Hachiman's POV

A month after the winter break, the Uma Musume are diving headfirst into training. April's packed with Classic races and spring G1s, so they're gearing up for trial races—or even going straight for the big stage. Fuji's set for the Hankyu Hai, a trial for the Takamatsunomiya Kinen. She's looking solid. Rice, though, is prepping for the Spring Stakes, a Satsuki Sho trial. The distance might be a stretch for her, so I'm not expecting miracles—just a solid run.

But right now? The races are taking a backseat to something way bigger. Not for everyone, mind you, but for any woman born in Japan, it's practically a sacred tradition.

"Valentine's season is here again! Shopping malls are already overflowing with chocolates! It's that time of year—will the ladies win the hearts of their special someone?"

Hachiman: "…Valentine's, huh."

Yeah, I got some last year. The team wasn't fully formed then, so it was just Air Groove and Fuji, plus my teacher, the professor, a few female trainers, the janitorial staff, some faculty, the chairman, Tazuna… and a bunch of students. Too many to count, honestly.

Hachiman: "Wonder how this year'll go. Not that I'm sweating it—too busy for that. Back in high school, guys would brag about how many chocolates they got. Me? I don't need the ego boost."

One Week Later – February 14

Hachiman: "…" strolling along

Same old routine: wake up, eat, head to work. Nothing special. No need to shake things up.

Tazuna: "Morning, Hachiman! Early as always—great work."

Hachiman: "Morning, Tazuna."

Tazuna: "And… here you go! Valentine's chocolate. Enjoy it during a break!" beaming

Hachiman: "Thanks."

Never thought I'd be the guy getting chocolates, but I guess that's what happens when you work at Tressen Academy.

Janitor: "Hey, Hikigaya, sorry to make you help out so early again!"

Hachiman: "No worries. I use this place all the time—can't let you folks carry the load alone."

Janitor 2: "You're too proper! You know you're the only trainer who pitches in like this? Having a young guy lend a hand is a treat."

Hachiman: "Haha…"

After Maintenance

Janitor: "Man, things go so fast with you helping, Hikigaya. You're a lifesaver."

Hachiman: "It's just habit by now. Only been at it four years, though."

Janitor 2: "Four years is plenty impressive! Here, this is for you. You're the only trainer we're giving this to—special treatment!"

Hachiman: "I'll take it with thanks."

Huh. I figured helping out every time would make them forget the gratitude, but they still remember. Alright, students'll be here soon. Time to hole up in the trainer's room.

Trainer's Room

Hachiman: "…" scribbling

door rattles

Aoi: "Hikigaya-kun! Morning!"

Classmate 1: "Knew you'd beat us here!"

Hachiman: "Morning."

Classmate 1: "Was gonna sneak some chocolate into your desk drawer, but you're always here first!"

Hachiman: "Early bird, you know. Wait, chocolate? You're giving me some this year too?"

Aoi: "Yup! You've given me tons of advice, so this is my thanks!"

Classmate 1: "Not a crush or anything, right?" teasing

Aoi: "N-No way!" flustered

Hachiman: "Don't tease her."

Classmate 1: "Here you go, Hikigaya!"

Aoi: "Happy Valentine's!"

Hachiman: "Thanks. I'll treasure it forever."

Aoi: "I'd rather you eat it…"

Hachiman: "Kidding. Thanks."

The rest of the morning's a blur of chocolates from junior and senior trainers. I'm pushing double digits already.

Lunchtime

Hachiman: "Bell's rung. Guess I'll grab lunch."

door rattles

CB: "Hachimaaan! Your VIP's here!" grinning

Hachiman: "I didn't invite you."

CB: "Details, details! Come on, let's eat!"

Hachiman: "Tch, no point saying no now."

CB: "Oh, and—Happy Valentine's!" hands over chocolate

Hachiman: "Nice, thanks."

CB: "Yay! Oh, wanna trade some side dishes? Mine for yours!"

Hachiman: "Sure, sure."

CB: "And after lunch, can I borrow your lap? It's my tradition—come here, eat, then nap!"

Hachiman: "Every time with you. Use the sofa, not my lap."

CB: "Nope! Your lap's the comfiest!" pouting

Hachiman, you're quite the heartthrob, huh?

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