Kurume
Morning.
I walked into the classroom.
She was already there. Sitting nearby.
Not like before — no gentle smile, no soft "good morning."
But still — close.
I sat down without a word.
And I didn't hear any blame in return.
Just… breathing.
Just… presence.
Sometimes, that's enough.
Break Time
I stepped into the hallway. My head was a mess.
I was glad she came.
But that feeling tangled with anxiety.
What if I mess up again?
— "Kurume!"
A voice behind me.
Sayo.
— "What do you want?"
— "Just wondering how you're feeling. After…"
She looked down, feigning concern.
"Everything."
— "Don't start."
— "I'm not. Honestly, I care. You look… lost."
She gently adjusted my shirt collar.
Too gently. Too deliberately.
— "Don't touch me."
— "What if I just want to help?"
— "Then don't interfere."
Sayo fell silent, but the corners of her mouth twitched.
Like she got what she wanted.
Like it was all part of the plan.
After Class
Miyako and I walked through the school courtyard.
Slowly. Silently.
— "Hey…" I said.
— "Hm?" She turned slightly.
— "Wanna walk home together today?"
She didn't answer right away.
But after a few more steps, she nodded.
And we walked.
No words.
No "everything's okay."
But together.