Eternal Freedom's Ascension-Chapter 79: Genuine Smile

After classes, Hazel and the others fixed the study lessons to Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. It was not compulsory for everyone to join, but it was for academically weak students like Eric, Jose, and Logan.

Those three showed the most unenthusiastic behavior during class. Logan would rather sleep or fight an automaton than pay attention in class. As for the other two, they were totally unserious and would rather play games or simp on girls all day. 𝗳𝐫𝚎𝗲𝚠𝚎𝗯𝕟𝐨𝘃𝚎𝗹.𝗰𝗼𝗺

Kaiser quietly left the class and headed to the library.

He had finished reading one of the books Maya had given him, and intended to return it.

"Hey! Wait up, Kaiser!"

Ysabella ran through the hallway, her breathing heavy. She had probably hurried to meet him.

He paused briefly till she fell beside him, then continued walking.

’Ugh! This jerk can’t even wait properly!’

Still breathing heavily, she managed to keep up with his pace.

"Start talking."

He said calmly, his face lacking a distinct expression.

"Oh okay." She forced a sweet smile, "I want you to join me in tutoring some of the dull students in our class. I hope you can do that for me. Right?"

Instead of answering her, Kaiser asked. "Is that what Hazel sent you to do?"

Still keeping her angelic expression, Ysabella expressed surprise. "Ah? How did you know that?"

Kaiser spoke calmly. "You wouldn’t do that out of your own will."

The girl’s green eyes brightened. "You’re so smart. Indeed, Hazel sent me to try getting you involved, probably because we seem close."

As she said this, she latched onto his arm, pressing her sizable assets against him.

Kaiser gave her a glance, his pace uninterrupted. If anyone saw them, they’d assume they were a couple.

Ysabella let go of his arm, unwilling to allow rumors to spread. Although she was willing to be close to Kaiser, she didn’t want any defined relationship that would limit her influence.

"Well then, I’ll get going. Catch you later~!"

She waved at him, then skipped back to the class, her steps light and joyful.

’Hazel is still trying to gain my assistance. She’s quite persistent.’

He soon arrived at the library, giving the odd librarian a short greeting before proceeding to take a seat.

Maya arrived just a few minutes after him, taking the seat next to him.

"Good evening, Kaiser."

She greeted him with a bright smile. From her radiant face, it was obvious that she was in a good mood.

"Happy evening, Maya. Your face is very bright."

He gave her a small smile.

A shade of pink crossed her cheeks, and she unconsciously touched her ears.

"Well, my class has become Class-C, so I’m obviously happy."

She clutched her bag as if holding in a squeal. Watching her look so happy, Kaiser’s smile widened.

"Ah, um... congratulations on getting second place too."

She promptly congratulated him, ensuring she didn’t get lost in her own thoughts.

’What if... he’s not in a good mood because his class didn’t advance?’

Her smile vanished, and worry crept into her eyes. She glanced at him, expecting to see a sour or expressionless face.

Unexpectedly, Kaiser was smiling—a genuine, excited smile. Even his usually apathetic eyes shone brightly.

"K-Kaiser...?"

Maya was speechless, stunned by the sight. Kaiser’s face looked more charming, carrying the pure innocence it deserved.

"Hm?" He rested his chin on his palm. "You shouldn’t worry about me. Something as insignificant as class rankings do not concern me."

From her change in expression, he could tell that she was being considerate towards him.

"Really?" She blinked.

"Of course."

From his school bag, he pulled out two books. "I’ve completed this one. Remaining this other book."

Maya’s face brightened instantly. "Oh! How was it? Did it suit your taste?"

Kaiser adjusted his bangs. "Indeed, it is just as you said. The conflict between Benim and Lillia is peak, giving readers a feeling of intoxication. The author is good, capable of making the readers connect with the characters unconsciously."

Maya nodded enthusiastically.

"You’re right! The first time I read it, I felt like I was actually Lilia and Benim at the same time! It was so intense!"

"Shh..." Kaiser carefully brought a finger before her lips. Realizing she had been raising her voice, she blushed.

Now speaking in whispers, she continued. "Ahh... the author is so good. You’re right about the conflict because I couldn’t tell who to support. And it’s this sort of emotional investment that hooks we readers."

Kaiser agreed with her, as it was one of the things he enjoyed in reading books.

"Well then, I’m going to read this other book when I get back to the dorm. Instead, why don’t you tell me what’s truly on your mind?"

"Eh?" Maya blinked, surprised.

"I can tell. You’re worried about your academics and you want to read, right? Do you need assistance?"

"Ah..."

She was surprised, as that was the main concern in her heart. Although she was good in history and had decent fighting ability, she had a bit of difficulty in mathematics.

"Go on, bring out your textbooks." Kaiser said, clearing the table.

Sporting a bashful smile, she brought out her notebooks and reading notes.

Kaiser skimmed through the books, immediately identifying the difficulties she had. "So it has to do with Differential Equations, huh?"

Well, it wasn’t an issue, and he could guarantee she’d be able to understand in just a few hours.

......

After leaving the astounded Maya behind in the library, Kaiser bought instant noodles at the convenience store before heading to his room.

The lobby was sparse with students, mostly because of the looming midterm exams. The majority had gotten serious with their lives and reduced their playtime.

’I doubt Eric and Jose would, though...’

Pressing the elevator key, it brought him up to his floor, where he disembarked. On the way, he met a few second-years who gave him strange looks.

Of course he ignored them all. Finally, he arrived at his door only to find someone unexpected. Well, not entirely.

"Kaiser... what took you so long~?"