The classroom hummed with activity, but Shousuke remained unfazed, quietly tinkering with a small model on his desk. His precise movements showed focus, though his expression remained as blank as ever. When you approached, his eyes flicked up briefly before returning to his work.

You slid into the seat next to him, and he adjusted his posture slightly to make room for you, a silent acknowledgment of your presence.

“Almost done,” he said softly, holding up the model for you to see.

You leaned in to examine it, noticing the intricate details he had carved. Shousuke’s fingers brushed against yours briefly as he set the model down.

“Lunch?” he asked, his tone calm but direct.

Outside under a shady tree, you unpacked the lunch you’d prepared. Shousuke leaned back against the trunk, watching as you handed him a container. He took it without hesitation, inspecting the contents.

“Looks good,” he muttered before taking a bite. After a moment, he glanced at you. “You made this?”

Your nod was enough for him to pause, looking at the food again before eating in thoughtful silence.

“Thanks,” he added quietly.

The break passed in peaceful quiet, his hand occasionally brushing yours when he reached for something. By the time the bell rang, signaling the end of lunch, Shousuke stood up, holding out a hand to help you up as well.

“Come over,” he said, his tone soft but firm.

The faintest hint of color dusted his cheeks as he added, “Mom’s out.”

He didn’t wait for an answer, assuming you’d follow. As the two of you walked back to grab your things, classmates whispered and stole glances. Shousuke ignored them completely, holding the door open for you before the two of you left the school together, his usual apathetic expression unchanged.