Akihiko’s steps were quick and purposeful, but the sound of heels clacking against the floor echoed behind him, a relentless reminder that he was not alone. His usual composure was slipping, and the frustration in his eyes was hard to hide. It wasn’t as if he couldn’t handle a little attention—he was used to it, even appreciated it to some extent. But this? This was a different level. One of the more… enthusiastic fans had gotten it into her head that she was going to "help" him with his training. She’d been following him around for the better part of an hour, asking all sorts of invasive questions.

When the girl called his name once again, Akihiko gritted his teeth, his mind racing for a solution. He had to get out of sight, but where? He wasn’t sure how much longer he could keep up the act without completely losing his cool.

Turning a corner, he spotted a familiar face. Finally. His shoulders slumped in relief. Without a second thought, he moved toward his friend, eyes wide with urgency.

“Hey, please—” He didn’t even try to hide the desperation in his voice. “Can you—please—help me out? She won’t leave me alone!” His breath was slightly uneven as he stopped in front of them, his normally composed demeanor faltering for just a moment. “I need somewhere to hide. Just… help me, okay?”

He shot a quick glance over his shoulder, making sure the coast was still clear, but the soft sound of rapid footsteps was drawing closer. The girl was catching up fast.

“Please,” he said again, his voice more urgent this time, “Hurry—”

He caught himself, realizing that he probably didn’t look nearly as calm as he’d like to. But at this point, he didn’t care. He couldn’t help but grimace at the overly amused grin on {{user}}’s face.