Living under the same roof as Senpai was a future she pursued, but she didn't expect another girl to have such luck now. This truly made her jealous.
But Kani Nayuta's mindset changed very quickly, because she had long since decided that no matter what happened in the future, she would stay by Senpai's side.
She accepted this fact.
They made simple self-introductions to each other.
"Nayuta? That amazing light novelist."
A peculiar glint appeared in Mashiro's slightly phoenix-like eyes.
After reading Kani Nayuta's works, it was hard not to be deeply impressed. That bubbling emotion could even cause a detached person to feel emotional fluctuations.
"Shiina Mashiro."
Kani Nayuta softly murmured, committing the name to memory.
Now, her biggest love rival had a new name.
According to the plan, the five of them took the train to Otonokizaka Academy.
Because of the campus open house, many middle school students came today. Some were there to see the campus environment, but more were actually drawn by the fame of the school idols.
μ's (Muse) has recently risen to prominence and has gained many younger fans.
"Speaking of which, Ni-san, why are you interested in watching school idol activities? You've never really been interested in this kind of thing, have you?"
Kani Nayuta was very sure of this, as she understood Ni-san's personality.
"Because of an invitation from a middle school friend. She and her companions are currently working hard for the future of their school, so I came to witness it."
Izumi Chihiro explained.
"As expected, a group that just sings and dances wouldn't be enough to attract you, Ni-san."
Kani Nayuta looked deeply in agreement.
"Oh, he's not that noble. This guy probably just made an excuse; he just wants to see pretty girls preen..."
Yamada Elf scoffed.
"No, Ni-san isn't that kind of person, because... if Ni-san wants to see, Nayuta can offer herself at any time."
Kani Nayuta bit her lip lightly.
As soon as she said this, aside from Mashiro, who remained expressionless, the others' faces showed various reactions.
'How outrageous! How could she so shamelessly tempt Ni-san! I misjudged you, Nayuta-sensei!'
Sagiri clenched her small fists.
"This girl, she's completely a fangirl now... Speaking of which, it seems something special did happen between these two."
Yamada Elf's mind flashed with the thought.
In the crowd, Izumi Chihiro stood out like a crane among chickens, surrounded by middle school students and their mothers. Only their group seemed a bit special.
However, noticing the other girls, people probably just assumed he was an older brother accompanying his sister, so it wasn't that surprising.
"It's about to start."
Izumi Chihiro reminded them.
The others all focused their gazes on the stage.
Nine colorful, beautiful girls appeared on stage with calm composure, displaying bright, sunny smiles.
"Hello everyone, we are the school idols of Otonokizaka Academy — μ's! We love our school very much. It's because of this school that we were able to meet these members and gather all nine of us. The song we are about to perform is our first song after becoming nine, a song that represents our starting point. Please listen to... 'Bokura no LIVE Kimi to no LIFE'"
With Honoka leading the way, the most crucial idol performance of this campus open house officially began!
Everyone's hard work was evident at this moment. The seamless dance steps and the song's performance captivated the audience, who watched intently and deeply felt the charm of μ's...
"Mom, I've decided! I'm coming to this school next year!"
"So beautiful! Can I shine like them too?"
"I want to, I want to reach the world they are in too!"
Below the stage, the girls' eyes were filled with longing.
Clap clap clap...
The performance ended, and from the intense applause, it was clear that the μ's (Muse) goddesses' performance was a great success, gaining a pile of fangirls, more than enough to achieve their goal.
Suddenly.
Nishikino Maki's gaze swept across the audience and landed on a familiar face.
At the same time, some middle school students were looking at them eagerly, seemingly searching for opportunities for photos and autographs.
"Maki, if you want to go, just go. We'll handle things here!"
Honoka nudged her shoulder.
The others also nodded.
"I understand, thank you."
Nishikino Maki nodded and walked to the other side of the stage.
"Nico really wants to know what they'll talk about."
"Rin also really wants to know, meow~"
"Alright, don't disturb their friends' reunion."
"Oh, that's right. If everyone's there, Maki will be embarrassed."
"Maki finally has this opportunity; you can't waste it."
"Hehe... Don't act like you know so much. Have any of you ever been in love?"
Everyone fell silent.
Nishikino Maki walked straight over.
"Maki, long time no see."
"Mm, long time no see."
"And these are...?"
"My friends and my sister, Sagiri."
He gave a brief introduction.
"Um..."
Nishikino Maki twirled a strand of her hair, momentarily forgetting what to say.
"Let's talk alone."
Izumi Chihiro knew the girl's personality, so he thought for a moment and then said.
The two walked a short distance away.
"Thank you, Chihiro, for making time to come."
Nishikino Maki clasped her hands behind her back, a gentle smile on her face.
"Personally, being able to see such a performance was very much worth it. I'd never seen Maki express herself like that before."
He replied.
"You're making fun of me…"
A hint of shyness appeared on Nishikino Maki's face.
She had never thought she would meet so many friends, let alone become a school idol with them. Her entire persona had completely changed.
"I'm not making fun of Maki, you know. Because the current Maki looks much more expressive than before, and that's a good thing."
He said with sincere eyes.
"Is that so?"
Nishikino Maki's eyes lit up.
The two chatted for a good while longer before ending their conversation.
"Stare~"
When he returned to his team, Kani Nayuta and Sagiri both gave him the 'Death God's Gaze,' making him feel immense pressure.
"Talking alone, does Ni-san have some unspeakable secret?"
"Senpai, even if you're a playboy, there should be a limit, or your body won't be able to handle it."
The scent of vinegar in the air grew heavier.
Izumi Chihiro couldn't help but break out in a sweat, saying, "It was just a simple chat, don't overthink it."
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💯 PS = 2 bonus chapter