Chapter 2: Goals and First Distractions

Ryo spent that morning as usual, with a book in his hands and a cup of tea on his study desk. As a student who was highly focused on his goal of getting into the best university, every day was a struggle to maintain his concentration. Every page of exam material felt important—every moment spent outside of studying felt like a waste. The big exam ahead was always on his mind, and Ryo knew that every second not used for studying could hinder his chances of achieving his dream.

However, that day, something felt a little different.

After the first class ended, Mika approached him in the school's back garden, the place where Ryo always sought peace. Mika, the cheerful girl always surrounded by friends, seemed to want to talk more with Ryo, something that rarely happened. Even though they had spoken briefly before, today Mika was truly paying attention to him.

"Hey, Ryo," she said with a sweet smile, though there was a hint of nervousness on her face. "I… I just wanted to thank you again for helping with the group project yesterday. It really helped a lot."

Ryo gave a small smile, feeling a bit awkward. "Oh, it's nothing. I just helped a little," he replied, trying to hide his discomfort.

Mika looked at him with eyes full of gratitude, then continued, "Actually, I wanted to ask—how do you get so smart? I really struggled with that assignment, but you did it so easily." She smiled slightly, then lowered her gaze as if feeling shy. "I was thinking… maybe we could study together sometime, if you don't mind."

Ryo hesitated for a moment. He was a bit surprised because, even though they often sat in the same class, conversations like this had never happened before. Ryo knew Mika was a popular girl, always surrounded by friends, so her sudden request felt like an interruption to his focus.

He forced a small smile. "Maybe… if I have time."

Before Ryo could respond further, a lively voice interrupted from behind. Ayumi, with her messy hair and bright grin, stepped forward with boundless energy.

"Come on, Ryo!" Ayumi greeted cheerfully. "Are you two chatting? It's no fun if it's just the two of you. Let's go to the cafeteria—everyone is talking about the upcoming sports match!"

Ryo felt his anxiety grow. Ayumi was always energetic and enthusiastic, often inviting Ryo to join various social activities he had no interest in. Of course, Ayumi was kind, but these social distractions were beginning to disrupt his focus—especially since Ayumi knew exactly how to grab attention.

Before Ryo could say anything, Mika had already stood up and gave a small smile. "Maybe another time. I know you have a lot on your mind," she said wisely, though Ryo was surprised at how considerate she was.

Ayumi huffed, "You two are too serious! Let's go to the cafeteria—it's important, you know!" She playfully grabbed Ryo's hand as if trying to pull him along.

Ryo felt even more confused. Mika, who had previously been just another classmate, was now showing interest in him. Meanwhile, Ayumi, who was more direct and cheerful, kept trying to drag him away from his studies and goals.

But before Ryo could give an answer, Haruka appeared. The quiet girl who always avoided crowds, sitting alone in the corner of the class and rarely interacting with anyone, suddenly approached them with her sharp gaze.

"What are you all doing?" Haruka asked in a soft voice. "Sounds interesting, but is it really more important than studying?"

Ryo felt like he was being watched. Haruka, with her mysterious and reserved nature, always gave off a different feeling. There was a calmness in her, as if she knew more than she let on. Ryo had always been intrigued by her quiet demeanor, but at times, he felt like Haruka could see right through him.

Mika smiled, looking a little awkward. "We were just chatting, Haruka."

Haruka stared at Ryo for a moment before saying, "You must be busy preparing for the exams, right? Don't let small things distract you from your goals." She then gave a faint smile—one that seemed to hold many meanings—before turning and walking away.

Ryo stood there, speechless, feeling even more conflicted. These three girls, in their own ways, were starting to disrupt his focus and thoughts. Mika, who was kind and attentive. Ayumi, who was always full of energy and eager to pull him into social activities. And Haruka, who offered wise words but also left him with more questions than answers.

Ryo's main goal—to get a university scholarship—was something he deeply valued. Every moment spent studying was another step closer to achieving his dream. But with these three girls suddenly becoming a part of his daily life, he felt as though he was standing at a crossroads. Would he stay focused on his dreams? Or would this newfound attention change the path he had so carefully planned?

Ryo took a deep breath.

This was just the beginning, and he knew that the small choices he made now would shape his future.

4o