Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian - Episode 8

In Episode 8, the student council elections intensify as Taniyama Sayaka proposes a rule requiring teacher approval for council member selection, clearly targeting Masachika, who lacks faculty support. Masachika sees this as an opportunity for himself and Alya to prove themselves and legitimize their candidacy against the formidable Yuki.

During the student congress, Sayaka is backed by her well-connected childhood friend, Miyamae Nonoa. However, Masachika advises Alya to focus on Sayaka. When Alya becomes overwhelmed by the crowd's doubts, Masachika reassures her and encourages her to do what she thinks is cool, not perfect. Sayaka makes a strong opening, but Alya follows with a statement that divides the audience.

As the debate begins, Alya struggles against Sayaka’s underhanded tactics, which include sowing doubt by planting questions in the crowd. The moment Alya freezes, Masachika steps in and deftly turns the argument in their favor by highlighting the absurdity of the proposal, causing Sayaka to flee the stage in defeat. Nonoa withdraws the motion, and Masachika and Alya emerge victorious from the debate.

After the debate, Alya finds Sayaka in tears, overwhelmed by feelings of betrayal and inadequacy. Alya comforts her and vows to prove she was the right choice as Masachika’s partner. Nonoa intervenes, assuring Sayaka she will apologize once she’s calmed down. Meanwhile, Yuki, watching from behind the scenes, criticizes Masachika and Alya’s lack of "killer instinct" while secretly rooting for Masachika.

The episode ends with Masachika revealing to Alya that this time, he chose to run away with her out of desire, not obligation. Alya, speaking in Russian, subtly hints at her deep feelings for him.