Переведи весь текст на русский язык, не добавляя комментариев к исходному английскому тексту. Все имена персонажей, заключённые в <>, переведи с использованием русской транскрипции. Обрати внимание на то, что пол героев меняется следующим образом:

Shuuji Hoshina (Шудзи Хошина) — парень, говори о нём в мужском роде.
Nene Ayachi (Ненэ Аячи) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Meguru Inaba (Мэгуру Инаба) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Tsumugi Shiiba (Цумуги Шииба) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Touko Togakushi (Тоуко Тогакуши) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Akagi (Акаги) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Kanae Hisashima (Канаэ Хисашима) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Taichi Hoshina (Тайчи Хошина) — парень, говори о нём в мужском роде.
Hideaki Kaidou (Хидеаки Кайдо) — парень, говори о нём в мужском роде.
Wakana Kariya (Вакана Кария) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Miho Koshiji (Михо Кошидзи) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Nanao Souma (Нанао Соума) — девушка, говори о ней в женском роде.
Обязательные требования к переводу:

Сохраняй оригинальный стиль и атмосферу текста. Если текст драматичный, передай эмоциональное напряжение; если текст комедийный, сохрани лёгкость и юмор. Диалоги должны звучать естественно и соответствовать характерам персонажей и ситуации.
Адаптируй текст под русскоязычную аудиторию, учитывая её культурные особенности. Избегай прямого и дословного перевода, старайся передать смысл и контекст, чтобы текст был понятен и близок целевой аудитории — поклонникам визуальных новелл и аниме.
Соблюдай грамотное согласование времён и падежей в русском языке. Если в английском предложении несколько временных слоёв, корректно передай их в русском языке, сохраняя структуру повествования.
Обрати особое внимание на гендерные местоимения и родовые формы, не допуская ошибок при изменении пола персонажей. Важно, чтобы в каждом случае персонажи упоминались с правильным полом и формами.
Сохраняй структуру текста: диалоги, прямую и косвенную речь, оформление реплик и действий персонажей. Не изменяй форматирование оригинала, чтобы текст оставался чётким и структурированным.
Работай с эмоциональными и внутренними монологами: они должны звучать выразительно и передавать психологическое состояние персонажей. Старайся передать скрытые подтексты, чувства и намерения, заложенные в оригинале, без потери смысла.
Адаптируй сложные культурные отсылки. Если в тексте упоминаются специфические культурные элементы (например, фразеологизмы, шутки, реалии японской культуры), адаптируй их для русскоязычной аудитории, не нарушая общей атмосферы произведения. При необходимости оставь транслитерацию с пояснением.
Примеры контекста, которые следует учитывать в переводе:

Если текст содержит динамичные сцены (например, боевые сцены или моменты сильного напряжения), поддерживай высокий темп и динамичность языка. Используй краткие, энергичные фразы, чтобы подчеркнуть драматизм.
Если текст содержит романтические или эмоционально насыщенные сцены, уделяй внимание мягким, плавным конструкциям и деталям, которые выражают чувства персонажей. Старайся передать тонкость их эмоций, используя соответствующие лексические средства.
Целевая аудитория — поклонники визуальных новелл, аниме и манги. Текст должен быть адаптирован для восприятия такой аудиторией, поэтому убедись, что перевод звучит естественно и аутентично в их культурном контексте.

Вот текст, который ты должен перевести, соблюдая всё то, о чём я тебя попросил выше:

<Girl>Umm... Hoshina-kun, do you have a moment?
It happened during lunch break as I was walking back to class from the restroom.
Carried by the chilly autumnal winds, a cute voice calls out to me from behind.
<Shuuji>Ah... What is it?
I turn around to find a girl from my class looking up at me with glossy eyes.
Her cute looks have won over every guy in our class.
With summer break behind us and September looming, unforgettable bonds have been forged between many of us.
So this cute girl stopping me can only mean one thing...
<Girl>You see, I'm in the Library Committee, and there's some super important work to do today. Problem is, I already have plans I absolutely can't cancel!
<Girl>So, I'm reaaally sorry to ask this, but could you fill in for me?
I hope you weren't expecting a confession. Popular girls have better things to do than ask out a nobody like me.
<Shuuji>Ah, doing something with your family or something?
<Girl>Nah, more like... I'm deciding on my entire future?
<Shuuji>Oh, wow. Sounds serious.
<Girl>Yeah, it sure is.
<Girl>So, like, I'm really sorry, but can you fill in for me? Pretty please?
She tilts her head to the side and looks at me with upturned eyes while playfully sticking out her tongue.
I'm well aware of how phony her cutesy expression is.
I know it's phony, but... that doesn't change how cute I still think it is.
<Shuuji>But I don't know anything about Library Committee work.
<Girl>Oh, that's fine. All you have to do is enter some of the library's new books into the PC, so they can be searched for.
<Shuuji>Oh, you're registering books into the library catalog, huh... Well, I guess it can't be that hard if it's just simple data entry.
<Girl>Right! So, umm... Would you fill in for me? Please! You're my last hope!
<Shuuji>...Okay. I'll do it if that's all there is to it.
<Girl>For real?! Wow! Thanks so much! I knew I could count on you!
<Shuuji>It's no big deal.
<Girl>Alright, just go to the library after school, then! There'll be someone there who can explain what to do.
The girl happily skips her way back to our classroom.
I'm being used, aren't I?
I had a hunch, but I felt pressured to say yes since I've helped a lot of the other girls in our class already...
This one is pretty high on the girls' social ladder, which makes turning her down and getting on her bad side a scary prospect.
<Shuuji>...Maybe I agreed a little too quickly though.
<Guy>What's up? You took on someone else's work again, didn't you?
<Shuuji>For a Library Committee member, yeah. Apparently, there's something important going on today she can't put off.
<Guy>Library Committee? Oh... You mean Akita?
<Guy>She's probably just playing you. There's a reason people call her the "mixer queen." That thing she can't put off is 100\% just another mixer. She was even talking about the details in the classroom.
<Shuuji>Oh, a mixer... I see. I suppose that does involve her future, in a way.
<Guy>Don't tell me you already knew?
<Shuuji>Kind of. I didn't know what exactly she was doing, but I did have the feeling it wasn't as important as she made it sound.
Considering how blatantly phony her cutesy expression was, it's questionable if she was even trying to hide it.
Plus, I perceived a medicine-like "taste"―the taste of lies.
<Guy>Then why not just turn her down?
<Shuuji>Well, I could have, but... I just figured that I may as well do it if she already has other plans.
<Guy>Shuuji... Seriously...
The name of this exasperated fellow is Kaidou Hideaki.
He's a classmate I chat a lot with. We're basically friends.
<Hideaki>You really ought to learn when to say no.
An intense sour taste spreads in my mouth as Kaidou looks at me strangely.
The sourness is so intense that I almost grimace, but I manage to fake a smile instead.
<Shuuji>I'm perfectly aware of that myself, you know.
<Hideaki>Want me to tell them no for you?
<Shuuji>Don't bother. I appreciate the offer, but I'm not a little child; I'm perfectly capable of saying no when I really don't want to do something.
<Hideaki>...And yet I've never seen you do so.
<Shuuji>Well, I don't have much to do after school, anyway. And it's not like people ask me for help every day.
<Hideaki>But that doesn't mean you should work for these people while they're out having fun.
<Hideaki>Whatever. How many times have we had this exchange now? I'm sick of telling you this all the time.
<Shuuji>Sorry.
It's not like I'm Mr. Nice Guy here.
But I have a bad habit. The habit of ignoring my own feelings and just going with the flow. I find it hard to turn people down as a result.
<Hideaki>Is there a reason you keep refusing to turn these girls down?
<Shuuji>Not really... I don't have any good reason for it.
<Shuuji>I just figure that being nice to girls could come in handy someday.
<Hideaki>At this rate, those leeches will suck you dry, dude.
<Shuuji>I'm obviously not gonna be as lax with my money.
<Shuuji>It's just... I can't stand that awkwardness you get when turning people down. Anyway, it's different when I have something to do myself, but I don't mind helping when I'm free.
<Hideaki>...I swear, you're gonna get scammed real hard at some point, and it'll suck.
<Girl>Yeah, I can see it now. It's scary just thinking about it.
<Hideaki>I know, right? You're with me, aren't you, Wakana-chan?
<Girl>Yeah. It's not normal to accept every single request, if you ask me. You're not hiding something from us, are ya?
<Shuuji>Err...
My heart skips a beat when I hear Kariya Wakana, one of my few friends.
I really am hiding something. Something I have never told Kaidou or Kariya, despite being friends... Something I don't want them to know specifically because we're friends.
<Hideaki>What do you think he could be hiding, Wakana-chan?
<Wakana>If I had to guess, maybe he's a hardcore masochist?
<Shuuji>That's a rather extreme assumption.
<Hideaki>A hardcore masochist?! I see. So you've been taking on all this work in order to get turned on at school... I never would've expected it...
<Hideaki>You should've told me we were comrades!
<Shuuji>Keep your fetishes to yourself, dude! You're freaking me out!
<Wakana>Huh? You mean having girls work you like a dog DOESN'T turn you on?
<Shuuji>It really stings to see you so genuinely confused by that.
<Shuuji>And really, girls shouldn't talk about fetishes in the broad daylight.
<Wakana>What kind of sexist BS is this? Girls are allowed to talk about sex too.
<Shuuji>Sure, but usually you keep that sort of talk between girls.
<Shuuji>You got the hots for me or something?
<Wakana>Hahaha. Nice joke. I know you don't mean that.
<Hideaki>Though, it is true that girls talking about that stuff can give us guys the wrong idea.
<Wakana>Well, we only do so around guys we have no interest in. It's just a normal way to make conversation. Don't read too much into it.
<Shuuji>Either way, I don't get especially happy or anything when people work me.
<Hideaki>Yeah, sure. Says the guy who takes every request that comes his way.
<Shuuji>Well... It's just...
<Shuuji>Won't girls really like me if I never turn them down?
<Wakana>Ahahahaha! Not at all. If anything, it makes you look like a dumbass.
<Shuuji>Man, it stings when you say that so bluntly.
She completely brushed me off. There's not even a hint of bashfulness in her.
<Daydream Wakana>"I-It's not like I think you're cool, or anything. You're just... a really nice guy."
I wish that she'd cutely say something like that instead.
<Wakana>Look, Hoshina. It's just like Kaidou said―being a pushover isn't a good thing. You're only going to get used more and more.
<Hideaki>You need to turn people down every once in a while. You'll get taken advantage of if you let them think you're so soft.
<Shuuji>You think I'll get taken advantage of...? Now you're just exaggerating.
<Wakana>I'm not. There are some nasty girls out there who will totally suck you dry with the way you are now.
<Shuuji>As if. You're clearly overthinking.
<Wakana>Tch, tch. You're being naive. Women can be much more calculating than you think.
Kariya says so with a stern face and a wag of her finger. 
<Hideaki>Exactly. Couldn't have put it better myself. Women will get carried away the moment you're nice to them!
<Hideaki>They'll make you pay for their food, for movie tickets, and even for accessories like purses! And all they'll give in return is a "That was a fun way to kill some time. Thanks! See ya♪" without any progress between the two of you.
<Hideaki>And then right after that, they'll suddenly call you and ask you to come pick them up because they missed the last train! For freaking real?! There's mischievous and then there's just plain evil!
<Wakana, Shuuji>......
<Hideaki>Ah?! S-Sorry guys, all my pent-up frustration just kinda exploded there.
<Shuuji>Looks like you've been through some serious shit, man.
<Hideaki>Yeah... I used to mess around a lot. But it's all in the past now.
<Wakana>That sounds like a real nasty girl you ran into.
<Shuuji>But getting used like that actually made you happy, didn't it?
<Hideaki>Well... Yeah, a little.
<Wakana>Ugh, are you grinning?! What a masochist... Terrifying.
<Shuuji>I seriously don't get how someone can feel pleasure from being treated so crappily.
<Hideaki>Hehe... That figures. You two are just greenhorns, after all.
<Shuuji>I'm not planning on ever becoming a masochist veteran.
How can he be so proud of being a masochist...? What's giving him that confidence?
<Wakana>You'll eventually turn into a pervert like him if you keep helping girls.
<Shuuji>I wouldn't want that... Alright. I'll be more careful from now on.
<Hideaki>Have you guys forgotten that I'm right here? Hearing that really hurts, you know?
<Shuuji>I've got a question.
<Wakana>Go ahead, Hoshina-kun.
<Shuuji>How do I avoid being taken advantage of while coming off as soft?
<Wakana>Coming off as soft is already a given?
<Shuuji>I just feel like I'd get on the girls' bad sides if I suddenly changed my whole attitude, which is scary in its own way.
<Wakana>Well, I guess that's possible.
<Hideaki>If you want an example of someone who's kind but doesn't get taken advantage of...
<Wakana>There's Ayachi-san.
<Hideaki>Oh, right. She's a perfect example.
<Girl>Yes? You called me?
<Hideaki>Whoa! A-Ayachi-san?!
<Ayachi-san>I'm sorry to have startled you. I just so happened to overhear my name when I was passing by.
<Ayachi-san>Is there something you need with me?
<Wakana>Oh, uh, don't worry about us. Your name just came up in our conversation.
<Hideaki>Yeah, we weren't gossiping about you or anything.
<Shuuji>Sorry if we offended you.
<Ayachi-san>Oh no, I'm not upset; I was just curious. Please don't mind me.
<Ayachi-san>Anyway, Kariya-san, about the thing from before...
<Wakana>Ah! Yeah, it's going great! That place you introduced me to is awesome! Things are going great thanks to you. Thanks so much!
<Ayachi-san>I'm happy to hear you like it there.
<Wakana>I'm really thankful to you.
<Ayachi-san>Please don't hesitate to visit the clubroom again should something else come up.
<Wakana>Thanks! I will!
<Schoolgirl B>Ah, Ayachi-saaan! Thanks for letting me borrow your notebook. You were a life-saver. And I have to say, the notes you took were super neat. You're awesome!
<Ayachi-san>Oh, it was no big deal. More importantly, are you feeling better now?
<Schoolgirl B>Yeah, I feel great!
<Ayachi-san>I'm glad to hear that. Is there anything else that is troubling you?
<Schoolgirl B>No, nothing at the moment.
<Ayachi-san>I'm willing to help you out or lend an ear to your worries anytime. It doesn't need to be school related; I'm happy to listen to private or other problems too.
<Schoolgirl B>Thanks. I'll be sure to stop by if something comes up.
<Ayachi-san>Yes, please do.
Ayachi-san then smiles warmly.
It's a smile that takes my breath away every time.
―Ayachi Nene.
I'm inclined to believe that most people, man or woman, will turn around to look at her as she walks around town.
She has a graceful bearing, a pretty face and beautiful, silky hair. She's a natural head-turner.
A bittersweet atmosphere follows her wherever she goes.
She's one of the most prominent beauties here at Himematsu Academy.
Incidentally, the reason that the Library Committee girl Akita-san is only "fairly" popular is that Ayachi-san is just that powerful.
<Nene>The same goes for you, Hoshina-kun.
<Shuuji>Huh? Umm... What do you mean?
<Nene>I'd be glad to help if something should ever concern you.
<Shuuji>Oh, thanks. I'm happy for the offer, but there's nothing like that right now.
<Nene>Is that so? For some reason, I got the feeling that there's something worrying you...
<Shuuji>Y-Yeah...?
Ayachi-san stares at me with her beautiful eyes, seeing right through me.
What she just said, and this gaze... Is she on to something?
No, wait. There's no way she could find out my secret just by looking.
<Nene>Well, I just thought it would sound cool if I said that. There was no deeper meaning to it.
<Shuuji>Yeah...?
Despite how this looks, I'm not particularly close with Ayachi-san or anything.
We've been in the same class since entering this school, though, and it seems like Ayachi-san can talk to just about anyone.
<Wakana>Hey, did you see something in your cards about him?
<Nene>No, I haven't... I just had a gut feeling about it.
<Wakana>Considering how many people you've helped, I think you're right to trust that feeling.
<Shuuji>What's that supposed to mean? The part about her helping people.
<Wakana>Oh, whoops... Right... Sorry, Ayachi-san! You're keeping this from the guys, aren't you?
<Nene>Oh, no, it's not that big of a secret, so don't worry about it.
<Nene>It would just be a problem for me if people showed up out of curiosity, so I'm asking that you only keep it to people who actually need help.
<Hideaki>...? Did we overhear something we shouldn't have?
<Nene>It's nothing that big... I'm in the OC.
<Hideaki>OC?
<Shuuji>Um, you mean... the Occult Club?
<Nene>Yes. That's right.
<Shuuji>I didn't know we had one of those at this school. This is the first I'm hearing of it.
<Hideaki>Same here. And it's not just a circle, but an actual club?
<Nene>That's right. It's a club that's been around since before we entered this school. Though, I'm currently the only member.
<Nene>The Student Council has been on our case because of that... After all, the club doesn't do any sort of exhibitions or the like.
<Hideaki>So... do you research ghosts or something? Or maybe aliens?
<Nene>No, I am doing divination. "Occult" involves the entire spectrum of the supernatural. I am thankfully able to do as I please since I am the only member.
<Hideaki>By divination you mean, doing hand signs and being like "And there we have it!"?
<Shuuji>It's impressive how old that reference is. I don't think anyone is gonna get that.
<Wakana>You instantly recognizing it is just as impressive. I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about. You guys are such geeks. Right, Ayachi-san?
<Nene>I obviously can't do Albino Snake Divination.
<Wakana>You know about it too?!
<Nene>Yeah, kind of, but I can only do tarot card reading. Divination is nothing more than a hobby for me, after all.
<Wakana>Anyway, she's also offering counseling there.
<Nene>It's really just part of the divination I'm doing. It hardly deserves to be called "counseling."
<Nene>But if you want, don't hesitate to come over to my clubroom anytime, Hoshina-kun.
<Shuuji>Oh, sure. Thanks.
<Schoolgirl A>Ayachi-saaan! I need your help with our classic Japanese homework!
<Nene>Oh, of course. I'll be right there.
<Nene>Okay then. I must excuse myself now.
Called by one of our classmates, Ayachi-san returns to the classroom.
<Wakana>...Ayachi-san really is amazing. She's smart and cute, and yet not stuck-up at all.
<Hideaki>She's almost a little too perfect to be real.
<Hideaki>But anyway, people consult her for a lot of stuff, huh? I would've expected that to turn into a big rumor.
<Wakana>It's well-known among girls. It'd be a big problem for Ayachi-san if the guys found out and caused a commotion, though.
<Hideaki>Ah, is that so... Maybe I should pay her a visit too, and then... Ehee!
<Shuuji>Allow me to read your thoughts: "Maybe I could get closer to her."
<Hideaki>Huh?! What?! Espers are real? And you're one of them?!
<Wakana>What're you talking about? You couldn't have been more obvious. You were practically oozing with sleaze.
<Shuuji>You're even drooling some.
<Hideaki>Really?! Oh, you're right!
<Shuuji>I'm guessing that the girls don't spread that rumor around because of how many guys like you there are.
<Wakana>That's right. You two better keep this to yourselves.
<Hideaki>Sure. You bet!
<Shuuji>So anyway, did you also consult her about something, Kariya? I mean, you just thanked her and all.
<Wakana>I did. I really want something, but I was worried because I didn't have the money for it.
<Shuuji>What do you want?
<Wakana>Well... A guitar.
<Hideaki>A guitar? Sure didn't expect that.
<Shuuji>You can play the guitar? Well, I guess you wouldn't want one if you couldn't.
<Wakana>Yeah, a little.
Kariya firmly replies with a hint of embarrassment.
<Wakana>I found my dad's old guitar a while back, and he's been teaching me ever since. Apparently, he used to be in a band.
<Wakana>It's been a few years now, and so I'd like to finally get my own guitar.
<Shuuji>Huh. My only musical experience comes from music class, though that was ages ago.
<Hideaki>I could probably play a bit better than Shuuji, then. I had a phase where I was really into music, and so I tried my hand at the guitar.
<Wakana>Oh, really? That's unexpected.
<Hideaki>Well, that was a while ago. So? Since you're saving up money, you gonna get a good one?
<Wakana>Yeah, I'd like a decent one, at least. Though, the prices of musical instruments are pretty crazy.
<Shuuji>True. Especially vintage instruments. The amount those go for is just bonkers.
<Wakana>Dad told me to get one with my own money. Would it have killed him to give me at least some of the money for it?
<Shuuji>So, how did Ayachi-san help you with that?
<Wakana>She introduced me to a part-time job.
<Wakana>And now I'm going to finally reach my goal with my next paycheck, meaning I'll be getting my guitar really soon♪ Uhehe.
<Hideaki>A part-time job, huh? That's nice. Maybe I could have her introduce me to one as well?
<Wakana>Allow me to read your thoughts: "Maybe then, I could get closer to her. I could even ask her out on a date to 'repay her' with my first paycheck!"
<Hideaki>Is everyone I know a freaking esper?!
<Shuuji>Look, anyone could guess as much. The fact that she was right just means you're simple.
<Hideaki>Wh-Whatever! Who cares! Besides, as a guy, I can't let an opportunity to get to know a cute girl like her slip by!
<Wakana>Well, you have a point... I guess.
<Shuuji>I'm guessing all the other single guys out there are looking for opportunities too.
And, wouldn't you know it...
<Student 1>...Those guys there just talked to Ayachi-san, didn't they?
<Student 2>What was it about? I-I want to know... Damn, I'm so jealous of them.
<Student 3>Damn it... I wanna chat with her too.
<Shuuji>......
All the boys around us are jealously staring daggers at us. It's seriously painful.
Just one short chat in the hallway is enough to produce this reaction. That just goes to show how popular Ayachi-san is.
<Wakana>...Hoshina? Why are you grimacing?
<Shuuji>Uh... It's nothing.
<Hideaki>Don't act like this is none of your business. You'd love to get closer with Ayachi-san too, right? Why not get a tarot reading from her? She invited you for one, after all.
<Shuuji>I dunno... I'll swing by and ask for one once something comes up.
<Hideaki>What a waste.
<Wakana>I feel like she wouldn't like it if he went there without a good reason.
<Hideaki>Huh?! Really?
<Wakana>Nobody likes a guy who clearly has ulterior motives, you know?
<Hideaki>Except when you're hot.
<Wakana>Well, too bad you aren't.
<Hideaki>Wow! How could you?!
<Wakana>I don't think girls like Ayachi-san are that shallow. What matters is if you're attractive on the inside, not the outside.
<Hideaki>I see.
<Wakana>Besides, people with great personalities wouldn't approach her like that in the first place.
<Hideaki>Ugh... I guess it's game, set and match for me.
<Shuuji>Guys, we better head back to class. Afternoon classes are about to start.
<Wakana>Oh, yeah. Right.
<Shuuji>......
<Shuuji>(Phew...)
Lunch break has ended, and classes have resumed again. However, I can tell without looking that some boys are still staring at me out of jealousy.
This isn't me just being self-conscious or getting the wrong impression. This is something I can actually feel with my body.
To me, it literally feels like I'm being stabbed when people stare at me too much.
Even now, it feels like I'm being pricked by needles.
<Shuuji>(Man, these jealous looks really hurt.)
Jealousy isn't the only thing I can feel.
It's the same with the sourness when Kaidou worried about me, or the medicine-like taste when Akita-san lied to me.
None of that was meant figuratively.
I literally perceive the feelings of others through my five senses.
When someone around me feels depressed or the mood around me turns heavy, I get a bitter taste in my mouth and a headache.
When someone is angry, it's spiciness and a prickling pain like getting scorched.
And when someone feels worried or anxious, it's sourness instead.
There are also other emotions that come with "colors" or "smell."
This is the secret I can't tell anyone about.
It's because of this that I always try not to turn people down when they ask me for help.
I'd be tormented by endless headaches and bitter tastes in my mouth if I made someone hate me for turning them down.
As a result, I always pay more attention than normal to the feelings of those around me.
<Shuuji>(It's not like I want to be this way, though...)
Incidentally, I have been examined at a hospital.
A long time ago, being the honest and innocent kid I was, I kept telling people about this ability of mine.
I was serious enough about it to worry my dad and teacher. To be safe, my dad took me to the hospital, but they found nothing wrong with me.
The doctor suggested that I could be what they call a "highly sensitive person," which isn't a curable condition.
In the end, I had to accept my heightened sensitivity and learn to live with it.
I've since come to understand that I'm very different from normal people, so I try not to mention it if I don't have to.
At the hospital, the doctor there didn't seem to buy my story and looked at me in disbelief.
I tasted an indescribably disgusting feeling at the time... It was like eating an overly-strong lukewarm soup.
So anyway, that's why I don't want to consult with anyone about it.
Like Kaidou said, Ayachi-san's invitation is compelling, but... I just can't reveal my secret.
Hence, I'm sure she and I will remain nothing more than classmates who occasionally chat, and that we won't see each other again after graduation. A perfectly normal, shallow relationship.
Our paths in life will almost certainly never intersect.
―Or so I thought...
<Shuuji>Well then.
With school finally over, I grab my book bag and get up out of my seat.
<Girl>Hoshina-kuuun! I'm really sorry to ask this of you.
<Shuuji>It's cool. Don't worry about it.
<Girl>Thanks. Okay then, bye-bye♪
<Shuuji>See you tomorrow.
<Hideaki>So you're still doing this, huh?
<Shuuji>For today, yeah. It wouldn't be right to turn her down now after I already told her I'd do it.
<Wakana>Yeah, fair enough.
<Hideaki>*sigh*... Okay, fine. Want me to give you a hand?
<Shuuji>Err...
<Shuuji>I appreciate the sentiment, but no thanks.
<Hideaki>Knew you'd say that.
<Wakana>Yeah, it was practically a given.
<Shuuji>What do you mean?
The two of them smile wryly at me out of exasperation.
Huh? What's that about?
<Wakana>Despite how much you complain, you still insist on doing everything yourself.
<Hideaki>You're a real lone wolf, dude.
<Shuuji>Okay, look. All I'm doing today is entering some data into their computer database, so I really don't need your help.
<Shuuji>I'll ask you for help for sure next time something like this happens.
<Wakana>Stubborn to the end, I see.
<Hideaki>There's not supposed to be a "next time." You're supposed to turn them down instead.
<Shuuji>Yeah, yeah. I know.
<Hideaki>Looks like he's gonna keep on helping people after this.
<Wakana>That's just how he is. It's not something that can be fixed that easily.
<Wakana>No point in nagging him about it any further.
<Hideaki>I'll be on my way, then. What about you, Wakana-chan? Wanna go somewhere if you're free?
<Wakana>Together with you?
<Hideaki>Yeah.
<Wakana>Just the two of us?
<Hideaki>Yeah!
<Wakana>Yeah, no way♪
<Hideaki>Your blunt replies are too cruel!
<Wakana>I'm sorry, but I'm busy today.
<Hideaki>What plans?
<Wakana>That part-time job.
<Hideaki>The one Ayachi-san introduced you to?
<Wakana>Yep. So I don't have time today. Sorry.
<Hideaki>Work, huh... Well, I guess that's―Huh? Hold on a second.
<Hideaki>Then why did you ask if it would be the two of us?! Wouldn't that be completely irrelevant?!
<Wakana>That's just your imagination!
<Shuuji>If you have school in the day and work in the evening, then doesn't that mean you have no time for homework or studying?
<Wakana>Yeah, pretty much. I always end up crashing as soon as I come home from work...
<Wakana>Ugh, our next exams are gonna be rough... Once I get my new guitar, I'm gonna play that bad boy nonstop... Uhehe.
<Wakana>Oh! I'll be late if I keep standing around chatting like this. See you guys later! Gotta go!
<Shuuji>See you tomorrow.
<Hideaki>Don't trip on your shoelaces as you run!
<Shuuji>Well then, I'll head over to the library now.
<Hideaki>Yeah, see you.
I part with Kaidou and head towards the second school building.
The second building houses specialist rooms like the library and art room, as well as all the academic-oriented clubrooms.
Because of that, students not in clubs are rarely seen here after school.
Especially since the library is on the top floor. It's a real pain in the neck to visit.
But even still, there are fewer students here than I expected.
As I'm walking down the dead-silent hallway...
<Shuuji>―Ah!
I discover a door with a nameplate reading "Occult Club."
<Shuuji>It really does exist...
It's not like I doubted everyone. I just never heard of this club before.
Seeing how it has its own clubroom and all, I'm guessing it used to be a lot more prosperous in the past.
<Shuuji>Well, I don't have anything I want to consult her on, and I'm not interested in tarot, so...
I pass by the clubroom and hurry over to the library.
<Shuuji>Excuse me.
<Shuuji>I've been told to come here and register some new books into the library catalog.
<Committee Girl>Huh? Umm... And you are? I don't remember you being in the Library Committee.
<Shuuji>I'm filling in for Akita from class 2-A. Apparently, she has something she can't call off and asked me to fill in for her.
<Committee Girl>Oh, really? If that's how it is... I guess that's alright. Okay, I'm counting on you, then.
<Shuuji>Sorry, but could you teach me how to do it?
<Committee Girl>Sure. It's not too hard. Could you sit down at the computer there?
<Shuuji>Yeah, sure.
<Committee Girl>So first, you open the database, and then... Okay, there we go.
<Committee Girl>See the different fields here? Category, title, author, publisher and so on. You have to fill all of them out.
<Shuuji>I only have to enter the data there and that's it?
<Committee Girl>Yeah, that's right. Click the register button once they're filled out, and then you'll be back at the main database interface again. Well? Think you can manage?
<Shuuji>Yeah, probably. Is it okay to ask you if I have any questions later?
<Committee Girl>Sure thing. Alright, the books you need to register are piled up over here. This is all of them.
<Shuuji>Got it.
I replied casually, but... there's a small mountain of books here. There are easily fifty...
The work itself won't be difficult, but it's certainly going to be time-consuming.
<Shuuji>Welp, better get started...
<Shuuji>Mhm, nnngh...
I give my back a good stretch, my chair creaking underneath me.
<Shuuji>This is a lot more tiresome than I expected.
In order to fill out all the fields, it's necessary to open the back cover of each book, forcing you to type with just one hand. That makes it almost impossible to work quickly.
The sun is starting to set, and I'm still not done.
<Shuuji>Just a little more to go...
<Committee Girl>Umm... You done yet?
<Shuuji>No, sorry. Shouldn't take much longer, though.
<Committee Girl>...Oh.
<Shuuji>......
I wouldn't say she looks outright annoyed, but she doesn't exactly seem happy to hear that, either.
The library is probably pretty busy during exam season, but it's a ghost town at this time of year.
Not a single other student has visited the library today. Which means it's just the two of us two of us sitting here in this huge room.
And her only duty is to just sit there waiting for me to finish my work. Which means...
A lightly bitter taste covers my tongue. What can I say, other than this is exactly what I expected?
Though, really, I don't think this girl is all that frustrated.
My condition just reacts more strongly when the emotions are being directed at me.
It's not nearly as bad when they're directed at other people instead.
<Shuuji>You can go home ahead of me if you want.
<Committee Girl>Huh?
<Shuuji>I doubt anyone is gonna come by this late anyway, and I can return the key to the faculty room myself once I'm done.
<Committee Girl>But you aren't on the committee...
<Shuuji>I've come here to work in place of a Library Committee member. I'm sure me being the one to lock the room up wouldn't be a problem.
<Committee Girl>You think?
Her expression relaxes a little. Looks like I'm managing to persuade her.
<Shuuji>You don't have to worry about me. I'm almost done registering the books, anyway.
<Committee Girl>O-Okay then... Could you please handle that for me? Here's the key.
<Shuuji>Yeah, sure.
<Committee Girl>Thanks a bunch! I'm off, then!
<Shuuji>Yeah, bye!
<Shuuji>......
Now that I'm alone, the bitter taste in my mouth gradually dissipates.
<Shuuji>Pheeew... Now I feel more comfortable. Alright, let's get this done.
There is no need to rush it anymore, so I proceed at a leisurely pace.
<Shuuji>Gotta say, this library is pretty dang nice. And it's dead quiet, too... Kinda makes you want to mess around a little.
I have the whole place to myself right now. There's no one else here to worry about. Now I can, for instance...
<Shuuji>*click clack* Bam!
I pound away on the keyboard, slam down on that enter key, and then strike a triumphant pose!
<Shuuji>I got a little carried away there... That was just embarrassing.
The cringe is real, even though I'm the only one here. Let's not do that again.
<Shuuji>Phew. That's the last of it.
Satisfied, I shut down the PC and get ready to leave.
All I have to do is grab my book bag and check to make sure everything's locked.
Let's see... The windows are all shut. Looking good.
<Hideaki>*sigh*... Okay, fine. Want me to give you a hand?
Kaidou kindly offered his help, and yet I... I really need to get better at accepting help.
I won't be able to hold a normal relationship if I don't.
Besides... Kaidou and Kariya are really kind to me despite how I am. I feel bad for snubbing them like this...
<Shuuji>...So what kind of books do they have here, anyway?
I wonder if they have any self-transformation books about changing yourself.
I drop my bag back down onto the floor and check out the shelves in the back.
It's just a simple question, asked out of idle curiosity.
There's no deeper meaning to it. I just want to know what kind of books our library had.
However, it is this insignificant decision that will eventually change that which I thought could never be changed.
<Voice>Huh? No one's here?
<Shuuji>...Hm?
<Voice>You're kidding me. I came to check up on them since they never came to return the key, and they're nowhere to be seen... I'll need to have a word with them.
Oh crap, a teacher! I guess I took a little too much time.
<Shuuji>Umm―
<Girl>Umm, Sensei.
Another voice drowns out mine. Looks like someone else has also entered the library.
Huh? This voice belongs to...
<Sensei>Ayachi, you're still here?
<Nene>Yes. Time slipped away from me.
<Sensei>Ah. Well, you shouldn't dawdle around here too much.
<Nene>Is... there one else here in the library?
<Sensei>It would seem so. I'm about to lock the room.
<Nene>I would like you to let me look something up before that. Could you lend me the key?
<Sensei>You want to look something up this late?
<Nene>Yes, just something about tarot cards. It won't take much time at all. I'll just need five... no, maybe twenty minutes. Please. 
<Sensei>...Well, I suppose I can trust you. Okay, here's the key.
<Sensei>However, you are to return it to the faculty room within thirty minutes. And make absolutely sure that the room is locked when you leave.
<Nene>Understood. Thank you very much.
<Sensei>Alright, goodbye.
<Nene>Y-Yes... Goodbye... *pant* *pant*...
With our teacher having left, it's now just me and Ayachi-san in the library.
I don't know, it's like... I've completely missed my chance to come out.
I should've just come out while the teacher was still there.
Though, if I keep hiding here... she'll probably think I'm some kind of creep.
<Shuuji>(I'm not doing anything wrong here, so it should be fine if I just come out and explain things to her.)
It'll become even more difficult to approach her once she becomes immersed in her research.
So I'd like to approach her now, but... wait. What is she doing?
Ayachi-san isn't heading to any of the bookshelves. Instead, she goes and closes the door.
<Nene>*pant*... *pant*...
<Shuuji>(......?)
What is she doing? Why would she close the door before starting her research?
And... why is she panting?
<Nene>This should be... alright. Mhh...
Her face is red... Does she have a cold?
Or that's what I'd normally think, but...
I've been tasting and smelling something entirely unfamiliar to me for a little while now.
It's an intense kind of... sweetness? And it's accompanied by a smell that's sending my heart pounding.
Ayachi-san is experiencing an emotion strong enough for me to perceive it clear as day.
What emotion could possibly be this strong? I've never sensed an emotion like this before.
<Shuuji>......
The thought of approaching her is no longer in my mind. I want to know more about this strange emotion I'm sensing right now.
But... even more than the smell, the guilt I'm feeling from peeping on her has sent my heart racing like crazy.
<Nene>*pant*...*pant*...
Ayachi-san still shows no signs of starting her research. Instead of going to the bookshelves, she goes to a nook hidden from the door, and...
<Nene>Mh, mhh...
<Shuuji>(...What?)
<Nene>Ah... ah! Mh... Mhh, mh, mh, mhhh...
<Shuuji>......
<Nene>Mhh *huff*... *pant* *pant* Ah, aaaah... Fuaaaah...
...Oh, I see.
<Nene>*pant* *pant*... Mh, mh, mh! *pant*... Ah, ah, ah... Aaah... Mhh!
We have a criminal on our hands. Where am I supposed to report this?
I mean, what? What the hell?? What is she doing???
<Nene>Ahh, I can't believe it... I-I'm the worst... *pant* *pant* How can I m-masturbate... at school, mh, mhh!
%130;Did she just say "MASTURBATE"?!
She's lifting her skirt (thus revealing her panties) while rubbing her crotch against the desk... Isn't this what they call "desk humping"?
She's freaking humping that desk!
A..Ayachi-san, THAT Ayachi-san is...
<Nene>But if you ever want advice, don't hesitate to come over to my clubroom anytime, Hoshina-kun.
The girl who had such a mature smile is...
<Nene>Ah, aaah... *pant* *pant* *paaant*... Mh, mhhh!
Is now humping a library desk.
<Nene>*pant* *pant*... How can I, be doing this... Ah, aaah... But I feel so good, I can't stop... Mh, mhh, fuah, ah, aaaah!
Is this unbelievable display the real Ayachi-san?
The pure, graceful Ayachi-san who is the dream of every guy in the school... 
<Nene>Uhh... ah, ah, ah! Ah, hyah, mh, mh *pant*... *pant* *pant* Mh, mhhh!
Is actually a public masturbator... No one would believe what I'm seeing right now.
<Nene>*pant*... *pant*... Mhh, mhh... Mh, mh, ah...! Mh, mhh!
Ayachi-san is rubbing her crotch against a desk and silently pleasuring herself, right here in the school library.
I can hardly believe it myself, but this is clearly reality.
<Nene>Mhh, mh, mhh... hgh, ah, ah, ahh, mhhhhhhh!
Could it be that smell and taste I perceived was... sexual arousal?
That is the only possible conclusion I can draw as I watch her, her face beet red and hair disheveled, intently rub her crotch against the desk corner.
And my own body is growing hot too, as if her arousal is spreading over to me.
<Nene>Haaaah... *pant* *pant*... Mhh, mhh, mmmh! Mhh... mhh, ah, ah, aaahhh!
<Shuuji>(*gulp*)
<Nene>No time. I need to hurry, or else... she'll come back... If she sees me doing this... Mhh, mh, mhh, mh! Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah...!
<Nene>Ah, ah, mhh, mhhh! *pant* *pant* *pant* Ahhh, I'm just the worst!
Despite rebuking herself, she doesn't stop her hips.
Her expression is one you'd never imagine her having based on her usual demeanor. It's so sloppy. Like she's intoxicated...
<Nene>Mhh... Mhh, haah *pant* *pant*... Mhh, mh, ah, mh, aah... Ah, ah, aaaah!
<Nene>*paant* *paaant* It feels so good... Ah, ah, aah. So very... good... Mhh!
Ayachi-san's moans are the only sounds that fill the otherwise silent library.
The desk she is pressing her crotch against is wet from the sexual fluids soaking through her panties.
My own breathing is growing heavy as well from seeing Ayachi-san like this.
<Nene>I need to... hurry, and finish before... she comes and checks on me... *pant* *pant* *pant* *pant*
<Shuuji>......
<Nene>*pant* *pant* *pant* *paaant*... Ah, ah, ah... ah... Aaaah, mh, mh, mhhh!
I... I can't take my eyes off her. I lean out from behind the bookshelf and stare at the event unfolding before my eyes.
I'm witnessing for the first time a girl pleasuring herself. And it's desk humping, at that... I'm completely captivated.
And the most captivating part of all is that it's the sweet and innocent Ayachi-san doing it.
Ayachi-san... That Ayachi-san is doing... something like this, right before my eyes...
<Nene>Mhh, mh, mh *paaant*... *pant* *pant* *pant* Annh, ah, annh, aaaah, mh!
My body has grown hot from the scent of her arousal and my own excitement.
I've never experienced such an intense feeling within me before.
<Nene>*pant* *pant* *pant*... I'm, drooling... *slurp*... Mhh, ah *pant* *paaant*... *pant* *pant* *pant*... *slurp*
While she does mind the drool that is coming out of the corner of her mouth, she shows no sign of minding the juices that are dribbling out of her crotch.
She's flooding the table with juices.
<Nene>I'm such scum, feeling good doing this, pleasuring myself in the library like this... I'm the worst. But, but...
<Nene>Aaaaaah... I can't stop anymore... *slurp*... *pant* *pant*... Aaahhhh!
My fully erect dick twitches with every moan and slurp she voices.
Actually, seeing her masturbate like this, I also want to...
The scent and taste of her arousal turned me on enough already... Add this sight on top of that, and...
<Nene>*pant* *pant* *pant*... Need to, hurry... Ah, ahh, aaah... Aaah! Come on, come on!
<Nene>I want to cum already, I wanna cum... I just want to cum now... *pant* *pant* *pant* Ahh, ah, ah, ah, ah, aaah!
I want to lose myself to desire, consequences be damned...
Seeing Ayachi-san pleasure herself with a desk, I'm on the brink of losing control. Except...
She blows her load first.
<Nene>Ah, ah, aaaah... It's started to, tingle... Noo, I'm about to cum... Mhh, but that's a good thing. Ah, ah, I need to cum, quickly... Come on, come on, come on!
Ayachi-san thrusts her hips faster. This is her push for climax.
Lost in her pursuit of pleasure, her movements turn quick and jerky.
<Nene>*pant* *pant*... Haaaaah, mhh! Mh, mh, mhhh! It's coming, it's coming... Mhh, mhhh! I'm tingling all over!
<Nene>Ah... ah, ah, ah! Ah, ah, ah, aaaaaah! I'm cumming, I'm cumming, I'm cumming, I'm cumming, I'm cumming!
<Nene>Mhh, mhhhhhhhhhhhh!!
She finally ceases the fierce thrusting of her hips as her back arches backwards.
Like that, her whole body twitches and she lets her drool drip out of her mouth.
<Nene>*pant* *pant* *pant*... I've done it again... I'm pure trash... *pant*... *pant*...
Her words are harsh, but her face is completely enraptured...
<Nene>*paaant*... *paaant*... I need to, clean the desk... And then, also lock the library... *pant*... *pant*...
<Nene>I don't want to move now, but she'll come to check otherwise... I need, to hurry... *pant*... *pant*... But I can't, get any strength, into my body...
Having climaxed, the desk humping has at last reached its end.
On one hand, I'm disappointed it's over, but on the other hand, I would've loved to see more... Huh? Aren't those two the same?
Though, considering I was on the verge of unzipping there, it's probably for the best that it ended... I guess.
With the show now over, rational thought returns to my mind.
Hey... Aren't I in a pretty bad spot here? I'll be in a world of trouble if she finds me.
I need to calm down and quietly, veeery quietly get back behind the bookshelves.
<Nene>Haaaaaah... I mustn't waste any more time. I need to... clean...... up?
Ayachi-san suddenly stops talking.
I trace her gaze and find my own book bag there on the ground...
Oh, shit! I totally forgot about that!
<Nene>――!
She whips around and faces the bookshelves.
<Shuuji>Ah?!
...O-Our eyes have met.
Our eyes have met so directly that we might as well exchange short greetings.
This situation is bad! Really freaking bad!
<Shuuji>G-Good evening...
I direct a light bow at her and quickly retreat.
I figured my greeting would show her that I'm a perfectly normal, unsuspicious person. Except...
<Shuuji>(Oh my god! Oh my god! Wh-Wh-What do I do?! My plan was to just leave her be!)
She totally noticed me just now, right?! Well, no shit she has! I mean I freaking said "good evening" to her!
WH-WHAT DO I DO?! NO idea! Seriously, I have absolutely NO clue! How are you supposed to act in this kind of situation?!
Should I just, like, smile at her?! 
<Shuuji>"*smile*"
That would only provoke her!
Just smiling won't do. I need to at least say something as well. Like...
<Shuuji>"Nice going girl lolol!"
Yeah, just fan the flames, why don't I?!
These ideas are all bullshit! None of them will work! I want to just make a mad-dash for the exit, but we're in the same class. I can't avoid confrontation forever.
And things will only get more awkward over time, so I should probably address the issue sooner, rather than later...
<Shuuji>A-Alright. Let's do this!
I man up and walk out from behind the bookshelves.
<Nene>Oh, Hoshina-kun. Fancy meeting you here. Are you here doing some kind of research? Must be tough having to stay so late here.
There is no single trace of her masturbating self from just a minute ago. She's just like usual... Or maybe even calmer and gentler than usual.
<Shuuji>Huh? Err... Yeah. You too? 
<Nene>Nope! Nothing tough on my end!
<Shuuji>Huh? Okay... Right, I'm sorry.
The desk is even spotless. It's unbelievable how quickly she managed to compose herself... Almost makes me doubt what I just witnessed.
I'm not catching the slightest hint of distress from her. Rather, she's so beyond composed that my spine is starting to tingle...
...Is this the female refractory period?
<Shuuji>So, uh, Ayachi-san... About what happened just now―
<Nene>%130;Huh? What did you just say?
Who does she think she is, a dense anime protagonist?!
<Shuuji>E-Err...... Um, never mind... Forget about it.
<Nene>Yeah? So... Isn't it about time we head home now?
<Shuuji>Y-Yeah, you're right. See, the thing is, someone on the Library Committee asked me to fill in for them, and since I was already here, I decided to look at some books.
<Shuuji>But I really was about to leave. So, uh, this was all just coincidence... Err... Sorry I startled you.
<Nene>......
<Shuuji>......
<Shuuji>Oh, right... Nothing happened. Never mind what I just said.
<Nene>Okay, will do. I'm done here too, so I'll be leaving now. Please make sure you don't stay for much longer, Hoshina-kun.
<Shuuji>Sure, yeah. Oh, I'll lock up the room and explain everything to Hisashima-sensei.
<Nene>Thank you very much. Here's the key I received.
<Shuuji>Alright.
<Nene>Please return it to Hisashima-sensei. I shall excuse myself now. Goodbye, Hoshina-kun.
<Shuuji>Yeah, see ya.
Ayachi-san grabs her book bag and, without breaking her smile, casually walks out the library.
And as she's passing me―
<Nene>%69;No way... I'm dreaming... It's just a dream. A nightmare... That's right, a nightmare... Of course it's a nightmare... It has to be. This cannot have happened. No way. It just couldn't have...
―I hear her mumbling that to herself...
This girl is freaking scary. Especially with those cold, dead eyes.
Ayachi-san walks out into the hallway, closing the library door behind her.
<Shuuji>......
Alright―
<Nene>Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh! No way! This can't be happening! I'm dreaming! This is all just a dreeeaam!!
Ayachi-san's emotions finally exploded!
Maybe she's finally acknowledging reality...
Well, of course she would react like that... The one who was caught in the act could never keep their composure forever, especially when the one who caught them is freaking out.
<Shuuji>If my dad ever caught me jerking off...
<Shuuji>......
<Shuuji>Aaaahh!
Just imagining it makes me want to curl up in my bed and cry!
<Shuuji>*sigh*... I really feel sorry for her.
Anyway, I really do need to head home now.
I bend down and reach for my book bag, when... Hm? Something's on the ground there.
<Shuuji>A student ID? Oh, it's Ayachi-san's.
<Shuuji>I should return this to her. But... I can't imagine how awkward approaching her will be.