The next day, classes kicked off without delay. Since it was the first day of the regular curriculum, all the teachers kept the atmosphere lax and spent the time introducing themselves and going over the syllabus. It was easy but also a drag. It took all of my focus to fight the urge to sleep.
After school, the six of us found that we grouped up again naturally. I took a look around to see what the rest of my classmates were up to. Similar to us, the other students were forming their own groups, with some kids biding their time and waiting for a chance to talk to somebody. Meanwhile, those who didn’t care to make friends had left the classroom as soon as the day ended. Quite the hodgepodge of reactions.
Last time around, I’d been so self-centered that I only paid attention to myself, but this time I was enjoying observing other students. There were maybe five cliques being formed in our classroom, though the atmosphere was still awkward.
Our group definitely stands out the most. How do I put it? Our aura is just in a different league. Besides me, of course.
After all, these five insanely attractive teens just oozed glamor and charisma. The other groups of students were even sneaking glances in our direction. You could tell by their eyes that they wanted to talk to us. Well, I bet it’s also because we’re the only group with boys and girls right now. They’re jealous that we’ve got girls and guys from the get-go. I get it; I totally do!
I felt a strange sense of superiority from being a part of this group, but at the same time I also felt like I was the odd one out. At any moment, someone might ask, “Why is a nobody like you hanging out with them?” I’d have no comeback if anyone said that to my face. I’m trying to become a cheerful popular kid and all, but is it really okay for me to be hanging out with these guys?
“Hey, Natsuki? What’re you zoning out for?” Tatsuya’s deep voice snapped me out of my worries and brought me back to reality. Getting lost in the depths of my own thoughts was a bad habit of mine.
“Oh, sorry. It’s nothing,” I said.
“You sure? We’re going to check out the clubs. You’re coming too, right?” he asked. All five of them were looking at me.
“Of course,” I said with a nod.