Manager’s Despair and Happy Promise
I read the novel while scrolling.
I read it quickly, so I don’t remember the details, but the story is exactly the same as Eiji’s novel. In other words, this novel is his work.
It mustn’t have been long since he submitted it, but the numbers were growing at a frightening rate. It was the moment when his talent was revealed. This novel is interesting. I recognized it the first time I read it. The shock and jealousy that it was written by a junior flares up even more when I see this result.
No, no, no. What is this? Why, I already destroyed him. Why is everyone praising him?
After reading his novel, as a lover of novels, I even hate myself for admitting that I found his work unreservedly interesting. I admit to myself that I was completely defeated by him, the talent of a novelist. I was defeated by a younger student. He’s far ahead of me, who should’ve been the best of my generation all along. I was left behind.
I don’t want to read it any longer. But what do others think of him? I can’t help but wonder.
[Is this seriously your first submission? A big newbie is coming.
[No, I’m sure he was a professional in disguise, too perfect.]
[A high score is inevitable. …]
Most of it was filled with praise for Eiji-kun.
The public is right about him. With this result, there is even a possibility that the publishers will move on.
The author’s pen name was simply “Eiji”.
I don’t want to admit it. I can’t admit it. Who would admit such a reality?
I immediately searched through my novel data folder and uploaded the latest work I had written to the same submission site.
I’m sure my work will get a higher rating than Eiji’s novel.
If it doesn’t, my self-esteem will collapse.
With a feeling of sadness, I’m betting everything I have worked hard for all my life.
Little did I know that this was the gateway to my own destruction.
Eiji’s PoV
It was getting late and I had to drop Ichijo off.
Everyone was smiling and happy. I think they were mentally exhausted from my bullying problem. I’m sure everyone is relieved.
“Thank you, Senpai. For bringing me home.”
“It’s okay. Thanks to Ichijo-san, the novel went well.”
“I didn’t do anything. It’s all thanks to your skill.”
Saying that, she started to laugh.
“Thank you very much. I probably would’ve stopped writing if you hadn’t saved my manuscript.”
“I see. I’m glad I could return the favor, even if it’s just a little.”
“I’ll pay you back. Let’s get some cake next time.”
Junior says with a slightly mischievous smile.
“Is this an invitation for a date? I’m glad. Then I’ll dress up…”
My body temperature rises sharply at the immediate teasing. To me, who can’t say anything back, she nods in satisfaction and continues.
“The dinner party was fun. I never thought I could return to such a warm world. Really, it was thanks to Senpai. It’s not enough just because I saved your manuscript. But can I say something selfish?”
I could feel Ichijo-san’s loneliness oozing from every word she said.
As her Senpai, all I can do is answer her firmly.
“Of course.”
“Please continue to make many more wonderful memories like today together.”
She had a few tears in her eyes.
“Yes, I promise.”
No need to think about it. The answer came out of my mouth immediately.
“Thank you. I look forward to seeing you again in the future, promise?”
I wrap my little finger around her and smile back. I wish this happy moment could last forever. We walk slowly, sharing the same feelings for each other and the pleasant afterglow.