Chapter 4: Unfamiliar Bond

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The bell echoed through the school corridors, signaling the end of classes

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The bell echoed through the school corridors, signaling the end of classes. Amidst the bustling students, Hanaki found solace on a bench in the courtyard, engrossed in his sketchbook. Akira, navigating through the afternoon chatter, spotted him and decided to join.

Akira: "Hey, Hanaki! Any plans for the afternoon? Maybe a visit to Eclipsed Brews?"

Hanaki, looking up with a smile, closed his sketchbook.

Hanaki: "Sounds like a plan, Akira. A dose of caffeine might do wonders for the creative spirit. Care to join?"

As they discussed their artistic endeavors, the atmosphere shifted. Neithann and Kazuya, known for their troublesome antics, approached with sneers on their faces.

Neithann, putting a hand on Hanaki's shoulder, taunted.

Neithann: "Look who's here, Kazuya. The art nerd himself, probably drawing flowers or something."

Kazuya, snickering, added, "Maybe he's sketching his imaginary friends."

Hanaki, trying to keep his composure, continued packing his sketchbook.

Akira, sensing the tension, stepped forward.

Akira: "Enough, Neithann. Leave him alone."

Neithann, undeterred, mocked.

Neithann: "Or what? You'll paint us into oblivion?"

Akaira, who had witnessed the unfolding scene, rushed towards them with concern.

Akaira: "What's going on here?"

Kazuya, smirking, held Hanaki's sketchbook out of reach.

Kazuya: "Just a little fun with the art geek. Want to join the party?"

Akira, standing firm, addressed them.

Akira: "Give it back, Kazuya. We're not interested in your version of fun."

Neithann, sensing a challenge, shoved Hanaki's sketchbook into Akira's hands.

Neithann: "Fine, take it. The nerd can have his precious drawings."

After the bullies retreated, the trio headed to Eclipsed Brews for some solace. Cleo, the observant barista, noticed their somber expressions.

Cleo: "Rough day, huh?"

Akira, deciding to share, recounted the incident with Neithann and Kazuya.

Jay, shaking his head, expressed his frustration.

Jay: "Those two never learn, do they?"

Akaira, taking a deep breath, explained everything in detail.

Akaira: "They were mocking Hanaki for being into art, just being bullies as usual."

Cleo, joining the conversation, expressed her concern.

Cleo: "It's disheartening to hear that bullying is still an issue. We can't let them get away with it."

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