As Ayu and Arata were affixing posters to the wall, they strategically placed thick tape in an X pattern, creating an impressive display. Suddenly, three girls passed by where Ayu and Arata were standing.
"Oh my gosh, is that Ayu Takahashi?" exclaimed one of the girls, who appeared to be a freshman.
"I am such a huge fan of you, Miss Ayu," another girl with black hair said.
"I even made a hairstyle just like yours, Miss Ayu," the third girl showed her hair, which was almost identical but in a blue color.
"We heard that you are aspiring to become the president of the council. We will definitely vote for you and cheer you on," the girls collectively said.
"That's right, because we care about you, Miss Ayu," they added.
Despite the overwhelming attention from the enthusiastic fan girls, Ayu remained composed and friendly. However, Arata quickly got up to clean his uniform, which had become slightly dusty. In response, I became somewhat agitated and proceeded towards them to resolve the matter.
"Excuse me, what is the purpose of this gathering?" Arata demanded, seeking attention.
"Look at me and Ayu, we are working. Whatever this fan club can do, it can do it later," explained Arata. However, Ayu and the three girls fixed their gazes on him.
"Who is this person?" inquired the girl, visibly confused as if she had never seen him before. Arata was offended and lay on his knees on the ground.
"Alright, girls, he is correct. We are working right now, but I will take a picture with you if you give us some time alone," said Ayu.
"Oh my gosh, yes, please!" they exclaimed, taking photographs of each other and enjoying their time alone. The girls waved goodbye, and Ayu did the same.
"Ayu, you are quite popular," Arata remarked, expressing admiration.
"It is what it is, but I must admit, I do not relish this level of attention," Ayu replied as she proceeded to locate an appropriate spot for the poster.
"Why do you say that?" Arata inquired, closely following her.
"Perhaps because I sometimes prefer a more ordinary existence than the limelight, and besides, everyone deserves to receive attention in life," Ayu paused and eventually found a suitable location to display another poster.
"I genuinely do not comprehend how I garnered the attention of everyone, but I am indifferent to the circumstances," Ayu smiled. She then positioned the poster adjacent to the past year's sports trophies. Although there were only five trophies, Ayu chose to display the poster on the wall.
"You know, my mother used to be a vice president in high school in Shirakawa village," Arata disclosed.
"Wait, really? That is extraordinary! Where is she now?" Ayu inquired with enthusiasm, eager to learn more about her.
"Well, she is currently residing in Shirakawa with her grandmother, and grandmother is providing care for her due to the loss of her memories," Arata explained, while still visibly saddened by the situation with her mother.
"I am sorry to hear that, Arata…" Ayu was deeply saddened by what Arata had shared with her.
"Interestingly, I have not confided in anyone about this matter, except for you and another friend of mine whom I trust. He is a reliable and trustworthy individual."
"I was unaware that you had a friend. Occasionally, I observe you reading a light novel book alone."
"Oh no, I do have a friend. However, we do not communicate frequently due to our busy schedules."
"I understand. Hello, Arata."
"Yes?" Arata looked at Ayu.
"What happened to your mother if you don't mind me asking? If you prefer not to discuss it, I respect your decision."
"Well, all I know is that my uncle informed me of an accident in Shirakawa Village. That is all I know, but my uncle is reluctant to provide further details. I wish I could know more." Arata said, looking down as he was reminded of his uncle's disappointed response when he refused to tell him the specifics of what had happened to his mother.
"Let's post the last two posters and conclude our day if you agree." Arata walked forward, smiling. However, Ayu felt as though he was faking it. She understood his intentions, but she couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Suddenly, a phone rang, and it was Arata's phone. He answered, and it was his uncle.
"Hello, Uncle… Oh, yes… Oh… No, yes… Alright… Alright, I will be there… Bye." Arata hung up the phone and looked at Ayu.
"My uncle needs me at home to assist," Arata explained.
"Is everything alright?" Ayu asked, concerned.
"No, yes. It is about something that he requires assistance with," Arata clarified.
"Then I will complete the last two posters," Ayu smiled.
"Two posters are not a significant issue," Arata replied.
"Family is important, Arata. So, go out and return home safely and assist your uncle. That is an order," Ayu said, playfully teasing Arata.
"Okay, thanks, Ayu. I will see you tomorrow. Bye," Arata waved at Ayu as he bid her farewell. Ayu reciprocated his gesture as he left the building. As Ayu completed posting the initial post, she realized that she required one final post to complete the wall.
As Ayu completed the final post and positioned the poster on the third floor, she attached the two upper sections of the poster. She only needed the remaining two lower sections, which she ultimately secured with two tapes on the left bottom corner. However, the right section was the last one left, and Ayu was determined to finish her task for the day. She applied one tape and then needed another, but as she reached for it, the tape fell to the ground. In her attempt to retrieve it, she inadvertently heard someone walking nearby.
"You know, if you want to win the election, you need to create a more respectful poster so that people can perceive your seriousness about this title," a voice sounded familiar. Ayu turned her head up and saw a shocked and upset expression. She knew who it was.
"Louis," Ayu was upset to see him.
"Hello, Ayu," Louis repeated with his usual fake smile, his eyes closed, With his hands behind his back, he stood.