Chapter 492: Now, This Place Is Called Hikigaya Conference Room
"I don't think that's going to work!"
Unexpectedly, Hachiman directly rejected the idea, which put Tamanawa in an awkward position. After all, being contradicted by Hachiman in front of so many people was a bit of a blow to his pride.
"May I ask why this student is against my suggestion?"
"Because there isn't enough time. There's only a few days left until Christmas, and we've already wasted too much time on discussions. Expanding the scale now would leave us with no time to properly prepare."
"That's a fair point."
Hearing Hachiman say that they'd wasted too much time earlier made Tamanawa feel a bit embarrassed since it was true. However, he still wasn't ready to give up on his idea.
"We could look for partners, like college students. They could also put on some performances, which would make our event more lively."
"That won't work either!"
Unfortunately, Hachiman rejected this suggestion as well. He smiled faintly, his right index finger tapping rhythmically on the table.
"The theme of this event is focused on the elderly, so the content should be more heartwarming. My suggestion is to have children perform instead. After all, elderly people usually love seeing children."
As soon as he finished speaking, Kaori Orimoto, who was sitting across from him, chimed in with agreement, "Yes, yes, that's a great idea. The elderly do love children."
Well, as expected of you, 'Like' Queen.
However, things were even more awkward for Tamanawa. After all, Kaori Orimoto was a member of their school, but she had repeatedly sided with Hachiman, which put him, the student council president, in a difficult spot.
Even though Tamanawa fell silent, the others weren't ready to back down so easily.
A boy with long, artsy hair, who clearly thought of himself as quite handsome, spoke up.
"Even if we go with your plan, shouldn't we at least discuss the division of work?"
In his mind, he was hoping to avoid doing too much work himself.
But would Hachiman give him that opportunity?
"Oh? Are you suggesting that I haven't fairly distributed the tasks?"
Although Hachiman still wore a faint smile, the rhythmic tapping of his index finger had stopped. At the same time, an invisible aura seemed to emanate from him, pressing down on the students from Kaihin High.
After all, he was the modern-day Sword Saint; the deliberate release of his aura was something these high school students, who had barely seen the world, couldn't possibly withstand.
Let alone those who were all talk and no action.
The boys, led by Tamanawa, felt as though a ferocious tiger had materialized behind Hachiman, a king of beasts ready to devour them. The oppressive feeling made their blood run cold, leaving them too scared to move.
"I simply distributed the tasks equally. After all, this event is a collaboration between our two schools, so we should all work together. We can't have one side slacking off, right?"
"Isn't that right, President Tamanawa?"
Tamanawa, naturally intimidated by Hachiman's aura, couldn't muster any words of opposition.
At this point, Kaori Orimoto, as if nothing had happened, gave a thumbs-up and flashed a bright smile.
"Yeah, that's right, we need to work together."
Seeing her like this, even Hachiman's imposing aura seemed to waver for a moment, but he quickly regained his composure and spoke again.
"It seems there are no objections, then. We'll proceed with this plan."
By now, Hachiman had clearly taken control of the situation. As his words settled, the room fell silent.
From this moment on, this conference room would be known as the Hikigaya Conference Room.
...
Thanks to Hachiman's intervention, the preparations for the Christmas event were finally back on track.
The boys from Kaihin High diligently carried out their assigned tasks, still shaken by Hachiman's earlier intimidation.
The members of Sobu High's student council naturally had no objections. Hachiman was well-known at their school, so they wouldn't go against his decisions. Even Vice President Makito, who usually clashed with Iroha Isshiki, didn't dare to oppose him.
Watching everyone working efficiently, Yui smiled and said, "This is great, Hikki. The event's finally progressing smoothly."
"Yes, now that we have a clear plan, things are definitely moving faster," Yukino nodded in agreement.
This was indeed the case. Before they arrived, Tamanawa and his group had done nothing but pay lip service and make empty promises, while Iroha Isshiki on their side wasn't taking any action either. The event had been at a standstill for quite some time.
But with Hachiman taking charge, everything had quickly fallen into place.
"This is great! After the event, we can even have a Christmas party at your place, Hikki," Yui said with a smile.
Hearing this, Yukino's face also showed a faint smile, suggesting she was looking forward to the gathering as well.
However, Hachiman's eyes flickered slightly, as he hadn't yet finished preparing the gifts for the girls.
Just then, the door to the conference room opened.
Vice President Makito walked in, leading a group of elementary school students. They were local children who would be performing in the Christmas event as part of the program.
Among these students was a familiar face for Hachiman and the others.
A small girl, who bore at least a 70% resemblance to Yukino, stood among them—it was Rumi Tsurumi, whom they had met during that forest summer camp.
"Ah, it's Rumi-chan," Yui called out with a smile upon seeing her.
Hearing her name, Rumi turned towards the sound and saw Yui and Yukino, along with Hachiman standing a little further away from them.
At this moment, Yui had already rushed over to her and spoke with a smile.
"Long time no see, Rumi-chan."
Rumi, who bore a striking resemblance to Yukino, responded to the overly enthusiastic Yui with only a slight nod.
"Yes, long time no see."
At this point, Iroha Isshiki also approached them. "Yui-senpai, you know her?"
"Yeah, we do," Yui nodded.
"We were asked by Hiratsuka-sensei to help out at a forest summer camp before, and Rumi-chan's school was participating in that camp."
"Oh, I see," Iroha smiled and then greeted Rumi.
"Hello, I'm Iroha Isshiki. Thanks for helping out with the Christmas event."
Unfortunately, Iroha's cute charm had no effect on someone even younger than herself. Rumi simply nodded coldly.
"Yes."
This left Iroha feeling a bit awkward, while Hachiman watched the scene unfold with amusement.
"Serves you right for always trying to act cute. Now you've met your match," he thought.
Just then, a young and excited voice rang out near Hachiman's ear.
"Ah, it's Hachi!"
Hachiman raised an eyebrow at this familiar nickname. Only one person called him that, and it was...
Looking down, Hachiman saw Kawasaki Keika, her twin pigtails bouncing as she hurried to his side.
"It really is you, Hachi! I'm so happy!"
Confirming it was indeed him, Keika immediately wrapped her small arms around his waist in a tight hug.
Rumi Tsurumi, usually so reserved, couldn't hide the surprise that flickered across her face.
Hachiman, on the other hand, softened his expression and gently patted Keika's head.
"Hey there, Keika."
"Mm-hmm, hi, Hachi," Keika nodded, her pigtails swaying with the movement.
Watching this endearing scene unfold, Iroha Isshiki sidled up to Hachiman and whispered in his ear, "Senpai, do you like younger girls?"
Hachiman smirked, a bit amused. While still patting Keika's head, he replied, "Well, I can't say I don't like younger girls, but not *this* young. That'd be illegal."
But when Iroha heard him admit to liking younger girls, she froze, her cheeks turning pink as she stammered, "If Senpai likes younger girls, then maybe I… maybe I…"
Before she could finish, she quickly shook her head, as if trying to dismiss the thought.
"No way, even if Senpai wanted to date me, that would be way too fast…"
Listening to her flustered rambling, Hachiman could only muster a dry smile.
Who said anything about dating you? Let's not jump to conclusions here.
Just then, Rumi Tsurumi walked over and asked, "Hachiman, is there anything we can help with?"
Whoa, she's already calling me by my first name?
But Hachiman didn't have the heart to be irritated by a kid.
"Rumi, I called you all here because I was hoping you could perform a play for the elderly during the Christmas event."
That's right—if there's one kind of performance that would suit elderly audiences, it's a play, especially one performed by children.
Of course, this wouldn't be the only entertainment. Hachiman had also arranged for some soft music and had even asked Yukino to bake Christmas cakes for the elderly.
"A play? That's fine," Rumi agreed with a nod.
Seeing her willingness, Hachiman smiled slightly.
"Thanks, Rumi. I'll have the script sent to you later, and we can start rehearsals. For now, why don't you and the others take a seat and wait?"
"I understand."
Rumi nodded again, and though it might've been his imagination, Hachiman thought he saw a faint smile on her face.
At that moment, Keika, still clinging to Hachiman's waist, looked up and said in her clear, bright voice, "Hachi, Hachi, I want to help too!"
Hachiman chuckled and gave her head another affectionate pat. "Alright, Keika, thank you."
But as this scene played out, the small smile that had appeared on Rumi's face began to fade.
She couldn't help but feel like something important was being taken away from her.
Chapter 493: The Christmas Blessings of the Little Angels
"Hiikigaya-san, about the venue for the event..."
"Ah, we can coordinate with the local community about the venue. Also, how's the preparation for printing the event posters coming along?"
"The posters should be ready for printing by today."
"Great, once they're done, please put them up immediately. There aren't many days left until Christmas."
"Understood."
"And about assembling the Christmas tree?"
"Once it's assembled, we can place it at the entrance of the community center. Then, we can move it inside on the day of the event."
"I got it."
"…"
Under Hachiman's coordination, the preparations for the Christmas event were progressing smoothly.
The stage, lighting, tables, chairs, and even the costumes for the performances were all being arranged meticulously.
Although everyone was busy, it was much better than the previous situation where discussions were endless, but no actual work was being done.
With an excellent leader, the work of the entire group was proceeding smoothly.
Rumi Tsurumi and Keika, along with their group, had almost finished rehearsing their play. The band had also finalized their part, so overall, the event was shaping up quite well.
Finally, after many days of preparation, Christmas arrived.
In the middle of the community activity room stood a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, setting the festive mood.
By this time, quite a few elderly people had already gathered. They sat at tables in groups of three or four, wearing kind and warm smiles, their faces filled with anticipation as they looked toward the stage.
Although the event was scheduled to start at 4 PM, Hachiman and the others had been busy since the morning. Luckily, it was a Saturday, so they had the time.
Due to concerns about being short-staffed, Hachiman had specifically called on Hayama, Zaimokuza, and a few other boys to help out.
In the kitchen, Yukino and the others were busy preparing cakes and cookies.
Although Hachiman was the better cook, the girls insisted that since he was responsible for overseeing everything, they should handle these smaller tasks.
Wearing aprons, a few graceful figures were busily moving about the kitchen.
As she decorated the cake, Yukino asked Yui, "Yui, have you already packed the baked cookies?"
"Yeah, I just finished packing them," Yui nodded, a look of anticipation appearing on her face.
"Yukino, how about I help with baking the cakes?"
Upon hearing this, Yukino's hand trembled as she was piping the cream, clearly recalling the disastrous experience when a certain someone had attempted to bake cookies before. However, not wanting to be too direct, she found a compromise.
"Yui, why don't you help decorate the cake instead? As for baking, please don't get involved."
"Ah, Yukino, you're so mean!"
Yui pouted in displeasure, but she still joined Yukino in decorating the cake.
Meanwhile, behind the stage curtain, Iroha Isshiki and Hachiman were making their final rounds, checking on the last-minute details.
The performance was about to start, and naturally, they didn't want anything to go wrong.
"We're about to begin, I'm so nervous, Senpai. This is not good," Iroha Isshiki whined as she clung to Hachiman's side.
Unfortunately for her, Hachiman was unfazed by her act. He shrugged indifferently, "What's there to be nervous about? Everything's gone smoothly so far, and the kids' performances are well-rehearsed."
"Even so, I can't help but feel nervous. After all, this is my first time."
When her attempt to gain sympathy failed, Iroha pouted in disappointment.
First time…
Okay, maybe my mind is in the gutter.
Looking at Hachiman standing in front of her, Iroha hesitated before speaking, "Um… really, I couldn't have done this without everyone's help, especially you, Senpai..."
"Well, it's nothing. I did promise to help you out, didn't I?" Hachiman replied with a smile.
"Do your best, President Isshiki."
Iroha was taken aback for a moment, a blush creeping onto her cheeks.
But she quickly regained her composure, stepping back with feigned alarm.
"Senpai, are you trying to take advantage of the situation to win me over? I was a little tempted just now, but I think this is too fast. Sorry, I can't accept."
Seeing her switch back to her teasing persona, Hachiman sighed and waved her off dismissively.
"Go, go. Who's trying to win you over? You're overthinking things."
"Hmph, Senpai, you're so mean." Iroha pouted again at his dismissive attitude, but soon she returned to her usual self, waving at him with a smile.
"I'll go check how things are going over there. See you later, Senpai."
With that, she ran towards the front of the stage. However, halfway there, she seemed to remember something and turned back.
"Oh, right, Senpai, don't forget to check with the vice president about the final timing."
"And the cakes too, please."
"Got it, President." Hachiman smiled.
Hearing this, Iroha also smiled before heading towards the front of the stage without hesitation.
…
Finally, the performance began. As the curtain rose and the lights focused, the band, which had been waiting on stage, came into view.
The first performance was a lyrical piece brought by the band.
The melodious music echoed through the venue, bringing serene smiles to the faces of the elderly audience.
On either side of the stage, members of the student councils from Kaihin High and Sobu High let out a collective sigh of relief.
It seemed their efforts had paid off.
Meanwhile, backstage, a group of children was changing into their costumes.
With the help of staff members, they all donned long white robes with a pair of pure white wings on their backs, resembling a group of adorable little angels.
Saki Kawasaki had also come backstage to help her younger sister, Keika, into her angel costume.
Seeing how cute her sister looked, a smile naturally appeared on Saki's face.
Just then, a familiar voice reached her ears.
"Keika, you look adorable."
Hearing this voice, Saki's heart skipped a beat. However, Keika reacted much faster, immediately throwing her arms around the waist of the newcomer.
"Ah, it's Hachi!"
Sure enough, it was Hachiman.
Ruffling Keika's hair, Hachiman smiled and said, "Thanks for helping out today, Keika."
Then, he looked towards Saki, who was kneeling on the ground.
"Thanks for helping too, Saki."
Saki snapped out of her daze, awkwardly playing with the ends of her hair.
"It's… it's nothing. I just didn't feel comfortable letting Keika come here alone."
"Haha, don't worry. I'm here too," Hachiman chuckled. Then, as if something came to mind, he turned to Saki and asked, "By the way, we're having a Christmas party at my place tonight. If you're free, you can bring Keika and join us."
"Eh? Really? We can come?" Saki was pleasantly surprised but quickly became hesitant.
"Wouldn't that be too much trouble?"
"Haha, it's no trouble at all. My parents aren't home, so we can have as much fun as we want," Hachiman laughed.
As soon as he finished speaking, Keika, who was still clinging to him, burst out with a happy giggle.
"Keika wants to go!"
Hachiman didn't refuse, patting her head, "Alright, you're more than welcome, Keika."
Then he turned to Saki, "So, Saki, why don't you come with Keika tonight?"
"Alright, we'll join you then," Saki finally agreed, her face slightly flushed.
I'm only going because Keika wants to go.
Yes, that's the reason.
.....
The music performance on stage soon came to an end, and the elderly audience responded with enthusiastic applause.
As the curtain fell and rose again, the young actors took their positions on stage.
Standing in the center was Rumi Tsurumi, wearing a blonde wig.
She was the lead in this play.
"Do your best, Rumi," Hachiman encouraged her with a smile as he passed by.
Rumi smiled in response to his words of encouragement.
"Yeah, I'll do my best."
The curtain slowly rose once more.
At that moment, the lights in the entire venue were turned off, and a voice-over began in the darkness.
"One dollar and eighty-seven cents… that's all that was left…"
As the voice-over continued, a spotlight illuminated the stage, revealing Rumi Tsurumi in her blonde wig. She was counting the coins in her hand, sighing as she did.
The voice-over resumed.
"No matter how much she counted, it was still just one dollar and eighty-seven cents. And Christmas was just around the corner…"
The play they were performing was "The Gift of the Magi", a story about a poor young couple who make great sacrifices to give each other Christmas gifts. The wife sells her beautiful long hair, and the husband sells his family heirloom gold watch, both unknowingly giving up their most prized possessions to buy gifts that complement what the other has sacrificed. The story celebrates the pure and selfless love between the couple.
Because the dialogue was simple and there were few characters, it was an ideal play for children to perform.
As time passed, the plot progressed steadily.
Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Yukino and the others were still busy preparing the cakes, as they planned to present Christmas cakes to the elderly guests at the end of the event.
Each completed cake was handed over to Zaimokuza, Tobe, and the others, who then delivered them to the waiting "little angels" by the auditorium entrance.
"The time's almost up. Start getting the cakes ready," Iroha Isshiki's voice came through the earpiece, signaling that the play on stage was nearing its conclusion.
As the final line of the play was delivered, Hachiman and the vice president opened the doors to the auditorium. Out from behind them ran a group of children dressed as angels, each carrying a cake, which they gently placed on the tables of the elderly guests.
Seeing these adorable little angels, the elderly audience beamed with joy, their smiles wide and genuine. After all, there's something about children that naturally brings happiness to the hearts of the elderly.
However, the performance was not yet over. The little angels who had just delivered the cakes soon made their way onto the stage, joining hands with the young actors who had performed in the play. Together, they bowed slightly to the elderly audience, their small voices filled with sincerity as they offered their heartfelt blessings.
The lights on the stage mingled with the soft glow of the candles below, creating an atmosphere that enveloped the entire hall in a warm, gentle radiance.
"Merry Christmas!" the children chorused.
-------------
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