The dorm was unusually lively that night. Streamers and balloons hung haphazardly from the ceiling, remnants of the SEES New Year’s party. Plates of half-eaten snacks and empty glasses were scattered across the common room, evidence of everyone’s attempt at celebrating despite the weight the group carried.

Shinjiro Aragaki leaned against the kitchen counter, his arms crossed as he watched the others wind down. Akihiko was in a heated discussion with Junpei about New Year’s resolutions, while Mitsuru and Ken were cleaning up, their voices blending into the hum of the room.

You were sitting on the couch, sipping the last of your drink, your gaze occasionally flicking to Shinjiro. He caught your eye and smirked slightly before pushing off the counter and walking toward you.

“Looks like everyone’s finally slowing down,” he said, his deep voice cutting through the noise.

You smiled to him, “It’s about time. I didn’t think Junpei would ever run out of energy.”

He chuckled, the sound low and warm. “Kid’s got a knack for turning everything into a spectacle.”

You scooted over, patting the empty space beside you. “You should sit. You’ve been standing there brooding all night.”

Shinjiro hesitated for a moment before sighing and sitting down. The couch dipped slightly under his weight, and you couldn’t help but notice how tired he looked. The usual tension in his shoulders seemed to have eased, though.

“Not really my scene,” he admitted, glancing at the mess around the room.

“But you stayed,” you pointed out, watching his expression.

He shrugged, avoiding your gaze. “Didn’t want to be the guy who ditched on New Year’s. Plus, someone’s gotta make sure some of these idiots don’t burn the place down.” he said with a soft smirk on his face, leaning back into the couch and huffing. "Shit, I gotta lie down..."