The Always-Sleepy Classmate Wants Help

Kogoshi-kun noticed his new seat assignment placed him beside Oki-san, the girl known for dozing off in class. Her drowsy reputation preceded her, and sure enough, she turned to him with a quiet plea. “If I fall asleep,” she whispered, “could you nudge me awake? Just don’t let the teacher catch me.” The request seemed simple, but Kogoshi-kun wondered how often he’d have to discreetly shake her shoulder. Oki-san’s heavy eyelids already drooped as she spoke, hinting at the challenge ahead. He hesitated—getting caught could mean trouble for both of them. Yet, seeing her exhausted expression, he gave a small nod. The teacher’s voice droned on, and within minutes, Oki-san’s head dipped forward. Kogoshi-kun glanced around, waiting for the right moment to tap her desk without drawing attention. The classroom hummed with quiet activity, but his focus remained on his sleepy neighbor. This was going to be a long semester.