Three days passed.
Three days of Yuki disappearing at lunch. Three days of the rooftop feeling just a little bit emptier. Three days of questions left unanswered.
On the first day, they assumed she'd be back.
On the second day, they started to wonder.
On the third day, Riko finally asked.
"Yuki-san, where do you keep going?"
Yuki waved her hand dismissively, her usual grin in place. "Just hanging out with Shizuka! Catching up, you know? We have years to cover!"
Riko studied her. "That's all?"
"Yep! Nothing interesting!" Yuki bounced away before anyone could ask more.
Hikari watched her go. "She's lying."
Kaito nodded slowly. "She's hiding something."
But neither pushed. Not yet.
---
Meanwhile, in an empty classroom on the third floor, Yuki sat across from Hoshino. No smiles. No bounces. Just two girls and the weight of years between them.
They talked for a long time. Their voices were too low to hear. Their expressions shifted—sadness, guilt, determination.
When they finally emerged, Yuki's eyes were slightly red. But she smiled.
The unseen conversation was over. Whatever had passed between them, they carried it silently.
---
That afternoon, an announcement crackled over the school speakers.
"Attention all students. This year marks Sakuragaoka High's 50th anniversary. A special festival will be held in two weeks to celebrate. Class participation is encouraged. More details will be provided by your homeroom teachers."
The news spread like wildfire. Excitement buzzed through hallways. Festival plans began forming in every classroom.
In Class 2-B, Ms. Kobayashi smiled at her students. "We'll discuss our class activity tomorrow. Start thinking about ideas."
Yuki bounced in her seat—genuine this time. "A festival! Finally! Something fun!"
Riko glanced at her. Then at Kaito. Then at Hikari.
Something was coming. She could feel it.
As the classroom buzzed with festival excitement, three girls had the same thought at the same moment.
This might be the chance.
(End of Chapter 81)