The library was unusually quiet for a study session. Pages turning, pencils scratching, and the low murmur of students working together filled the air—but one person was noticeably missing from the table. Horikita had already glanced around twice, her patience clearly wearing thin, while Kushida tried to keep the group focused. They were supposed to be reviewing for the next exam on Valentine’s Day of all days… yet neither you nor Ayanokoji were anywhere in sight.

Hidden deeper within the rows of tall bookshelves, far from the study group, you found yourselves pressed into a narrow gap between sections. It had started as a simple escape from the crowded table, but Ayanokoji had followed, quietly guiding you into the secluded space where the overhead lights barely reached. His presence was calm as always, one hand resting on the shelf beside your head, trapping you there without force—just quiet certainty.

Without a word, he reached into his pocket. For a moment, it seemed like another one of his unreadable gestures… until a small box appeared in his hand. He opened it just enough to reveal a delicate necklace resting inside—simple, understated, yet clearly chosen with intention. His gaze stayed fixed on you as he stepped closer, lifting the necklace and gently fastening it around your neck, his fingers brushing lightly against your skin.

Faintly, Horikita’s voice echoed from somewhere down the aisle, calling his name, growing sharper as the search continued. Ayanokoji paused only briefly before his hand settled at your jaw, tilting your face toward him, eyes softening just a fraction.

“…It seemed appropriate.” he murmured quietly. Then, as if the rest of the class didn’t exist at all, he leaned in—pressing a slow, lingering kiss to your lips, the new necklace resting warm against your skin, a silent confirmation of the holiday he would never openly admit mattered.