𝒀/𝑵'𝒔 𝑳𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒄𝒚: 𝒀𝒖𝒋𝒊, 𝑴𝒚 𝑪𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝑶𝒃𝒔𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏

Episode 8: Satoru's Confession

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Episode 8: Satoru's Confession

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As I walked across the school campus, my frustration simmered just below the surface. That meeting with the higher-ups still had my blood boiling. I kicked a stone near my leg, watching it skitter away. "How can they do this?" I muttered to myself. "Kids' lives, treated like pawns. Their lives should be carefree, filled with laughter and dreams, not missions and executions."

My thoughts darkened, imagining the worst. "Those heartless bureaucrats, sending children to their deaths. And for what? Fear of power? Fear of the unknown?" My fists clenched, nails digging into my palms. I wished I could take down those higher-ups, but I knew better. Strategy was key.

Lost in my anger, I didn't notice the cold breeze until it swept past me, rustling the leaves. They swirled, dancing in the wind, and came to rest at the feet of a woman standing before me. Her back was turned, but as she turned around, my heart skipped a beat.

Utahime.

When had she returned from Kyoto? I hadn't expected to see her here, let alone today.

Her piercing gaze locked onto mine, a hint of surprise flickering across her face. "Satoru, what's wrong?" she asked, her voice soft.

I forced a smile, hiding my turmoil. "Just enjoying the scenery," I lied.

Utahime's eyes narrowed. "You're not exactly known for your love of nature."

I chuckled, trying to deflect. "Maybe I'm changing."

Her gaze lingered, searching for something beneath my facade. "I hope not," she said finally. "I like you just the way you are."

My heart stuttered. Did she mean those words? Or was it just politeness?

Utahime's words hung in the air, and for a moment, I forgot about my frustration. I forgot about the higher-ups and their ruthless decisions. All I saw was her, standing before me with a gentle smile.

"Satoru?" Utahime's voice broke the spell, her eyes sparkling with concern. "You seem troubled. What's going on?"

I hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. But something about Utahime's genuine interest put me at ease. "Just a meeting with the higher-ups," I said, my voice low. "They're making decisions that put our students in harm's way."

Utahime's expression turned grave. "I know what you mean. I've seen some of the proposals coming from the top. It's alarming."

Alarming. That was one word for it. Infuriating, disturbing, and heartbreaking were others.