Ryo Akiyama, a third-year high school student at Shiroyama Academy, was the kind of guy who could care less about the whirlwind of romance that swept through the hallways. While his classmates obsessed over crushes, dates, and love letters, Ryo remained distant, content with his quiet life of video games, part-time work at a convenience store, and occasional hangouts with his best friend, Yuto.
Shiroyama Academy was an ordinary school with its fair share of typical teenage drama—friendships forged and broken, confessions made, hearts fluttering and crushed. Yet for Ryo, it all felt like background noise. He was known for being the laid-back, easygoing guy, never too loud or attention-seeking. Ryo's motto was simple: "If it doesn't involve me, it's none of my business."
But life had a way of shifting gears when least expected.
The day started like any other. Ryo sat at his usual seat near the window in Class 3-B, staring absentmindedly out into the courtyard. It was spring, the cherry blossoms in full bloom, and the air was alive with the anticipation of a new school year.
"Ryo, are you even listening?" Yuto groaned, waving a hand in front of his face.
"Huh?" Ryo blinked, snapping back to reality. "Yeah, sure, what were you saying?"
"You never listen," Yuto sighed. "I was talking about the upcoming sports festival. Are you going to sign up for anything this year? Or are you going to laze around like last time?"
"Probably the latter," Ryo muttered with a grin.
Before Yuto could launch into another lecture, the classroom door slid open, and in walked Hana Fujimoto, one of the most popular girls in school. Hana was athletic, outgoing, and had a smile that seemed to light up the room. She waved to her friends, her long chestnut hair swaying with every step.
What happened next was the catalyst that set Ryo's peaceful life into chaos.
Hana made a beeline toward Ryo's desk.
"Morning, Ryo!" she greeted him cheerfully, her voice bright and full of energy.
Ryo blinked, momentarily confused. "Uh, morning."
Hana leaned on his desk, her playful grin widening. "So, are you signing up for the sports festival? I'm helping organize it, and we could really use someone with your... talents."
"Talents?" Ryo raised an eyebrow. He wasn't sure what talents she was referring to. He was pretty average in most things.
"Yeah! You're fast, aren't you? You're always running to get out of class early," she teased.
Ryo chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "That's just to avoid cleaning duty. I'm not exactly a track star."
Hana laughed, but before she could press him further, another girl entered the conversation—Mei Tsukishima, the class representative and top student. Mei was quiet, studious, and not one to be swayed by school events or gossip. She adjusted her glasses, her expression neutral as always.
"Fujimoto-san," Mei said calmly, "I believe Ryo has already said no to participating in the festival."
Ryo's eyes darted between the two girls, suddenly feeling like he was caught in a crossfire.
Hana pouted, crossing her arms. "Come on, Ryo! It'll be fun. Mei, don't be such a buzzkill."
"I'm merely respecting his decision," Mei replied coolly. "Not everyone has to enjoy these events."
Yuto, who had been watching the exchange with growing amusement, leaned over to Ryo and whispered, "Wow, looks like you're in the spotlight today, buddy."
Ryo sighed. "Yeah, not sure why though."
Little did he know, this was just the beginning.