The final bell rang, signalling the end of the school day, and I hurriedly wrapped up my tasks in the teacher's room. The walls were still echoing with the sounds of laughter and shuffling feet as students filed out, leaving behind a mixture of excitement and relief. Once I finished my work, a sense of accomplishment washed over me, and I made my way back to my classroom to grab my bag.

As I entered, the familiar scent of old books and chalk dust greeted me. My eyes immediately landed on Mika, who was sitting at her desk with a slightly flustered expression. She glanced up, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush.

"I-it's not like I'm waiting for you or something!! B-Baka!" she exclaimed, trying to mask her embarrassment with a huff. Her attempt at nonchalance only made me smile more, knowing that deep down, she was just as eager to see me as I was to see her.