My Popular-as-Hell Best Friend Is Annoying, So I Want to Get Him a Girlfriend and Shut Him Up - Chapter 216 & 217 & 218

Chapter 216: Summer Break, Tea Ceremony Club 12

After a short break, the Tea Ceremony Club is lined up in a row in the main hall.

In front of us, Hou-san holds a keisaku, a long, thin stick.

Given the setting, even the densest person could guess what’s coming.

“For the next 30 minutes, I’d like you all to practice zazen.”

This club camp has evolved into full-on monk training, but honestly, I don’t care.

Zazen—I tried it at home as a joke, but I never thought I’d experience it in front of a real head priest.

“You may sit and posture however you like. However, if I sense distracting thoughts from behind—”

Hou-san flicks the keisaku against the wooden floor, producing a crisp sound that scatters through the room.

Tension ripples across the club members’ faces.

“I’ll give a tap like that. It won’t be too hard, so don’t worry.”

Hou-san tries to ease the mood with a gentle smile, but the sound was so sharp that none of the first-years look relaxed.

Are they that scared of being hit?

I’d actually love to get tapped—rare experience and all.

“Hey, Akari.”

While everyone’s figuring out their sitting style, I whisper to Akari next to me.

“Hm? What’s up?”

“Did you do zazen last year too?”

“Yeah, it’s a shock the first time, right?”

“Nah, I was more shocked when I found pineapple in sweet-and-sour pork.”

“Do you even want to talk to me?”

For some reason, she glares at me with a smile.

Did I do something wrong?

“No, I mean, did anyone get tapped last year?”

Hou-san’s dramatic display stirred up the club, but it might just be to set the mood.

To know for sure, asking a veteran like Akari is the best bet.

“Yeah, a senior got tapped once. But it startles everyone around, so it’s like we all experienced it.”

“I see. Any way I can get him to tap me?”

“Huh? You’re asking me?”

“Who else is here?”

“Uh, maybe wiggle around to look distracted?”

“Don’t mess around. Zazen’s about focus.”

“Do you know the word ‘unfair,’ Hirose-kun?”

Akari’s gaze turns slightly chilly.

That’s a bold attitude toward your mentor, but my sixth sense screams, “You’re the bad guy.”

No way.

“…So, Hirose-kun, you’re into that kind of thing?”

My rebellious disciple shoots me an oddly fidgety look, her earlier intensity gone.

“Into? Into what?”

“Uh, like, enjoying being hit…”

“Oh, that? Yeah, I’d love it. (Getting tapped with a keisaku is a rare experience.)”

“W-What!?”

“It might help me discover a new side of myself. (Especially in this temple vibe.)”

“A-A new side…!”

“…You okay?”

In just a few exchanges, Akari’s face turns bright red, her hands on her cheeks.

She’s radiating chaos as usual, but I’ve got no clue why.

What part of our chat got her so worked up?

“I-I’m fine. I’ll try to remember it!”

“Uh…”

She responds to my concern, but I’m even more lost.

Remember what?

Is she planning to memorize sutras or something?

As I’m thinking she’s being reckless, Akari looks at me with teary eyes.

“I-I don’t think I can remember. Is normal okay?”

She’s so confused, she’s pleading politely.

…Does this girl even want to talk to me?

※

“Alright, 30 minutes. Good work, everyone.”

At Hou-san’s signal, the club members dramatically slump.

Maintaining the same posture for 30 minutes—I get the feeling.

“Hirose-kun, you’re amazing.”

As I stretch lightly, Akari, who’s loosened her stance, looks at me with admiration.

“What?”

“You didn’t flinch at all when Saeki-kun got tapped.”

“He got tapped?”

Guess that bundle of worldly desires got noticed—Hou-san’s sharp.

“You were so focused you didn’t even notice, right?”

“It’s a mindset thing. This is a battle with yourself—no room to care about others.”

“That’s what’s amazing.”

Nodding eagerly, Akari adds, “By the way.”

“You kept your eyes open during zazen, huh?”

“Huh? Why close them?”

“Wait, don’t you close your eyes for zazen?”

“No clue, but I focus better with them open.”

“Really? Doesn’t the scenery distract you?”

“Nope, not if I focus on one point. Closing my eyes makes my nose and ears too sensitive, so it doesn’t work for me.”

“Wow, that’s a way to think about it.”

“Also, I don’t see the point in closing my eyes to focus. Humans live with their eyes open, right?”

“Hehe, true.”

“Only 16 years of life behind my theory—don’t go spreading it.”

“I wouldn’t!”

We’re chatting about zazen like it’s a movie review.

Experiencing it in the serene temple hall was great, but I’m bummed I didn’t get tapped.

And Saeki got it instead?

That stings in a weird way.

Being too good at zazen is a problem.

“Good work this morning. Lunchtime.”

Heading to the lodging area, we find Tomura-sensei in a teacher’s tracksuit and apron, prepping lunch.

Haven’t seen her in a bit—guess she was cooking.

On tables in the tatami room, three bowls of sōmen noodles sit, with sides like condiments, chopped veggies, and ham to keep things varied.

Hmm, not sure why, but it feels summer camp-y.

“Sensei, anything else to help with?”

“I’m preparing watermelon. Can you help carry it once the sōmen settles?”

“Got it.”

Dessert too? They’re going all out.

Sure, we helped clean the temple, but this is a sweet reward.

Gonna enjoy it.

“Hirose-san, what do you think of this?”

As I’m about to sit, Tomura-sensei spreads her arms slightly and asks me.

As a guest participant, I should answer sincerely, especially with lunch provided.

“I was expecting katsu curry or tonjiru, but it’s summer, so sōmen’s a nice choice.”

I rarely give empty flattery.

I say what I think, plain and simple.

Praising Tomura-sensei’s thoughtfulness, I’m surprised when she tilts her head curiously.

Did I miss the mark?

Maybe “nice choice” didn’t land with a modern Japanese teacher.

Should I have said “refined” or something?

Too late—that’s classical Japanese.

As regret hits, Tomura-sensei says quietly:

“I wasn’t expecting that. I meant your thoughts on my outfit.”

Teachers don’t ask students dumb stuff like that!!

This lunch finally convinced me that “Tomura-sensei is lenient with comedy” might be true.

Chapter 217: Summer Break, Tea Ceremony Club 13

Still fuming from Tomura-sensei’s accidental drag, lunchtime comes to an end.

The meal itself was flawless, but the exchange with Sensei left my body zero chance to rest.

Her comeback—“I meant your thoughts on my outfit”—forced me to critique her tracksuit-apron combo.

Thinking she wanted a goofy response over a safe one, I went bold: “If the tracksuit was a swimsuit, it’d feel more summery.” Result? She deadpanned, “Hirose-san, swimsuits are for the beach.”

She’s the one who asked the weird question, but Akari, watching our exchange, blurted, “Hirose-kun wants Sensei to wear a swimsuit…!” That sparked a misunderstanding that spread through the Tea Ceremony Club like wildfire.

I had to waste time on pointless explanations, leaving no room for a proper break.

Oh well.

I’m partly to blame for my sharp reply.

Let’s call it a bitter lesson learned and move on.

Next time, I won’t go easy on Sensei.

Personally, it was a hectic lunch break, but the afternoon kicks off with a lecture—reviewing tea ceremony knowledge.

From general history to etiquette, we spend about 40 minutes organizing our thoughts.

It’s probably not a formal study session for the club members, but it’s not something to brush off either.

Prepping for the practical session ahead, brushing up isn’t a bad move.

And now, the main event.

We move to the tea room in a separate building, entering according to etiquette and taking turns preparing tea.

Today, half the club members perform the tea ceremony; the other half will do it tomorrow.

“Saeki-san, you’re being a bit rough. Take it slow and careful.”

“Yes!”

Sitting in seiza, we observe each person’s movements.

This tea room, larger than Yourei High’s and adorned with an expensive hanging scroll, exudes a more solemn vibe.

Maybe it’s the temple setting, with the forest air so close.

My spine straightens a bit.

I’ve dropped by the Tea Ceremony Club plenty, but I’ve never immersed myself in this atmosphere.

Everyone’s earnestly tackling the tea ceremony.

I’d never dare call this just a “tea-making-and-drinking” club.

Their passion matches mine for sumo.

Realizing that alone made joining this camp worthwhile.

※

The tea room session was longer than expected.

Beyond basic etiquette, we learned about types of sweets served in tea ceremonies, seasonal knowledge for spring, summer, fall, and winter—basically a full crash course.

The content was so engaging it made the morning lecture feel like a waste.

Getting explanations in the tea room would’ve stuck better.

Then again, you can’t exactly take notes in there.

It’s 5:30 PM.

Despite the evening, the sky glows blue, keeping that summer brightness.

Being in the mountains, bugs are buzzing, but we’re gathered in a clearing a bit from the main hall.

The reason?

The row of grill-like stoves in front of us says it all.

“Good work, everyone. Dinner is barbecue—enjoy as much as the ingredients allow.”

Yup, after nearly finishing today’s program, an awesome reward awaits.

Who’d have thought we’d get a barbecue?

I’m hit with the realization that food is the heart of any camp.

Motivation’s through the roof—sky-high!

“Wow! The meat’s burning, burning!”

“Eat some veggies too!”

“Who put pudding here!? It’s leaking underneath!”

Hearing the club members’ lively chatter, I grab the bare minimum and keep my distance.

I’m an outsider, so I shouldn’t hog their food.

I’ll snag some grilled pudding later, though.

“…Yo.”

As I watch the girls’ chaotic food battle from afar, surprisingly, Saeki approaches with an unreadable expression.

“What’s up? Your utopia’s over there.”

“I’m taking a break from reading the room.”

Saeki casually tosses out a jab.

I get that he’s tired of playing nice with the girls, but don’t make me your pit stop.

“Kidding. Misono-senpai told me to lean on you if I felt out of place. That’s why you’re here, right?”

“She said that to you too, huh?”

“Can’t ignore the President’s orders, so let me keep up appearances.”

Hold up.

Even a chill guy like me’s getting annoyed.

A break? Appearances?

Can’t you approach me with a better reason?

Fine.

No point getting testy with a junior.

I’ll handle this with my usual calm.

“How was the camp today? Looked like you were having fun.”

“It’s fun. No guys around, so I can talk to the girls without overthinking.”

Classic Saeki.

Not a hint of shame.

Radiating that refreshing aura while scheming—scary stuff.

“But today had some rough moments.”

“Rough moments?”

That caught my attention.

I thought he was basking in his paradise, so this throws me off.

I figured he was loving the camp, but apparently not.

“Hm?”

Waiting for his reply, I notice Saeki giving me a half-lidded stare.

When I tilt my head, he sighs heavily, like he’s given up.

“It’s about how many times you came up today.”

According to Saeki, my presence made me the topic of conversation every third chat, apparently.

I’ve crashed the Tea Ceremony Club enough that it’s not weird for me to be a talking point, but Saeki’s not thrilled about it.

“Didn’t think I’d relive my Aoyagi-senpai trauma here.”

“It’s just ‘cause he hasn’t shown up in a while. No need to sweat it.”

“Clueless types like you are the scariest—you never know what they’ll do.”

“Huh.”

Maybe his trauma with Uryu’s flaring up, but Saeki’s on guard even with me.

What’s his deal? He’s overthinking pointless stuff.

“Saeki, my man.”

“What?”

“Stop hyping up others and putting yourself down.”

Saeki’s eyes widen, caught off guard.

“Sure, Uryu’s Mr. Perfect, but he gets flustered by girls’ advances and feels out of place with his siblings. Poke him, and he’s got his sloppy side too. Thinking like that makes him feel more human, right?”

“Well, yeah…”

“Then just rag on him for it. Can’t say it out loud? Do it in your head. It’s better than moping.”

There’s no fun in seeing an overachiever from a normal lens.

If you’re gonna feel inferior and sulk, it’s way more productive to go for the top with baseless confidence.

Just my take, though.

“…So, Senpai, you can one-up Aoyagi-senpai?”

“No clue. Trying to beat Uryu’s already a dumb idea.”

“Wait, aren’t you trying to cheer me up?”

“Idiot. I just wanna see you get cocky. Stop obsessing over Uryu and focus on your paradise.”

Saeki puts a hand to his mouth, chuckling softly.

“That makes no sense…” he mutters, then looks at me with a clearer expression.

“Thanks. That was more helpful than I expected.”

“‘More than expected’ is unnecessary.”

“So I should look down on both Aoyagi-senpai and you, right?”

“That’s a wild spin, but that kind of attitude’s not bad.”

“Got it. No point talking more, so I’m heading back.”

Always with the extra jab, this guy.

He takes a few steps toward the girls, then turns back.

“If.”

“If?”

“If you ever wanna beat Aoyagi-senpai, let me know. We’ll take him down together.”

With that, Saeki slips back into the crowd, cool as ever.

…What was that?

He’s been cocky with me the whole time, but at the end, it felt like he reached out a bit.

His lack of initiative bugs me, but wanting to one-up Uryu’s a good sign.

…Though, me wanting to beat Uryu’s pretty unlikely, so it’s kinda pointless.

Chapter 218: Summer Break, Tea Ceremony Club 14

“Ah!”

As the sky finally starts to dim, I get a message from Dad.

Looks like he’s here to pick me up.

I was a bit worried since I only told him the destination this morning, but it seems my fears were unfounded.

I head toward Tomura-sensei, who’s eating alongside Hou-san.

“Hirose-san, what’s up?”

“My dad’s here to pick me up, so I’m heading out.”

“I see.”

Tomura-sensei sets down her chopsticks and small plate, meeting my eyes.

“How was the Tea Ceremony Club camp?”

Her expression doesn’t change, but there’s a probing edge to her question.

I don’t know exactly what she’s after, but I’m not one for polished answers.

“It was really stimulating.”

With that preface, I continue.

“I wasn’t sure what a Tea Ceremony Club camp would involve, but I feel like I gained something you can’t get from regular club activities. And that unique camp vibe—it felt more serious than the usual laid-back atmosphere, which got me invested. I think it was a great experience.”

Izumo’s call dragged me into this camp, and I went along half-heartedly, but as I said, I’m glad I joined.

I felt the weight of sacrificing summer break for this—more than enough meaning.

It’s not just because it’s a temple; that passion would’ve hit me anywhere.

If anything, I wish I could’ve stayed till the end, but family circumstances are what they are.

That I can feel this way is the biggest takeaway.

“I’ve changed my impression of you, Hirose-san.”

“Huh?”

“You can handle group activities properly.”

“Ugh.”

That stings, and I let out a groan.

Given my past behavior and how I’ve acted at school events, it’s a fair jab.

“I had concerns, so I kept a close eye on you today. This is my family’s temple, but it’s a public space—problems can’t be fixed after they happen.”

“Fair point.”

“But today, you maintained a serious attitude, just like the club members. You even guided some of them.”

“Guiding’s a bit much.”

“Having your own perspective and sharing it with others isn’t easy. Convincing everyone is even harder.”

Hou-san, sitting nearby, nods lightly at Sensei’s words.

As a head priest, he might have his own thoughts on this.

“In that sense, you have the potential to lead. I hope you’ll work on nurturing that.”

“…”

“Start with school events—take them seriously. After summer break, we’ve got the sports festival and culture festival. I expect to see your leadership shine.”

With that, Tomura-sensei softens her expression slightly.

It’s the first smile I’ve seen from her since getting to know her.

I thought she disliked me, so her warm words are an honor.

I should probably act to live up to them.

“Sensei—that’s impossible.”

But I’m Hirose Yukiya.

No matter how kindly she puts it, I don’t have the energy to tackle impossible tasks.

I’m not arrogant enough to chase unattainable dreams.

“Yourei High is full of people way better at leadership than me. Me outshining them? No way.”

Even if Sensei sees potential, this is my reality.

My class has Uryu and Izumo, and the grade has Haruka.

There’s no room for me to step in.

So, let those guys handle the spotlight.

“I’ll do what I can to the fullest, trying not to stray too far from group efforts.”

Sorry, Sensei, but I can’t change this stance.

Just being mindful of group activities is growth for me… I think.

Tomura-sensei’s eyes widen briefly before she lets out a big sigh.

It’s a rare human moment from a usually robotic teacher.

“Honestly, how long do I have to keep guiding you?”

“Till I graduate, I guess. That’s what teachers do.”

“My focus is the first-years. I don’t know anything about you.”

“That got harsh fast.”

Hou-san bursts out laughing at our exchange, while Tomura-sensei turns away, looking annoyed.

Seeing such a childish gesture, I can’t help but smile at how clearly they’re father and daughter.

※

“You guys seriously coming along?”

After quick goodbyes to everyone, I call out to the two trailing behind me as I head out.

“Of course. I’m the one who invited you.”

“I, uh, thought Izumo-chan might get lonely walking back alone.”

I’d have preferred to slip away quietly, but Izumo and Akari insisted on greeting my parents.

“You sure? You’ll have to climb those stairs again.”

“Ugh…!”

Both let out a groan at the same time.

I vividly remember how hard they struggled up those stairs.

Going back just to greet my dad feels a bit much.

“I-It’s fine! Tea ceremony needs strong legs too!”

“I want to train my agility dodging all the bugs!”

“Okay, then.”

Two high school girls spouting nonsense to dodge reality.

If they’re that determined, I won’t say more.

I start down the stairs.

Scattered houses dot the fields below, their lights glowing beautifully.

I wouldn’t have thought lights were pretty if I hadn’t come here.

Living in a city where everything’s lit up even at night, it’s different.

“Hirose-kun, did you have fun today?”

Akari, walking behind me, asks.

No need to think about the answer.

“Totally loved it. Great experience.”

“R-Really!?”

“Why would I lie? I don’t do flattery.”

“R-Right!”

I don’t need to see her face to know she’s thrilled.

People who can’t hide their feelings show it in their voice, not just their face.

“S-So, uh, feel like joining the Tea Ceremony Club!?”

Her unexpected words nearly make me stop.

“Wow, Akari, going for it.”

“B-But, if we were in the same club, we’d spend more time together.”

“Ugh, it’s already hot—don’t make it worse.”

“I don’t have that kind of power!”

Before I can respond, they start a comedy routine behind me.

“So, what’s the real answer?”

I’m debating whether to jump in when Izumo tosses the question back to me.

I hear Akari catch her breath, but I’ll give my honest take.

“Sorry, but sumo club orienteering pulled my heart more.”

The Tea Ceremony Club seems fun, and I know the members well—it wouldn’t be a bad fit.

But Goriji-senpai’s sumo stomps broke through my rough heart.

He told me I could quit for another club, but I’m not ready to ditch our space that easily.

“S-Sorry! I didn’t mean you should quit sumo!”

I thought my words were harsh, but Akari’s panicking over something else.

She’s regretting indirectly suggesting I abandon sumo.

“Don’t worry, I get it. Stop overthinking everything.”

“O-Okay.”

“That was just Akari’s ulterior motive—wanting to hang with Yukiya.”

“Ugh…”

The serious mood fades, but now it’s a topic I’d rather avoid.

Damn Izumo, stirring things up just to tease Akari.

I hesitate for a second but decide there’s no point getting awkward.

I’d rather not pretend I don’t notice the affection aimed at me.

“Hey, Akari, you don’t need to go the long way around.”

“Huh?”

“No need to use the club as an excuse. If you wanna hang, just message me. If I’m free, we’ll meet.”

“R-Really?”

“If you’re too shy, I’ll forget about you. If texting’s enough, fine, but—”

“Not enough, not enough! I’ll hit you up soon!”

“Cool.”

I’m relieved we’re talking while walking down the stairs.

Face-to-face, I wouldn’t know what expression to make.

“That’s some VIP treatment. What about Tsuyu-chan?”

“I’d say the same to her. She’s got exams, so I’d rather she chill.”

“Oh, so Akari’s not special.”

“I’m working to see who I can make special. Want more? Move my heart.”

“High and mighty, but when you fall first, you’re done.”

Izumo answers for a pensive Akari.

I wish she’d focus on herself instead of Akari’s feelings.

“Tsuyu-chan’s met your dad, right?”

“Yeah, I guess.”

“So today makes it even?”

“No clue. Dad and Tsuyu swapped Line IDs.”

“WHAT!?”

No surprise they’re shocked, but watch your step with those yells.

Both are communication powerhouses, after all.

“Is Tsuyu-chan going for the outer moat strategy?”

“But she’s gotta conquer Hirose-kun for the real win.”

“Conquer, huh.”

Ignoring their chatter, I walk a few more minutes and reach the bottom.

The bus from earlier is gone from the parking lot, replaced by a small four-seater car.

Spotting us, a tall, lanky man steps out of the driver’s seat.

Needless to say, it’s my beloved dad.

“Good job, Yuu-kun. Camp fun?”

“Super fun. Sorry for making you come all this way.”

“No worries, no worries. The drive with your mom was fun.”

Tch, Mom’s here too, huh.

No way she’d let Dad head out alone this late, but she’s not budging from the passenger seat.

“Yuu-kun, who are these two?”

Dad turns to the pair behind me.

“Oh, the Tea Ceremony Club members who invited me today.”

Technically just Izumo, but explaining’s a hassle, so I skip it.

When I glance at them, their faces are visibly tense.

What’s with them? Nervous?

“Oh, you’re the class rep, right? Saw you at last year’s culture festival.”

“Y-Yes! I’m Misono Izumo! I’m in Yukiya-kun’s class again this year!”

“Nice. Yuu-kun’s a bit quirky but kind, so please get along.”

“Yes!”

“H-Hold on, Dad.”

Crap, Dad’s bad habit’s kicking in.

In a word: “parental doting.”

It’s heartwarming but mortifying—give me a break.

“And you are…”

“I’m Kirita Akari! I’m in a different class, but I think we’re close!”

What kind of intro is that?

I nearly retort, but Dad just grins happily.

“Thanks for being friends with Yuu-kun.”

“No, no, it’s my honor!”

“Yuu-kun, you’re really well-liked.”

“She gets weirdly formal when she’s nervous.”

Dad nods, “I see,” at my spot-on follow-up.

Alright, that’s enough.

Gotta split before Dad’s doting goes overboard.

“U-Um!”

Just then, Akari calls out to Dad.

I brace myself, wondering what she’s up to, as she bows and holds out her phone.

“Could I have your Line ID!?”

“Why!?”

Dad, unfazed, exchanges Line IDs with Akari, smiling as usual.

Sadly, my retort vanishes into the summer night.

“Thanks for picking him up today!”

“No, thank you. Invite him again sometime.”

“Yes!”

With that, Dad and I hop into the car.

The moment I sit, exhaustion hits like a wave—I could pass out if I let my guard down.

“…Who?”

As the car starts, Mom, who’d been silent in the passenger seat, speaks up.

Oh, she’s awake?

“Yuu-kun’s friends—cute girls.”

Dad’s voice is practically bouncing with joy.

I haven’t had many chances to introduce friends, so he’s genuinely thrilled.

“…Cheating?”

But my heartless mom says something wildly off-base.

She opens her mouth and freezes everyone with her venom.

“Don’t talk about cheating when you don’t even know the ‘L’ in love.”

“…I know it. I’m married?”

“I heard you got married before you were even dating.”

“…Dear, counter that.”

“What, here?”

“Explain it yourself! Don’t drag Dad into it!”

“Quiet, Yukiya. Keep it down in the car.”

“Whose fault is that!?”

My body’s drained, but Mom’s nonsense has my eyes wide open.

I’m mentally more exhausted now than all day.

Letting out a big sigh, Dad says, “You can sleep, it’s fine.”

That’s the Hirose family’s healing touch.

And so, my Tea Ceremony Club camp adventure comes to a close.