The afternoon's outdoor class went by without any further hiccups for Natsukawa Kanade.
When he arrived at the classroom, several classmates greeted him, and the more outgoing ones even asked about his experiences during the courage test event. Kanade smiled and brushed their inquiries aside with vague responses.
Yet, his mind remained preoccupied with the events of the lunchtime bento sharing. He couldn't help but scan the classroom for Shiina Mahiru, only to notice that she was actively avoiding him. Several times their eyes almost met, but she quickly turned away, feigning engagement in conversations with her friends.
Sighing in defeat, Kanade decided not to press the issue. Perhaps a bit of space would help them both cool off.
Besides, the day marked the end of their week-long retreat. After returning to Shuchiin Academy, the weekend awaited, offering a chance to relax. Given their close relationship as neighbors, Kanade knew Mahiru wouldn't be able to avoid him for long, no matter how hard she tried.
As anticipated, the afternoon classes wrapped up quickly, and the entire grade boarded buses back to the academy. After a brief closing speech from the grade head, the students dispersed, some pairing off with friends while others headed home alone.
Kanade pulled out his phone and sent Mahiru a message inviting her to walk home together.
Her reply came almost instantly:
"I'm hanging out with friends today. Let's go together next time!"
"…"
Kanade stared at the screen, his mind churning.
He rarely invited Mahiru to walk home together, respecting her desire to keep their neighborly relationship private. On the few occasions he did, she had always agreed without hesitation. Her swift refusal today left him wondering—had he gone too far at lunch?
But she seemed to be enjoying it… Kanade thought back to how adorable Mahiru looked, happily munching on the food he fed her.
Maybe she's just feeling shy and needs some time to process it, he reasoned. She can't avoid me forever.
And so, Kanade decided to make the most of this rare "solo time."
It had been ages since he last wandered about on his own. Ever since his relationships with certain key individuals had deepened, his time had always been spoken for.
His agenda for the evening began to take shape:
First, the bookstore. He had fallen behind on the latest light novels, manga, and magazines.
Second, food. A few new eateries had opened nearby, and now seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore.
Third, whatever caught his interest along the way.
Satisfied with his vague plan, Kanade returned home to drop off his luggage and change into casual attire before heading out.
A New Routine
In Japan, even high school students could finish their school day by 4 PM. Some stayed behind for club activities or study sessions, but those decisions were entirely up to the individual.
Kanade couldn't remember the last time he had spent this time of day outside school. The novelty of it all made him feel unexpectedly lighthearted—at least until he arrived at his usual bookstore.
There, reflected in the spotless glass storefront, was the striking silhouette of a girl who was anything but ordinary.
Fair-skinned, flawless features, a refined nose, cherry blossom-pink lips, and mesmerizing wine-red eyes radiated effortless elegance. Her serene yet aloof expression added an extra layer of allure.
It could only be Utaha Kasumigaoka.
"…"
Kanade immediately felt a headache coming on.
Hoping to leave unnoticed, he turned to sneak away, but as if sensing his presence, Utaha's gaze lifted from her book. Her eyes locked onto his.
"Uh… hey there," Kanade greeted her awkwardly, fully aware that escape was no longer an option.
Utaha didn't respond aloud. Instead, she rested her chin in her hand, a sly smirk playing on her lips. With a tilt of her head, she silently mouthed:
"Come here, kouhai-kun~"
"…"
Kanade resigned himself to his fate, walking into the store. He grabbed a random light novel titled Don't Tease Me, Senpai and sat down beside Utaha, much to the envy of the store's other patrons.
For a while, neither of them spoke. They read in silence, pretending not to know each other.
Eventually, Utaha broke the stillness with a deep breath. Closing her book, she stretched languidly, her graceful figure drawing glances from nearby onlookers.
Kanade, however, remained entirely focused on his book, seemingly unfazed.
Undeterred, Utaha shifted in her seat, angling herself so she could rest her chin on her palm and openly observe him.
Her wine-red eyes sparkled with mischief. You ignored me all week, huh? Let's see how long you can keep this up, she thought.
Let the game begin.