Yuuki's hand felt warm in Arisa's.Even in the rain. Even in the chaos.It didn't feel like a rental.
She looked up at him, rain beading on her lashes. "You sure about this?"
"No," he said honestly. "But I'm tired of pretending I don't want it."
A small laugh escaped her lips.It wasn't her usual fake rental smile.It was hers.
"Okay," she whispered. "Trial relationship. Starting now."
Yuuki nodded. "Trial relationship."
"No refunds," she added.
They both laughed.
Next Day – Campus Grounds
Yuuki wasn't used to walking next to a girl, especially not with everyone staring like he just pulled the rarest SSR waifu in real life.
Arisa didn't care. She walked beside him, phone in one hand, iced matcha in the other. Her hoodie hood halfway up. Low-key dangerous.
"This is weird," Yuuki muttered.
"You've never dated anyone, have you?"
He blushed. "You didn't have to say it out loud."
She smirked. "I like that about you. You're a noob."
Before he could reply—
"Yuuki?"
His heart stopped.
Minami-senpai.Holding a notebook. Standing a few feet away. Wearing that same "trying to look okay" smile.
"I didn't know you and… her were close."
Arisa looked at Minami. Calm. Unbothered. "We're dating now."
Yuuki's soul ascended.
Minami blinked. "I see."
Then her voice dropped just slightly."Well, I guess I'm too late again."
And just like that—she turned and walked away.
Yuuki's brain was melting.
"I didn't expect that," he mumbled.
Arisa sipped her matcha. "Senpai looks like she regrets losing you."
"…and?"
"She should."