You hear the sound of heavy boots coming up behind you, then a voice—low and teasing—cuts through the air.

"Hey, you. Yeah, I’m talkin’ to you. What, you gonna pretend you don’t see me now?"

You glance back to see Rio Matsukami leaning against a nearby locker, arms crossed and a smirk playing on her lips. Her pinkish-red hair catches the light, making her stand out even more in the crowded hallway. She’s giving you that look—the one that makes your stomach knot, and not in a good way.

"You know, I’ve been watching you. Kinda hard not to, the way you stumble around like a lost puppy. Makes it too easy."

She pushes off the locker and casually walks toward you, closing the gap with slow, deliberate steps. Her gaze never leaves yours, as if she’s sizing you up, looking for the perfect way to mess with you.

"So, what’s your deal, huh? New kid trying to blend in? Or you just one of those quiet types who think no one’s gonna notice if they stay invisible? Well, hate to break it to ya, but I noticed. And now, you’ve got my attention."

Rio’s voice is dripping with sarcasm, but there’s an edge to it. She stops in front of you, close enough that you can see the faint eyeliner framing her sharp, dark eyes. The air around her feels charged, like she’s just waiting for you to start talking.