Throughout the whole day, Chika couldn't stop thinking about the kiss that had transpired. As time passed, she started avoiding Mizuki gradually. Eventually, Mizuki noticed this change in behavior after many days, but chose to remain passive and pretended not to acknowledge it. The following day, Mizuki attended school as usual. Upon reaching her designated seat, she noticed that only Chika's bag was there, prompting her to inquire about Chika's whereabouts from Aina. To Mizuki's surprise, Aina mentioned that she had just arrived and hadn't seen Chika yet. Feeling rushed, Mizuki made her way to the restroom near the grounds. Emerging from the washroom, she heard a faint noise that piqued her curiosity. Following the sound, she stumbled upon a heartfelt confession. Sakura, a talented and popular student known as the dominant omega, professed her deep affection for Chika. Mizuki stood in silence as Sakura expressed her admiration and desire to date Chika in their final year of college, reminiscing about their first encounter and the admiration she held for Chika. This revelation devastated Mizuki, causing her inner turmoil. She witnessed Chika seemingly reciprocating Sakura's feelings, leading Mizuki to believe that Chika had chosen someone else. The weight of this realization shattered Mizuki's world, evident by the tears streaming down her face, unbeknownst to Chika who observed from a distance and misinterpreted the situation.
Feeling overwhelmed, Mizuki sought solace in the washroom, where she encountered a new student named Nozomi. Despite an awkward first interaction, Nozomi extended kindness by offering a handkerchief and reassurance, setting the foundation for an unexpected bond. Nozomi guided Mizuki to a secluded area behind the school, mentioning it as her personal sanctuary discovered during prior explorations. Refraining from further distressing episodes, Mizuki wiped away her tears and exchanged introductions with Nozomi, unearthing a peculiar connection dating back to an umbrella-sharing incident. This revelation added complexity to their burgeoning acquaintance as Chika observed their interaction from a distance, harboring unresolved emotions. As conversations ensued between Mizuki and Nozomi, their bond deepened, symbolizing a fresh start for Mizuki amidst emotional turmoil. Meanwhile, in the classroom, the atmosphere was tense following Chika's unexpected relationship revelation with Sakura. Shocked by the news, classmates struggled to process the sudden turn of events, particularly in light of Chika's history of rejecting confessions.
Aina's inquiry about the commencement of Chika's relationship sparked discomfort as Mizuki, masking her inner turmoil, maintained composure. Chika's nonchalant response and subsequent dismissal of emotions hinted at a facade shielding deeper sentiments. Sensing superficiality in Chika's actions, Aina tactfully redirected the conversation, allowing the class to resume some semblance of normalcy. Lunch break provided a temporary reprieve, with Mizuki showcasing her culinary skills, captivating her peers. Witnessing Mizuki's unaffected demeanor, Chika's discomfort surfaced, prompting a spontaneous declaration of a fictional girlfriend to deflect attention. Startled by Chika's ruse, their friends reacted with disbelief, encapsulating the classroom in stunned silence. Chika's elaborate story surrounding her newfound relationship with Sakura further perpetuated the facade, complicating the collective perception within the class.
Post-lunch, as Mizuki excused herself under the guise of visiting the washroom, Chika encountered a pivotal moment that stoked jealousy and regret. Observing Mizuki emerging from the abandoned PT room with Nozomi, Chika's emotions spiraled. Confronted with an unforeseen circumstance, Chika hastily dismissed Sakura, leaving her bewildered. Assuring Sakura of their future plans, Chika grappled with conflicting emotions as she watched Mizuki from a distance. Meanwhile, Mizuki and Nozomi found solace beneath a nearby tree, fostering a unique moment of tranquility. Nozomi, embodying a sense of calm and reassurance, encouraged Mizuki to rest in her lap, a gentle gesture that symbolized trust and understanding. As Mizuki drifted into a peaceful slumber, Nozomi observed her with admiration, cherishing the serene expression etched on Mizuki's face. Fighting an internal dilemma, Nozomi contemplated an impulsive act before choosing restraint, emphasizing respect and consent in a moment of vulnerability.
Across the school, Chika's frustration manifested physically as she punched a nearby wall, grappling with a tumultuous mix of emotions that mirrored her fractured heart. The looming sense of unease and regret lingered, accentuating the complexities of their interconnected narratives in a web of unspoken feelings and burgeoning connections.