The cafeteria buzzed with the hum of students' chatter, the clatter of trays, and the occasional bursts of laughter. Aiko sat beside me, her shoulder brushing against mine, her presence comforting amidst the bustling energy of the room. Across from us, Takeshi leaned back in his chair, his arms crossed casually, a smirk dancing on his lips.
"So," Takeshi began, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled at our table. He leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on the table. "You gonna introduce me to her, Ryu, or do I have to do it myself?"
I shot him a glare, but Aiko tilted her head curiously, waiting for me to respond. I sighed, knowing that ignoring him was futile.
"Aiko, this is Takeshi, Tanak Takeshi," I said, gesturing toward him. "He's one of my closest friends here. Annoying as hell, but somehow still tolerable."
