Chapter 17: She’s Back… and She’s Not Here to Be Nice

Chapter 17: She's Back… and She's Not Here to Be Nice

---

The bell rang sharply, slicing through the usual morning chatter like a blade. Aoi's heart thudded in his chest as the classroom door swung open.

All eyes turned to the figure stepping inside—a tall girl with long, flowing dark hair and eyes that glinted with a sharp edge of familiarity and challenge. It was Rina, his childhood friend, the one he hadn't seen since middle school.

She moved with effortless grace, a confident smirk playing on her lips as she scanned the room. Her gaze locked onto Aoi, and for a moment, it felt like time slowed.

"Hey, Aoi," she said, voice low and teasing. "Miss me?"

Aoi swallowed, feeling a mixture of excitement and unease. Rina was trouble—always had been. But now, she was back, and the air between them crackled with unspoken tension.

Miyu, sitting a few rows away, caught the exchange and stiffened. Her eyes narrowed, shadowed by a flicker of jealousy. Sakura and Sayaka exchanged glances, sensing the shift in the atmosphere.

The rest of the morning passed in a blur of lessons, but Aoi's thoughts were elsewhere—haunted by memories of Rina's playful teasing and bold challenges. He found himself stealing glances at her, watching how she moved through the classroom, commanding attention without even trying.

At lunch, the rooftop became their battleground.

Rina found Aoi alone, leaning against the railing with the city spread out below. She approached silently, then leaned close, her breath warm against his ear.

"You've been busy, huh?" she murmured.

Aoi turned, surprised by the intensity in her eyes.

"But don't forget," she continued, tracing a finger lightly down his arm, "I'm still here. And I'm not planning on losing you."

His pulse quickened. The playful tone was gone now, replaced by something more dangerous, more urgent.

Later, Miyu sought him out, her voice softer, almost fragile.

"Don't forget why you chose me," she whispered, her hand slipping into his.

Sayaka and Sakura watched from afar, their smiles tight, plotting their next moves. This wasn't just a game anymore—it was a war for his heart, and every glance, every touch, every word was a strategic move.

As the day ended, Aoi realized the delicate balance of his world was shifting. Rina's return had stirred old feelings and ignited new conflicts. The quiet peace he had known was gone.

Because now, the real battle was just beginning.

---