Hina's POV:
"So… about what you said in your text, Usagi—you want to publish Okami's novel online?"
Usagi nods eagerly. "Yes!"
I lean back, crossing my arms as I glance at Okami. "I see… Okami-kun, online publishing is definitely an efficient way to get your work out there, much faster than traditional print publishing. But—" I pause, studying his expression. "—it's not going to be easy. There are millions of readers out there, but also thousands of writers and countless online books. Standing out in that crowd is a challenge."
I meet his gaze directly. "Are you ready for that?"
Okami and Usagi share a glance before Usagi gives him a reassuring smile. Okami's face softens, and after a brief moment, he nods confidently.
Ahh, these two… how cute! I think to myself before clearing my throat.
"Alright then," I continue, "there are several ways to publish a book online. But let's start with the easiest and most well-known options."
I hold up a finger. "First, your own website. This gives you complete freedom—writing, promotion, ads, everything. But the downside? Marketing. It could take a year or even longer to build a steady readership. If you don't have an audience already, growing one from scratch will be tough."
I then raise a second finger. "The easiest way? Online novel platforms. There are apps specifically designed for new authors to publish their works. Readers can access your novel directly, leave comments, and give feedback, helping you improve."
Looking between them, I add, "And if your book gains good readership, some platforms allow ad revenue or even offer contracts so you can start earning from your work."
"Well, there's also competition," I add, looking at Okami. "These platforms have their own genres and trends, so it might take time for you to gain traction."
I lean forward with a grin. "But since I know your writing style, I believe you can make it."
Okami's eyes hold a mix of determination and uncertainty, but before he can say anything, I clap my hands together.
"So now! Leave the rest to us!" I declare proudly. "We management students know exactly how to stand out in the market! Haha!"
"First, I'll handle your posts on the app—managing all the tags and the publishing process!" I say confidently. "But that alone won't be enough. We'll need to promote your book outside the app too!"
"Thank you, Hina-san," Okami says sincerely.
"Hehe, no worries! Just don't forget me when you become famous!" I tease.
He chuckles. "I wouldn't. I'll be in your debt. So, how exactly are we going to do this?"
"Oh yeah! Let's get help from our extrovert nerds!" I smirk. "Mei and Rentarou are super active on social media. If they post something like, 'Oh, I read this book, and it was so good!' it'll bring in more readers!"
Okami hesitates. "But… I want to gain readers on my own."
I click my tongue and wag a finger. "Tch tch tch, Okami, don't misunderstand. Readers won't come just because Mei or Rentarou post about your book. Only people who actually read will check it out, and from those, only the ones who genuinely like your work will stay. They will be your real readers, not Mei's or Rentarou's followers."
I cross my arms and grin. "What they're doing is just marketing. Just like how traditional bookstores put banners and posters outside their shops!"
"Ohh, got it!" Okami says with a nod.
"Hehe~ No less from my AI-like smart friend!" Usagi teases, flashing a playful grin.
"Oh, then I'll ask Ren—"
I quickly cut Okami off. "Uhm—ah—um, I'll call Rentarou!"
He raises an eyebrow. "Huh?"
"I-I mean... not because—uh, I mean, it'll be better if I explain it to that airhead myself!" I stutter, avoiding their amused gazes.
Guhh!!! They're gonna notice my blush!
"Ah—I'll bring more juice!" I blurt out and quickly stand up, making my way to the kitchen before they can say anything.
Uhh!! Why won't my heart stop beating so loud whenever it's about that airhead Rentarou?! Ugh, how did I end up with these inefficient feelings?!
So… this is how Okami and Usagi feel too, huh??
"They both will be here in a few minutes. Until then, can I read your manuscript, Okami?" I ask after calling Mei and Rentarou.
Usagi hands me the manuscript, and I start reading while we wait for them to arrive.