position of Student Council President, he believed Alya needed someone by her side... —Is that really the case? A voice of doubt cut into his thoughts. What came to mind were the remarkable displays of growth Alya had shown recently. Her prideful determination to stand on her own during the quiz showdown. Her acceptance as the leader of the band consisting her peers. The leadership she demonstrated on stage to subdue the firecracker incident. And... the way she awkwardly handled the people who came to see her earlier with a smile. Recalling these moments, a certain feeling swelled within Masachika. It was a feeling he’d had during the school festival, an intuition... The day when Alya doesn’t need me might be closer than I thought... At the very least, it seemed he wouldn’t need to constantly be at her side as he used to be. Alya’s rate of growth exceeded his expectations. Perhaps, due to being overly protective, maybe he was the one who has been limiting Alya’s circle of friends— “Oi, you scum. Stop making excuses and neglecting your responsibilities, you coward.” Saying this aloud to remind himself, Masachika propelled himself up with newfound determination. Sitting up straight on the sofa, he glanced at the room’s clock, realizing that the lunch break was already halfway over. “Ah~” Since he didn’t bring a lunchbox today, he’d have to either go to the cafeteria or buy something from the school store if he wanted to eat. However, considering the possibility of being surrounded by people again, a sense of heaviness took over his chest. ...I’m not that hungry anyway. Maybe I can skip lunch... Besides, it’s almost time to go even if I leave now.