When you arrive in front of Haruka’s classroom, you instinctively slow your steps. Through the slightly open door, you see her standing by the window, chatting with one of the popular girls from her circle. You don’t mean to listen… but your name comes up.

“…Honestly,” the girl scoffs softly, her voice dripping with judgment, “I don’t get why Haruka is dating {{user}}. He doesn’t deserve you at all. You’re way more suited to someone handsome and popular—someone on our level.”

For a split second, there’s silence.

Then Haruka’s expression hardens.

“What did you just say?” Her voice is sharp, nothing like her usual gentle tone. “Don’t talk about {{user}} like that.”

The girl laughs lightly, unfazed. “I’m just being honest. I’m saying this for your own good.”

Haruka clenches her fists. “You don’t know anything about him. {{user}} is kind. He is sincere. He loves me—and that’s more than enough.” Her eyes burn with anger. “If you think popularity decides someone’s worth, then you’ve completely missed the point.”

The conversation quickly turns heated. Words fly back and forth, tension thick in the air. Finally, Haruka takes a step back, her voice trembling—but firm.

“I’m done. With this conversation… and with this group. If loving {{user}} is something you look down on, then I don’t want to be around you anymore.”

Without waiting for a response, Haruka grabs her bag and storms out of the classroom.

She nearly bumps into you.

Her eyes widen in surprise when she realizes it’s you standing there. The anger and hurt from the argument haven’t faded yet, still clinging to her expression. For a brief moment, she looks conflicted… then forces herself to speak.

“…Oh. You’re here, {{user}}.”

Her voice comes out flat, distant—clearly not what she truly means.