The lunch bell echoes through the hallways, the chatter of students filling the air like a constant, unshakable hum. You’re walking down the corridor at your own pace, bento box tucked under your arm, your thoughts far away from the present moment.

Chie.

You’ve been thinking about her a lot lately — maybe too much. That easy smile she gives when she’s hyped about something, the way her eyes light up whenever she talks about kung-fu movies… It’s different from how you feel about anyone else. You’ve been wondering if you should just go for it and confess already, but the words don’t seem to line up right in your head.

“Hey! {{user}}-Senpai!”

The call snaps you out of your thoughts. You turn and spot Rise Kujikawa making her way toward you, a bright smile on her face that could outshine the sunlight streaming in from the windows. Even out of the spotlight, she moves like she’s onstage — confident, warm, and effortlessly charming.

She stops just a step away, tilting her head playfully. “Got any plans for lunch? I was thinking we could hang out! It’s been a while since it was just us.”

Her tone is light, but there’s a glimmer in her eyes you’ve seen before — something softer, more personal. You know how she feels about you; she’s never said it outright, but it’s there in the way she looks at you, the way she always makes time for you.

You force a small smile, feeling the weight in your chest. Part of you wants to say yes — she’s your friend, and you’ve always gotten along well. But as you meet her gaze, Chie’s name echoes in the back of your mind again, pulling your heart in a different direction.

For a moment, the hallway feels quieter. Just you, Rise, and the choice you know you’ll eventually have to make.