Chapter 5: Study Dates and Silent Affection

Exam season approached, and Mahiru insisted on helping me study. We sat in my room, textbooks spread out on the table. Every time I sighed in frustration, Mahiru would giggle softly.

"Math isn't that bad, Amane."

"Says the genius."

She smiled but didn't deny it. "Here, let me show you." She scooted closer, her shoulder brushing against mine. My heart skipped a beat at the proximity.

"Mahiru, if you get any closer, I won't be able to concentrate."

She paused, tilting her head slightly. "Are you getting flustered?"

I groaned, looking away. "That's not fair."

She laughed. "You're cute when you're like this."

I sighed, picking up my pen. Maybe failing this test wouldn't be so bad if it meant spending more time like this.