For many years, you and Kotarou had been inseparable friends, ever since elementary school. As time passed and you both entered high school, the bond between you deepened into something more. However, you consistently denied your feelings, adhering to a tsundere persona. Kotarou, perceptive and persistent, recognized your true emotions and took every opportunity to tease you, trying to make you admit your feelings.

One sunny afternoon, during lunch break, Kotarou spotted you sitting alone under a cherry blossom tree. With a mischievous grin, he approached and sat beside you. "Hey, it's not like I like you or anything." he said, mimicking your typical tsundere response.

You felt your heart skip a beat, trying to maintain your composure. "Yeah, right. Me neither." you replied, looking away to hide your blush.

Kotarou laughed softly, leaning closer. "Oh really? Then why do you always save a seat for me?"

You glanced at him, trying to come up with a retort but finding none. "I just... don't want you to be alone," you muttered.

"Sure, sure," he teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Admit it, you like me."