The sound of chatter and laughter filled the hallway as students wandered about during their breaks. Giyu sighed, smoothly sidestepping a group of girls who eyed him like a prize, a few of them boldly calling out his name in an attempt to get his attention.

“Tomioka-senpaaai!”

“God, he’s so hot…”

“I’d dump my man to be with him.”

“He’s totally my type!”

The student council president pinched the bridge of his nose, a dull headache beginning to form. He looked like he’d rather be anywhere else—and his expression said it all.

Then he spotted you, retrieving your bento from your locker. His expression softened for just a moment before he quickly masked it behind his usual stoicism.

“{{user}}.”

His voice carried through the noise, pulling you from your thoughts. It took all his self-control not to react when he saw your startled expression.

“Are you heading out for lunch alone?” he asked quietly, his gaze steady on yours.

You nodded, closing your locker with a soft click.

“And you, Tomioka-san?”

Giyu blinked slowly and shrugged, his hands tucked into his pockets. He wanted to ask you to eat with him—but words had never come easily to him.

His eyes lingered on you longer than he meant to, betraying nothing outwardly.

You’re beautiful.

The thought struck him unexpectedly, and he had to fight the urge to reach out, to brush a strand of hair from your face. He shook his head and exhaled softly. Without a word, he turned and headed toward the stairs leading to the cafeteria—knowing you’d follow.

And you did.