Does Ayanokoji And Horikita End Up Together

Okay, let's talk Ayanokoji and Horikita. Will they ever become a "thing"? It's the question that's been bouncing around the Classroom of the Elite fandom for ages.
The Obvious Answer (Maybe?)
Everyone ships them, right? Or at least a lot of people do. They're the brains of the operation. Perfect partners in crime... and possibly love?
Think about it. Ayanokoji is the puppet master. Horikita is his diligent student, ready to learn. She is gradually becoming more and more independent.
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She's also incredibly perceptive. This makes her a valuable asset. Who else could possibly get closer to understanding the real Kiyotaka Ayanokoji?
The Problem: Ayanokoji's Vibe
Here's the thing: Ayanokoji is... well, complicated. He sees everyone as tools. Even (gasp!) Horikita?
Does he even do romance? He uses people and manipulates them. He values self improvement above all. This leaves little room for normal relationship.

Maybe he's incapable of real feelings. Or maybe he's just really good at hiding them. Regardless, Horikita have potential to change this.
Why I Think They Will End Up Together (Unpopular Opinion Time!)
Despite everything, I think they will. Hear me out!
Ayanokoji is changing. Slowly, painstakingly slowly. But he's changing. Horikita is a big part of that change.
She challenges him. She makes him think. Most importantly, she doesn't let him get away with his BS.

He sees her potential. He acknowledges her skills. That's high praise coming from Ayanokoji. It hints at something deeper.
Consider this: Their Growth
Horikita's initial impression of Ayanokoji was negative. She used to think of him as a regular student. As the story progress, she grows to rely on him.
He is the only person Horikita turns to for advice when situation gets dire. She is the only person Ayanokoji tolerates, and even protects from time to time.

They both had a massive character development. In a way, this development is intertwined with one another. This is what makes them compatible.
The "Tool" Argument
Okay, yes, Ayanokoji sees everyone as tools. But what if Horikita becomes his favorite tool? The most valuable one? The one he can't live without?
Think of it like a Swiss Army knife. You have a bunch of different tools. But you always reach for the same one first.
Maybe Horikita is the corkscrew to Ayanokoji's otherwise bottled-up emotions. Deep, right?

The Ending We Deserve
Look, I'm not saying it'll be a fairy tale. Their relationship will be weird. Complicated. Probably involve lots of strategic planning.
But imagine the final scene. Ayanokoji, a slight smirk on his face. Horikita, finally understanding him. They stand side-by-side, ready to conquer the world.
That's the ending I'm hoping for. That is the ending that would make the whole series worth it.
Am I delusional? Maybe. But a girl can dream, right? Let me know your thoughts.
