Chapter 9: Unspoken Confessions

The morning sun trickled through the curtains, stirring Minori from her sleep, albeit with a pounding headache. Oversleeping had her racing to work, much to Ayumi's fretful concern. Wincing from the hangover, Minori detailed the events post-Ayumi's departure the previous night. Ayumi's eyes sparkled with excitement as Minori recounted her encounters with Ryu.

"It's as if destiny wove your paths together!" Ayumi teased, nudging Minori with playful insistence.

Minori grimaced at the notion. "There's no grand story here! He's just a guy I happened to bump into. There's no budding romance, and Ryu probably doesn't see me the way you're thinking," she grumbled, gently pressing her throbbing temples.

In the midst of Shou's school day, lectures commenced while Ayaka wistfully gazed at Shou, yearning for even a fleeting glance from him. At lunchtime, yet another suitor confessed his feelings to Ayaka, only to receive a gracious refusal as she hinted at her interest in someone else. Observing Ayaka receive another confession, Shou's mind wandered, fixated on the enigma of the previous night's encounter.

His friend, noting Shou's preoccupation, playfully prodded him about Ayaka, implying he should pursue her instead. Shou vehemently denied, reaffirming his unwavering affection for Minori. Frustrated, he vowed to conquer his feelings for her, determined to make his love known.

After office hours, Minori emerged only to encounter Ryu and his car. Shock washed over her, momentarily questioning if Ryu was a genuine stalker. Yet, Ryu approached her, a sly grin adorning his face as he presented her misplaced wallet. Amused, he teased Minori about her forgetfulness, earning a blend of gratitude and annoyance.

Capitalizing on the chance to express her thanks, Minori invited Ryu for a drink, to which he accepted, teasing her lightly about not spilling her drink this time. Engrossed in vibrant conversation, they relished their drinks, their banter creating a jovial atmosphere.

Across the street, Shou glimpsed Minori through a shop window, accompanied by another person. His heart skipped a beat, tumultuous thoughts racing through his mind. His companions noticed his reaction, debating whether to intervene or ignore the situation. Despite his inner turmoil, Shou opted to heed his friends' counsel, engaging himself in the distractions of the arcade.