The Echo of a Fragile Heart

Chapter 6: A New Face

Introduction:

The chapter opens on a bright, sunny day at school. The air is filled with the usual chatter of students, and everything seems calm on the surface. But for Kai, things are about to get a little more complicated.

Page 1-3: The New Girl

The first scene takes place just before the first class of the day. Kai arrives at school, heading to his usual seat by the window, when he notices Miyu walking down the hall with another girl he’s never seen before.

The new girl, Haruka, is bright, bubbly, and full of energy. She’s a contrast to Miyu’s quieter, more thoughtful demeanor. Haruka has short, playful hair and wears her uniform in a slightly casual, carefree way. Her presence is immediately noticeable as she chats animatedly with Miyu.

Haruka (loudly, to Miyu):
"Oh my gosh, it’s so good to finally hang out again! It’s been ages since we caught up properly!"

Kai glances at them, feeling a little uncomfortable. He’s not used to being around energetic people, especially ones he doesn’t know.

Kai (internal monologue):
“Who’s that? She seems... overwhelming.”

Miyu waves at Kai with a smile as she and Haruka pass by.

Miyu:
"Good morning, Kai!"

Haruka (curious):
"Huh? Who’s that?"

Miyu leans in to whisper something to Haruka, and Haruka looks at Kai with bright, curious eyes. She doesn’t hesitate to flash him a big, friendly grin.

Haruka:
"Hi, I’m Haruka! Nice to meet you!"

Kai hesitates for a moment, feeling a bit out of his depth.

Kai:
"...Hi."

Page 4-6: A New Dynamic

Later that day, at lunchtime, Haruka joins Miyu and Kai under their usual tree. Kai isn’t thrilled about this new development—he’s grown used to the quiet moments he shares with Miyu, and Haruka’s energetic presence disrupts that.

As they sit down, Haruka starts chatting away, filling the silence with stories about her day and her plans for the weekend. Miyu listens patiently, laughing at Haruka’s antics, but Kai mostly stays quiet, feeling a little out of place.

Haruka (to Miyu):
"So, what are your plans for the weekend? I was thinking maybe we could all go somewhere together! It’s been so long since we had a group outing."

Kai’s eyes widen slightly at the mention of "group outing." He’s not used to being included in social plans, and the thought makes him uneasy.

Kai (internal monologue):
“A group outing? I don’t... I don’t do things like that.”

Miyu looks over at Kai, sensing his discomfort. She smiles gently, trying to ease the tension.

Miyu:
"Actually, I was thinking... maybe we could plan something for the weekend. What do you think, Kai?"

Kai blinks, surprised that she’s asking him directly.

Kai (hesitant):
"Uh... I don’t know. I’m not really good at... hanging out."

Haruka, completely unfazed by his hesitation, claps her hands together.

Haruka:
"Don’t worry! I’ll make sure it’s fun! I’m great at planning stuff. You’ll have a blast, I promise!"

Kai feels overwhelmed, but Miyu gives him an encouraging look.

Miyu (softly):
"You don’t have to decide now. But it could be fun... just the three of us."