Whispers filled the classroom as Mizuha's classmates discussed her impressive speech from earlier. Some students approached her, eager to strike up conversations and get to know her better. Mizuha welcomed their friendly gestures, engaging in small talk and finding common interests, laying the foundation for new friendships.
As the first bell rang, signaling the start of class, everyone settled into their seats. Mr. Akihiko, the 1F homeroom teacher, entered the room with a warm smile, radiating approachability. He introduced himself, expressing his excitement about teaching this new group of students.
During homeroom class, Mr. Akihiko encouraged each student to introduce themselves.
"Let’s start with some self-introductions. You are all in high school now, so think of this as a bit of self-PR." “Then let’s begin with Sakamoto-san,” says Mr. Akihiko. “Yes,” replies Sakamoto. Elly is a very shy girl who is timid about interacting with others.
“U-Um… M-My name is S-Sakamoto E-Elly… Um… I-I’m p-pleased to m-meet you…” She stammers, looking down at her feet.
The classmates clap their hands for Elly because she was able to introduce herself despite being in a shy situation.
Mizuha eagerly listens as her classmates introduce themselves. “PR means promotion, right? Self-promotion…” Mizuha talks to herself.
When it was her turn, she stood up confidently, introducing herself eloquently. Her voice carried determination and passion, leaving a lasting impression on her classmates and the teacher.
Mizuha was intrigued as the young man seated behind her, Zul, introduced himself. He shared that his family had moved to Japan from Malaysia before he was born, which explained why his facial features looked more Malaysian than Japanese.
Mizuha found Zul's background fascinating. "That is why his face does not look Japanese at all," Mizuha said to herself. A sense of connection began to form between them as two people of mixed heritage attending school in Japan.
Once homeroom ended, Mizuha eagerly awaited the next class, her mind still buzzing from the morning's excitement. The sun, glowing through the windows, bathed the classroom in a gentle warmth, beckoning Mizuha to pull out her sketchbook. She delicately held a pencil, ready to bring her artistic visions to life. Her classmates stole admiring glances, marveling at her evident talent.
In class, Mizuha's dedication was clear. She listened intently, taking meticulous notes. Her enthusiasm for learning was infectious, leading classmates to look to her for help.
"Umm... Yuki-san, what are you drawing?" asked one of her classmates, approaching her.
"Some hills and a nature scene," replied Mizuha.
"Can I take a look at your drawing?" the classmate asked again.
"Sure, why not," replied Mizuha.
"Wow, this drawing is so beautiful. It looks alive to me," the classmate remarked.
"Thanks, I'm glad you like it," replied Mizuha.
Word of Mizuha's artistic skill and role model status spread. Teachers recognized her exceptional abilities and encouraged her participation in exhibitions and competitions. This provided opportunities to further develop her talents and grow as an artist.
Despite the increasing attention and praise, Mizuha remained dedicated to improving her artistic skills. She knew true mastery required constant effort and pushing her creativity. Each new piece was a chance to challenge herself and unlock greater artistic expression.
Mizuha's journey as an artist was just beginning. She eagerly anticipated where her passion and dedication would lead. A world of possibilities lay before her, and with each pencil stroke, she moved closer to realizing her dreams.
Mizuha's charisma and talents sometimes intimidated classmates, causing hesitation in approaching her. But a few brave souls saw beyond the surface, eager to befriend someone with such gifts.
When the recess bell rang, Mizuha gathered her things to head to the cafeteria. She went to Shimizu's table to ask Shimizu to accompany her to the cafeteria.
"Mizuha, I'm sorry, I can't accompany you to the cafeteria. I need to go to the teacher's lounge. Our classroom teacher is calling me. Can you buy me some bread and a drink? I'll pay you back later," Shimizu said, begging while rushing to the teacher's lounge. "I'm counting on you," she added as she headed to the teacher's lounge.
"Sure," replied Mizuha with a slightly disappointed face.
Just as she reached the door, she accidentally bumped to guys that passing. Mizuha quickly apologized, "I'm sorry, I was not watching where I was walking," Mizuha said. "That's okay, please be more careful," the person replied.
"Huh!? Mizuha!" the person said. It was revealed that the person was Hikaru, the boy she had helped earlier. "Oh, it's you Hikaru," Mizuha replied. Both of them felt embarrassed and grateful for their previous encounter. "Hey, Mizuha! Are you headed to the cafeteria?" he asked.
Mizuha nodded in response. "Yes, I am," she said. Without hesitation, Hikaru extended his hand to help her up. "Here, let me help you up," he said. Mizuha smiled and took his hand. "Thank you, Hikaru," she said.
Hikaru offered to escort her to the cafeteria. Mizuha accepted his gesture, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort in Hikaru's presence. They engaged in light conversation as they walked, discovering shared interests and exchanging stories about their respective backgrounds.
Upon reaching the cafeteria, Mizuha purchased some buns for a quick snack. Hikaru, showing genuine curiosity and interest, followed Mizuha back to her classroom. As they entered, Hikaru's eyes fell upon Zul, Mizuha's classmate.
Excitedly, Hikaru called out to Zul, surprised to find him in the same class as Mizuha.
"Hey, Zul, so you're in this class?" said Hikaru, happy to see his best friend.
Mizuha asked, "You two know each other?"
Hikaru replied, "Yeah, Zul and I go way back. We were in the same class in middle school."
It seems that Hikaru and Zul have known each other for a long time and have maintained their friendship since then.
Mizuha noticed that female classmates were attracted to Hikaru's outgoing personality, and Zul appeared to be the quiet, cool type that caught their attention. She overheard a few classmates whispering about them.
"Isn't that Hikaru? He's so famous. Most of us know him from middle school," one girl whispered to her friend.
"Yeah, and did you see Zul? He's so quiet and cool. There's something mysterious about him," her friend replied.
"They're such a contrast, but they both have their charm," another classmate added, glancing at Hikaru and Zul.
"I envy Yuki-san because she can talk with that famous Hikaru," said another classmate.
At the same time, there was another glaring from a bypassing girl outside Mizuha's classroom corridor, looking at Mizuha and Hikaru. "Do you need something here?" Shimizu suddenly appeared from behind, asking the bypassing girl. "No, it's nothing. Please excuse me," the girl replied, then left the Mizuha classroom corridor and returned to her class.
After their conversation, Hikaru bid Mizuha farewell and headed towards his own classroom. However, before parting ways, he couldn't resist asking for Mizuha's phone number, wanting to stay in touch and continue their newfound friendship. Mizuha gladly shared her number, feeling a flutter of excitement as she realized the budding connection between them.
After Hikaru left, Shimizu came to Mizuha's table and asked, "Who is that guy? Your acquaintance?" "No, I just met him today. He accompanied me to the cafeteria earlier," replied Mizuha. "By the way, here's your bread and drink, as you asked earlier."
"Oh, thanks, Mizuha. Here, you've paid for it. Keep the change," said Shimizu while giving money to Mizuha. "Shimizu, this change is too much. You should take it," said Mizuha. "Don't worry, just keep it. It's a wage for you for buying me this," said Shimizu. "Thanks, Shimizu," replied Mizuha. After that, Shimizu returned to her table while eating her bread.
The remainder of the school day passed with various classes, filled with lessons, discussions, and bonding among the students. As the final session ended, Mizuha headed to the school gate. There she saw Hikaru waiting patiently.
"There you are, Mizuha!" said Hikaru, slowly walking towards her.
"Hikaru? What are you doing here?" asked Mizuha.
"I thought I'd wait for you and see if you'd like some company on the way home," replied Hikaru.
"Oh, thanks. Well then, let's go," replied Mizuha. His offer to walk her home surprised her, but she accepted with a warm blush, finding comfort in his presence.
Both of them were silent because this was their first time walking together. Hikaru, unable to handle the awkward silence, suddenly spoke up.
"How was your first day of high school?" asked Hikaru.
"Umm, it's going well. I've made friends like you, Shimizu, and Zul, and my classmates compliment my drawings," replied Mizuha.
"Drawings? Mizuha, are you an artist?" Hikaru asked.
"Oh, not really. I just started it as a hobby in the middle of last year, but I got more interested in it, and now I draw almost every day," Mizuha said, trying to downplay her interest.
"My teacher suggested I enter a drawing competition, and I won 1st place at my middle school last year."
"Wow, that's amazing, Mizuha! 1st place is not easy to achieve," said Hikaru.
"Why not join the art club at our school? They might help you improve your drawing skills and participate in competitions," Hikaru suggested.
"That was my plan, but I don't think I'm ready yet to join them. Maybe in the future, I'll take a look at their club," replied Mizuha.
"Anyway, thanks for the suggestion, Hikaru," said Mizuha, smiling at him.
"It's nothing special, I just wanted to give you a suggestion," replied Hikaru, blushing.
"Mizuha, can I take a look at some of your drawings tomorrow?" asked Hikaru, trying to cover his embarrassed face.
"Sure, why not? I'd be happy if you want to see them," said Mizuha.
As they strolled the familiar streets, lighthearted conversation revealed more about each other's dreams and experiences. With each step, a subtle bond grew between them. Hikaru's heart skipped a beat as he recognized his developing feelings for Mizuha.
Grateful for the company and connection, Mizuha thanked Hikaru at her doorstep. Blushing, she bid him farewell, sensing their friendship taking its first steps toward something more. After Mizuha entered her house, Hikaru thought to himself, “Mizuha really resembles that person, but I think she is better than them.” He continued walking back to his house.
"I’m home," Mizuha said, opening her door.
"Oh, you're back already?" her mother replied. "How was your first day at school?"
"Actually…," Mizuha began, recounting her experiences.
As the day drew to a close, Mizuha reflected on the whirlwind of experiences that marked her first day at high school. From the warmth of her classmates' acceptance to the encouragement of her teachers, she felt a sense of belonging and excitement for the journey ahead.
Walking home with Hikaru had been unexpectedly comforting; their easy conversation hinted at a burgeoning friendship that might evolve into something more. Mizuha couldn't help but feel grateful for the connections she had made and the opportunities awaiting her.
Outside, the setting sun cast a golden hue over the familiar streets, reminding her of the new beginnings and friendships blossoming in her life. With her sketchbook tucked under her arm, Mizuha smiled, eager to continue her artistic journey and explore the possibilities that high school held for her.
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