft grunt being audible from my front before the quiet sounds of elegant heels thudding against the floor. I didn't need to raise my head in knowing from where and who it came from.

But curiosity did grow over me when I hear the unnerving sounds growing closer. I had thought she was going to refill her mug at the counter, but that was far from the actual case.

Instead my reliable consultant had made the arbitrary decision to take a seat at the coffee table in front of me. Careful as to not knock away my mug, the woman places the object between her legs upon the descent of her body. This series of actions all had been done without a noise, and I was left puzzled in mind as I continue to keep my head down. It is when she looks by the corner of my eyes to be comfortably seated that I finally had the conscience to lift my head.

I was careless and I should've known better. The gap between the sofa and the table is narrow. With my position of leaning forward as I was drowning in thought before, even more of the miniscule distance between the two is covered.

It didn't cross my mind that by instantly lifting my head, I would be receiving a close view of the face of the dazzling teacher. Due to the difference in height between our seats, I was made to look slightly down at her as she faintly cranes her neck to level her eyes with mine.

Intoxicating was the smell of her morning shampoo, and coupled with her warm expression, I was way and beyond captivated. I couldn't even begin to force out a single comment at our proximity before she continues her streak of unexpected actions. A soft hand stretches and made its landing to my cheek while she leans a bit more forward, causing our noses to nudge against each other for a portion of a second.

"Let me get it through your thick skull once again, dear. It seems I need to get this in your head to make this thing all the more simple." Her words came out in tiny whispers that might not be registered if she had stayed on her sofa. Confused still with our current situation, I remain wordless and frozen to the core. My heart thumps at both our closeness and in anticipation to what she has to say.

"Stop belittling yourself," she begins, and I feel just those three words alone fishing for the realization that I'd been trying to put aside. "I've told you that sort of thing is unhealthy, and now it's to the point that your thinking is clouded. If you really think about it, that is the only factor stopping you from making the right decision.

Her sentences came out in rapid succession, eroding me of the strength and will to give a response in disagreement.

"First off, you're so aggravatingly adamant to not acknowledge the righteous qualities within you. Fact of the matter is right now your main concern is that the girl is still content even when being taken advantage of by you. But I bet my ass, Hikigaya, that you wouldn't even make a second thought to stop taking her money when you see her reaching the point of blind affection."

My hands begin to rub against the surfaces of my knees at her accurate analysis of me that I cannot come to embrace. As those conclusions were being stated, her hand never left my side. I can feel the warm caresses she makes with her thumb to maintain my attention.

"I'll spell it out for you since you're so reluctant to do it for yourself: in the first place, you're not taking advantage of her. You're still harbouring the thought that you're not worthy of her affection, but whether or not you realized it, that very thought was disguised with the possibility of you exploiting her."

I don't exactly know how I should feel; eternally grateful or overwhelmingly pathetic. To have people that understands you and strives to do so is not a blessing or misfortune received by many. I know better than anyone of the desire to be someone capable of understanding others. But how can I even attempt to understand others, if I'm so vehement to understand myself?

It's true. Everything she said up to this point was an undeniable truth. There's little to no flaw I can pinpoint, and it's clear that her conclusion was made in consideration to my behaviour that she became accustomed to understand upon the times we spent together.

It's childish, but it oddly pains me to the core that an understanding of myself still requires the assistance of others beside my own. This reality drags me further away from becoming my ideal self that is supposed to be independent, capable of standing alone and being closer to what it means of achieving something that is genuine.

Upon feeling a short sting in my wavering eyes, I pull away from the warmth of her hand and turn to the side.

Unfortunately, Hiratsuka-sensei didn't let me linger for long. With her fingers insisting to have their place again at my cheek, she turns my head to face her once again.

"Hey, look at me." The assertion was made in a mature and comforting tone. After getting myself together, I return to her welcoming eyes. "Hikigaya, you are loved. And you deserve to be loved. Try to accept that, and I'm sure you'll be able to go through any shocking scenarios that are about to come your way."

The comforting silence that came after shows that Hiratsuka-sensei had brought out everything she wanted to say. I was left to digest those words while her hand on my cheek became an oddly effective factor in calming my thought process. Our eyes remain linked with each other, as if they were a channel to transfer every message that we had been made to convey. For all the debacle that we deeply discussed, the conclusion seems to be too simple, isn't it?

Acknowledge her feelings. Take care of Yui. Be by her side. Strive for the goal that will make the girl truly happy, and that may well include preserving our current situation now.

With the solid determination to take the advice into heart, I break our eye contact with a short chuckle to the floor.

"For someone so antagonistic with love, you sure are quite passionate about it," I tease with a sigh weak enough to indicate resignation. The things Hiratsuka-sensei has done for the betterment of my own are invaluable. As times passes, the feeling of never being able to repay her grows ever stronger.

My teacher begins with a scoff of her own. It seems even during this interaction she wants to have my full attention; her body was bent lower, demanding for contact with my eyes once more. Having not the energy to ignore, I give her my attentive look, mind slightly confused by her insistence.

"Experience had taught me that you can never hate the feeling of love. It's something undeniable, and there'll come a time when you have to accept it..." Red supple lips move with alluring elegance, requiring me to only raise a hand to her face to feel its touch. "If you don't, then it becomes dangerous. Because while you can never make yourself hate love, love can make yourself hate you."

I avert my odd focus to her mouth with a few blinks of my eyes and a swift response.

"I'll keep that in mind," I respond with the intention to list down the key points that I remember. "Be a good guy. Accept that she loves me. Maintain being single if I wanna become a love master."

As the teacher she should be, Hiratsuka-sensei didn't waste time to make a playful pull of my ear for my sudden quip. However as a teacher, she shouldn't be patting my hair so affectionately after that.

"Yup," she hums while keeping her eyes at the mess of hair. "Or in your barbaric terms: exploit her."

"Please don't make it sound so villainous."

"I'm not the one who started that."

Peace and quiet follow our respective grumble and giggle. Knowing that I'd be committing a worthless effort by reprimanding her, I let the woman continue have her way with my head.

I thought that was a fitting end to our discussion, but then Hiratsuka-sensei takes my attention.

"Hey, one more thing," she starts while pulling away her hand that was on my head. "I heard you were saying something about 'pursuing the matter' just now. By that, do you mean taking the next step with her? I mean, dating and stuff like that?"

I was quite taken aback by the question, but it wasn't entirely out of expectation. Well, what prompted the surprise was that I didn't expect her to be the one making the inquiry. But that question had crossed my mind for several times.

Do I want to date Yui? To have her for myself throughout my monotonous life? Devoting everything I have for the sake of her happiness? Questions of similar nature were juggling through my mind and I couldn't ever come to a definite answer.

Truth of the matter is: I don't know. I'm not sure if I want to date Yui. To begin with, my 'want' here would always revolve around making Yui happy, so whatever decision I make shall be in the pursuit of that.

I have a vague image as to how I truly feel about Yui. I know for a fact that I'll be distraught if she stops becoming a part of my life, and her importance to me isn't something I'm shying away from anymore. But does that immediately equate to the feelings of love? Because if so, then there would be a whole line of people that I'm in love with right now.

Realistically and bluntly speaking, what good is there for Yui and I if we started dating? We already spend a lot of time together to begin with, and that is often the ultimate goal in dating with someone. I honestly lack the basics of relationship knowledge to be aware of the benefits in dating someone that I haven't already experience now. If it's about getting to bed someone, well, that's already done now, too!

Deep breaths were inhaled to my system for me to calm myself down. Looks like I was perplexed to the point of being passionate.

Regardless, there's no point of lying to Hiratsuka-sensei about this matter.

"To be honest, I'm not entirely sure," I respond with a ruffle to my head. "I can say without hesitation that she's an important person in my life, but to have her as a partner... is still surreal for me to think about."

My teachers maintains her undivided attention to my words, slightly nodding her head to show her understanding. As I talk through the answer, my gaze was brought back to the floor with an absent look to my rubbing hands. I make sure to equip a confident tone so as to portray solid assurance and have her comply with some of my stubborn wants.

"All I can do now is consider the present circumstances and strive for the best outcome of everyone involved. Please give me atleast this for now, Hiratsuka-sensei, but despite what you've said, I never thought I would deserve this sort of affection from anyone, and I probably never will. She's a valuable person to me, much like the few other people in my life."

I finish with my eyes glued still on the floor. Rather than fear, it was a show of plea to request for her understanding towards my persistent outlook. Fortunately, the woman was quick to drop the matter, and it seems something else have caught her attention.

"Hmm, now I'm curious about that last part. Like who?"

"Like you."

It came out in an instant. The quick answer felt so seamless as it flows through my lips without much thought. With how quick it was, I didn't even think there was even any thought. Safe to say it came out of instinct, borne clearly from my own subconscious to how I place this fantastic woman in my life.

As instinctive as it was, it wasn't something that I'm going to be taking back. Hiratsuka-sensei has done so much for me to keep up a blatant disregard. One way or another, I had to slip in some method of gratitude.

With that in mind, I raise my head to portray the sincerity of my words. I was curious to the lack of voice coming from her after, but the view of her close face gives me a better picture.

Her mouth was slightly open, letting out a few audible stutters that couldn't completely make its way out for comprehension. Abashed, the black-haired woman darts her eyes around the surfaces of my rough skin in search for hints of shyness of an equal degree after mouthing the embarrassing confession.

Too bad for her, instead of feeling shy at the intense stare, I found myself gradually amused. Nostalgia dawned on me as I reminisce the moment I spent with her in a melancholic night at the bridge across the community centre. Her cheeks that are now painted with shades of warm red preserve into my mind the sight of her similarly embarrassed expression during that night.

The somewhat childlike innocence of my often wise teacher upon receiving even the lightest of compliments cause the end of my lips to curl. Just as I was starting to form a teasing grin, the woman finally finds her voice to speak out.

"Something tells me you're not treating me like you do with other teachers, Hikigaya."

"Well, you're not like other teachers, Hiratsuka-sensei."

Of course I don't, and that fact should've been a given. While it may be frowned upon, our relationship can't be defined with the traditional terms of student and teacher anymore. I would've made the boundaries clear if the benefits of our relationship were excessively in my favour. But come the times when I had to help her out of her bind, I realize there was a stability between us two that would bring about a memorable relationship.

We hang out eating ramen at nights.

She has my number on her Favourites tab.

I sometimes drive her sportscar around as light practice for my license.

I can't confidently vouch on her part as well, but I highly regard her now as a close friend. A necessary description to be made for it reflects the longevity of our relationship that I aim to preserve.

This is the intrinsic message that I want to convey while we keep our eyes locked together without a word. While my response was made partly in jest and reference to her prior careless remark, Hiratsuka-sensei seems to be in a quiet daze.

Due to the proximity of our faces that seems to be dangerously decreasing by the minute, it takes no eagle eyes for me to see the redness of her tongue as it wipes through her lips. And it is due to the proximity of our faces too, that I feel the need to retreat before my embarrassment begins to show.

With her eyelashes starting to flutter, my teacher suddenly closes her eyes to an enchanting degree. To the contrast of her usually high-spirited demeanour and the current action that screams elegance and vulnerability, I had myself in captivation.

However, being the single-minded man that I am, I couldn't pay much attention to that.

"Wow, all that talking's really making my throat dry," I mention with a small cough within my throat. "Let me just head to the dispenser for a second."

My movement was swift and efficient. Not daring enough to stretch an arm in order to retrieve my mug located between her plump thighs, I stand and decide to resort for a plastic cup from the counter.

I couldn't hear a sound from her even when I make my first steps towards the dispenser. The quiet aura she so suddenly emanates was quite unnerving, and I could see briefly her peculiar movements as she lowers her head to gaze down on the floor. Her long jet-black hair that covers the sides of her face complements the ominousness of the situation.

I might end up thinking too hard about this. Most likely the woman just feels a little sore in her throat after having to lecture the troublesome student about love. Might as well be a helping hand.

"While I'm at it, you want some water for yourself, Hiratsuka-sensei?" I ask upon reaching the destination. Due to her condition, I thought I had to assume a silent affirmation on her part and send her the cup of water even without a response.

"Huh? Right, why not..?" But then I hear the soft mutter from the back of my head. Looks like she still has the energy to give a verbal answer. "Thanks, Hikigaya."

An audible grumble in exchange for her gratitude. I take my time during the slow flow of water into the cups by tapping a random rhythm on the wooden surface of the counter.

Could it be that she's actually holding back her frustrations of having forced to give love advice? Not to mention to someone who was destined to be her comrade in arms, advocating the life of bachelorhood and solitude. That's a possibility, right?

At the silence which for the umpteenth time envelops the room, I attempt to fill in with small talk to also diminish my disrespectful thoughts. The talk, while small, is also something I've been keeping at the back of my head since this morning.

"Come to think of it, you're not smoking a roll today, right?" During the inquiry, I absently run my hands to organize the stuff on the counter before delivering our drinks. "I thought you were refraining yourself because of the meeting, but then you're not even attending that."

A few voiceless seconds went by, and I'm glad I got something to be occupied for while I wait for a response. Without turning behind me, I know that Hiratsuka-sensei had just stood up with a grunt and a stretch of her body. After that, she lets out a bellowing sigh random enough to make me chuckle faintly as to what is was for.

"Well, yeah..," she starts with the volume so close to being an endearing whisper. "To be honest, I'm very happy that you noticed. I figured that the cigarette remains might get in the way for us to thoroughly enjoy ourselves. You're not exactly a fan of the smell."

A baritone scoff push its way out of my mouth at her comment. First, it was her loud huff that came out of nowhere and then comes her light to jab to my personal peeve.

"Thank you for your kind consideration, Hiratsuka-sensei."

Fairly amused, I take hold of the cups and am ready to deliver to the table. As I stare at the gentle surfaces of the water in both cups, I wasn't even able to complete my 180 turn when a peculiar thought came through my mind on her statement.

"Wait, get in the way of wha-!"

Maybe I was distracted. Easily entertained. Oblivious.

If not, how did I not hear the rapid taps of heels coming my way? If not, how did I not register the blur of a rampant figure pouncing on me?

More than anything, if not for those foolish weaknesses of mine, how did I not feel the sensation of sweet, warm lips on mine, until a faint moan of desperation was heard.

I remain frozen in overwhelming bewilderment. Everything that I contemplated throughout my life came storming down in continuance by reflex to shed logic and realism to my shocking predicament. I am mentally stagnant, and my physical state wouldn't be able to do much for assistance.

In fact, physically, I am unable do anything.

I'm unable to move my head; two strong but delicate hands are grasping onto my neck like it is fatal if attempt to look away. I'm not capable of straying my eyes away; while it is not by force that this' happening, long and thin eyelashes lining through closed eyes was too mesmerizing a sight. It's impossible for me to mutter a single word; I refrain also from saying this was done by force, because aversion was not the feeling I have when a pair of sensuous lips made its soft and smooth landing on mine.

"Mhmm..."

Hiratsuka-sensei is kissing me.

Throughout the quiet turmoil going through my mind, the woman keeps her lips faithfully in place. She didn't pull away for a gasp of breath nor didn't she aim for another spot on my lips to kiss.

For half a minute or so, we stayed frozen just like that. What was frequent was the soft moaning filling her throat, audible enough for my senses to feel slowly ignited.

"Hmm, mhmm... uhmm..."

Perhaps she was sparing me some time to fully comprehend the situation. That was oddly considerate of her.

As I was letting that conclusion form, she immediately begins to make me have second thoughts. Instead of pulling away, Hiratsuka-sensei pushes her lips further into mine, deepening the kiss as the two seems to merge and combine. The moan trapped in her throat sounded more intense, and only after half a minute she pulls her head away with a melodic gasp.

"Mmahh..! Hahhh... hahh, hahhh..."

The two of us are heaving with bated breath, but there were far more important matters that needed our focus. As for me, I'm still having trouble determining whether I'm living a dream or not. Things can't be more different for Hiratsuka-sensei.

My teacher inhales as deeply as she can in succession, her alluring chest moving up and down upon every breath. The grip she has on my collar keeps me within her grasps. Her long, fleshy legs felt restless as they dance slowly in place. Her overall behaviour serves as a terrifying suggestion for what is about to come.

Having enough time to breath normally and to look at my bewildered expression, Hiratsuka-sensei strengthens her grip and pulls me towards her.

"This."

With that brief response that seems to conceal insurmountable secrets and feelings, Hiratsuka-sensei lets her cherry red lips connect and collide with mine once again.

And for the third time in my life, my mind goes through a life-threatening meltdown.

MY TEEN ROMANTIC COMEDY IS AS EROTIC AS I HAD NEVER EXPECTED

1. Partner's Name: Nakano Nanako

Relations: Acquaintance

Initiator: Nakano Nanako

Date: 7th February 2017

Time: 9:30 PM

Location: Sushi Delight's private booth

Initiated Positions: Sex Slave, Cowgirl, Lotus

2. Partner's Name: Yuigahama Yui

Relations: Friend, Clubmate

Initiator: Yuigahama Yui

Date: 8th February 2017

Time: 7:00 AM

Location: Hikigaya Hachiman's bedroom

Initiated Positions: Whisper, Missionary, Python

Author's Notes: Heyyo, what's up? Hopefully things are going up for you guys, considering the catastrophic situation the world's facing. Regardless, I wish you're having a fantastic time.

As per tradition; I'm sorry for the long update. It appears my academic responsibilities require me to write so much on matters I need and want to write rather than those I want to write only. No promises made, but I'll try my best to lower the gap of updates from now on. I'm forced to coop myself in the house, too.

Anyways, now that I read back into it, this chapter was pretty... hormonal, wasn't it? It seems that I'd try to sneak in sexual implications whenever I get the chance. We haven't even gotten to the sensual part yet! I guess it comes also from the frustration that we haven't gotten to the fun part yet. Yeah, as the author, I'm furious too. You think I wanna wait for another six months?

Anyways, please let me know if that got to the point of being absurd and a major turn-off. As a writer, I was constantly driving myself to maintain the mature and erotic tone in order to keep myself and the readers to understand the essence of the story i.e. Hikigaya Hachiman having sex with the female characters of the series. Pft, ironic, am I right? Regardless, be sure to inform me if that effort instead goes to the point of being immature and idiotic. Tips and advice would certainly help out as well.

But man, who would've thought, huh? I guess it takes a global pandemic to get me to start writing again. I apologize if it has gotten degraded with time.

On that thought, anyone have any ideas whether feeling lustful to the point of writing a story is a symptom for COVID-19? I'd hate to know that I'm transmitting my disease to others by having you guys read this stuff.

That's all for stupid jokes right now. Hope to see you guys anytime soon. Stay home, and stay safe.