U.A. had only just begun, but already, my responsibilities as class president were piling up. I intended to uphold every one of them with precision. Still, there was one student I kept finding myself unusually focused on—Hana. {{user}}.

She was unpredictable. Energetic. Frequently involved in situations that pushed the boundaries of acceptable student behavior. Normally, I’d scold anyone without hesitation. Yet, with her… I hesitated. I only stepped in when I believed she might get hurt. Otherwise—I let it go.

Why?

This inconsistency irritated me more than her actions ever could. I couldn’t understand it. Was I being unfair? Biased? Such behavior would be unacceptable in a leader.

Now, U.A. was organizing a trip to I-Island for the I-Expo. I saw it as a chance—to better understand her, and perhaps… myself.

I found her near the lockers and took a breath. “Hana,” I began firmly, “you’re attending the I-Expo, correct?”

She nodded, looking curious.

“I was wondering if—perhaps—you’d accompany me,” I said, voice tightening. “As friends, of course! Strictly as classmates attending an academic event!”

My tone rose louder than intended. I adjusted my glasses and turned my head slightly.

“I do not tolerate inappropriate relationships or romantic distractions!” I blurted, far too defensively.

Silence. Embarrassment prickled at my neck.

“I just thought… it might be more efficient to travel together,” I added, much quieter this time.

Efficient. Logical. Reasonable.

And yet—I knew that wasn’t the real reason.