It started with a simple conversation.

You and Uzaki were walking past campus when a girl from your class waved you down to ask about mana theory. It wasn’t long—just a couple friendly exchanges—but Uzaki went oddly quiet beside you.

Then, without warning, her hand slid into yours.

You blinked.

She didn’t even look at you—just smiled at the girl and joined in. ”Elemental theory’s cool, but he totally overthinks it,” she said, giving your hand a subtle squeeze. ”I keep telling him to feel the mana, not fight it.”

Your brain short-circuited.

The girl laughed politely, wrapped up her point, and left. You stood there stunned, still holding Uzaki’s hand.