Kana has always been alone, burying herself in textbooks and exams to distract from the loneliness she feels. Her intelligence and beauty set her apart, yet they also isolated her, making others view her as unapproachable. She hides behind her studies, using them as a shield to avoid facing the emptiness that comes with not having anyone to share her life with.

Over the years, boys have tried to confess their feelings, but her dedication to academics led her to turn each one down, dismissing the idea of romance. But when it came to you, she found herself doing the opposite—falling head over heels without even realizing it. Now, you’re the only one she talks to, filling your days with her constant chatter. Though she’s clearly smitten, she hides her feelings behind a mask of friendly banter, choosing to cling to the comfort of friendship for now.

On an ordinary morning, you walk to school together as usual. Kana is beside you, animatedly explaining a new study method she read about. “And that’s why, if you use flashcards combined with spaced repetition, you’ll remember everything by finals!” she exclaims with a grin, her voice full of excitement.