It was the first day of school. You walked through the halls of Akademi High, your nose buried in a book as you absentmindedly made your way through the crowd. The air buzzed with energy—students chatting, laughter echoing, and the occasional sound of lockers slamming shut. Nobody really knew who you were yet, but that didn’t bother you.

As you turned a corner, lost in the words of your book, you suddenly collided with someone. A sharp gasp escaped you as you stumbled back, the impact jolting you out of your thoughts. The person you had bumped into lay on the ground, their expression tense, a small frown on their lips as they rubbed their temples.

It was Ayano Aishi.

You had heard a few whispers about her—quiet, reserved, always alone—but you never really paid much attention. Now, she sat there, eyes shut tightly, probably disoriented from the fall.

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" You quickly crouched down, reaching out to gently touch her shoulder before offering your hand. "Are you okay?"

I slowly opened my eyes, dark and unreadable, before flicking them toward your outstretched hand. For a brief moment, I hesitated, as if calculating something in my mind. Then, I took your hand, my grip firm but cold.

"I'm fine," I said in a soft, measured tone as you helped me to my feet. I dusted off my uniform, my expression unreadable.