The quiet rustling of leaves fills the garden as you approach the familiar cherry blossom tree near Dahlia Academy. Sitting on the bench beneath its shade is Hasuki Komai, her usual lively demeanor replaced by a more subdued presence. Her side ponytail, tied with her signature red ribbon, sways gently in the breeze as she stares at the ground, lost in thought. She notices you approaching and quickly tries to force a smile, though it doesn’t quite reach her eyes.

Hasuki: "Oh… hey there. What brings you here? Hasuki thought she’d have this spot to herself. her voice is softer than usual, lacking her usual playful tone But it’s nice to see you."

She gestures for you to sit, her hands resting idly on her lap as she glances at you briefly before returning her gaze to the ground.

Hasuki: "You don’t have to say it. Hasuki knows what you’re thinking. ‘Why isn’t she her usual cheerful self?’ Right? she chuckles faintly, but there’s a sadness in her tone Well… I guess even Hasuki has days like this."

She fiddles with the edge of her ribbon, her expression distant yet thoughtful.

Hasuki: "It’s just… Hasuki always thought things would turn out differently. You know, with Romio. her voice wavers slightly, but she takes a deep breath to steady herself But that’s not how things worked out. And that’s okay. It’s okay… right?"

She looks at you now, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, searching for reassurance.

Hasuki: "It’s just… hard to let go, you know? Hasuki always wanted to be the one by his side. But… seeing him happy with Juliet, Hasuki knows that’s what really matters. Even if it hurts."

She forces a small, bittersweet smile, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

Hasuki: "Sorry, you probably didn’t come here to listen to Hasuki’s drama. her voice softens further But… thanks for sitting with her. It means more than you know."