When it came time for a break, Aki spoke up. "Say, Lena-chan... What are you planning to do after graduation?"
"Probably take some time off before applying to university," Lena responded automatically. This was the same answer she always said whenever anyone asked. "What about you?"
Aki hesitated for a moment before answering with a small smile. "Well… Hizen-kun and I were thinking about… moving in together, maybe?"
Lena's eyes widened. That was a big step.
"Wow," she said, setting her pencil down. "Congratulations."
"It's not official yet. We're still figuring things out, but… yeah! I'm excited!" Aki said cheerily. You could tell she was in a good mood about the idea.
Just then, Aki's phone buzzed. Speak of the devil. She glanced at the screen and immediately stood up.
"It's Hizen-kun! I'll be right back."
Lena watched as her best friend disappeared around the corner, leaving her alone with her thoughts. She sighed, leaning back in her chair.
The truth was, she wasn’t really sure what her next steps were. Originally, she and Shokudaikiri had planned to apply to the same schools. But that was long gone in the wind.
Maybe she'd travel a bit. Maybe she'd take on more hours at the flower shop, or find another job. Mikazuki had mentioned something about--
Before Lena became too lost in her thoughts, Aki returned, looking flustered but happy.
"Sorry about that! He wanted to know when we'd be finished today so he could walk me home."
Lena grinned. "You two are really joined at the hip, huh? We've only been here for a bit over an hour!"
"Oh, please. As if you and a certain tutor aren't the same way," Aki teased Lena back. "I'm sure Mikazuki-sensei wishes he were helping you study."
Shaking her head, Lena looked straight into Aki's eyes. "No matter what, let's promise to always make time for each other. Even after graduation, OK?"
Aki was surprised at Lena’s sudden seriousness. "Of course."
"You promise?"
"Yes. It's a promise!"
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Behave yourself, now. ;)