Scene: The school hallways buzz with the usual morning chaos — students rushing to classes, lockers slamming, and distant chatter echoing through the corridors. Amane and Mahiru walk side by side, their breaths visible in the crisp winter air seeping through the open windows.
Amane:(glancing sideways)"Sayaka's message… it's still on my mind. She wasn't just joking."
Mahiru:(tightening her grip on her bag strap)"Neither am I. It feels like she's trying to warn us… or maybe test us."
Amane:"We just have to stick together. That's what matters."
As they approach their classroom, Sayaka is already there, leaning casually against the doorframe. Her confident smirk seems to cut through the air like an icy blade.
Sayaka:"So, the infamous couple finally shows up. I've heard a lot about you both."
Mahiru:(calm, but her eyes sharp)"And what exactly do you want, Sayaka?"
Sayaka:(smiling slyly)"I like a good challenge. Amane-kun… you're on my radar now."
Amane:(raising an eyebrow)"Is that a threat or a promise?"
Sayaka:"Just a heads-up. Keep your guard up. You'll need it."
The classroom door slides open, and the rest of the students filter in. Amane and Mahiru exchange a quick glance — their unspoken agreement to face this challenge together.
Scene shifts to lunch break. Under the sprawling branches of a nearly bare cherry blossom tree in the school courtyard, Amane, Mahiru, Chitose, and Itsuki gather.
Chitose:(frowning)"I don't trust Sayaka. She's got this mysterious vibe that screams trouble."
Itsuki:"Yeah, she's the type who likes to stir things up just for fun."
Amane:(nodding)"We'll just have to be careful."
Mahiru:"But no matter what, we have to remember our promise — honesty and trust."
Amane:(smiling)"Together."
In the afternoon, during homeroom, the teacher announces an upcoming school festival project.
Teacher:"You'll be divided into groups for the festival's main event. This project requires teamwork and creativity. I want to see your best ideas!"
The class murmurs in excitement. When groups are announced, Amane and Mahiru find themselves in the same group as Sayaka.
Mahiru:(whispering to Amane)"Well, that's unexpected."
Amane:"Yeah… But it might be a good chance to understand her better."
After school, the group meets in the quiet library. Shelves tower over them, and the soft rustling of pages fills the background.
Sayaka:(taking charge)"We have to make this festival event unforgettable. I expect nothing less than perfection."
Mahiru:"I agree, but let's also consider everyone's strengths."
Sayaka:(eyeing Mahiru)"Sometimes being too gentle can hold the group back."
Amane:(cutting in)"Gentleness isn't a weakness. Balance is important."
The brainstorming session continues with tension simmering beneath the surface. Sayaka dismisses some ideas sharply, her competitive streak clearly on display.
Sayaka:"That's boring. We need something exciting that'll grab attention."
Mahiru:"I think it's important to respect everyone's input. A project can be fun without being flashy."
Sayaka:(with a mocking smile)"Maybe you're too soft, Mahiru. This isn't a tea party."
Amane steps closer to Mahiru, his presence calm but protective.
Amane:"We're all here to make something great. Let's work together, not against each other."
Sayaka's smirk falters for a moment, but she quickly recovers.
Sayaka:"Fine. But don't expect me to go easy."
Scene shifts to the walk home. The streetlights cast long shadows as snowflakes begin to fall again. Mahiru looks down, lost in thought.
Amane:(gently)"Hey, talk to me. What's on your mind?"
Mahiru:"Sayaka's attitude… It feels different from what I expected. More than just competitive — maybe jealous? Or something else."
Amane:"Jealous? Of us?"
Mahiru:"Maybe. She seems like she wants to prove something."
Amane:"Then let's show her what we're made of — not by fighting, but by staying true."
Mahiru:(smiling faintly)"I like that. Staying true to ourselves."
Back at Amane's place, they sit by the window with hot drinks, snow softly layering the ground outside.
Mahiru:"I'm really glad you're here. I don't think I could handle all this alone."
Amane:"You don't have to. I'm here. Always."
They share a quiet moment, eyes locked, warmth spreading between them.
Suddenly, Amane's phone buzzes. He picks it up and reads the message.
Message from Sayaka:"Let's see if your 'together' can survive the school festival."
Amane:(showing Mahiru)"Looks like the challenge is officially on."
Mahiru:(determined)"Then we won't back down."
Amane:"Not now. Not ever."
They hold hands tightly as the snow continues to fall, the world outside silent but their hearts loud with resolve.
Scene: The next morning, Sayaka is waiting near the school gate. Amane and Mahiru approach cautiously.
Sayaka:(smiling coldly)"Good morning, lovers. Ready to make this interesting?"
Amane:"We're ready for whatever comes."
Mahiru:"And we're stronger together."
Sayaka:(eyes narrowing)"We'll see."
As the trio part ways, a new chapter of their story unfolds — one filled with rivalry, growth, and the true test of what it means to be "together."
[End of Episode 3]