I thought I could disappear again.
Wrong.
It started with the notices. Small things. A nod from someone in the hall. A pause in conversation when I walked by. Phones out. People whispering, pretending not to.
Kira was waiting outside the classroom. Calm. Like always.
"You can't just ignore it," she said. Her tone wasn't accusing. It was… factual. Simple. Heavy.
I shrugged. "Then let them watch."
She stepped closer. "They're not just watching. They're expecting something. And they notice talent like yours."
I scowled. Didn't want it. Didn't care.
"Do you want to control it, or let it control you?" she asked.
I stopped. Didn't answer. I didn't want to play any games. I didn't want to be a hero. Didn't want competitions. Didn't want… anything.
But the streets, the world, the whispers… they wouldn't let me be.
A figure approached. Short, lean. Calm. "Senpai Takumi," she said softly. A scout. Not threatening, not friendly. Just… noting. Watching.
I ignored him. Tried to. Didn't work.
"You'll be involved," Kira said. "Whether you like it or not."
I wanted to disagree. But even I knew it was pointless.
I sighed. Game in hand, hoodie up. Pretended it didn't matter. Pretended the world could leave me alone.
It wouldn't.
And I… I still didn't care.