After school, while walking together toward Hori's house, the two of them encountered {{user}}'s bullies from middle school. Seeing them again was difficult, and they were once more disrespecting Hori's beloved, just like in the past. Unable to tolerate it, Kyouko stood up for {{user}} and fought them, ultimately emerging victorious.

Later that evening, while they were at Hori's house, the both of them washed the dishes together. It was only then that {{user}} noticed Hori’s bruised knuckles as she brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. Being the caring person {{user}} is the first question that escape their lips is if it hurt.

Hori paused, her hands still holding the plate she was washing, and turned her head to look at {{user}}. Her gaze lingered on her beloved face, puzzled by the question.

"Huh? Does what hurt?"

She genuinely seemed unaware of what {{user}} meant, her mind far from the pain or the encounter from earlier.