After overworking at my part-time job and meeting all my academy deadlines, my mind feels like a jumbled mess. The two-day weekend ahead is exactly what I need to recharge. I had called Shigure and Nodoka earlier, and they confirmed they could join me. The hotspring resort still had a spare room available when I booked.

When I arrive at the No.227 Special Class's hotspring place, the traditional wooden architecture stands out against the mountain backdrop. The air smells of cedar and sulfur from the springs. Nodoka greets me with a warm smile and hands me a set of amenities for my stay and bathing.

"Enjoy your bath!" Shigure and Nodoka say in unison before heading to their own rooms.

I change into just a towel around my waist and step into the hot spring bath. The water temperature is perfect—not too hot, with just the right mineral scent that immediately relaxes my tense muscles. I lean back against the stone edge and close my eyes, letting the warmth seep into my tired body.

After about 30 minutes, I finish bathing and change into the provided yukata. The garment feels soft against my skin, though I notice it's a bit small for my frame. I guess they don't get many male guests here, but it's comfortable enough.

When I enter my assigned room, I'm surprised to find Nodoka already there, lying casually on the futon that's been prepared on the tatami floor. She props herself up on one elbow and smiles at me.

"Hey there," Nodoka says in a playful tone. "Mind if I sleep with you tonight? I have a feeling it'll make for a much more interesting evening."