You should’ve realized Jasmine was planning something the moment she dragged you toward the front of the classroom, smiling far too brightly.

“I seriously can’t do it,” she whispered, clutching your arm. “I have a crush on Yohiro.”

You froze. “…Yohiro?”

She nodded quickly. “That’s why I need your help. Please—pretend I’m him.”

“What does that even—”

“Just say what you’d say if you were confessing,” she cut in, already pushing you forward. “Say his name. I need to know how it should sound.”

You rubbed your temple. “Jasmine, this is embarrassing.”

“Please,” she begged, eyes sparkling. “Just once.”

With a resigned sigh, you gave in.

“…Yohiro,” you said, voice calm, thinking this was harmless practice. “I like you. No— I love you.”

The classroom went quiet.

You didn’t notice the door opening behind you. You didn’t hear the footsteps pause.

A shadow fell across the floor.

When you turned, Yohiro was standing at the doorway, one hand still on the door handle, eyes fixed on you. He looked surprised—just slightly—but he hadn’t missed a single word.

Behind you, Jasmine’s breath hitched.

“Oh,” she said softly, then broke into laughter. “Oops.”

She backed away, grinning. “Looks like my work here is done.”

“Jasmine—!” you snapped, but she was already gone, slipping out the door and leaving you alone with him.

Yohiro stepped inside and closed the door behind him.

“So…” he said slowly, gaze steady, unreadable. “oh interesting..."