3rd POV
Ann and Makoto fussed over Y/N, making sure hercardigan draped just right. Y/N yawned, her eyes half-lidded with lingering sleepiness, as the girls finally declared her ready.
"Perfect!" Ann beamed, giving Y/N a little spin. "You look adorable!"
"Let's just get this over with," Y/N mumbled, clutching her cardigan closer. Despite her reluctance, she appreciated her friends' efforts.
The three girls descended the stairs to find Ryuji and Akira waiting with Morgana perched on Akira's shoulder. Ryuji, leaning against the wall, looked up first.
"About time!" Ryuji called, but his voice softened when he saw his sister's drowsy state. "Hey, you okay there, neko?"
Y/N nodded, rubbing her eyes. Akira's gaze lingered on her a moment longer, a small, almost imperceptible smile tugging at his lips.
"You look great," Akira said softly, earning a shy smile from Y/N.
"Yeah, yeah, let's get moving before the lines get long," Ryuji interrupted, clearly eager for the ramen. Morgana meowed in agreement, hopping down and weaving around Y/N's legs affectionately.
As they walked toward the train station, Ann and Makoto chatted animatedly about the latest school events. Y/N trudged alongside, her steps slow but steady. Akira fell into step beside her, his presence comforting and quiet.
"Do you ever get tired of these outings?" Akira asked, his tone light.
"All the time," Y/N admitted with a small laugh. "But they mean well. Besides, ramen sounds good right now."
"Then it's worth it," Akira replied, his eyes twinkling. "Maybe you'll wake up once you get some food."
Ryuji glanced back, noticing the exchange and narrowing his eyes playfully. "Hey, no making moves on my sister, Akira!"
"Relax, Ryuji," Y/N shot back, rolling her eyes. "We're just talking."
Ann giggled, nudging Makoto. "I think Ryuji's more worried about Akira than Y/N."
Makoto smiled, watching the group dynamics unfold. "It's nice to see everyone getting along."
As they reached the station, Morgana let out a loud meow, drawing everyone's attention. Y/N bent down to scratch behind his ears.
"Thanks for keeping me company, Morgana," she whispered, and the cat purred contentedly.
"Alright, let's get some ramen!" Ryuji cheered, leading the way with infectious enthusiasm.
Akira held back a moment, offering Y/N a hand as they boarded the train. She took it gratefully, a small but warm connection forming between them.
The ride to Shibuya was filled with light-hearted banter, and for once, Y/N didn't mind being part of the group.
