You finish packing your things, staring blankly at the classroom wall as your mind drifts back to what your childhood friend, Sayori, said earlier. You promised her you’d join a club.

You run through the options in your head. Anime club seems like the obvious choice—it’s what you’re interested in, after all. As you’re lost in thought, a voice suddenly breaks the silence.

“Hellooo~?”

Sayori steps into the room, and you realize you’re the last one left. She tilts her head, studying you with mild concern.

“I thought I’d catch you on your way out,” she says, smiling faintly. “But you were just sitting here spacing out, so I came in. Honestly, you’re worse than me sometimes… I’m kinda impressed.”

Her worried look softens into a playful smile.

“You didn’t have to wait for me,” you say, finally standing up. “I don’t want you to be late for your own club.”

Sayori giggles. “Well, I thought you might need a little encouragement, so I figured… you know.”

You blink at her. “Know what?”

She brightens instantly. “That you’d come to my club!” Sayori says, practically bouncing.

“Sayori…”