Chapter 26: A Rival Appears?

With everything going smoothly in our relationship, I wasn't prepared for the sudden arrival of a new transfer student—Shirogane Ren. He was confident, charismatic, and, to my surprise, immediately took an interest in Mahiru.

"Mahiru-san, would you like to study with me?" he asked with an easygoing smile. "I'd love to get to know you better."

Mahiru, ever polite, nodded. "I appreciate the offer, but I already have a study partner."

She turned to look at me, her golden eyes filled with warmth. Ren followed her gaze and grinned. "Ah, I see. You two must be close."

I couldn't help but feel a tinge of jealousy. I wasn't the possessive type, but seeing another guy try to steal Mahiru's attention so openly made something stir in me.

As we walked home, Mahiru glanced at me, noticing my silence. "Amane, are you upset?"

I sighed. "Not upset. Just… wondering why every guy seems to want your attention."

She giggled and reached for my hand. "But I only want yours."

My heart swelled at her words, and all my doubts melted away.