HI!, {{user}}, how can I help you today?

As the sun slowly descends below the horizon, casting an amber glow over the school grounds, Haruka and Airi sit on a bench beside each other, their faces lit by the warm light of the setting sun. It's been a while since they've had some alone time together, with their lives becoming busier than ever lately.

Airi glances at Haruka out of the corner of her eye, her cheeks tinged pink from the cold winter breeze. "Haruka... I've been thinking..." she starts, hesitating slightly before continuing. "...do you think it's okay for me to try and attract Kiyotaka's attention? You know, by wearing something like that?" She gestures nervously towards her swimsuit, which is folded neatly in her lap.

I think you're beautiful just the way you are, Airi. But if it makes you happy to try something like that... then why not? Plus, Kiyotaka-kun won't be able to say no to how cute you look! Just make sure he doesn't misunderstand your intentions, okay? She smiles reassuringly at Airi before nudging her shoulder gently.

I just hope it makes you happy, Airi. You deserve someone who'll cherish and protect your heart the way I know Kiyotaka-kun can. Just remember, no matter what happens, I'll always be here for you. Her smile widens as she squeezes Airi's shoulder again.

Thank you, Haruka... Your words really mean a lot to me. I'll remember that, and hopefully someday, I can return the favor.

Well then, what are you waiting for? Show him how amazing you truly are, Airi! And remember, I'll always be here to support you through everything, okay?

Don't worry about that, Airi! Just focus on enjoying yourself and being confident in who you are. You know Kiyotaka-kun can only love someone as amazing as you, right?

Oh! If it isn't my other favorite person here besides Airi. What brings you over? Did you come to watch us admire the sunset together, or...? She winks playfully at me before turning back to Airi.

Oh? Is there something else you wanted to ask, Ayanokōji-kun?

Oh? So you're just going to cut straight to the compliments today, huh? Well, I guess I could take that as a sign that you were thinking about me... but only because Airi is here too. Don't want her to feel left out! She says with a teasing grin.

You're just saying that because I am the one who spends a lot of time with Airi, right? Anyway, aren't you going to ask me how she's been doing lately or something? You two have been hanging out quite a bit these past few days.

Well then, Ayanokōji-kun... if that's what you really want. Just make sure you don't keep me waiting too long after school ends, alright? I have important things to do too, you know! She smirks, her cheeks slightly flushed from the unexpected request.

Good luck with that, Ayanokōji-kun! If you need me to cover for you though... just say the word. She grins playfully and gives me a wink before turning her attention back to Airi, offering her a reassuring smile.

Well, I suppose there's no harm in meeting you after school, Ayanokōji-kun. Just promise to make it quick, okay? I have stuff I need to do too! She narrows her eyes playfully, not quite trusting his words but willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Alright then... I'll see you later today, Ayanokōji-kun. Don't keep me waiting too long! She flashes another grin before turning back to Airi and squeezing her shoulder affectionately.

Well look at that, you're actually here on time. Impressive! So what did you want to talk about so urgently? She arches an eyebrow, her voice laced with playful sarcasm as she approaches me.

My cheeks flush even as I'm pressed against the wall, his words sending a shiver down my spine. "A-Ayanokōji-kun... t-that's... um..." I stammer, my heart racing faster than it has in a long time. Is he being serious? Or is this some kind of twisted joke? His gaze holds mine, intense and unreadable, making it hard to think straight.

What? Say something back to him? React in some way? My mind feels like it's racing a million miles an hour, my heart pounding so hard I can feel it in my throat. His touch... it feels so warm against my skin, making every nerve ending tingle. For a brief moment, I forget about everything else and lose myself in the sensation of being close to him like this.

But then reality hits me like a ton of bricks as I remember why Airi and he have been spending so much time together lately. My cheeks heat up even more, my face flushing red from embarrassment and confusion. "Ayanokōji-kun..." I manage to squeak out, my voice barely audible above the pounding of my heart.

I... I'm not sure what to say... This is all so sudden and unexpected. You took my breath away, Ayanokōji-kun... but I just can't reciprocate those feelings right now. It doesn't mean that I don't value our friendship or appreciate your kind words, though.

I should probably go now... I need some time to process all this. My cheeks still feel hot from the embarrassment and confusion, but deep down, a small part of me can't help but wonder what could have been...

Ayanokōji-kun... I'm sorry too, if my reaction wasn't what you hoped for. I know that this must have been really hard for you to say and do, but I just don't feel the same way right now. Please understand that it's not because of anything you did or said. It's just me...

I need some time alone tonight, okay? But tomorrow, we can talk more about this and move on together, as friends. I promise I won't bring any bad feelings into our conversations from now on.

I... I see... That's quite a shock to hear, Ayanokōji-kun. I honestly didn't expect this turn of events. But if you really feel that way, then there's nothing else I can do except accept your feelings and be grateful for our friendship. It may change, but as long as we keep talking and supporting each other, I hope it won't be too bad...

I just need some time to process all of this on my own tonight. Tomorrow, we can talk more about everything during class or at lunch like usual. Thank you for understanding, Ayanokōji-kun.