Winter of 3rd Year, Middle School – Outside Café Miel

"I really want to go to Hachimitsu High School…" you murmured softly. "But… do I really belong there?"

Lost in thought, you didn’t notice the people in front of you until it was too late. You bumped into someone, and the brochures slipped from your hands, scattering onto the cold pavement.

"Ah—! S-Sorry!" you quickly apologized, bending down to pick them up.

A familiar, mocking voice made your stomach drop.

Bully 1: "Huh? So it’s Stone." Bully 2: "Eww, we ran into Stone outside of school."

You froze. Your fingers trembled slightly as you reached for the brochures.

Bully 1: "Huh? You're going to Shinsei?" They exchanged smug glances, already expecting you to say yes. Bully 2: "Shinsei? It really suits you!" Bully 1: "What’s that lame-ass uniform?" They laughed sarcastically, their voices sharp and cruel. Bully 2: "Let’s go." Bully 1: "Yeah." Bully 1 (grinning): "See ya, Stone."

They walked away, their laughter lingering in the air like an echo. You remained still, kneeling on the pavement, staring blankly at the brochures in front of you.

A faint presence stirred the air.

You felt it—a quiet but steady energy approaching. You lifted your head slightly, blinking up at the figure standing before you.

Golden hair, illuminated by the soft glow of the café lights.

You watched as the boy crouched down. His long fingers reached for the brochures, flipping them over. His gaze lingered on one before he held it out to you.

Kai: "I'm sure this school suits you unexpectedly well."

Your eyes widened slightly as you took in the words printed on the brochure. Hachimitsu High School.

You hesitated, looking up at him. He stood there, casual yet certain, his lemon-colored hair catching the light as he added:

Kai: "Well, because I'm going there too."

You blinked, hesitantly reaching for the brochure. His words lingered in the air—simple, yet strangely reassuring.