COTE: Starting With Love Stock Market System

After learning that Hikaru had successfully handled Class C's issue, Class B's morale soared throughout the entire day. During breaks, classmates frequently came over to chat with him, and the classroom was filled with an air of relief and satisfaction.

---

"Hikaru-kun, Ando-san said she's already reserved a place for the celebration party," Ichinose announced, holding up her phone to show Hikaru a picture of the restaurant. "She picked a yakiniku place this time. Chihiro and the others are pretty happy with the choice."

Hikaru raised an eyebrow. "Are they treating me?"

Yakiniku wasn't exactly cheap, after all.

"That's right!" Ichinose nodded. "Everyone chipped in to treat you as a way of thanking you for everything you've done for Class B these past few days."

Her blue eyes reflected earnest gratitude as she continued.

"I'm also contributing. You've worked really hard, Hikaru-kun."

Hikaru waved a hand dismissively. "Let's just split the bill evenly. I didn't do everything alone—everyone in Class B played their part."

He met Ichinose's gaze and added with conviction, "As long as our class stays united, I believe we won't lose."

Ichinose smiled gently, but her tone carried unmistakable resolve.

"That's exactly why we're treating you, Hikaru-kun. It's not just about gratitude—it's a class-wide show of unity. You can't refuse."

"..."

Hikaru let out a soft chuckle, giving in to her logic.

"I see. Ichinose-san is growing too, huh?"

---

As classes ended and students dispersed, the key players of Class B regrouped for the dinner.

Joining Hikaru and Ichinose were:

Kanzaki and Shibata, who had participated in the strategy against Ryuen.

Ando and Chihiro, both of whom had attended the Freshman Gathering.

Himeno Yuki had originally planned to come as well, but she had a club activity and couldn't make it.

"I reserved a private room for six," Ando beamed. "Let's eat to our hearts' content tonight!"

She seemed especially excited about the gathering—not just because it was a celebration, but because it was a rare chance to have dinner with Hikaru. Over the past few days, he had repeatedly turned down invitations from classmates.

This was a precious opportunity, and one Ando wasn't going to waste.

"Alright, let's get going," Ichinose chimed in.

---

At the Yakiniku Restaurant

The group followed Ando and Ichinose to the reserved restaurant, a well-reviewed spot known for its high-quality meat.

Compared to the inexpensive meal sets at the cafeteria, yakiniku was a luxury, so most students didn't frequent the place.

"Welcome! You must be Ando-san's party of six?"

A young female staff member, wearing an apron, greeted them enthusiastically. With more customers, she stood to earn a better commission, so her smile was particularly warm.

"Yes, that's us," Ando confirmed.

"Right this way!"

Upon entering their private room, they were greeted by a stylish yet cozy atmosphere.

Framed artwork adorned the white walls.

Soft lighting cast a warm glow over the spacious dining area.

A large square table dominated the center, with a sleek black electric grill in the middle.

The seating arrangement consisted of two opposing rows of cushioned booths, which perfectly accommodated their three boys and three girls setup.

Hikaru naturally took a seat beside Kanzaki and Shibata, while Ichinose, Ando, and Chihiro sat across from them.

"Ladies first. You all decide—I'm fine with anything," Hikaru said, leaning back comfortably.

"Let's start with a basic group platter," Ichinose suggested. "If it's not enough, we can order more later."

"Sounds good!"

"Yeah, let's take our time and enjoy the meal."

As the waitress left to prepare their order, the group engaged in casual conversation.

Hikaru, however, had something on his mind.

Looking across the table at Ichinose, Hikaru made a decision.

"Ichinose-san, step outside with me for a moment. There's something I'd like to discuss."

"Huh?"

Ichinose blinked in surprise before quickly nodding in understanding. She got up without hesitation.

"Eh? What's this about? A secret conversation?"

Ando's lips curled mischievously, her gaze flitting between the two with undisguised curiosity.

"Come on, you two," Shibata smirked. "Why can't you just say it here? Don't tell me… it's something we can't hear?"

"Don't be ridiculous. It's just something important I need to discuss with her. We'll be back soon," Hikaru replied calmly.

Without entertaining further teasing, he turned and exited the room.

Ichinose flashed an apologetic smile at the others before quietly following him out.

---

As soon as the two disappeared, Ando clapped her hands together in excitement.

"Alright, spill! What do you all think they're talking about? Could it be… that?"

Her eyes gleamed mischievously.

Since the start of the semester, rumors had circulated within Class B—speculating that Hikaru and Ichinose might be dating.

After all, they were the class's most prominent figures. They were seatmates, often seen together, and their relationship seemed particularly close. Given their outstanding looks, it wouldn't be unbelievable if they became a couple.

"If Hikaru-kun doesn't want to say, it must be something important," Chihiro interjected, looking uneasy. "Let's not overthink it."

Her expression tightened—as if she wanted to end the discussion before it spiraled further.

"But wouldn't it be great if they were dating?"

Shibata, who was popular among the girls, chimed in with a serious nod.

"I think they'd make a great match."

"Agreed," Kanzaki added. "They're the pillars of our class. If they could support each other for the next three years, it would benefit all of us."

Their opinions aligned with many of their classmates—who saw potential benefits in Hikaru and Ichinose forming a solid partnership.

"Are they really dating?" Chihiro's voice was small and uncertain.

Her expression darkened slightly, but with everyone else so enthusiastic about the idea, she chose to remain silent.

She wasn't convinced.

Tonight, she would have to ask Ichinose directly—or else she wouldn't be able to sleep at all.