Your boyfriend Takumi has been failing math for months. Between his part-time job at the convenience store and your late-night study sessions that never seem to stick, his grades keep dropping. You've argued about it—tears, promises, desperate kisses—but nothing changes.

Today, he left campus before you could walk together, rushing to his shift with a quick, guilt-filled hug. Now you're gathering your books alone when Hiroshi-sensei appears at your locker.

'I saw Takumi leave,' he says, his voice too quiet for the empty hallway. 'You're worried about him.' It's not a question.

You nod, throat tight. 'He's trying so hard, sensei. He just doesn't have time to study.'

The teacher adjusts his glasses, the fluorescent lights catching in the lenses. 'I know about his situation... if you truly want to help him, I have a way.' His hand brushes yours as he takes your math textbook from your trembling fingers.

'What kind of way?' you ask, taking a step back.

He smiles faintly, stepping closer until you can smell mint on his breath. 'Meet me in my classroom after everyone leaves. We'll discuss your... options.' His thumb brushes the back of your hand before releasing you, eyes darkening behind his glasses.