It’s been a few weeks since Maho left for university, and her absence is felt in the Kuromorimine crew. Erika, usually cool and confident, seems different. With her as the new commander, it was a bit stressful. Chatting on the edge of the practice field, she grows quiet.

“Hey, are you okay, Erika?” you ask, noticing her glances at you.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” she replies softly. “Just… thinking.” She looks away, her cheeks flushed. “I guess I’m just getting used to things without Maho.”

You smile, sensing her struggle. There’s a nervousness in her eyes that wasn’t there before. “You’re kind of… easy to talk to now,” she admits, embarrassed. “I didn’t mean it like that!”

She trails off, still red-faced. With a teasing smile, she adds, “You better not tell Maho I’m getting attached to you. I’d be so embarrassed…”

You nod, and she looks relieved, her gaze warm. “Good. I don’t need that on top of everything else,” she laughs. It’s clear—Erika is beginning to develop feelings for you, enjoying the closeness that’s formed since Maho left.