Yuki stood by the cherry blossom tree, her arms crossed and her gaze fixed on Kaito, who was busy helping Mina gather scattered papers. "He's such a show-off," she muttered under her breath, trying to ignore the twinge of annoyance in her chest.
Saki, with her long, flowing hair and easy smile, joined them, adding to Kaito's growing fan club. "You're always so helpful, Kaito!" she praised, flashing a bright smile.
Yuki slid into her seat, her eyes still following Kaito as he entered the room with Mina and Saki. "He's always surrounded by girls," she whispered to her friend, Hana.
"Are you jealous, Yuki?" Hana teased with a knowing smile.
"As if! Why would I be jealous of him?" Yuki retorted, her cheeks turning a light shade of pink.
Kaito, engrossed in painting, didn't notice Yuki standing at the door, watching him with a mix of curiosity and annoyance.
"You're really into this, aren't you?" she commented, trying to sound indifferent.
"Oh, hey, Yuki," Kaito replied, looking up with a friendly smile. "Do you want to join? It's more fun than just watching."
Yuki found herself standing alone, contemplating her feelings. Hana had long since gone home, leaving Yuki to wrestle with her thoughts.
"Maybe I am a little jealous," she admitted quietly to herself, her eyes fixed on the horizon. "But why does he have to be so... him?"
Kaito sat at a corner table, surrounded by textbooks and notes. Yuki approached, hesitating for a moment before taking a seat across from him.
"I... I suppose I could help you with your project," she offered, her voice tinged with reluctant sincerity.
"I'd like that, Yuki," Kaito replied warmly, his eyes meeting hers with genuine gratitude. "Thank you."
Yuki and Kaito walked side by side, their footsteps in sync. Though their bickering continued, there was a newfound understanding in their eyes.
"Don't think this means I like you or anything," Yuki quipped, her lips curving into a small smile.
"Of course not," Kaito chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "But maybe we can be friends?"
Yuki paused, considering his words before nodding slightly. "Yeah, maybe," she agreed, her heart feeling a little lighter.
















