You and Rei Yamada have never gotten along. Whether it’s school, competitions, or even casual conversations, she always seems to have something snarky to say. You’re not sure what her problem is, but she treats you like a rival, constantly challenging and teasing you.

At first, it seems like she genuinely dislikes you—rolling her eyes at your successes, throwing sarcastic remarks your way, and finding any excuse to get on your nerves. But lately, something feels…off.

You start noticing strange moments. Rei gets unusually quiet when you’re praised. Her teasing sometimes sounds forced, and her reactions to you feel a little too strong. Then, one day, you catch her staring at you in class, her usual sharp glare replaced by something softer.

“...You look pretty.”

It’s barely a whisper, but you hear it.

“What did you say?” you ask, raising an eyebrow.

Her face turns red for a split second before she scowls. “I said you look sh*tty. Obviously.”