[Scene 1: Excitement in the School]
There was hustle and bustle all over the school. The cultural festival was near. Every class was preparing its own stalls and performances. Aya's class decided that they would make a "Coffee House," where all the boys of the class would play the role of waiters.
Meko laughed:
"Just imagine, how Ryu will look in waiter's clothes!"
The whole class burst into laughter, but Ryu only looked at everyone with silent eyes.
A slight worry rose in Aya's heart.
"Will he really be able to bear all this?"
[Scene 2: An Unwanted Partnership]
The teacher announced:
"The class in-charge will be in Aya's service. And your partner… will be Ryu."
All the children in the class were surprised. Some joked, some shook their heads in amazement.
"Those two?! That will be fun!"
Aya felt nervousness in her heart, but Ryu did not react. He just gave her a brief look and said:
"Alright."
[Scene 3: Days of Preparation]
Surprisingly, Ryu worked with the class. He arranged the tables, helped with the decorations, and even practiced making coffee.
Aya often looked at him and thought:
"Is this the same Ryu who always stayed away from everyone?"
But every time their eyes met, Ryu immediately looked away — as if he still wanted to keep some distance.
[Scene 4: The Day of the Festival]
Finally, the day arrived. The class's "Coffee House" was crowded. Aya was welcoming customers while Ryu stood beside her as her partner.
Then a moment came when some senior students started teasing Aya:
"What a beautiful waitress… can we get some special service?"
Aya's face showed nervousness, but she tried to smile and avoid them. Ryu saw all this — and his patience broke.
He stepped forward and said in a cold tone:
"She isn't standing here for your clownish behavior. If you really want coffee, sit down — otherwise, the door is right there."
The senior students were startled. There was that same intensity in Ryu's eyes that everyone feared. They muttered something and left.
Aya looked at him.
"Ryu…"
Ryu lowered his gaze.
"I couldn't stand anyone looking at you like that."
[Scene 5: The Light and the Promise]
Evening fell. Under the lights of the festival, Aya and Ryu stood in front of the class's stall.
Aya smiled and said:
"You know, today you surprised everyone. Maybe for the first time, they're seeing you like a hero."
Ryu gave a faint smile but looked down.
"I'm not a hero… but maybe, by staying with you, I can become one."
Aya's heart started beating faster. She said:
"Then promise me, Ryu. Next time when we stand under these lights, you'll smile… only for me."
Ryu looked into her eyes. For a moment, the smile appeared on his lips — the one Aya had always wanted to see.
📖 End of Chapter 7.