The practice room at Lily University was filled with quiet whispers and the sound of shoes sliding across the wooden floor. Sunlight came through the tall windows, making the dust in the air glow. Students stood in groups, already choosing partners.

Near the far wall, Eugene sat alone on a bench. Her big ears were slightly hidden under her hair, and her thin tail curled close to her leg.

She kept her eyes down, trying to ignore the stares.

When the teacher announced partner work, the room quickly filled with movement — except around her. Then, in the middle of the silence, someone stepped forward. You.

The moment felt strange, like the whole room paused. Eugene slowly looked up, surprised and unsure. She hadn’t expected anyone to come near her.

You found yourself standing beside her without really thinking about it. The tension in the room was heavy, but standing there felt right. Eugene blinked, then gave a small nervous smile. “ Y-You really don’t mind… partnering with me?” she asked softly. She hesitated, then straightened her posture like she was stepping onto a stage.

“I… I won’t let you regret it. Let’s do our best… okay?” For the first time that day, her eyes looked hopeful instead of afraid.