The Beginning of Something Complicated

The morning sun peeked through the windows of Rensaka High, casting golden light across the bustling schoolyard. Students chatted in groups, laughter filling the air as they prepared for another ordinary day. But for Miyuki Asano, today felt anything but ordinary.

She adjusted the strap of her school bag, exhaling softly as she stepped through the school gates. Her long brown hair swayed slightly in the breeze, and her soft brown eyes held a warmth that made her naturally approachable.

"Miyuki!" A familiar voice called out. She turned to see Renji Kisaragi, his confident smirk already in place as he strolled toward her, hands lazily tucked into his pockets. His short, dark blue hair was slightly messy, as if he had just rolled out of bed, but that was Renji—effortlessly charismatic.

"Morning, Renji," she greeted, smiling as he fell into step beside her.

"Did you do the math homework?" he asked, feigning innocence. "Because I, uh… might have completely forgotten."

Miyuki rolled her eyes playfully. "You mean you were too busy playing basketball again?"

"Hey, I was refining my skills!" Renji defended, nudging her lightly. "Besides, you're a genius, so you can teach me, right?"

Before she could respond, another voice cut in, smooth but laced with mild irritation.

"You should stop relying on others for your incompetence, Kisaragi."

Miyuki turned to see Haruto Sumeragi, standing with his arms crossed, his dark eyes calm but sharp. With his neatly styled black hair and perfectly pressed uniform, he exuded an air of authority. As the student council vice president, he was well-known for his strict attitude—and his frequent clashes with Renji.

Renji scoffed. "Oh, look who's here. Did you come to lecture me, Mr. Perfect?"

Haruto barely spared him a glance before turning his attention to Miyuki. "Good morning, Asano. I trust you finished your assignments on time?"

Miyuki felt the tension crackling between the two boys, as it always did. Renji and Haruto had been at odds since their first year, and she often found herself caught in the middle of their rivalry.

"Good morning, Sumeragi," she said, offering a small smile. "And yes, I finished them."

"Of course you did," Haruto replied simply, then added, "Unlike some people."

Renji huffed. "You say that like you never make mistakes."

Haruto adjusted his glasses, unfazed. "I don't make careless ones."

Miyuki sighed. "Guys, can we not start the day like this?"

Haruto gave a slight nod, while Renji just grinned. "Fine, fine. But you owe me, Miyuki. Math help after school?"

Before she could answer, the bell rang, signaling the start of class.

Miyuki groaned. "We'll talk later!" she called over her shoulder as she rushed inside, leaving Renji and Haruto exchanging glares behind her.

What she didn't realize was that, from that moment on, her days would never be simple again. Because between her kind heart, Renji's confidence, and Haruto's pride—feelings were beginning to stir.

And nothing was more complicated than the emotions they hadn't yet admitted to themselves.

Lunchtime arrived faster than Miyuki expected. The cafeteria buzzed with activity, students crowding around tables, chatting and laughing. She picked up her tray and scanned the room, spotting Renji waving enthusiastically.

"Miyuki! Over here!" he called, patting the seat beside him.

She smiled and made her way over, but just as she was about to sit, a familiar voice interrupted.

"Asano, a word?"

She turned to see Haruto standing a few feet away, arms crossed as usual. Renji groaned, slumping back in his seat. "Oh, come on. Lunchtime is sacred, dude. What now?"

Haruto ignored him, his gaze fixed on Miyuki. "It's about the upcoming council event. We need your input."

Miyuki hesitated, glancing between the two. She wanted to sit with Renji, but she also couldn't ignore her responsibilities.

Renji smirked, leaning back with a playful grin. "Go on, princess. Don't keep Mr. Perfect waiting."

Miyuki shot him a glare but sighed. "I'll be back soon," she promised, following Haruto toward the quieter side of the cafeteria.

As they walked, she noticed Haruto's expression was unreadable. "What's this really about?" she asked.

He paused for a moment before replying, "You shouldn't waste your time with someone who never takes things seriously."

Miyuki blinked, caught off guard. "Are you talking about Renji?"

Haruto's silence was enough of an answer.

And just like that, Miyuki realized this love triangle was only beginning to form.