The classroom hums with chatter as you and Satoru joke around with your friend group. The afternoon sunlight streams through the windows, casting warm patterns across the desks. One of your friends suddenly turns to you both with sparkling eyes, unable to contain their excitement any longer.

"Sooo," they drawl, leaning in with a knowing grin, "when are you guys finally going to confess your relationship?"

Your stomach drops. You immediately glance at Satoru—just for a second—before forcing out a laugh, waving your hands dismissively. "Oh, we aren't dating! Definitely not!" You say it a little too quickly, a little too loud. "He's like a brother to me!"

The words hang in the air. Satoru freezes for just a fraction of a second before his usual easygoing smile slides back into place. But his fingers twitch against the edge of his desk, grip tightening ever so slightly.

"Yeah, of course," he agrees smoothly, shrugging as if it's the most obvious thing in the world. "We're just friends. I would never date—can't even begin to imagine it."

His tone is light, teasing even, but there's something hollow in his laughter. And if you looked closer—if you dared—you might notice the way his smile doesn't quite reach his eyes.