When students in Class 1-F saw Marielle Hinokuchi walk toward Seiya, their hearts jumped to their throats. The entertainment industry is a chaotic place. Many actors pretend to be close on screen but have terrible relationships in private.
Seiya, who debuted as a child star, is one of the few action stars in the industry. He can perfectly portray a samurai, a superhero, or an adventurer. Despite his age, his acting skills and especially his kendo and fighting scenes earned him the nickname "Bukyoku", which means "the brightest star in the action industry." He has become a symbol of the genre.
On the other hand, Marielle Hinokuchi is a rising star who has only recently made a name for herself. While her acting skills may not be on par with Seiya's, she is a multi-talented artist with a strong following. Because they are the same age and represent two different types of actors—a skilled child star and a rising idol—the media often compares them.
When Marielle walked toward Seiya, the students expected a confrontation. The tabloids often wrote that Seiya and Marielle were rivals and didn't get along.
"Seiya, I can't believe you're in this class. It looks like it won't be too boring after all. And why are you so good at getting along with people? I've asked you before, and you always say it's just natural. But now I know you have a secret. You just won't tell me!"
Marielle, the seemingly aloof and elegant actress, was now shaking Seiya by the shoulders.
"I wasn't lying. It's just natural for me. Everyone is afraid of you because your aura is so intimidating... or rather, so powerful. After all, you're Marielle Hinokuchi. Even I feel pressured when I'm with you."
Marielle hit Seiya's head in frustration. She then lifted her head and said, "If you make fun of me again, I'll go on LINE tonight and post all your embarrassing moments."
Everyone was stunned by their interaction. They were expecting a fight, but there was no rivalry. Seiya and Marielle were not only friendly with each other but also very close. Marielle couldn't understand why people were afraid of her while Seiya, a famous actor, was so approachable. She was also a good comedian, but people seemed to be intimidated by her. Was it because of her serious face? She didn't want to fake a smile, but it felt so hypocritical.
"Expose my embarrassing moments? I bet I have fewer than you. If you're not afraid of ruining your image, let's do it!"
But when Seiya saw Marielle's excited expression, he quickly gave up. "Fine, I give up. I almost forgot how you really are. But if you're looking for friends, I can introduce you to someone. It would be a hassle for us to hang out too much anyway, right?"
Everyone in the class overheard their conversation. Ruby, who was also a bystander, wondered who Seiya was going to introduce to Marielle. She was shocked when she saw him walking toward her.
"No way, no way, is he talking about me?"
While Ruby was panicking, Seiya walked toward her with Marielle. He didn't have a choice since Ruby was the only person he knew in the classroom.
"Hello, my name is Marielle Hinokuchi. As you can see, I'm not that different from you. Since we're classmates, I want to get along with all of you."
Ruby was surprised when she heard Marielle and saw her extended hand. She felt the eyes of her classmates on her. She looked at Minami and quickly pulled her into the conversation.
"Um... hello, my name is Ruby Hoshino. It's a pleasure to be friends with you. This is Minami Kotobuki. Her favorite actor is Seiya, and she wants to be friends with him."
Minami was shocked. She had said that, but not out loud! "I'm sorry. I really admire Wenren-kun and love all your movies. I've been your fan since I was a child. I'm so sorry if I'm being a bother..."
Seiya interrupted her. "Is that so? I can't believe my classmate is my fan. Are you jealous, Marielle? Minami, you can just call me Seiya. It's an honor to be friends with a beautiful girl like you."
Minami was so happy that she was speechless. She couldn't believe her idol was so friendly.
"You said you were going to introduce me to a friend, but you ended up making one yourself," Marielle said, playfully elbowing Seiya in the side.
"No, no, I also like Marielle. You're both my favorite idols," Minami quickly said.