Chapter 3: Rich, Popular, and in Danger!
The Most Wanted Face at School
We had walked all the way to the park near the school before I even noticed. With Hinata beside me, I felt like I should say something—anything.
But the words in my head were like fog. Sentences refused to form, hiding just out of reach.
"I know you're a good person," I finally said. "Not just to me, but to everyone. I don't misunderstand you, Hinata."
I tried to smile. My face hadn't done that in so long, it felt more like a twitch than an actual grin.
Hinata's expression fell.
"Not everyone... just you," she murmured.
But her voice was so soft, I wasn't even sure I heard it right.
We said goodbye.
---
On Monday morning, the moment I stepped into the school building, I could feel it.
All eyes were on me.
Girls who had never spoken to me before waved as I walked by. Boys nodded respectfully.
Had I suddenly become famous overnight?
"Akiyama-kun! Did you eat breakfast? Want to join me in the cafeteria?"
"Hey, come over this weekend! We're holding a Naria card tournament—you should join us!"
Were they serious? Just last week, they didn't even know I existed.
And now? I felt like the most anticipated character in a school play, with all the spotlights aimed at me.
Just as I tried to slip into the classroom, I nearly collided with Hinata.
"Morning, school's new star," she said with a raised brow.
"Looks like the girls just can't leave you alone."
My face turned red.
"I didn't ask for this!"
Hinata laughed.
"I know. I just enjoy teasing you."
"Is that so?" I muttered, before taking my seat.
But I could feel someone staring at me—intensely.
I didn't dare turn around, but I didn't need to.
It was Mizuki.
---
Lunch Break
In the cafeteria, Mizuki sat alone.
When I approached her, she looked up at me with a smile I had never seen before.
"Takashi, will you sit?"
I hesitated but sat down cautiously.
"What's going on?"
"There's something important I need to tell you after school," she said softly. "Can you walk with me?"
It sounded like a trap.
"Why?" I asked.
She gave me a mischievous smirk.
"I just want to talk. That's all."
Definitely a trap.
I couldn't forget how her dogs had talked the other day—yes, her dogs.
It all seemed too suspicious.
But if I refused, what would she do?
"Alright," I mumbled.
Her eyes sparkled.
I had definitely walked into something, but curiosity had made me the mouse.
I wanted to see how far money could really change someone.
---
Later That Day
During lunch, Hinata pulled me aside.
"Takashi, you shouldn't be spending too much time with Mizuki."
"Her father is Shinjiro Kuroda. A businessman whose name has come up in the media for some... shady deals."
"So?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
"So," Hinata continued, "she might be after your inheritance. That could explain why she's suddenly acting this way. Just... be careful."
A cold shiver ran down my spine.
I wanted to ask, Then why are you chasing me, Hinata?
But I simply nodded—silently.