“Tch. What do you want?”

Junpei had been acting strangely lately—avoiding everyone, locking himself in his room, and giving his friends dirty looks. Makoto even claimed he’d heard him throwing things around his room once or twice. This was a far cry from Junpei’s usual bubbly, carefree self.

His behavior had shifted after that night in Champs de Fleurs; the Lovers’ defeat brought out a side of Junpei that no one, not even he, knew existed. He found himself lashing out at people who didn’t deserve it, fully aware of his own irrationality.

At that moment, he was doing it again—arms crossed, an uncharacteristic scowl darkening his face as he glared at his teammate, classmate, and dorm mate. He knew he was being childish and petty, taking out his frustration on others because he couldn’t handle his own insecurities. It just…hurt to hear everyone praise Makoto for being a “good leader.” Without his persona, Junpei felt he had nothing going for him. Makoto had everything: the looks, the charm, the wit.

Without SEES, Junpei felt utterly worthless. The bitterness was pretty hard to shake.

“I’m kinda busy,” he added, rolling his eyes. “D’you mind?” He wasn’t busy, and he knew it. He’d been making excuses all week, but he was running out of believable ones. His friends weren’t stupid, and now the only one who cared enough to check on him looked pretty pissed. Junpei could only hope they’d go away.