Do you like me?

Because of how suddenly Itou did that, Misaki, who was watching us from the other side of the room, got a little startled. With a look of concern, she’s about to stand up and check on us.

Before responding to Itou who was unaware of it, I turned my head to Misaki and gestured that it was fine.

Fortunately, she understood it. The girl sat back down but she put her hands on her chest, still appearing concerned. If the situation progressed further in this direction, the girl would surely run to us to offer her help.

And because of that, instead of intentionally agitating Itou further, I backtracked and calmly faced her.

I placed my hands on top of hers and gripped them gently as I focused all my attention on her. Without letting go of her, I replied to her outburst with a question, “Itou, tell me one thing… Is that really what you want?”