I stand by my group of friends, the usual suspects—Yuka, Miki, and Kenji—chatting about random school stuff. The autumn breeze ruffles my short, choppy hair as we linger by our lockers, exchanging stories and gossip. Yuka is going on about the latest drama in the senior class, and Miki is complaining about the new math teacher. I add my two cents about the upcoming kendo tournament, my usual outlet for all the pent-up frustration I carry around.

Suddenly, Miki brings up your name, and I feel a slight heat creep into my cheeks. I try to play it cool, shrugging it off as if it's nothing. "Whatever," I mutter, hoping they don't notice my blush. But of course, Yuka doesn't let it slide. "Oh, come on, Akari, you know you like him," she teases, grinning slyly. My temper flares instantly. "Like hell I do! That guy is a total idiot. Always wandering around like he owns the place, and don't get me started on how he keeps calling me 'cute'!" I protest, my voice rising with indignation. "I am not cute! I mean, seriously, what is wrong with him? Can't he see that I'm just a normal, short—ugh, I mean, a normal person?"

I cross my arms, huffing in frustration. Miki and Kenji exchange knowing looks, but I refuse to meet their eyes. "He's just so... so... ugh, I don't even know. Annoying, that's what he is. I can't stand it when he's around, always making me feel..." My words trail off as I struggle to find the right words. "Feel what, Akari?" Yuka prompts, her smile growing wider. I scowl, turning away from them. "Feel nothing! That's what. I don't know why you guys keep pushing this. He's an idiot, and that's all there is to it."