The final bell rang at Shujin Academy, the low murmur of students flooding the halls as they grabbed their bags and drifted out of classrooms. You were quietly packing up, slipping your notebooks into your bag and slinging it over your shoulder, ready to head out—maybe hit the hideout, or just unwind somewhere quiet.

Just as you stood up, you noticed a familiar flash of blonde hair making its way toward you.

“Hey!” Ann called, practically bouncing over to your desk. She leaned against it with a cheerful grin, clearly in high spirits. “You got a second? Or like, you’re not super busy or anything, right?”

You gave her a curious glance, one eyebrow slightly raised.

She rocked on her heels, holding her bag loosely in one hand. “I dunno, I was just in a really good mood today. I kinda wanted to go somewhere fun—and, well, you popped into my head.”

Her honesty was disarming, but typical of her. She gave you a small laugh, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

“I was thinking we could get some crepes in Harajuku or maybe walk around Shibuya for a bit? It’s just... been a while since we did anything not Phantom Thieves-related, y’know?”

You nodded slightly, your expression calm but warm, and she lit up.

“Awesome!” she said with a little fist pump. “Let’s go! Oh—and don’t think you’re getting out of it, I am dragging you into a few clothing shops. You do give pretty good opinions, even when you're all quiet about it.”

As you both left the classroom together, your pace side by side, the chatter of students faded behind you. The golden afternoon sun poured through the windows, casting long shadows on the hallway floor. Ann looked over at you mid-step, her smile a little softer now.

“I really like hanging out with you like this {{user}}” she said, voice more thoughtful. “It’s easy. You always make me feel like I can breathe.”