As Haruki awoke, he found himself alone in the library, the silence overwhelming. He glanced around, noting that it had only been an hour since he’d fallen asleep. Something felt off; he could sense the stillness in the air, and a glance at the clock confirmed that school hours had ended.
He stood up and stretched, his thoughts still clouded by the remnants of sleep. Just then, he heard soft laughter echoing from outside the library. Curiosity piqued, he stepped closer to the door, straining to catch snippets of their conversation.
“Did you see how he looked today?” one girl exclaimed, her tone laced with admiration. “He’s completely transformed!”
“Right? Haruki used to be so fragile and small, but now he’s like… a whole new person,” another chimed in. “I can’t believe he’s the same guy.”
A third girl added, “He’s a bit gloomy, but there’s something about him that draws you in. I think I want to get to know him better.”
Their chatter was lighthearted yet filled with an undercurrent of competition, each girl vying for his attention in their own way.
Suddenly, Haruki heard footsteps approaching. He quickly stepped away from the door, not wanting to be caught listening. As he leaned against the wall, he tried to calm his racing heart.
A moment later, Yuki strolled down the hallway, her cheerful demeanor a stark contrast to his brooding presence. Spotting him, she paused, tilting her head with curiosity. “Hey, Haruki! What are you doing all the way over here?” she asked, her voice surprisingly adept at hiding its true feminine tone, making it sound more neutral and inviting.
“Uh, just… thinking,” he replied, feeling slightly embarrassed. He knew she had likely seen him eavesdropping, but he hoped she wouldn’t call him out on it.
“Thinking, huh? Well, it’s kind of lonely here. Let’s walk together!” she suggested, her smile warm and inviting.
“Sure,” he agreed, grateful for her company. As they walked side by side down the hallway, the remnants of their empty school felt less intimidating.
“Have you thought about joining any clubs?” Yuki asked, her voice bright and enthusiastic, still managing to mask her true identity.
“Not really,” he replied, still adjusting to the new environment. “I’m just getting used to everything here.”
“Don’t worry. You’ll fit in,” she assured him, her smile brightening his mood. For the first time since arriving, Haruki began to feel a flicker of hope for his new life.
As they continued their conversation, he remained oblivious to the fact that the girls from earlier were watching them from a distance, their eyes filled with interest and intrigue.
YOU ARE READING
The Perfect Plaything
FantasyAfter a heartbreaking betrayal by his high school sweetheart, Haruki retreats into himself, locking away the vibrant personality that once drew others in. As he steps into the chaotic world of college, he's determined to keep his distance from women...
