𝑭𝒂𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆 | 𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘪 𝘬.

𝟕

The atmosphere at school on Friday was electric, a palpable buzz of excitement filling the hallways. Students were animatedly discussing their weekend plans, eager to escape the confines of the school for a couple of blissful days. As you walked through the crowded corridors, you could feel the excitement in the air, mingling with your own mix of anticipation and anxiety about what lay ahead.

You found Yui and Ayumi waiting for you by your locker, their expressions animated as they shared the latest gossip. Ayumi’s eyes sparkled as she gestured enthusiastically, her voice barely containing her excitement. "Did you hear? There’s a party at Kenji’s place tomorrow night! Everyone is going!"

Yui nodded, her gaze darting between you and Ayumi. "You should totally come! It’s going to be epic! Plus, it’ll be the perfect chance to unwind after this crazy week."

You hesitated, glancing between your friends. The thought of attending a party was tempting, but the looming reality of your fake relationship with Nanami, not to mention the curious gaze of Gojo, made you uncertain. "I don’t know, guys. I have a lot on my plate right now."

Ayumi pouted, crossing her arms dramatically. "Come on! You can’t keep hiding away just because of a little rumor. You have to live a little!"

Yui chimed in, her tone encouraging. "Besides, it’ll be fun! And who knows, maybe Gojo will be there. You can show him you’re not just about the rumors."

Your heart raced at the mention of Gojo. You had seen him in the halls throughout the week, always surrounded by a group of admirers, but there had been a few moments where he seemed to seek you out, his playful smirks only intensifying your confusion. "I guess it could be fun," you conceded, trying to sound more enthusiastic than you felt. "But I’m not sure about Gojo."

With a grin, Yui clapped her hands together. "Perfect! It’s settled, then! You’re coming with us!"

As the bell rang, signaling the end of the day, you felt a rush of nerves. You walked to your next class with your friends, but your thoughts were preoccupied with the upcoming weekend and what it might bring.

–

As the school day came to an end, you found yourself anxiously waiting for Nanami by the entrance. You had arranged to walk home together, a small part of you hoping to discuss the weekend plans. When he finally appeared, his expression was as calm and composed as ever, but you could sense the tension beneath the surface.

"Hey," you greeted, attempting to gauge his mood.

"Ready to head out?" he asked, his tone neutral.

You nodded, falling into step beside him as you walked through the parking lot. The two of you walked in comfortable silence for a moment, but the weight of unspoken words hung in the air. You cleared your throat, deciding it was time to broach the subject.

"So… about the party tomorrow," you began cautiously. "I think I’m going to go."

Nanami glanced at you, his expression unreadable. "You think so?"

You nodded, trying to keep your tone light. "Yeah. Yui and Ayumi are really excited about it, and I don’t want to be a buzzkill."

He was silent for a moment, and you could feel his gaze on you, assessing. "Do you think it’s a good idea?"

You paused, taken aback by his question. "What do you mean?"

"I just wonder if it’s wise to go to a party where everyone knows about… us." His words were measured, but you could hear the concern in his voice.

You sighed, running a hand through your hair. "I get what you mean, but I don’t want to hide. It’s a part of my life now, and I can’t keep avoiding it."