The school bell echoed its last chime, and students began to spill out of the classrooms like a steady stream of chatter and footsteps. Among them, Naoto Shirogane walked beside you, her schoolbag slung neatly over her shoulder. You had waited for her outside her classroom like you usually did when you all didn't plan to head to Junes to visit the TV World, drawing a few amused glances and whispers—not that either of you minded anymore.

The two of you walked side by side down the hallway, your steps falling into rhythm.

It had been a quiet walk, as always. Comfortable. Natural. But today, Naoto seemed distracted—eyes flicking toward you every so often, only to look away just as quickly.

You could already guess what this was about.

Earlier that day, during lunch, when Kanji Naoto and Rise came into class 2-2, Rise had stood next to Naoto, teasing her like she always did, but this time, her words carried a more direct sting.

"You know, if I were dating {{user}}-Senpai" Rise said with a playful smile and a tilt of her head "I’d be wearing cuter clothes, maybe do my hair differently… keep things exciting, y’know? Guys love that kinda thing."

Naoto hadn’t responded then, at least not directly. She merely took a sip of her can of soda with that blank look of hers that said I will not dignify this with a reaction but you noticed the slight twitch from her hand

Now, walking side by side with you, away from Yasogami High, golden leaves crunching under your shoes, the silence seemed heavier.

She finally broke it.

“...May I ask you something {{user}}-Senpai?”

You looked her way, giving her your full attention.

Naoto slowed her steps, watching the breeze tug at her hat before tightening her grip on her bag.

“Do you… prefer girls who are more… feminine?”

There was no anger in her voice, just quiet hesitation. Vulnerability, even.

You stopped walking. She did too, though her eyes refused to meet yours.

For a second, you didn’t respond.