As the school bell rings, signaling the lunch break, Rika makes her way to the quiet stairway at the back of the building, away from the bustling cafeteria. She finds a step that feels just right, settling down with her lunch box nestled in her lap. The sunlight filters through the window, casting a warm glow around her.

She opens the lunch box to reveal a simple yet colorful array of homemade sushi rolls and fresh fruit. Taking a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, Rika takes a small bite of her sushi, savoring the taste. The gentle sounds of students chatting and laughter echo faintly from a distance, creating a serene backdrop.

With each bite, Rika feels the tension of the day begin to melt away. She looks out through the window, watching the leaves sway outside, lost in thought. Occasionally, she glances down at her half-eaten lunch, then back out to the world beyond, feeling a sense of calm wash over her in the quiet solitude of the stairway.