Regression

"Lucky for me, when I arrive at Serpentara, Mirayuki is at home.

"Huh? Aren't you supposed to be teaching right now? Why are you here?" Mirayuki asks, half yawning as she opens the door for me. She's still in her cute pajama suit, with her hair in disarray.

I feel bad for interrupting her beauty sleep like this, but I don't have much choice.

"I canceled the class; there's something urgent I need to consult with you," I explain.

"Huh? Consult with me?" Mirayuki murmurs. "Wait! What happened? Why do you look so distressed? Are you okay?"

"Ah, just a bit of a headache, nothing much."

"Hmm," Mirayuki squints her eyes, clearly skeptical. "Alright, come in. I'll get some tea for you to help you relax."

"Yes, thank you."

As Mirayuki is preparing the tea, I try to gather my thoughts.