"Perhaps..." Kanade nodded absentmindedly, brushing aside the oddities in their earlier exchange.
His mind was preoccupied with the evening's event, leaving no room to dwell on Kaguya's persistent questioning.
Kaguya Shinomiya, however, wasn't as placid.
While she'd successfully deflected the embarrassing topic of her tech illiteracy, the real issue remained unresolved in her mind—
Who was the girl Kanade met?
Right before the Test of Courage, no less, someone had managed to snag Kanade's time, stealing away moments that should have been hers.
There was no way Kaguya believed Kanade's excuse of a "coincidental meeting." It wasn't that she distrusted him—he was too principled for deceit. No, she believed the "coincidence" was a calculated move by the other party to secure alone time with Kanade.
That woman!
She could picture it now: that cunning vixen, flaunting her wiles and using her seductive charm to monopolize Kanade's attention.
How dare she? To seize what was rightfully Kaguya's!
She clenched her fists tightly, a subtle wave of frustration rising within her. She had been too cautious—too considerate of Kanade's need for space, giving him the freedom to enjoy his solitude.
And what was the result?
It had left an opening for a lurking enemy.
From this day forward, I'll ensure I'm by Kanade's side more often!
Yet, even as her resolve solidified, doubt crept into her heart. She feared pushing Kanade too much. He valued his independence and personal space. How could she intrude without appearing overly attached?
Maybe I should just invite him more frequently... but what if he misunderstands?
He might think I have feelings for him!
But I DO have feelings for him...
Caught in a spiral of indecision, Kaguya found herself stuck.
There was only one solution.
Consult Ai Hayasaka.
Yes, her ever-reliable aide would know what to do. Kaguya silently vowed to pass this burden onto her trusted confidant and focus entirely on her impending "private date" with Kanade.
"President," Kaguya suddenly spoke, her voice calm but calculated. "Your tie is crooked. May I adjust it for you?"
"Huh? Uh... sure." Kanade barely had time to respond before Kaguya stepped closer, her delicate hands already reaching up to fix the offending tie.
"Um, thanks..." he murmured, bowing his head slightly to give her easier access.
Standing this close, the moment felt oddly intimate to Kanade—like something a wife might do for her husband before sending him off to work.
But hadn't they shared even more intimate moments before? Like holding hands... no, interlocking fingers, once.
Granted, that had been when Kaguya was in a semi-dazed state and likely didn't realize what she was doing. But for Kanade, the memory of her adorable, vulnerable expression lingered vividly.
Still, he couldn't understand how Kaguya could act so naturally in moments like this. Was she simply unaware of how close their actions seemed? Or was it... something else?
As Kanade wrestled with his thoughts, Kaguya had her own considerations.
Hmm, no stray hairs on his collar. No unfamiliar perfume... just his usual scent. Good, she didn't manage to do anything too improper.
She felt a surge of relief.
Her Kanade was pure and untarnished!
While outwardly focused on adjusting his tie, her mind wandered.
Kanade's chest is so broad... firm, too. He must be strong...
"Um, Kaguya? Are you done?" Kanade's voice broke her train of thought.
His head was tilted slightly upward, unable to see her face clearly, but he could sense her hands roaming lower than they should.
Did his tie extend to his stomach? Kanade was bewildered.
"Ah, it's done!" Kaguya stepped back, satisfied.
Not only had she ensured Kanade remained immaculate, but she'd also taken the opportunity to bask in his presence and affirm her victory over any potential rivals.
She beamed with satisfaction. "After all, as the face of the Student Council, the President should always look his best!"
"...True," Kanade agreed, impressed by her meticulous nature.
With Kaguya's help, he often avoided embarrassing mishaps. Still, the scales felt unbalanced—she was always doing so much for him, while he rarely found ways to return the favor.
"Thanks, Kaguya. I feel bad you always have to worry about me like this."
"Oh, it's my honor to assist the President."
"That's too much," Kanade replied with a sheepish smile. "But really, if there's ever anything I can do for you, let me know. It'd make me feel better, too."
"...Anything?" Kaguya tilted her head, her mind racing. This is my chance!
"Well then..." A coy smile spread across her face. "How about inviting me to tonight's event like a proper gentleman?"
She extended her hand, her eyes glinting with anticipation.
"Just that?" Kanade chuckled, thinking her request surprisingly simple. "No other conditions?"
"Hmm... Would you refuse if there were?" Kaguya teased.
"Of course not!" Kanade responded without hesitation. Taking a deep breath, he straightened his posture and looked her in the eye.
"Vice President Shinomiya, may I have the honor of accompanying you to tonight's opening ceremony?"
"Why, yes, I'd be delighted." Kaguya placed her hand in his, her smile radiant.
Her heart raced.
His hand is so warm... and large!
Hayasaka, are you seeing this? This is my victory! Kanade invited me himself—without any schemes or tricks!
"Yay! Big victory!"