Today was the day.
Haruto and Ren's scheduled fight was finally here.
Haruto was accompanied by Enji, Arataki, and Ayaka, but Old Futto was noticeably absent.
He had opted out, explaining that the sight of blood and violence triggered his panic attacks—a lingering trauma from his past.
No one questioned it.
What was questionable, though, was Kikuchi's unexpected presence.
His presence immediately put the trio on edge. Enji, Arataki, and Haruto exchanged uneasy glances, their nerves fraying as Kikuchi casually leaned against the car, his gaze sweeping over the group.
"What's this, Senior Kikuchi?" Haruto asked, trying to keep his tone light. "You don't need to come with us. I know you're busy—"
Kikuchi cut him off with a bored tone. "And? I just feel like watching a fight. I'm bored."
His eyes lingered on Ayaka, scrutinizing her from head to toe. "Is this the girl you and Ren are fighting over?"