Can I Still Be Your Heroine Even Though I'm Your Teacher? - Volume 3 Chapter 1.3

Too Much Affection Can Be a Problem 3

Akira refuses to take the conversation seriously.

With such differing standards for choosing a lover, there’s no way she could accept it.

There are as many ways and thoughts about love as there are people.

When, where, and how someone falls in love varies greatly depending on the person’s timing and reasons.

Perhaps trying to force oneself into the general societal mold leads to getting hurt or sick from love?

——As a man yearning for his own teacher, I’ve been reaching such a state of mind lately.

“——You just haven’t liked anyone who’s confessed so far, right?”

With an immediate response, Akira’s look becomes even more severe.

“Don’t speak as if you know everything.”

It’s a wonder how Mayuzumi-san manages to navigate such a minefield of conversation without shortening her lifespan.

“I’ve always supported you. Ririka knows Akiaki very well.”

Mayuzumi-san smiles brightly, unfazed by Akira’s glare.

A heavy silence hangs in the air.

The atmosphere is no longer suitable for eating.

I want to get away from here immediately, but unfortunately, this is my seat.

And then, like a gong signaling the end of a match, the chime rings.

Lunch break is over.

Now, both of you, please go back to your seats.

Otherwise, I’m going to suffocate from the tension!

Someone help me!

“Alright, everyone, take your seats. Let’s begin today’s fun history class——Oh?”

Then, Tenjō-sensei, who teaches the fifth period history class, appears in the classroom.

My savior can only be this person.

The tension between Kuhouin Akira and Mayuzumi Ririka had already spread throughout the classroom, and the other classmates had been holding their breath and watching without me noticing.

Tenjō-sensei senses something is wrong and is shocked to find the source is the two in front of the teacher’s desk.

Sensei’s gaze asks me what’s going on as if I’m in the middle.

Instead of answering, I look at her with eyes pleading for rescue.

“Come on, we’re starting the class, so both of you take your seats.”

Tenjō-sensei stands at the podium and instructs them in a more formal tone, similar to before.

“It’s just one of the solutions. Remember that, okay?☆”

Mayuzumi-san returns to her seat first.

“Kuhouin-san.”

Prompted by Tenjō-sensei, Akira reluctantly returns to her window-side seat.

“Hey, aren’t Kuhouin-san and Mayuzumi-san good friends?”

Tenjō-sensei asked me, trying to get the details.

“I also don’t know what’s what. It mostly stems from their differing views on romance, which then escalates into such hostility.”

I explain briefly, and Tenjō-sensei seems to understand, saying,

“Well, it’s girls after all.”

“Does Tenjō-sensei ever fight over differences in romantic views?”

“I often get irritated by advice.”

“Really?”

I’ve never seen her talking with a friend of the same sex, so I can’t quite grasp it.

“It’s because she’s a close friend that I understand it’s all out of concern. Now, let’s start the class!”

Tenjō-sensei looks around the classroom.

***

“As a result of the vote, it’s been decided that this year’s cultural festival for class 2-C will feature an Animal Maid Cafe! Finally, let’s have a word from Ririka as the leader!”

After the fifth period history class, we discussed the cultural festival’s program during the long homeroom of the sixth period.

First, whether or not the class should do a program was overwhelmingly approved.

Next, the leader was unanimously decided to be Mayuzumi-san, who volunteered.

After discussing various ideas, it was decided to go with an original concept of an Animal Maid Cafe, adding the element of girls wearing animal ear headbands, as a simple maid cafe seemed boring.

Looking online, it seems there are quite a variety of headbands for sale.

It’s interesting what people come up with.

“Next year we’ll be taking exams, so this might be our last chance to enjoy without restraint. It’s a festival, so the one who has the most fun wins! Let’s work together to make the best memories of our high school days and have the best cultural festival ever!”

The class united behind Mayuzumi-san’s policy speech.

As they applauded, I couldn’t help but admire her impressive ability to win over people’s hearts.

Everyone seemed to be naturally carried away by Mayuzumi-san.

“Well then, that’s all for today. Dismissed.”

With the administrative announcements over, today’s lessons came to an end.

A sense of relief filled the classroom with murmurs.

Amidst this, Tenjō-sensei’s gaze briefly met mine as she looked in the direction of where I was seated.

Our eyes locked.

No words were exchanged, yet that alone made me happy.

Before I could savor that small joy, other students began to crowd around Tenjō-sensei.

Despite showing a hint of regret, she quickly reverted to her teacher’s demeanor without anyone else noticing.

It can’t be helped. That’s just how it is with a popular teacher.

I’m already used to it.

“Sensei will buy the class hoodie too, right? It’ll be exciting to match with Tenjō-sensei.”

“And while we’re at it, Sensei should try on a maid outfit! It would definitely suit you.”

“That’s right. We’ll present the costume to Sensei with contributions from everyone, so please tell us your size!”

The girls gathered around were making some wonderful suggestions, so I couldn’t help but eavesdrop.

Tenjō-sensei in a maid outfit?

I’d definitely want to see that if I could.

『Goshujin-sama♡』 (Master)

Just imagining an older woman taking care of me as a maid sends my excitement through the roof.

This isn’t good. Lately, my fantasies have been getting increasingly elaborate.

Maybe it’s the effect of holding back every day.

“Hey, Nishiki-kun, you think so too, right?”

Suddenly brought into the conversation, I blurted “I want to see it!” without without hesitation.

My immediate response took everyone, including Sensei and the girls, by surprise, and they burst into laughter.

Nishiki-kun likes cosplay? That’s kind of unexpected.”

Ugh, I spoke my desires without thinking. It’s embarassing…

“Kuhouin-san, can I talk to you for a moment?”

A male student from the next class entered our classroom and headed straight for Akira.

Even as all eyes turned to him, he maintained a refreshing smile.

His confident demeanor was evident, and he stood in front of Akira’s desk without hesitation.