Without thinking, Haruto bolted toward her.
"Are you alright?" he asked, his voice filled with concern as he handed her his handkerchief.
Chiyo hurried to her side, helping to wipe away the sticky mess.
"What the hell, Ren?" Haruto barked, glaring daggers at the other man.
Ren sighed, his expression bored and dismissive. "This isn't your business. Oi, useless, let's go." He snapped his fingers at Ayaka.
Ayaka flinched, hesitating as she glanced between Ren and Haruto. But as she stepped toward that bastard, Haruto caught her wrist, his grip firm yet gentle.
"Don't go," he said, his voice steady and resolute. "Just stay with me."
Ayaka's eyes filled with uncertainty, her gaze shifting between the two men. Finally, she lowered her head, trembling as she clung to Haruto's shirt.
"I'll go with you," she whispered, her voice barely audible.