Chapter 5: A Path Growing More Divided

That morning, Ryo felt slightly better after his conversation with Haruka the day before. Since then, he had tried to stay focused, reminding himself that his goal of getting into the best university was the most important thing. The upcoming entrance exam was an opportunity he couldn't afford to waste. However, despite his determination, the anxiety and confusion that had surfaced ever since Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka started paying attention to him were beginning to feel overwhelming.

In class, Ryo sat at his usual desk, leaning back against his chair as he opened his book. But for some reason, today, he felt unusually distracted. Every page he read felt heavier, and every time he looked at his book, his mind wandered—to Mika, who had been growing closer to him, Ayumi, who constantly invited him to have fun, and Haruka, who always offered wise yet challenging advice.

During the lunch break, while his classmates went to the cafeteria or gathered outside, Ryo decided to stay in the classroom and continue studying. But just as he was about to open his book again, a voice suddenly spoke beside him.

"Hey, Ryo. Can I… sit here?" Mika's hesitant voice reached his ears, and Ryo turned to see her standing there with a shy smile.

Slightly surprised, Ryo nodded. "Sure, I don't mind."

Mika sat beside him, her gentle smile remaining. "I know you're busy studying," she said softly, "but I was thinking… maybe we could study together later? I need a study partner. There's just so much homework piling up, and I'm afraid I won't be able to finish it all."

Ryo felt a slight wave of unease. He knew Mika was kind and considerate, but he also knew that studying together could be a distraction. And now, with the exam getting closer, he felt like every minute counted.

Before he could respond, another voice called out from the doorway.

"Wow, Ryo! Studying hard, huh?" Ayumi's cheerful voice filled the room as she stepped inside, her usual energy lighting up the space. "Come on, let's go outside for a bit! Everyone's hanging out in the garden. I'm sure you could use a break from all those books!"

Ryo glanced at Ayumi, feeling torn. She was always so lively, and it was difficult to turn her down. At the same time, he knew this would take away from his study time.

Before he could answer, Haruka suddenly appeared behind Ayumi.

"Ayumi, stop bothering Ryo," Haruka said, her tone calm but firm. "You know how important this exam is for him. He needs to stay focused."

Ayumi smiled, but a hint of disappointment flashed across her face. "I just wanted Ryo to enjoy some free time. Don't be so serious all the time, Ryo."

Ryo felt even more trapped. Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka—all of them seemed to be pulling him in different directions. He didn't know what to do anymore. Every time he tried to focus on his studies, these distractions appeared, making him question whether he should continue chasing his dream or start giving in to their expectations.

"Mika, Ayumi, Haruka…" Ryo spoke quietly, trying to gather his thoughts. "I… I really need to study. I have to prepare for the exam properly. Maybe we can talk later, after the exam?"

The three girls exchanged glances, and for a moment, Ryo could see that they understood how he felt. Mika nodded slowly. "You're right, Ryo. Sorry, I understand. I hope you do well."

Ayumi gave him a playful pat on the shoulder. "If you ever need help, I'm here! Just don't be too hard on yourself."

Haruka, her expression both serious and gentle, said, "You know what's best for yourself, Ryo. I hope you succeed."

Ryo nodded, feeling slightly relieved, though his heart was still clouded with uncertainty. The three girls, despite their different approaches, had finally given him space to focus on his goal. But he knew this was only temporary. The exam was drawing closer, and Ryo felt that he needed to make a clearer choice in his life.

That night, Ryo sat alone at his desk, struggling to push away the confusion swirling in his mind. His dream of getting into the best university was something he couldn't abandon, but now, with the attention he was receiving from the three girls, he knew that the road to his goal would not be as simple as he had imagined.