COTE: Starting With Love Stock Market System

As the morning light filled the sky, Hikaru completed his daily training routine.

Today marked the 29th day of his Athletic Booster, meaning tomorrow the effects would wear off. However, by then, his Physical Ability stat would have permanently increased from 3 to 4.

After a shower, Hikaru donned his school uniform and made his way to Class B.

Despite being early, the classroom was already filled with students—everyone had arrived ahead of time.

Today was the announcement of the new class rankings, and naturally, everyone was feeling anxious.

Additionally, this morning, the new Private Points for the month would be distributed.

Most students had spent nearly all their points from the previous month, making this an important moment.

---

"Good morning, Hikaru-kun!"

"Morning, Hikaru-kun."

As one of Class B's key figures, Hikaru was greeted by many classmates upon entering the room.

Smiling, he returned each greeting before deciding it was best to say a few words.

"I'm sure everyone is looking forward to today's announcement regarding the class rankings."

"Of course! We've all been working so hard—I hope we can finally rise to Class A," said Ando Sayo, her eyes filled with anticipation.

"What do you think, Hikaru-kun? Do we have a real chance at promotion?"

"In the end, all point deductions are managed by the school administration, so I can't say for sure," Hikaru replied, his gaze sweeping across his classmates.

"But I believe the school acknowledges effort. No matter the outcome, we'll wait for Hoshinomiya-sensei's announcement."

"That's true… Even if we tried our best, the school's monitoring system records everything. If anyone made a mistake—even unintentionally—it would still be deducted."

The classroom's surveillance cameras had a wide field of view, ensuring that every action was under scrutiny.

Even if students forgot their mistakes, the recordings wouldn't.

After Hikaru returned to his seat, Ichinose leaned in beside him.

"Hikaru-kun… do you really think we'll make it to Class A today?"

Her delicate features carried a hint of nervousness, revealing her uncertainty about the upcoming results.

"Haha, Ichinose-san, don't be too tense," Hikaru chuckled softly, reassuring her.

"This is just the first month. Even if we don't get promoted this time, there will still be plenty of chances in the future. Don't pressure yourself too much."

"You've been doing great so far. Everyone trusts you."

"Mm… I know."

Ichinose gazed at Hikaru, noticing that—despite his words—he, too, was a little nervous.

After all, this was a crucial moment.

Then, in an unexpected and bold move—

Ichinose gently reached for his hand under the desk.

Their fingers intertwined naturally.

"?"

Hikaru turned his head, looking at her flushed face.

"Hikaru-kun… just let me be a little selfish," she murmured.

"I'm really nervous right now… so, can you lend me some of your strength?"

Her ears were completely red.

The moment she grabbed his hand, embarrassment overwhelmed her.

"..."

"…Alright. Considering how many meals you've treated me to, I suppose I should repay you somehow."

Hikaru understood her feelings.

Besides, he was just as curious about the class rankings.

Thus, he didn't let go of her soft, warm hand.

Sitting side by side, their hands gently clasped together, they could almost hear each other's heartbeat.

After ten minutes, the homeroom teacher, Hoshinomiya Chie, finally entered the room.

Today, she seemed even more radiant than usual, as if she had taken extra care with her appearance.

"Good morning, everyone! A new month has begun—I'm sure you're all excited for today."

Her words immediately caused excitement to ripple through the room.

"Of course! Hoshinomiya-sensei, stop keeping us in suspense! You know what we're all waiting for!"

"Yeah, hurry up and tell us already!"

"I'm dying here! Just say it!!"

"Haha, alright, alright," Hoshinomiya giggled.

"Then let's reveal the updated rankings!"

Without any more delay, she turned to the blackboard and quickly wrote down the class standings.

First-Year Class Rankings:

Class A - 980 CP

Class B - 1010 CP

Class C - 480 CP

Class D - 530 CP

"!!"

"WHAT?!"

"Wait… does that mean—"

The moment the new rankings were displayed, shock and exhilaration spread throughout the classroom.

Everyone understood what this meant.

As long as a lower-ranked class surpassed another class in Class Points, they would automatically be promoted.

"WE DID IT!!"

Shibata shouted at the top of his lungs, his voice echoing through the room.

Instantly, the entire class erupted in cheers and celebration.

Joy spread throughout the classroom as students high-fived, hugged, and shouted in triumph.

Seated at their desks, still holding hands, Hikaru and Ichinose exchanged a meaningful glance.

Ichinose's face softened into a bright, relieved smile, while Hikaru finally relaxed.

He hadn't expected them to reach Class A in just one month.

It was likely thanks to the 100 Class Points bonus from the school, making this victory possible.

"We did it, Hikaru-kun! We really made it to Class A!"

Ichinose's eyes sparkled as she gazed at him.

"Yeah. Everyone's hard work finally paid off. It's a great result."

Hikaru glanced down at their interlocked hands.

Noticing his gaze, Ichinose suddenly tensed, immediately releasing his hand.

"Hehehe, this is amazing! We have to work even harder to maintain our rank!"

"Yeah… But don't forget, Ichinose-san—there's still a lot to do today."

Hikaru tapped his phone as a reminder.

Realization dawned on Ichinose's face.

"Oh, right! The Private Points are being distributed today!"

As the class representative, Ichinose had the responsibility of collecting the agreed-upon contributions.

Hoshinomiya watched her cheering students, feeling genuinely happy.

After all, this was her first time witnessing a promotion so early in the school year.

And the credit for this achievement?

Her gaze settled on Hikaru.

Seated in the middle of the class, chatting with Ichinose, he was undoubtedly the strongest piece on the board.

"With him leading the way, Class B is bound to achieve even greater things."

However, one thing still bothered her—

That woman's class also ranked up.

The thought alone made her stomach churn.

"Whatever. My class will keep her beneath us. Forever."

With a smirk, she turned back to her students.

"Alright, everyone! Check your Private Points—they should have been deposited!"

"Ah! Right, I almost forgot!"

"Whoa! 101,000 Private Points?! That's even more than last month!"

"Don't forget, everyone! This is all thanks to Hikaru-kun and Ichinose-san! Now, let's proceed with our plan!"

The fund collection was about to begin.

For Class A, this was only the beginning.

~~~

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