Unraveled Ties

The streets were quieter than usual. The sun had begun its descent, casting long shadows across the pavement. Reiji walked at an unhurried pace, his school bag slung over one shoulder.

Sena had left the clubroom without another word. It wasn't like he expected a conversation, but the way she reacted when he mentioned Aoi… *Did I say something wrong?*

Not that it mattered.

At least, that's what he told himself.

—

When Reiji got home, his little brother, greeted him at the door.

"Reiji! You're late!" the five-year-old pouted, crossing his arms.

"I had club activities," Reiji replied simply, ruffling haru's hair as he walked past him.

His older sister, Misaki, peeked out from the kitchen. "Dinner will be ready soon. Go wash up."

Reiji gave a slight nod, making his way to his room.

His home life was peaceful—normal, even. Misaki acted like the second parent in the house, constantly spoiling both. Their parents were often busy with work, but that had never been an issue.

After a quick shower, Reiji sat at his desk, mindlessly flipping through his notes.

His thoughts wandered back to Sena.

It wasn't the first time he had noticed how pretty she was. Not that he'd ever admit it.

But there was something about her lately.

The way she reacted to him. The way she looked at him when he spoke.

*No. I'm overthinking things.*

He leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling.

It didn't matter. The only thing that mattered was Aoi.

At least, that's what he kept telling himself.

—

The next day at school, Kaito was already waiting for him at their usual spot near the entrance.

"You look dead," Kaito commented, stuffing his hands in his pockets.

"Didn't sleep much," Reiji replied.

"Thinking about Aoi?" Kaito smirked.

Reiji shot him a look. "Shut up."

Kaito laughed. "Man, you need to relax. Maybe you should learn from me and Yuna. Our relationship is perfect."

Reiji sighed. "Here we go…"

Kaito grinned. "It's true, though. You should take notes."

Before Reiji could respond, the bell rang, signaling the start of the school day.

As they walked toward their class, Reiji caught a glimpse of Sena ahead.

She was talking to Aoi, her expression unreadable.

For some reason, he felt his mood shift.

—