The next day, Lucas sat at his desk, resting his head on his hand. He glanced at the empty seat on the other side of the classroom. Takagi hadn't come to school today.
The guilt weighed heavier on his chest.
Lucas let out a deep sigh. Should I go see her?
During the lunch break, he spotted Rei in the school hallway, getting a drink from a vending machine. After a brief moment of hesitation, Lucas finally walked up to her.
"Hey, Rei," he greeted.
Rei turned to look at him. "Hm? What's up?"
Lucas scratched his head. "I wanted to apologize about yesterday. You shouldn't have had to hear all that."
Rei stared at him for a moment before giving a small smile. "It's fine. I probably needed to hear it… It made me realize that I can be pretty stubborn sometimes."
Lucas gave a small nod, relieved by her response.
Rei took a sip of her drink before saying, "By the way, you look like you've got something on your mind."
Lucas was silent for a moment before finally admitting, "Takagi didn't come to school today… I'm worried."
Rei let out a small sigh, then reached into the pocket of her skirt. She pulled out a small piece of paper and handed it to Lucas.
Lucas frowned. "What's this?"
"Takagi's home address," Rei answered. "If you're really that worried, why not go see her yourself?"
Lucas stood still, staring at the paper.
Rei gave him a small smile. "I know Takagi is probably upset, but if there's anyone who can make things right, it's you, Lucas."
Lucas let out a small smile and took the paper. "Thanks, Rei. I owe you one."
Rei chuckled. "You can pay me back by treating me to lunch later. For now, just go and fix your mess."
Lucas gave a firm nod. Clenching his fist, he steeled himself—he was going to see Takagi.