Yukinoshita Haruno felt as if she had been struck by lightning after reading the new novel sent to her by Hikigaya. To express her dissatisfaction, she ignored him for an hour. She realized that most adjectives couldn't adequately describe Hachiman's unique short story writing style. Eventually, she found a word that perfectly encapsulated him: "freedom." There is no doubt that Hikigaya is a free-spirited writer. This newfound impression has resonated with many readers who are familiar with his new series. He crafts sharp, incisive words that directly address societal pain points in "Confessions," while also exposing the darkest aspects of human nature in "Malice."
However, his current work, "Disintegration of Causes," reveals that Mr. Hachiman is far from just a serious writer. He showcases a playful imagination and humor, even delving into slightly erotic themes. Since Hikigaya rarely appears in public and no video footage exists from the only awards ceremony he attended, readers must use their imagination to understand Hachiman's image and personality. "Disintegration of Causes" has allowed fans to form a more complete picture of Hachiman, contrasting his quirky private self with his public persona, which is concerned about societal issues. This duality has captivated readers.
"Wow, I really want to see Mr. Hachiman in person. Why doesn't he hold any book signing events?" one fan asked.
"Yes, a best-selling author like Mr. Hachiman should hold a book signing, right?" another replied.
As many fans began discussing the possibility of an autograph session, it became clear that they simply wanted a glimpse of Hachiman.
"I'm telling you guys, Mr. Hachiman is a writer who produces excellent works. We strongly support him. But don't you think it's too much to pry into the privacy of a minor?" Rational fans stepped in to criticize those who were pushing for personal access to Hikigaya.
Sakuraba Publishing House has always respected Hikigaya's wishes. Logically, they should hold a book signing event for their new and popular writer. Yet, after learning that Hachiman wanted to keep his identity under wraps for the time being, they scrapped the idea. Consequently, interviews and writer gatherings have also been nearly nonexistent. However, the publishing house must now discuss these matters with Hikigaya, especially since his junior high graduation is approaching. It would be ideal for him to hold a book signing event afterward, but this still depends on his personal wishes. Hikigaya has become a key figure for Sakuraba, and they want to ensure his happiness.
Naho Imamura, an editor at the publishing house, was particularly engaged by this situation. Recently, she received a significant promotion offer, elevating her to deputy editor-in-chief of "All Readings" magazine, which has greatly boosted her enthusiasm for work.
"A book signing event? Even if I wanted to hold one, I don't have any new books ready," Hikigaya remarked when he heard about the publisher's request through Imamura Mugi.
"That's not an issue, Mr. Hachiman," Naho replied. "According to our planned serialization schedule, your 'Disintegration of Various Causes' will serialize for the last time in March next year. By then, you will have completed your national unified examination, and the publishing house intends to release 'Disintegration of Various Causes' at the end of March and hold a book signing simultaneously."
Naho added, "Of course, the publishing house will completely respect your wishes, Mr. Hachiman. That is all."
"The publisher is being so accommodating. I feel a bit embarrassed about this. If I refuse, will it come across as inconsiderate?" Hikigaya spoke with a hint of sarcasm, but he wasn't truly angry; he was simply surprised by his unexpectedly high position at Sakuraba Publishing House.
"No, Mr. Hachiman, you are a minor, and the publishing house's main priority is to protect you," Naho Imamura explained.
"I understand, Editor Imamura. I was just joking. I think it's fine to hold a book signing event next March, but I still need to improve 'The Causes of Disintegration,' and the published version will include one more chapter than the serialized version."
Hikigaya often felt a headache whenever this topic came up. The original ninth chapter of "The Causes of Disintegration" was intended to achieve a grand goal: to connect some of the stories from the first eight chapters, thereby enhancing the overall readability of the book.
However, there were too many characters in the previous stories. Just looking at the names in the last chapter could make anyone dizzy. Readers would have to flip through the earlier chapters frantically to remember who each person was and what they had done. Fortunately, Japan is not Latin America, and he is not Gabriel García Márquez.
Hikigaya was also realistic about his own abilities. He didn't dare claim he could accomplish what Nishizawa Yasuhiko had failed to do in his previous life, so he had set this matter aside. It now seemed he needed to pay attention to it once again.
"I understand, Mr. Hachiman. I will report this to the publisher truthfully," Naho Imamura said.
With that, they finished discussing work-related topics for the day, and Naho Imamura was ready to share some personal opinions.
"By the way, Mr. Hachiman, would you like to go out for dinner with your sister tonight? I heard Machida bragging that she spends the whole day tutoring you every weekend. I'm so envious!"
Naho Imamura, who hadn't replenished Hikigaya's energy in a while, now felt a bit thirsty.
"Want to eat? Sure, it's been a while since we've been together. I'll also invite Machi…" Hikigaya started to say, subconsciously wanting to call Editor Machida as well. After all, their trio could be considered a traditional performing act.
"Teacher Hachiman, don't call that woman here too!!!" Naho Imamura exclaimed as she excitedly held down Hikigaya's hand before he could call Machida Sonoko. It was a joke, really; every time the three of them were together, she felt like she talked more to Machida than to Hachiman. The two of them would bicker until they parted ways. If Machida came, how could she properly focus her attention on Hachiman?
"Alright, I won't call her then. But please don't mention this to her, or she'll make things difficult for me during our next tutoring session," Hikigaya replied, feeling a bit exasperated. It was hard to believe that these two female editors, who were nearly sixty years old combined, acted more like children than he did.
"Of course, I won't tell her! (I'll definitely brag to her about it, though)," Naho Imamura said with a slightly mischievous look on her face.
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