Another Like Me - Part I (CoTE x OC) ✔

Chapter 18 - Deserted Island Special Test, Part 5

"I was once a once a student of Class D, just like you are."

"I must say that is surprising, Chabashira-sensei. I thought you were someone of higher caliber."

"Huh... well, in my time, the class difference wasn't that extreme. You could say we were up in a 4-way battle, not a 3-way one. Up until we approached graduation of the third semester of the third year, the difference between Class A and D wasn't even 100 Points. One trivial mistake could throw you off balance and lose you the battle."

"I assume you made a trivial mistake, then?"

"Yes. It happened rather unexpectedly. Class C went to hell because of my mistake. In the end, my goals of reaching Class A in the end were all shattered."

I felt really sorry for her, but having her bring up her past was really troublesome. It was quite uncomfortable.

"I'm not catching your drift. What does this have to do with me?"

"I feel that your presence will be vital to reach Class A."

"What am I supposed to say to that? You're joking, right?"

"A few days ago, a certain man contacted the school. He said 'expel Ayanokoji Kiyotaka'."

"He said to expel me? Well, that's nonsense. I don't know who it was, but you won't have me expelled, right?"

"Of course. We can't just expel someone on a third party's whim. As long as you are a student of this school, you are protected by the rules. However, if you cause any problems, that is a different story..... bullying, cheating, smoking, stealing..... if you cause any scandal, expulsion is unavoidable."

"Relax. I don't plan on doing any of that."

"It had nothing to do with your intentions. If I determine something seems like an issue, it will become reality."

I found the wording suspicious. "Are you threatening me?"

"Here's the deal, Ayanokoji. You'll try your best to reach Class A, and I'll offer you protection to you. Doesn't it sound like a good deal?"

"I won't listen to anymore of this. Can I go now?"

"Too bad, Ayanokoji. I'll have you expelled, and Class D will forever remain Class D. Would you like that?"

With my left arm, I reached over Chabashira-sensei's desk and grabbed her collar. "I remember when Horikita said you make her feel uncomfortable. I understand what she means now."

"Right," Chabashira-sensei laughed, "I just realized that I still haven't given up on reaching Class A."

"And one more thing. I'd recommend you get acquainted with Keisuke Takeyama. He's someone who will help me in reaching Class A."

"Why don't you talk to him yourself?"

"Alas, I don't have the necessary procedures ready to blackmail him with expulsion. That 'man' is the reason I was able to pull this off on you. I cannot do the same for him."

She reached out and grabbed my arm. "You have to decide here and now. Will you help me or not?"

I slowly released my hold on her collar, and made my way towards the door of the faculty room.

"You'll regret trying to use me."

"Relax. My life is already full of regrets."

________________________________________________________________________________