If anyone's curious, I have an instagram where I post my art :D It's https://www.instagram.com/m0chalines?igsh=OHkybmI4aXg4OHRv

===

He took a deep breath and gave you a shaky, but genuine smile. It looked like he was barely holding it together.

"Are... are you mad at me?"

Okay, how the fuck were you supposed to respond to that.

Kashi's display of possessiveness was already making you anxious. Normally, a person might brush it off as 'okay, he was a little forceful. But it's probably just a one off thing since he was emotional.' However, because the game labelled him as a 'yandere' your brain went into overdrive and you immediately assumed the worse.

"You suddenly grabbed my hand and got angry at the fact that Yusei got me something. I think being even a little mad is justified, right?"

You couldn't control your frustration, and Kashi looked guilty. With the small bits of tears in the corner of his eyes and his flushed expression, anyone would think you were the one in the wrong here.

"O-oh. Sorry. I really didn't mean to––I just got jealous and..."

You stepped away from Kashi to give him and yourself some space. At that, he sighed. Was it one of relief or disappointment? Both? Who knows. You tried to relax yourself as you sorted out the onslaught of panicked thoughts that piled in your head. Even if Kashi was waiting in silence, you'd rather that than blurt out something you'd regret.

You felt a little bad, though. The dude literally just confessed and your response was harsh. In consideration of his feelings, you managed to swallow the rest of your lectures.

"Look, I'm not saying you're a bad person if you're jealous. I get jealous when a cat goes to someone else instead of me." Kashi let out a weak chuckle at that. Good. You wanted to lower the tension. If it got any heavier, you would've suffocated. "I was just a little worried you'd take it too far. Don't take it the wrong way! It's just... I have my anxieties."

Kashi nodded in understanding.

"Again, I'm sorry." He wiped away the remainder of his tears. Dude, stop making me feel even more guilty?? "Recently, Shichirou-san has been bold with his affections. I got worried that you'd fall for him before I even got a chance to confess. (Y/n), it's normal to feel this way, right? At first I really appreciated you because you're the first person I've comfortably opened up to. Then we began hanging out more and it's just..."

He laughed, it was quiet and was like a single breath.

"It's been fun. When I'm around you I feel like my anxieties about certain things calm down a little. We spent more time together and I began getting more attached to you. Before I knew it, I fell for you."

From his soft and timid voice to his adorably clumsy smiles, everything was delivered with the purpose to make your heart flutter. Kashi waited for your response with such an earnest expression you almost felt compelled to accept his confession to not ruin the atmosphere.

"Kashi, I'm glad you feel comfortable around me. You're someone I find fun to hang out with as well. It's funny listening to you rant about cheesy romance novels and it's endearing seeing you perform for the kids at the daycare."

Kashi's expression brightened at your words. He was sparkling with pride and joy. No spotlight on any stage would ever give him that kind of glow.

"However..." You took a deep breath and prepared yourself. Now, for the moment of truth. "I'm sorry. I don't feel the same way."

You almost winced saying your last few words. Kashi remained silent and his expression fell; you had snuffed out the little candle of hope he had that you two could be a couple. A bittersweet smile was on his lips soon after and it was followed by an understanding nod.

"(Y/n)... Can I ask you something?"

"What is it?"

"Do you like anyone at the moment?"

"I don't."

"Can I ask another question?"

"Yes?"

"Did you reject me because you can't afford to be in a relationship right now or because you truly don't feel the same way?" Kashi took a deep breath. "And that there is no way we can be together. There's no way that I can take you out on dates, hold your hand as we walk home from school, compliment you everyday to let everyone know that I'm taken by such an amazing person––" He shook his head and bit his lip. Was he trying not to cry? "Sorry. I was rambling."

Your felt the urge to comfort him, to hold his hands and reassure him that he'll be okay even if you didn't return his feelings.

...

Ah... This was an issue.

Here's the difference between rejecting Yusei and rejecting Kashi. Yusei was someone who you had yet to form a deep emotional connection with. Yes, he did open up to you a little, but compared to Kashi you knew less of his past and struggles. Kashi? You knew the dude's backstory and he opened up to you far earlier. You've even offered him your support in the past.

"I'm glad that you trust me and allowed me in on your feelings. So... I don't want you to feel alone. You're amazing, Kashi. And I'm not sure how often people say this but, good job." You smiled and looked him in the eyes. "You've worked hard. I know you say that you don't feel like what you're doing has meaning, but I can see how much effort you're putting into everything."

You didn't want to admit it, but you unknowingly found yourself attached to him. Romantically? Hard to say. But your emotions were currently tackling your rationale to the ground.

"I––"

Kashi suddenly grabbed onto your hands. You were about to voice your confusion, but the panicked look in his eyes gave you enough hints.

"Wait, please don't say it," he whispered. "I'm not sure if I can handle your answer."

"What?"

"I know, I know. I'm being delusional." He laughed. "I... I mean, I kind of expected that we won't be together. That sounded too good to be true. However, hearing that I'll have no chance with you? That would crush me."

Oh god, your mind was going blank. What do you say now? Don't give up hope? Shove it down his throat that you'll never like him to make sure he doesn't get led on? What's the best thing to say to dial down his possessive nature? No, not even that. What's the best thing to say as a friend? You needed hours to deliberate a response, not a few seconds!

"Sorry! I accidentally grabbed your hands again."

Kashi shot you an apologetic look and frantically let go, afraid your opinion of him would decline. You remained quiet, which probably placed Kashi in a state of disquietude.

"...Kashi."

He stood up a little straighter. "Y-yes?"

"We can keep being friends after this, right?"

"Of course!" He smiled, relieved. Was he expecting you to cut him off because of the confession? "But! If there is ever a chance I'd be your boyfriend. I promise that I'll treat you well! I'll also do everything you say." The idol exclaimed, a dreamy look on his expression. "You'll have all the say."

"Wait, Kashi. Slow down. You're giving me a pass to control you."

"I mean..." He innocently tilted his head to the side. "Is it really a bad thing if I don't mind it?"

"Yes, Kashi. It is."

"Ah." He looked so innocently confused. "Uh, then... Can we at least be best friends?"

It was a harmless question, so harmless that you almost gaslighted yourself into thinking this was something to be wary of.

"Sure, why not?"

You couldn't help but feel a little sentimental. Outside of this game, maybe you and Kashi could've had a real chance.

Well, then again. It's not like the game made him possessive. He would've directed these emotions towards Aimi if I never played the game, right?

If possible, you'd like to make sure Kashi doesn't do anything irredeemable. You recalled a distant memory.

Eventually, he gave in. A final yawn left him and his head softly landed on your shoulder.

"...(Y/n)?"

His voice was drowsy and volume barely above a whisper.

"Yeah?"

There was a short pause. "...Someday, I'd like to write a song just for you."

Before you could ask him to elaborate, he was already peacefully sleeping. You looked down at him, lips curving up into a fond smile. Looking out the window, you whispered, "I'm looking forward to it."

Your gaze softened. Huh, interesting. Now you had another motivation alongside winning this game and getting your memories back. You didn't want to only protect others from Kashi, but to also make sure he doesn't harm his future. He deserved a happy life.

I could be way over my head, though.

But it was a good thing to feel this way, right? Rather than antagonising Kashi and worrying about the harm he'd do in the future, you'll try to understand the reasons behind his actions. You'll believe in him. It's what Kei would've encouraged you to do. You'll still keep your guard up, of course. However, you'll do better to change your pessimistic attitude.

Maybe Kei was right, taking a risk and believing in someone can be a good course of action.

"(Y/n)?"

"Oh." You blinked. "I zoned out."

Kashi tilted his head, eyes glowing with curiosity. "You were smiling to yourself."

"Oh. I was?" You touched your cheeks. "I'm just glad we could still be friends."

"Oh!" He had the biggest smile on his face. "Me too!"

The mood was a lot lighter.

"So... do you want to keep walking?" Kashi asked, awkwardly gesturing up ahead.

You stifled a laugh at the awkward question and nodded. The two of you were standing in the middle of the pathway talking. Luckily, the area was empty.

I think that went smoothly. Though, Kashi was still a little down from the rejection. At least no big argument broke out.

In your peripheral vision, you saw the idol glancing over to you before looking back to the front. This continued for several minutes. The next time he looked over your way, you immediately met his gaze. Kashi tensed and gave you a timid smile.

"Alright, spit it out."

"I was just wondering what you were thinking about before."

"I was thinking about what you said to me in the past."

"What I said?"

"Someday, I'd like to write a song just for you," you recited. "That."

Suddenly, Kashi's cheeks flushed. "O-oh, that. You can forget about it if you want, I was tired and said something embarrassing."

"Aw, so no song?"

Kashi was surprised. "Do you want a song?"

Wait! Isn't this a perfect opportunity to bring up the backstage tickets?

"Obviously? The performance at the restaurant event was my first time seeing you sing live. Why wouldn't I want a song from you? Actually! Speaking of performance. You have an upcoming concert, right? Hypothetically speaking, if I wanted backstage tickets how do I get them...?"

Kashi looked like he was malfunctioning at the fact that you boldly complimented him before suddenly switching to asking about tickets.

"You want to go to my concert?" He pouted. "To see me, right? Not Genji-san. Since we'll be performing together."

It was cute seeing him show small signs of jealousy.

"Do you think I want to see the dude I slapped sing?"

Kashi laughed. "I'm just surprised you wanted to come to my concert. I dunno, I didn't take you as the type."

"I mean, it sounds tiring as hell. But it'll be worth hearing you sing."

Technically, that wasn't a lie. You couldn't just tell him 'actually, my main reason is that you might murder Genji'. Ack, reality was hitting you again. Just when you were doing such a good job at staying positive. Remember, don't antagonise him. He's your friend. Well, best friend now. Kashi looked like he was on cloud nine. He was too busy being excited to notice the subtle lies you slipped in.

"Okay, okay. Don't worry about buying tickets. Maybe if you talk to Ichika-san, she would give you backstage passess. If that doesn't work, I'll try to get front row seats for you." He smiled brightly. "I'm so excited!"

Nice. You were hoping to negotiate with Ichika anyway.

"That sounds good."

Thinking about it now, saying that you wanted to see his performance might put you in a tough spot. Your movements would be limited during the performance since you'd be expected to stay and watch it. That meant you had a small time frame figure out how Genji's death would happen. Maybe you could figure out why his death would occur in the first place through Kashi. Maybe the red outline might disappear before the concert?

"(Y/n), you should really use the backstory feature to your advantage. It may be tiring, but trying to be in their shoes a little will help predict their actions. Who knows? Maybe you can somehow talk them out of certain things."

You had made that mistake with Yusei already, a second time would truly be frustrating. Alright, Kei. I'll be taking your advice.

"Uhm..." Kashi's voice dropped to a whisper. "I wouldn't be surprised if you know this, but Ichika-san is someone you should be careful around."

Knowing Kashi's past, you fully understood his worries.

"Yup, don't worry."

He still looked unsure. "Make sure you come to me immediately if she bothers you, okay?"

You gave him a thumbs up and Kashi relaxed a little at your cooperation.

"Okay, let's go today! Follow me."

Oh damn, that was quick. Welp, can't complain about efficiency. You followed a very eager Kashi to his agency. It was pretty far away, so you two needed to take a train. Upon arriving there, you needed a moment to marvel at the size of the building. Okay, you were already intimidated and you haven't even gotten to Ichika yet.

Focus, (Y/n). First off, you're the one asking her a favour. Ichika is crafty with her words. Even more than Yusei. Plus, she's an experienced adult. You're walking into this conversation with a massive disadvantage.

When you entered the building, you half expected a security guard to throw you out immediately because of how much you stood out. Everything was crisp and polished to where you felt bad for tainting the floors with your shoes. Kashi gently reassured you that it'd be fine and you could only offer an unsure nod. You stuck by him and avoided eye contact with the staff and other people (who you assumed were other idols? You had no clue).

"Good news, she's in her office," Kashi said, stuffing his phone back into his pocket. "Do you want me to wait outside? Actually, maybe I should talk to her instead. You can come in and I'll lead the conversation––"

"It's fine, I'll do the talking. If I hid behind you, what would she think?"

Kashi sighed. "You have a point, but I don't like the thought of you being alone with her."

"It's fine. I've had my fair share of dealing with difficult people."

After leading you to the floor where Ichika's office was, Kashi informed you that he'd be over in a different room. Something about practising a choreography.

Welp, now or never.

You knocked on the door and heard a muffled 'come in'. More timidly than you would've liked, you entered the room. Ah, there she was. The sound of Ichika's acrylic nails typing away on her laptop was the first thing you heard. Her red hair was tied into a messy bun and her serious expression was like a wall that made her impossible to approach. Almost, you opened the door and brought Kashi back for moral support.

"(Y/n), it's nice to see you again." Her dark red lips curved into a welcoming smile. She motioned to the chair in front of her desk. "Have a seat."

You did as she gestured. "Thanks for seeing me on such short notice."

"If there was an issue, I would've scheduled it later. You came at a lucky time," she said, closing her laptop and placing it to the side. "Besides, that boy never asks me anything."

You weren't sure what to make of her last sentence, so you promptly ignored it. "I should get straight to the point. If I wanted backstage tickets, what do I need to do to get them?"

Ichika was a little caught off guard. Hey, you did say that you'll be getting straight to the point.

Kai and Himari are influencing me a little too much.

"Most people try to butter me up a little before such a request." Ichika laughed, genuinely amused. "How about this? The price is a quick conversation with me."

"So, information?"

"Yes and no. Feel free to ask me questions as well," she clarified. "But, technically speaking, yes. I want to get to know you a little more."

Should've seen this coming. Oh, well. It's not too difficult. Probably.

"So, what do you want to know?"

Ichika made direct eye contact. There was something about her sharp gaze that was bewitchingly attractive. You had a feeling she was able to get what she wanted from a lot of men through this method.

"Tell me honestly, what is your opinion of me?"

Fun. You were put in a difficult position right off that bat. You shouldn't be surprised. If you lied, she'd know. If you told her the truth, she wouldn't be hearing you sing any praises.

You recalled a moment where Kashi opened up to you.

"It hurts." Kashi's voice cracked for a moment and he took in a shaky breath to compose himself. "I fought so hard so that I could be in a position where my voice could be heard. I have a fanbase and I'm offered countless opportunities. I can do what I always wanted ever since I was young; to sing so people could find comfort in my music. Even if it's only a momentary moment of happiness, I hope that my songs can make someone feel better.

But whenever I sing, it all feels meaningless. I do it for the sake of my idol career, not because I'm having fun or because I'm trying to send a message. Even after staying up countless nights perfecting my voice, practising my dance choreography until I collapsed, forcing a smile at the horrible people I met, holding back my tongue even when I was wronged––it all feels so meaningless."

Even if a lot of Kashi's conflicts stemmed from his mentality, you were positive that Ichika played an indirect role judging from the snippets of his past.

"It's unfair to antagonise you when you haven't done anything to me yet." Emphasis on yet. "However, I can be biased."

"Does this have to do with Utari-san?"

"So you already knew."

"Naturally. I can tell you two have gotten close. He does well to hide it, but nothing escapes my eyes. I assume he has opened up to you at some point and you've connected some dots regarding me."

"Look, I'm not going to play pretend hero and accuse you of being the problem behind Kashi's insecurities. But, naturally, I don't find myself particularly relaxed around you."

You were holding a lot back. You wanted to confront her so badly on the incident when he was a child, how she set him up. But you kept your mouth shut. Kashi hasn't told you that information so you technically should be oblivious to it.

Ichika nodded. "I understand."

"Ichika-san, have you ever tried to create a healthier environment for Kashi?"

"No, I have not."

"I understand that you have a lot on your plate, but isn't Kashi technically under your care? Could you have helped him in some way?"

"I could've."

"And did you?"

She was intrigued by your string of questions. "I did not."

"Why?"

Ichika hummed teasingly, a ghost of a sly smile never leaving her lips. "That question requires me to spill some personal details."

"Then that settles it." You shrugged. "I really, really don't like you."

There was a moment of silence and you prepared yourself to get kicked out of her office. You were already mentally mapping out alternative ways to get backstage tickets. Maybe you can sneak in? Wait, that was literally committing a crime.

Suddenly, Ichika laughed. Like––loudly. It wasn't some controlled or elegant laugh, it was one of pure amusement as if she was sharing a drink with a friend and found some horrible joke hilarious. You wondered if people outside the room could hear it.

"I'm sorry, I've never had a conversation like that before. And I've never had someone express their hatred for me so calmly. I wasn't sure how to react," she said. "You know, there was this idol that worked with Utari-san. A sweet girl, so sweet to where she also cared for his well being. She pointed her finger at me. She wanted to 'save' him from me. Arrogant, isn't it? All she did was lecture and criticise me, that won't help anybody."

That got you thinking. Perhaps Kashi's yandere tendencies stemmed from his insecurities. If he wasn't riddled with self doubt and fear of the opinions of others, he wouldn't latch onto someone he felt safe around. That person being you. Well, as cool as it'd be to somehow take down Ichika and magically make the entertainment industry a safe and healthy place so that Kashi could live happily ever after, that was beyond your abilities.

"Hey, Kashi. Can I ask something?"

"What is it?"

"Why do you remain in the industry? Is there some sort of contract that makes you obligated to?"

The male shook his head and showed you a despondent smile. "...I have thought about quitting multiple times, but I feel like if I did that... I wouldn't be worth anything anymore. Also, a lot of controversy and drama will arise, which I don't want. Back then I didn't quit because I thought if I just worked hard enough, I'd eventually be happy. Now? I'm in a position where it's too complicated for me to quit. So, no. I'm not obligated to. The industry just has me wrapped around their finger."

In the end, a lot of it came down to Kashi's own development in his mental health.

"You look like you understand," Ichika said. "Good. It makes my life easier."

"What happened to the girl?"

"Long story short, she was asked to stop working with him. A shame, the song they were working on would've been a hit."

You didn't want to question what exactly 'asked' implied.

In the end, Ichika was only a small part of the issue. You didn't know much about the entertainment industry, but you could imagine the pressure the idols are subjected to from the audience, media, and so on. There was no point in telling Ichika that the agency is a horrible environment for Kashi, how it's diminishing his love for singing and performing. She probably already knew all that.

So then, why was she even doing this?

"You look like you want to ask me something."

You hesitated, but figured that if Ichika didn't kick you out for blatantly admitting you hated her, there was no point in holding back.

"I just don't understand. Kashi would perform so much better and be a lot much happier if you literally just, I dunno, have like one decent conversation?" You sighed. "Okay, maybe the conversation part is a bit too late."

Truthfully, you wanted to ask 'why the hell did you approach a child and manipulate him.' But for obvious reasons you couldn't bring it up.

"I know what you're trying to say. How about some context first?"

"Context?"

"Let's say six years ago. I was a lot more immature back then, but I was pretty efficient. After all, if you want to climb to the top as someone who started off with nothing, you need to take certain... shortcuts."

You swore in the flashback Ichika was already from a reputable company.

Don't tell me... she did it to climb even higher? She could've just left him alone?

"Was that short cut Kashi?"

"Makes you want to jump over this table and slap me, right?"

"Yeah, it really does." You gripped your uniform tightly so you didn't actually do it. "Do you tell everyone this sort of stuff?"

"Nope. You were an exception because you're the first person that boy genuinely trusts. I', curious about what you did, but I have a feeling you won't tell me."

"Your feeling was right."

She laughed. "Other than that, I feel like we're kind of similar."

You couldn't hide the baffled look on your face. "We've barely talked?"

"Call it a hunch from the way you're carrying this conversation," she said. "I observed you quite a bit at the event. You remind me of my younger days. You're always in thought and your eyes always wandered somewhere else."

What the hell does the last part even mean?

The knowledge that Ichika was watching you like a hawk during the event made you want to travel back in time to throw your shoe at her face.

"It's good to be on guard. However..." She paused. "Hah. I can't believe I'm giving advice to someone. Me of all people." An exasperated chuckle escaped her lips. "You have a good support system, don't you?"

Your parents, the Kasumi siblings, Shin and his mother, and Kei came to mind. They were the healthiest company.

"It's not like they need to know everything that's going on. Some things you just can't tell others. But if you keep thinking you can handle everything alone, you may end up taking 'short cuts' like me."

You really didn't want advice from someone like Ichika.

It's fine, right? I tell Kei my worries and stuff––even if it's not everything. I keep everything to myself.

But... Why were you listening to her words so intensely?

"Don't end up like good old me who resorted to even manipulating a kid in the past." For a moment, you saw a regretful smile on her face. "Take it from an experienced adult, okay?"



===



So, you secured backstage tickets and unwillingly formed a bond with Ichika to where she even gave you advice.

"I hope we don't ever have to talk face like that ever again."

It was a few days later. Said days passed by uneventfully; attended class, watched Kai's basketball game during lunch or hung out with the siblings and played cards (Himari kept winning and you and Kai tried to team up against her), attended student council meetings, etc.

Though, now it just might become a little more eventful. And not in a fun way.

You needed to go and talk to Satoshi.

Basically, around late October there was going to be a cultural festival. Specific photos and videos were needed for various reasons. You could ask the photography club, but they were busy doing their own separate thing pertaining to the festival. So, who else does photography? Satoshi.

I wanted to refuse, but then Yusei would've taken up the job.

Recently, Yusei's been looking more and more exhausted. If you didn't pay close attention, you wouldn't have noticed it. Thanks to the fact that you were usually close by him, you noticed he tried to cover his dark circles with makeup.

One time, you sheepishly offered to get him coffee and he politely refused (and sprinkled in some teasing. You brought up the paper flowers to shut him up). He didn't look like he wanted to talk about it, so you quietly decided to help by unloading some of his student council burdens. Hence, why you were on your way to Satoshi after school.

The last time you encountered Satoshi did not end on a great note and you haven't had any major interaction with him since. The brunet was good at keeping his presence to the bare minimum. Despite that, you did your best to keep an eye on him when you could. And that led to some awkward moments where he'd notice your glance. If someone didn't know any better, they'd assume you had a crush on him.

You passed by a window and heard the distant shouting from the volleyball club. Intrigued, you decided to catch a glimpse of their game.

"I heard you were looking for me?"

Someone whispered right next to your ear. You flinched and launched yourself back, holding onto your ear for dear life.

"Who the fuck—Satoshi-san." You could still feel his breath on your ear. "Do not ever do that again."

"Sorry, I couldn't help it. You seemed so immersed."

You couldn't help but narrow your eyes. The dude had some nerve for acting playful with you. Doesn't he know that––oh, right. Satoshi isn't aware that you 100% suspect him to be the cause of the shelves falling and almost hitting Kai. There wasn't any evidence and Kai didn't point any fingers. You only knew everything because of your abilities.

"Anyways... Yes, I was looking for you."

You explained the situation with the cultural festival and the need for a photographer.

"So, are you up for it? It'll take up some time, but you can still enjoy most of the festival."

"Of course. I do have a suggestion, though. Shouldn't a member of the student council accompany me?" He smiled. "Just to keep me in check and make sure I do things correctly."

Judging from the way he was looking at you, it was clear that he was insinuating that student council member should be you.

"I don't think you need a babysitter," you replied. "Anyways, I'll send you an email on further details."

"Alright. Before you leave, I'd like to suggest one more thing." He chuckled at your unamused look. "Don't worry, I'm being serious this time."

"What is it?"

"It'll be better if I show it. It's in the art room, follow me."

He's not going to try and kill me, right?

As you followed Satoshi to the art room, you prepared several plans incase he did try to pull something. Your phone was also on standby, easy to access and the call button ready to be pressed.

You relaxed a little when you saw that there were other people in the room. It was quiet, so quiet to where you even began regulating your breathing so that you wouldn't be a disturbance to everyone. Satoshi led you to a desk in the corner and placed a thick book on the table. The cover wasn't anything special.

"I was thinking of compiling a photo book of the cultural festival. We can sell it and donate the funds to a charity." He opened the book and flipped through the pages. "Here's an example of what I mean. This is an old book I decorated when I was younger. I liked to take photos of random events I went to and compile it into something aesthetically pleasing."

"Oh, woah..." you whispered. "That's so pretty."

As expected of an art student, the designs on each of the pages were gorgeous. The use of washi tape, stickers, doodles, the colours used, the way he'd write little journal entries––everything was done so creatively.

"You said this was old?"

He nodded. "Middle school."

You huffed. "Prodigies and their talents."

There was a sense of childish awe in the writing as younger Satoshi would describe the events he went to. You decided to read one of them.

The fireworks were pretty. I should use the colours in my next painting. Too loud, though. Wouldn't come here again.

You could not help but chuckle, but you were quick to stifle it. Unfortunately, Satoshi noticed. He smiled, a glimmer of pride in his gold eyes as he looked at you affectionately.

"You can keep reading if you'd like. Take your time."

Kind of want to uppercut myself now.

"It's fine." You took out your phone. "I'll take a quick photo so I can show the others. I'll also pitch the idea to them."

You triple checked that your camera was on silent before snapping a few quick photos. Some were accidentally blurry and Satoshi stifled a giggle when you frantically tried to retake the photo.

"Alright, that's done. I'll be going now."

"Oh, I'll accompany you to the gates."

"No." Maybe you said that a bit too quick. "It's fine."

"I insist. There are a few things I want to talk to you about."

You were kind of curious, and you had a few things you wanted to ask him regarding the incident with Aimi. Oh well, the more information the better.

Before exiting the classroom, Satoshi gestured for you to leave before him. A few girls whispered amongst each other saying things along the lines of 'they're so cute!'

God, no. Do not ship us. Ship me with a pole.

You didn't even bother sending a thankful look. When Satoshi began walking by your side, you expected him to get to the point immediately. Instead, he just looked content to be next to you. It only made you impatient. After a few minutes of silent walking, you finally asked,

"What did you want to talk about?"

"Ah, right. I did mention that I wanted to talk to you."

Were you just not going to say anything if I didn't speak up?

"(L/n)-san, can I ask you a question?"

"What?"

"Are you uncomfortable around me?"

Well, that's straightforward. Before you even had a chance to think of a response, Satoshi continued.

"I assumed you would begin to avoid me after that day," he said, referring to the stormy day with the blackout. "However, though you stopped approaching me directly, I'd catch you staring at me from time to time."

Trust me. If it weren't for the game, I'd want NOTHING to do with you.

There was a faint blush on Satoshi's cheeks. You didn't know whether to feel shocked, horrified, or confused.

"Honestly, it's a little embarrassing. I've never had someone observe me so subtly before."

What––what??? You were just keeping an eye on him in case he did anything suspicious! You even made sure to glare at him every time you made eye contact!

If he misinterprets I WILL be breaking something.

Wait, wait. You've never actually confirmed this properly. Does Satoshi like you? That had to be the case, right? Or was he messing with you?

"You know, I'd prefer it if you only kept your eyes on me."

Voice low, soft, and gentle. But his words only made your skin crawl. A sly smile touched his lips before he walked off; just like a phantom, he came and went leaving you wondering if the entire interaction even happened.

"Is there something on your mind?"

"Uh..." Welp, might as well ask. "Satoshi-san, do you happen to like me... romantically?"

The brunet's expression didn't change, but his gaze was a lot more thoughtful.

"To be honest, I'm not sure," he answered. "However, I do want to talk to you more from now on. I want to figure out my feelings towards you."

Okay, no romance yet. But the fact that he targeted Kai, someone who openly showed his affections for you, was enough to infer what was going on. It was only a matter of time, huh?

"If it's talking, it'll be just talking. Right?" you asked.

"I'm not sure what you mean by that." Okay, fair enough. "However, I will go through great lengths to get your attention. I'm used to being ignored, but I don't like the thought of being ignored by you." Satoshi suddenly snapped his fingers. "Ah, how about this? I'll lock you up."

What the fuck.

He continued. "Or you could lock me up. Either way works. I just want your attention."

"Satoshi-san, are you hearing yourself??"

The playful look on Satoshi's gentle features disappeared. Instead, he looked a little guilty. Like a child who was caught taking something he shouldn't.

"Oh, I was only playing around. Too far?"

You used all your willpower to not grab the nearest item and hit Satoshi over the head with it.

"Too far is an understatement. Don't joke around like that. Do you have no social cues?"

"That sounds about right. I wasn't big on making friends when I was younger."

"Well, here's a lesson. Threatening people will not make them want to be friends with you." You sighed, feeling your lifespan decreasing the more time you spend with this brunet. You mumbled, "One of these days, I will kick your shin, I swear to god."

"Should you be telling me that, though? I can dodge it now."

Whoops, he heard you. Satoshi didn't look offended. Rather, a mischievous smile was on his lips. Seriously, what's up with this guy?

"Now you'll wonder, will I kick your shins or break your face? Did I say that aloud to throw you off? Possibilities are endless."

You've never been so openly annoyed at someone before.

Satoshi laughed; there was an alluring quality to it. The kind of laugh you literally cannot believe existed in real life without some sort of camera rolling. Was it because of his naturally peaceful and reserved demeanour? That laugh coupled with his features was a recipe for your cheeks to grow warm. Unfortunately, you were too busy being uneasy at the implications of Satoshi being comfortable being around you.

Was it a good or bad thing that Satoshi liked you? If he's possessive, then you have your work cut out for you. If he hated you, you'd still have your work cut out for you. Either way, there were no 'right' feelings. What mattered was how you were going to handle them.

If he likes me, then I can at least predict what he'd do. Maybe I can convince him out of things? Maybe??

You noticed that you were close to leaving the school building. Shoot, you didn't even get to ask your question yet!

"Satoshi-san, sorry if it's inappropriate to ask––" You were not sorry and you will be mad if he doesn't answer. "––but what happened between you and Aimi-san? You know, on the day with the blackout and stuff."

He looked like he was expecting you to ask that. "Hm... Here's a question. What would you do if I walked up to you and insisted on trying to understand your struggles or your past despite being only acquaintances?"

"Uh... Get annoyed?"

"Exactly." Satoshi smiled like he was pleased that your thoughts aligned with his. "It had been the third time Aimi-san insisted. So I needed to cut out that annoyance."

Your blood ran cold. So you pushed her down the stairs??? Were you going to finish her off or something if I hadn't arrived??

You were sure he pushed Aimi down the stairs since you received a penalty. However, there was no solid evidence. Actually, without your abilities a lot of Satoshi's actions would seem innocuous. You wouldn't have as many reasons to antagonise him compared to now. That was terrifying on its own.

"R-right." You cleared your throat, it felt dry. You didn't want to be around him any longer. "Well, we're at the gate now. Thanks for walking me."

Before leaving, you stole a quick glance behind your back. Satoshi was still standing there. A sly smile graced his lips as he placed two fingers on his lips and blew you a kiss.