Autumn Leaves

by TheUnfuzzyFabulist

What if you could change the fate of a story you once loved? Rezon gains the power to alter a psychological horror dating sim he played in high school. Despite knowing the pain ahead, he feels he must act. Can he rewrite destiny, or will tampering with fate destroy him? (DDLC SI-OC)

5. Chapter 5: Flicker of Changes

Author's note:

Hi everyone!

I apologize for the sudden change, but I've turned Chapter 3.1.5 into a full Chapter 4! Instead of the original 2,000 words, it's now a whopping 16,000 words. I honestly don't know how I managed to pull that off, but here we are!

At the end of this chapter, I'll introduce my original characters along with a brief character sheet. I hope you enjoy reading Chapter 4!

---

Chapter 4: Flicker of changes

---

Sayori was the ray of sunshine everyone adored, her presence always a beacon of warmth and cheer.

And yet, behind that ever-bright smile, she bore a weight that seemed impossible to shed, an ache in her heart that never quite faded, an emptiness she couldn't fill.

Every laugh, every attempt to lift someone's spirits, was a battle against her own despair. She wore her mask well, playing the role of the carefree, happy girl everyone expected.

...

But...lately, the cracks were beginning to show, and Sayori was terrified of what might happen if anyone saw the truth lurking beneath.

The familiar sting of loneliness was creeping up on her again.

It was always there, hiding in the shadows, waiting for those quiet moments alone to rear its ugly head.

Seeing Takashi, her childhood friend, finally finding his place and making new friends brought her a bittersweet joy. She was happy for him, truly, but that happiness was tainted by a dark, self-critical voice that wouldn't leave her alone.

Why does seeing him so content make me feel so rejected?

...

Selfish.

The voice whispered.

You don't deserve their happiness. You're just a burden, a pushover.

…

Die already.

…

"Sayori?"

A gentle voice interrupted her thoughts, pulling her back to reality.

"Hm? Eh?" Sayori blinked, her eyes refocusing on Takashi standing in front of her, his brow furrowed with concern. "What is it, Takashi?"

"Well…" Takashi hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "You just kinda look…off today. Is something bothering you?"

"Bothering me…?" Sayori repeated, her eyes widening slightly.

Takashi's familiar brown hair and warm hazel eyes were fixed on her, filled with genuine worry. The sight of his concern made her heart ache.

The sun was beginning its descent, casting an orange glow over the school grounds. They walked side by side, having just crossed the pedestrian lane. The atmosphere was imbued with a serene beauty.

"I'm fine, silly!" Sayori forced a cheerful tone, a giggle escaping her lips. "Just got lost in my head, I guess!"

Takashi…always so caring, always thinking of others before himself. That's just how he is. It's one of the reasons she cherished their friendship so much.

…

And also one of the main reasons why she felt she didn't deserve it.

The weight of her self-loathing pressed down on her, making it hard to breathe. The smile she wore, the one she always showed him, were beginning to crack

with each passing day.

But she couldn't let him see that. She had to be strong for him.

If she couldn't make herself happy, at least she could try to make him happy.

That was the least she could do.

Takashi didn't look entirely convinced, but he didn't press further. Instead, he offered her a small smile, the kind that always made her feel a little bit better, even if it's just for a moment.

Sayori quickly changed the subject, desperate to steer the conversation away from her emotions.

"Takashi, what do you think of Rezon?" She asked suddenly, her voice a little too bright.

"Hm? Rezon?" Takashi raised an eyebrow. "That's an odd question. Why do you ask?"

"O-Oh, I'm just curious, that's all!" Sayori replied with a nervous laugh, waving her hand dismissively, though her fingers fidgeted slightly as they fell back to her side.

Her eyes darted away for a moment before meeting his again.

"So...what do you think of him?"

Rezon had appeared in her life out of nowhere, a transfer student who joined in the middle of the semester and ended up in her class.

At first, he seemed a bit intimidating, a tall figure with a rough, almost delinquent vibe, especially with the scar running horizontally across his temple. But when he spoke, his voice was unexpectedly soft and gentle, and there was something deep and intriguing about him.

He felt like a puzzle, a mix of contradictions between his tough appearance and his gentle personality.

When she saw him drawing a cute girl in his notebook, it was a surprise that piqued her curiosity. Since she also loved to draw and doodle, albeit with much less skill, she found herself naturally drawn to him.

That curiosity made their conversations revolve around him, and before long, their friendship blossomed almost instantly.

Despite his formal and mature way of speaking, he had a warm and inviting side that made him easy to be around.

Honestly, she had been thinking about asking him for help decorating the clubroom with arts and crafts. With the cultural festival coming up, she knew his artistic skills could really liven things up and make the space feel more inviting.

It didn't take long for Sayori to realize he was something special.

"Even when we're good at making others happy, it can be hard to recognize how we're feeling ourselves, you know?"

But…that wasn't the reason he troubled her.

Takashi paused, thinking it over.

"Well, he's pretty intimidating, that's for sure. You don't really see someone that tall and built around here." He chuckled softly. "If someone didn't know better, they might think he just got out of prison."

Sayori giggled at the thought.

"Right!?" She agreed, her spirits lifting slightly.

Takashi joined in her laughter. "But honestly, he's a good guy. He's nice, really knowledgeable. Mature, too. Sometimes I feel like I'm talking to a teacher when I'm around him."

Sayori nodded, her thoughts wandering back to the club.

Rezon did have that kind of presence, kind of like Yuri, but he was way better at talking to people. It was funny how someone so different could just waltz into their lives like that.

"You know…" Takashi said, his tone taking on a thoughtful note. "I've noticed something about him."

"What's that?" Sayori asked, intrigued.

"Monika seems to really enjoy being around him," Takashi replied. "On the first day, she was quite eager for him to stay. They seemed pretty close when they sat at the edge of the clubroom today, and she keeps finding reasons to ask him for help, like carrying her files. There's definitely something there."

Eh?

Sayori blinked, surprised by Takashi's insight. Had he always been this perceptive?

She tilted her head, considering his observation. "Now that you mention it...you're right."

Does Monika…like Rezon?

Rezon had everything Sayori admired.

He was kind, athletic, articulate, and genuinely captivating. His presence seemed to draw people in. The fiery Natsuki, the thoughtful Yuri, and even the usually composed Monika seemed absolutely fascinated by him.

Everything had happened so quickly. In just one club meeting, where Rezon and Takashi were introduced, Rezon had already become a standout figure in their group. And Sayori found herself drawn to him, inspired by his presence.

Rezon wasn't just another high school student. His towering height and muscular build were impressive, but it was his maturity and depth that really set him apart.

It was…kind of amazing.

It made sense that someone like Monika would be attracted to him.

"I guess it makes sense." Sayori murmured, almost to herself, lost in thought.

Takashi's curiosity was piqued. "You think Monika likes him?"

Sayori blushed slightly. "I-I'm not sure. It's just a feeling I have. It's hard not to notice how she acts around him."

Takashi considered this for a moment before giving Sayori a reassuring smile. "Well, whatever it is, I'm sure Monika will handle it. She's always been good at figuring things out, right?"

Sayori smiled back, feeling a bit more at ease. "Yeah, you're right."

She shifted uncomfortably as she looked at Takashi, her heart tinged with a strange unease.

"Sometimes joy can cast such a warm glow that it takes a moment to adjust and see what might be waiting patiently just out of sight."

Rezon's words echoed in her mind..

Had…had he really noticed?

How could he, after only meeting her for the second time?

Was her struggle so obvious that even someone she barely knew could see through her?

The depth of Rezon's understanding unsettled her. His words weren't harsh, but they felt painfully accurate, making her feel exposed and uneasy.

She wasn't ready to open up to someone she barely knew. The fact that he had so quickly seen her made her feel vulnerable and self-conscious.

She wondered if this was how her friends felt around her. Monika had once mentioned that she was good at reading people's emotions, even joking that she was frighteningly perceptive.

Was this what her friends experienced with her?

I don't want this.

She didn't want to feel like this.

She wanted to stop feeling so exposed and vulnerable.

She wanted to…

…

She wanted to die—

NO!

…

No.

Not with Takashi here.

"Takashi…" She began. "Do you think Rezon is to be trusted?"

Takashi blinked in surprise, tilting his head slightly as he studied her. "…Sayori, you've been acting strange lately. What's going on?"

His straightforward question caught her off guard. She forced a smile, hoping to ease the worry in his eyes.

"Really? I guess I've been a little off, huh?" She let out a small, awkward laugh, hoping he wouldn't press further.

But Takashi didn't seem convinced. "Is it because of Rezon?"

Sayori hesitated, feeling her heart pound in her chest.

She didn't want to worry Takashi, but...she also couldn't ignore the gnawing doubt that had been growing inside her.

After a moment, she nodded, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Yeah…I guess it is."

Takashi's expression softened, and he leaned in closer, his voice gentle. "Hey, I don't know what's bothering you, but you know you can talk to me, right? I'm here for you, Sayori."

Sayori's heart ached at his kindness.

She wanted to believe him, to trust that he could help, but the guilt she felt was overwhelming.

"I know…" She said quietly, her eyes avoiding his. "I…I did something bad to him."

Guilt crushed her. She had kept her distance, driven by the fear of what might happen if he knew the truth. The thought of him finding out was unbearable.

Her future felt so fragile, so uncertain, and she didn't know how to face it.

Takashi's eyes widened slightly, but he didn't jump to conclusions. Instead, he gave her a reassuring smile. "I'm sure it's not as bad as you think, Sayori."

She shook her head, feeling the weight of her mistake pressing down on her. But Takashi's calm smile made her want to believe that maybe things weren't as hopeless as they seemed.

"Well..." Takashi continued. "Why not talk to him about it? I'm sure he'd understand. Rezon's a good guy, right?"

Sayori hesitated again, the idea of facing Rezon making her stomach twist in knots.

"Talk to him…" She murmured, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "I see. I guess…I'll try that."

But deep down, she knew it was a lie.

She couldn't do it.

The thought of talking to Rezon, of putting herself out there, felt impossible. Fear and doubt weighed heavily on her heart, suffocating any flicker of hope.

She wanted to believe that Rezon would come to her, that someone as wonderful as him would notice her.

But...she knew better.

People like him didn't come for people like her. They never did.

Takashi's smile brightened, and he gave her a playful nudge. "That's the spirit! Cheer up, will you? You're not yourself when you're like this."

Sayori forced a smile, but it felt hollow.

She wasn't herself, and she knew it. She tried to muster some enthusiasm, but doubt clouded her mind like a heavy fog, making it hard for her to even think of anything positive.

But before she could sink any further into those dark thoughts, Takashi rolled his eyes and did something that caught her completely off guard.

He pulled her into a warm hug.

"T-T-Takashi?!" She gasped, her face turning red as she felt the sudden warmth of his embrace.

"You know..." Takashi chuckled softly. "You're usually the one giving me hugs and cheering me up when I'm down. It's nice to return the favor for once."

Sayori's blush deepened, her heart fluttering at his words.

He chuckled softly, holding her close. "I don't know what's weighing on you, Sayori, but I believe in you. You're the one who makes everything brighter, even when you don't see it yourself. Whatever it is, you'll find your way through it. I'm sure of it."

Sayori's heart fluttered at his words. The warmth of his hug and the sincerity in his voice were like a lifeline, pulling her back from the edge she had been teetering on for so long.

This feels so nice. I love being this close to him…

She closed her eyes, letting the comfort of the moment wash over her. It felt like a long-forgotten light was flickering back to life inside her, fragile but there.

I didn't realize how much I needed this right now.

"Yeah…"

She pushed aside the negative thoughts, feeling a flicker of hope rekindle inside her.

"Yeah!" She affirmed, her voice growing stronger and more resolute.

Maybe, just maybe, things could be made right.

A deep breath allowed the warmth of Takashi's embrace to wrap around her.

Maybe it's not so hopeless after all.

The dark thoughts that usually clung felt a little lighter, as if Takashi's belief in her acted as a shield.

Thoughts of how often she cheered others up came to mind, bringing smiles to her friends felt like a superpower. If she could do that for them, then finding a way to feel better herself was possible too.

She just have to take it one step at a time.

Gazing into his kind eyes, warmth fluttered in her heart. Maybe one day, telling him how she felt wouldn't be so scary.

...

But what if he didn't feel the same way?

Doubt pressed down on her, whispering fears of messing everything up. Yet, in this moment with Takashi holding her close, determination flickered.

She wouldn't give up. Friends cared, and she wasn't alone in this.

The embrace filled her with renewed hope.

It was worth a try.

Pulling away slightly to look into Takashi's eyes, a smile surfaced, even if it felt shaky. For now, these moments with him had to be enough. A small voice in her heart reminded her that one day, she would find the courage to speak the words just out of reach.

Takashi finally let go, giving her one last encouraging smile. "That's the Sayori I know."

Ah, I was hoping he'd hold me just a little longer…

Sayori returned his smile, a genuine one this time, and for the first time in a while, she felt a glimmer of hope.

Though the future remained uncertain, having Takashi by her side made her feel a little braver.

The atmosphere lightened as they continued their walk, their conversation drifting to lighter topics, the little things that made Sayori feel a bit more grounded. The heavy worries on her heart eased, if only slightly.

"Sayori, about what happened earlier..." Takashi began.

"Eh? What do you mean?" Sayori asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Between Yuri and Natsuki. Does that sort of thing happen often?" Takashi asked, his concern evident in his eyes.

Sayori shook her head quickly, wanting to ease his worries.

"No, no, no! They're usually not like that at all." She said, her voice tinged with surprise. "It's really unusual for them to argue like that."

"I see. I guess it's a good thing Rezon stepped in, huh? Who knows how much worse it could have gotten." Takashi said, nodding thoughtfully.

"Yeah...he really was a lifesaver." Sayori agreed.

A twinge of insecurity crept in, casting a shadow over her thoughts.

The voices whispered again.

That was supposed to be your job.

...

"...I'm so glad he was there. It's reassuring to have someone like him around."

Takashi grinned, a playful glint in his eye. "You know, I bet you could have handled it too. It's clear they're lucky to have you as a friend."

Sayori's cheeks turned a light pink, and she laughed, looking a bit flustered. "Oh, I don't know about that! I was actually feeling pretty lost for a moment there."

Takashi chuckled, his voice gentle and reassuring. "Even if you were feeling lost, I'm sure you would have figured it out."

Sayori tilted her head, her smile widening. "Jeez, are you complimenting me or making fun of me?"

"...Maybe a bit of both?" Takashi said with a wink.

"You meanie!" Sayori said, playfully nudging him.

"Alright, alright, I'll stop." Takashi said with a laugh.

As their conversation continued, Takashi's easygoing nature helped Sayori relax further.

As they neared their neighborhood, Sayori made a silent promise to herself:

She would face it with all the courage she could muster. She would.

---

The night was still, the cold wind whispering through the empty streets, and the occasional hoot of an owl from the shadows. Streetlights cast a soft glow, illuminating the quiet neighborhood.

A hooded figure walked slowly, shivering slightly in the chilly air. The figure was petite and delicate, and as the breeze picked up, she clutched the top of her hood tightly.

"It's so cold…" She murmured, her breath visible in the night air.

It was Sayori.

As she walked, she glanced back at Takashi's house, its warm, inviting lights a stark contrast to the cold night around her. She lingered for a moment, lost in thought, before turning away and continuing down the path.

Rezon's words echoed in her mind once more.

"Strong emotions can be like bright lights, shining so intensely that they cast shadows over everything else."

It struck a nerve, mirroring her own life. Her constant cheerfulness was like a shield, spreading warmth while concealing the sadness that never truly left her.

Was this what Rezon meant? That even when she wore her brightest smile, her true feelings still hovered, waiting for a crack to show?

His words were both comforting and unsettling, and it urged her to face her pain rather than bury it beneath her usual smile.

Since that day, Sayori had been avoiding Rezon, torn between guilt and fear. The idea of him seeing past her exterior terrified her.

Maybe he was just making fun of her? No, his sincerity felt too real for that.

Still, how could he understand her struggles after only a day?

Even her closest friends hadn't fully grasped what she was going through. Monika was the first person she'd truly opened up to about her depression. Monika, always so perfect and composed, had seen through Sayori and offered her support. The suggestion to seek help was both a ray of hope and a great source of anxiety.

It was...comforting to know that even someone like Monika could struggle, making Sayori feel less alone, though the comfort was bittersweet.

Helping Monika, Yuri, and Natsuki with their problems had been a way for Sayori to find solace. She wanted them to know they weren't alone, even when she felt like she was barely holding herself together.

Talking with Yuri and Natsuki had shown her how everyone's emotional battles were so personal, so complicated.

But despite everything, Sayori couldn't shake the feeling that no one really understood her struggle, even when she put on her brightest smile. Monika's support meant the world to her, but the idea of reaching out for professional help still felt overwhelming.

And now...she was about to do the same thing herself.

She just hoped she had the courage to follow through.

Now, standing alone at Rezon's gate, the cold wind biting through her thin hoodie, Sayori felt a tightening in her chest. The chill seemed to echo the unease growing inside her.

She questioned whether coming here was a mistake, as she wondered if Rezon's words had been a false hope.

She had considered talking to him during their poetry sharing, but fear had taken over. Takashi's presence had made the idea of revealing her true self even more terrifying. She couldn't bear the thought of him discovering just how pathetic she is.

Shame washed over her. Rezon's kindness was clear, and she knew he meant no harm. Yet, his genuine concern made her feel more exposed than she was comfortable with.

It was something she wasn't used to, and it frightened her.

This wasn't like her at all. She should be keeping her distance, not standing here at his gate, torn between fear and hope.

Yet, the flutter in her stomach reminded her of the courage she had found when she first opened up to Monika. It was a comforting thought, like a tiny beacon in her darkness, echoing the connection and understanding she had discovered in the club.

She wanted to make things right, just as she had with her friends. But this was a battle she knew she had to face alone.

Takashi's words from earlier in the day came to mind, his encouragement urging her to confront her fears and not shy away from seeking help when she needed it.

His unwavering support had given her the push she needed, a reminder that even when she felt overwhelmed, there were people who cared and wanted to help her find her way.

Taking a deep breath, Sayori lifted her hand to knock on the gate. It wavered in the air, trembling with her uncertainty, before falling back to her side.

What was she doing? What was she hoping to find by coming here? Doubt crept in, icy and relentless, making her question whether this was once again, mistake.

M-Maybe this was a terrible idea after all...

"Excuse me, is there something you need?"

A warm, familiar voice sliced through the night's chill.

Sayori flinched, her heart leaping into her throat. Slowly, she turned to meet Rezon's puzzled gaze.

There was no turning back now.

"S-Sayori?" He stammered, his surprise palpable.

---

Well, I'll be damned.

I didn't expect this. I knew I messed up, trying to tackle Sayori's issues head-on because I thought I understood her situation.

I rushed things. Monika said we needed to take our time, but I ignored her advice.

I should've listened.

Now, here I am in the kitchen while Sayori sits on the living room couch, staring blankly at the floor.

The kettle starts to whistle, pulling me from my thoughts. I turn off the stove and pour hot water into the mugs I prepared, adding coffee and sugar.

My hands are shaking, and I take a deep breath to steady myself.

I'm still in my school uniform, but changing can wait. What matters now is talking with Sayori, who is clearly in a fragile state.

I really don't want to mess this up again.

As I walk back to the living room, the tension is almost palpable. Sayori looks up when she hears me, but her eyes quickly dart away, avoiding mine.

"Here." I say, handing her a mug.

"T-Thanks." She mumbles, barely audible.

She takes the mug with both hands but doesn't drink from it. I sit down on the couch opposite her.

...And thus, the silence is heavy.

I take a sip of my coffee, struggling to find the right words. My mind races with possibilities, but nothing feels appropriate.

I glance at Sayori, she's still staring at the floor, gripping the mug tightly.

"So…what brings you here?" I ask, trying to keep my tone casual.

She flinches, her shoulders tensing.

I instantly regret asking.

"I-I'm sorry, that was—"

"How?" She interrupts, her voice barely above a whisper.

I stopped, caught off guard by her sudden question.

"How…what?" I ask gently, careful not to push too hard.

"How did you know?" She repeats, her voice trembling. "About…me."

Ah, damn. She's talking about her depression, and on how I figured it out earlier today. I see her struggling to find the right words, and it's breaking my heart.

I should've approached this more thoughtfully, but now I'm at a loss for how to make things right.

A dark thought crosses my mind.

Oh, you're just a fucked-up character from that twisted dating sim I played. I know all your dirty secrets, how your whole world's falling apart under the weight of your own misery. You're practically standing on the fucking edge, ready to take that final step. It's like hanging yourself is just a matter of when, not if. Tee-hee~.

Yeah…not exactly helpful.

Saying I know just from observing would come off as creepy, like I'm some kind of stalker. It's not what she needs right now, especially since she's clearly on the edge.

She must've gathered a lot of courage to come here and face me. I can literally see how much it took for her.

So what in the world should I suppose to say?

…

I took a deep breath.

"Look, I don't want to make you uncomfortable. I noticed some things that made me concerned, and I didn't handle it well. I realize now that I should have approached this more carefully."

Sayori shifts slightly, still avoiding eye contact. "What…things?"

I try to choose my words carefully. "It's not just one thing. It's the little changes I've seen in you, how you seem to be carrying a lot more than you let on. And I guess, the way you've been acting recently just made me worried."

Her eyes finally meet mine. "So…you noticed?"

Her eyes…are completely blank.

It's moments like this that remind me just how exaggerated expressions can be in this anime world. A blank stare is a telltale sign, an indication of someone who feels hollow, depressed, or has simply given up.

And right now, I see that in Sayori, 100 percent undeniable.

I can't help but frown at that.

"Yeah." I admit softly. "I did. And I'm sorry if I came off as too forward or invasive. That wasn't my intention. I just want to make sure you're okay. If you want to talk about it, I'm here to listen. But if you'd rather not, that's okay too. I just want you to know that you don't have to go through this alone."

As I sit there, watching Sayori process my words, my mind races with a mix of self-doubt and frustration.

"...Sometimes, it's okay not to be happy." I say, my voice low and steady. "But remember, your struggles don't define you. It's your courage to seek the light that truly matters."

GAHHH!

Why did I say it like that? Great job, Rezon, real smooth. Just what she needed, a motivational poster come to life. This isn't a TED Talk!

I'm not Thanos or some damn anime MC who spews out cool one-liners and magically fixes everything. Here I am, doing the same thing again, using analogies like it's fucking normal.

Does that sound creepy? I hope not. The last thing I want to do is make things worse.

I glance at her, her face still turned away but her shoulders slightly less tense.

Okay, get it together. You've studied psychology for years, remember the basics, empathy, active listening, and creating a safe space. This isn't about you, it's about helping her. Focus on her needs, not your insecurities. All those major subjects and clinical practice have led to this moment. You've learned how to handle sensitive conversations. Use that training now.

I steal another look at Sayori.

Every time I try to say something, it feels like I'm fumbling. I need to remember that she's the one struggling, not me.

My job is to support her, not second-guess every word I say.

I take another sip of my coffee, trying to steady my nerves.

Even if I'm unsure of myself, I have to trust that my intentions are good. I just hope she can feel that.

…

"I'm sorry…"

Eh?

I noticed her fist clenched tightly on her lap, knuckles turning white, while her cup rested on the table.

H-Hold up, I don't understand, what's going on?

She was trembling, her voice filled with anguish.

"I'm so sorry... I didn't stand up when Yuri and Natsuki were fighting. I should've been braver. I was just so scared...I felt so useless!"

She was shaking uncontrollably, her sobs coming out in ragged, desperate gasps. Tears are streaming down her cheeks.

"I'm so, so sorry! I'm sorry for being so loud and always causing problems. I know I'm too much sometimes. I didn't mean to push you away and ignore you. I never wanted to hurt you, I swear! I just…I didn't want any of this! I didn't want to be like this! I just wanted to be happy! I just wanted to feel normal!"

W-W-Wait, is this really happening? I didn't think it would get this intense!

Her cries grew louder and more desperate, filling the room with a palpable tension.

"I'm sorry for everything! For not being able to fix myself, for being a burden, for feeling so worthless—"

She lets out a raw, guttural scream, a release of pent-up pain that reverberates through the room. The force of her cry leaves me momentarily stunned.

Despite my training, I feel out of my depth.

O-Oh dear…

I instinctively move closer and awkwardly wrap my arms around her in a sideways hug. Her small frame feels tiny against my chest. It's like I'm holding something very fragile, her head resting just below my shoulder.

"I hate feeling like this! It's not fair to you! Why do I always have to be a burden?" She shouts, her eyes wide with desperation. "I…I just want to die!"

Good grief, where the hell is Takashi when you need him?

The room seems to close in around us, and the weight of her anguish presses down on me.

My heart was racing, and despite everything I've learned about psychology, all of it feels distant and inadequate in this moment.

Am I doing this right? Is this how you comfort someone? Or am I just one step away from making things even more uncomfortable?

...

But even with that doubt, I hold her close, trying to offer some kind of solace.

"...It's okay, Sayori. Just let it out. I'm here."

That's all I can think to say right now.

She gasps between sobs, her body trembling.

"I just...don't know what to do anymore. I feel like I'm always failing. I was never good enough. I'll never be good enough…"

As her cries begin to subside, I hold her close, doing my best to offer comfort. The intensity of her emotions starts to ease, and her breathing gradually steadies. I can feel her slowly relaxing into my embrace.

I glance out the window at the night sky, which looks oddly serene tonight.

For a moment, I let the quiet beauty of it sink in.

…

With a deep breath, I begin to speak.

"Sayori, you bring so much joy to everyone around you, even if it's hard for you to see it right now. It's okay to feel lost sometimes, but please remember how much you matter. You're incredibly strong, and even when things feel heavy, you still shine in ways you might not realize."

I look down and see her eyes meeting mine, they appear blank, yet I can sense it.

A flicker of hope.

"Just remember this." I say gently. "Everyone cares about you deeply, and we all believe in you. You have the strength to get through this. No matter how dark it feels, you will find your way back."

I offer a warm, reassuring smile.

"I believe in you."

Goodness, that sounds cheesy...

My brain cringes at my own words.

What if she thinks I'm just spouting clichés? What if I'm not helping at all?

But then she looks so shocked. Is it because of my face or my words?

It doesn't really matter, I just hope I did what I could.

She wasn't smiling. Instead, her eyes well up with tears again.

"BWAAAAAHHH!"

She cries again, pulling herself into me even tighter, burying her face in my chest as her muffled sobs fill the room. I can't help but feel a bit uneasy. I'm not even sure if this is the right way to comfort someone like Sayori.

This goes on for a while as she clings to me, her small frame pressed against mine. I simply just allowed her to find solace in my presence, hoping it brings her some comfort.

As this unfolds, one thought lingers in my mind.

It's only the second day, and I already feel as if I've endured a month's worth of drama.

I think I could really use a vacation, or at least another cup of coffee.

---

Once her breathing steadied and her cries subsided, Sayori lifted her head, wiping her eyes and clearing the mucus from her nose.

"I'm sorry…some days are just harder to get through." She said, pulling away from me and avoiding eye contact, clearly embarrassed. "I'm really sorry about your uniform."

Truth be told, my uniform was soaked with tears and mucus, but it didn't bother me at all.

"No, no, it's fine." I replied, flashing her a reassuring smile. "This is nothing. Besides, if it helps you, I'd probably give you my entire uniform."

Her eyes widened in surprise as a light sweatdrop formed on her forehead. "N-No thanks, but thank you."

As she spoke, I noticed the way her cheeks flushed slightly. That little smile of hers felt like a fragile flower blooming amidst a storm. And I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief.

Perhaps I had eased her burden, if only a little.

"Seriously." I added. "Your happiness is worth way more than a uniform."

"Y-You should be telling that to someone you like…" She said, her voice shy yet lighthearted.

I chuckled, and she joined in, a lightness momentarily breaking the tension.

"If you don't mind me asking." I began. "Have you told this to Takashi?"

She hesitated, shaking her head.

"So, no, huh? Why not?"

"He's…my best friend." She said softly. "I don't want to burden him with my problems."

Ha! What a little hypocrite!

I chuckled inwardly, knowing she needed to offer herself the same grace she so readily gave to others.

"But you chose to come to me." I remarked.

I'm a little taken aback that she was willing to share all her emotional weight with me, but I'm not complaining; that's exactly what I hoped for.

She hesitated once more, her uncertainty evident.

Oops...I realized I might have come on a bit too strong. Internally, I sighed, but I kept my smile intact on the outside.

What a hopeless girl.

"What makes you think you'd be a burden?" I asked. "Everyone has their struggles, even the people closest to us. Sometimes, sharing that weight can make it a little lighter."

Sayori looked down, her fingers twisting the hem of her shirt like it was a toy. "I just…I don't want him to see me like this. I wanna be the super cheerful Sayori he knows, not this...grumpy, teary mess."

Her words hit me hard, and I can already picture the internal conflict she was battling: the strong desire to be there for her friends while feeling overwhelmed by her own emotions.

"Sayori." I said softly, "It's okay to not be okay. You don't always have to wear a smile. True friends will understand and support you, even in your darkest moments."

She glanced up at me, her eyes searching mine.

"But...what if he doesn't understand? What if it changes how he sees me?"

"Then that's his loss." I replied firmly. "Real friends appreciate you for who you are, even when you're struggling. They want to help, not just celebrate the happy moments."

I paused, reflecting on my own feelings. In the original game, the MC always cared for Sayori deeply. I couldn't help but think that Takashi, being his own character, might feel that need to help her even more intensely. If he saw her hurting, I imagined he would be right there, wanting to support her through thick and thin.

So there was no problem with that.

Sayori's expression wavered between hope and fear. "I wish it were that easy…"

"Maybe it can be." I said. "You've already taken a big step by talking to me."

I gave a smirk, hoping to lighten the mood just a bit.

"You can do this, Sayori. You're stronger than you realize."

Stronger than me, in every way.

Her gaze softened as she considered my words, and for a moment, I thought I saw a spark of resolve in her eyes.

"You…really think so?"

"Oh, I know so." I affirmed.

A small smile slowly emerged on her face, and I could see the weight on her shoulders lighten just a bit.

Her blue eyes that were once so blank, now sparkled with a hint of life, and I found myself captivated by the transformation.

"Thank you, Rezon. That means a lot to me."

Witnessing that shift felt like watching a fragile flower bloom after a long winter. In real life, moments like these are rare, but here, they unfolded in vivid clarity, leaving me in awe.

It felt like I was witnessing something truly magical, someone who wasn't real, yet felt so incredibly alive.

I guess in a way, it encapsulated the essence of DDLC, showing the beauty and struggle of emotions in a world that blurred the lines between fantasy and reality.

"Anytime." I replied, feeling a warmth in my chest. "Now, how about we get some fresh air? A little change of scenery might help clear your mind."

She nodded, a hint of her usual cheer returning as we stepped outside together. The cool night air wrapped around us, and for the first time in a while, I felt a sense of hope blossoming between us.

And for the first time, I truly felt like I had made a difference.

---

"This feels nice."

As I settled into my classroom, a goofy smile spread across my face.

After the heart-to-heart talk with Sayori last night, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had actually accomplished something meaningful, as if I had altered the course of something inevitable, even if just a little.

"Rezon! Look at my drawing!"

My thoughts were interrupted by Sayori's bubbly voice.

I turned to see her excitedly presenting the last page of her notebook. She had drawn a girl, and while it wasn't perfect, it radiated a certain cuteness that made me grin.

"Sayori! This looks amazing!" I exclaimed.

Our teacher for the day was absent due to an urgent matter, leaving us to hang out for a while. I took the opportunity to finish my math assignment.

I planned to tackle it last night, but, well…Sayori happened.

Speaking of which, I couldn't help but internally laugh when I handed my notes to her, she looked utterly overwhelmed.

Linear Algebra: Introduction to matrices, vectors, and systems of linear equations.

Honestly, I barely understood the basics myself, but I figured a half-baked answer was better than leaving it blank. I kept telling Sayori that my answers were just garbage, but she shrugged it off and copied them anyway.

Her loss, I suppose.

"B-But it looks so terrible compared to yours!" She cried, her eyes wide and shiny with a touch of panic.

"Don't compare yours to mine. I've been drawing for a while." I replied, trying to reassure her.

She puffed out her cheeks, a childish pout forming on her lips.

"But I just wanna be as good as you!"

Adorable. 10 out of 10.

It was truly remarkable how one night had changed everything, how we had gone from feeling so uncomfortable around each other to being closer than ever.

I hadn't even helped her, she had come to my home alone, making that decision on her own. In the original game, such feats were completely out of character for her...or maybe she had finally mustered the courage to take action.

If that were the case, then I truly applaud her.

Still, I genuinely didn't expect Sayori to be so interested in drawing.

She wasn't a pro by any means, neither was I, really, but her passion for it showed that she had a lot of hobbies. Drawing was just one of many activities she enjoyed in her free time.

"You know what? Wanna draw someone? I'll draw with you too."

"Really? Yay! Who should we draw?" She asked, her excitement bubbling over.

I paused, deep in thought.

Who could it be?

I quickly realized that this world likely wouldn't recognize people or fictional characters from the real world, only Monika seemed to have that knowledge. The only characters I knew in this world that might be considered 'fictional' were from Natsuki's favorite manga, Parfait Girls, but I couldn't recall their appearances well enough.

"Nah, let's pick someone we both know." I said, glancing at her eager face. "How about we draw Monika?"

Sayori's eyes sparkled with joy at the mention of her name.

"Ooooh, that sounds fun! Monika is always so cool and pretty!" She clapped her hands together, already flipping to a fresh page in her notebook.

"Heh, she sure is." I said, as I flipped the last pages of my book.

And with that, we began to draw.

As I focused on my drawing with Sayori, a low murmur swept through the classroom, pulling my attention away from my sketch. I could hear snippets of their conversation, like soft rustling leaves in a breeze.

"Sayori's actually hanging out with that scary new guy…"

"Right? I can't believe she's so chill around him."

"I heard he straight-up smashed the basketball rim on the outdoor court!"

"No way! My friend's brother said he saw the whole thing! It was crazy!"

Not snippets...more like fully blown-out words being hurled in my direction. I'm not sure if this is how anime gossiping usually works, but the fact that I can hear every word they're saying is almost insulting.

I leaned back in my chair, pretending to focus on Sayori, who was excitedly bouncing beside me.

It was almost comical, like I was stuck in one of those cliché high school dramas where the misunderstood loner is the center of attention. A small part of me felt a twinge of annoyance, but it quickly faded as I caught Sayori's sparkling eyes and bright smile.

I glanced at my gossiping classmates, who flinched visibly and exchanged nervous looks before quickly turning their gaze straight ahead.

Honestly, I'm surprised Sayori isn't hearing all of this.

"Ehhh!? Rezon, that looks so good!" Sayori exclaimed, bobbing beside me as she peered at my notebook.

I had drawn a rough sketch of Monika, more specifically, her iconic image from the game's main menu.

Monika stood confidently in my drawing, her right arm extended as if inviting someone in, while her left arm bent at the elbow. Her cheerful expression and slight body turn conveyed a dynamic, friendly vibe, with her legs close together.

And since this is an anime dating sim, my art probably looked like it was rendered in 3D to them.

"How are you this good?!" Sayori exclaimed, snatching my notebook and squinting at my drawing as if it held the secrets of the universe. "Teach me, master!"

"Hohoho! Well then, prepare yourself, for my knowledge is vast and challenging. None can withstand it!" I replied dramatically. "Are you up for the challenge?"

Her eyes sparkled with excitement. No, they literally glowed.

"Yes! Master Rezon!"

"Uh…you do realize I was just joking, right?"

"Te-hee, I know!" She said with a giggle.

"You little rascal." I chuckled.

Sayori winked at me, sticking her tongue out playfully.

It was utterly adorable.

How many times have I already said that?

I can't help but wonder how lucky I am to be friends with her. Who cares if others judge me or look at me weirdly? I was just happy to see Sayori so joyful. She was here, alive, and that was what truly mattered.

But still…it's only the third day.

I can't shake the feeling of dread.

I know Monika was the catalyst for Sayori's downward spiral, pushing her depression to the point of killing herself, but with her no longer tampering with her files, and also considering that this world is technically real, or as real as it gets, the chances of Sayori having suicidal thoughts should be lessened to…what, 80 percent?

Regardless, I'm not letting my guard down now, not when we've gotten this close.

"Alright, now show me yours." I said, taking my notebook back from her hands and holding out my free hand expectantly.

She eagerly handed it over, her eyes sparkling as if she were a student waiting for a teacher's praise.

When I saw what she'd drawn, I couldn't help but smile to myself.

It was a doodle of Monika, though you could hardly tell. The only reason I recognized it as her was because of the large ribbon. She was drawn facing forward, her body resembling a stick figure, with a round head and cute dotted eyes.

"It looks great, Sayori!" I said. "Monika looks so cute."

"Really? But your drawing is so much prettier!" She said, puffing out her cheeks like she always does when she's pouting.

"Not really, though." I said, handing her notebook back. She took it with a beaming smile, cradling it like it was something precious.

"I'm showing this to her after class, hehehe!" Sayori said.

"Go ahead." I replied, a small smile creeping onto my face.

The brief reprieve of free time ended abruptly as the classroom door swung open, signaling the return of the teacher.

Hours dragged on, each minute ticking monotonously on the clock, my thoughts wandering to a world outside these dull walls.

---

When the lunch bell finally rang, I unwrapped my meal with a twinge of awkwardness.

Finally brought my own lunch! No more pity looks from Sayori!

I had cooked this time, yet I felt acutely aware of my plain lunchbox amidst the colorful bento boxes surrounding me. As I fumbled with my spoon, I stole glances at the others, watching them deftly navigate their chopsticks with fluid confidence.

No matter how I looked at it, these people are definitely Japanese.

No one else could make food look so artistic while I was over here trying to figure out how not to stab my lunch with a spoon.

Curious eyes turned my way, lingering longer than necessary. It wasn't hostile, more like a natural reaction to my unfamiliar presence.

Then, Sayori's cheerful voice cut through the noise.

"Rezon! Come on, sit with us today!" Her bright smile and small frame radiated an energy that was hard to resist. She tugged at my sleeve, her determination palpable as she led me toward her group.

As we approached, I sensed hesitation in the air.

A boy with messy brown hair and green eyes shifted awkwardly, his usual relaxed demeanor faltering.

A girl with a moss-colored ponytail glanced at me, wide maroon eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and uncertainty as her fingers twisted nervously in her hair.

Another girl, quiet with raven locks, avoided my gaze, her expression unreadable.

These...are the people Sayori talks to when she's not talking to me.

Oblivious to the tension, Sayori dove right in. "Everyone, this is Rezon! He's new, so be nice, okay?"

The group's initial hesitation was palpable. The boy managed a nod, his smile a bit forced. The girl with the ponytail offered a tentative grin, though her eyes flickered with uncertainty. The quiet girl remained silent, her gaze flitting between Sayori and me.

"He's really nice! Just looks a bit serious, but trust me, he's cool!" Sayori quickly added.

With that, she dashed off to grab her lunch from the cafeteria, leaving me with her friends.

...

The silence hung heavily in the air, so thick that no one dared to take a bite of their food, too nervous to make a sound.

Finally, the girl with the ponytail broke it.

"D-Do you play basketball?" She asked, nervously twisting a strand of her hair.

It was clear she was trying to gauge my response.

"Not really." I replied, mustering a reassuring smile. "But I've tried it a few times."

"Oh…" She relaxed slightly, though a hint of apprehension lingered in her tone. "What do you like to do, then?"

"I'm more into athletics." I said, hoping to ease the tension. "I play shot put and discus throw."

Her eyes brightened, curiosity igniting her earlier nerves.

"Really? My friend does that too! You must be really strong!" She leaned closer, clearly eager to find common ground.

I chuckled softly, rubbing the back of my neck.

"I'm not as strong as you might think, trust me." I said, feeling a bit bashful under her gaze.

As we chatted, the initial awkwardness began to dissipate.

Ren, the boy with the laid-back demeanor and easy grin, shared a few jokes that drew laughter from the group. Curiously, his name reminded me of a certain huntsman in training from RWBY.

Kaori, the girl with the ponytail, matched his lively spirit, her animated gestures adding to the fun.

Meanwhile, Yuna, the quiet girl with a gentle presence, began to nod along, her eyes lighting up as she engaged in the conversation.

When Sayori returned with her lunch, the atmosphere shifted, and the tension melted into a relaxed, natural vibe.

Is this what they call the "glue" of the group?

Now that I think about it, when Monika deleted Sayori from the game, she had a hard time holding onto Natsuki and Yuri. I guess that's another one of the many main reasons why Sayori is so important.

Anyways, I took a moment to learn their names: Ren, Kaori, and Yuna. Each of them was intriguing in their own way, as I soon realize that aside from the main cast, these were the first people I genuinely talked to. It felt like I was finally stepping into the world I'd only watched from the sidelines.

"So, Rezon, you into other sports? I mess around with boxing, it keeps me in shape." Ren grinned, leaning back in his chair.

"Boxing's cool." I replied, keeping my tone casual. "I haven't really done much of that, though. Back at my last school, I joined ROTC for a bit."

A brief silence followed, and I realized my mistake as soon as the words left my mouth.

Damn it. These kids were high schoolers, they probably had no clue what I was talking about.

Kaori tilted her head, curiosity sparking in her maroon eyes. "ROTC? What's that?"

Her genuine interest made me feel more comfortable, as if she was truly invested in what I had to say.

I cleared my throat. "Uh, it stands for Reserve Officers' Training Corps. It's a program where students get basic military training—drills, physical fitness, discipline, that kind of thing. It's supposed to prep you for military service if you want to join."

"Whoa, seriously?" Ren's eyes widened. "You went through military training?"

I chuckled, shaking my head. "It's not as intense as it sounds. It's more about building discipline and getting a taste of what soldiers go through. Nothing too crazy."

"S-Smmmiously!?" Sayori chimed in, her mouth stuffed with food as she tried to speak, the words tumbling out in a garbled, muffled blur. "Mmm wmmnder you lmmok so bmmg an' fmm!"

"Sayori, you really shouldn't talk with your mouth full." Kaori said, giving her a teasing look before redirecting her attention to me. "I appreciate your patience with her."

"No problem." I replied with a grin.

Sayori quickly swallowed her food, her face flushing with embarrassment.

"H-Hey!" She said sheepishly, cheeks tinged pink.

Yuna, who had been observing quietly, finally spoke up, her voice soft yet filled with curiosity. "That sounds really interesting…like something you'd see in movies."

I shrugged, attempting to keep it light. "Yeah, I guess. But trust me, it's mostly just running around and following orders. It's not as glamorous as it looks."

Kaori leaned forward ".Still, it must've been tough. I can't imagine going through something like that."

But just as the conversation deepened, the sharp chime of the school bell pulled me back to reality.

Despite Sayori having many friends, I was surprised to see that most of them were uninterested in joining the literature club, even though she genuinely wanted them to.

And I do understand their perspective, a literature club in high school often seems dull to most students, lost among the allure of sports and social events.

Yet, it was evident that Sayori shared a deeper connection with them. She wasn't merely flitting from one person to another, collecting acquaintances like trophies, she actually had nurtured special bonds that extended far beyond the confines of the literature club.

Even with the exaggerated features, big eyes, vibrant hair colors, and unmistakable anime aesthetic, this experience resonated with me on a level I hadn't anticipated.

It felt...profoundly real and relatable

Today's class finally came to an end, and as students began to gather their bags, Sayori sprang to her feet, her excitement radiating like sunlight. She turned to me, her eyes sparkling with that familiar energy.

"Rezon, let's go!" She exclaimed, bouncing on her toes.

"As much as I'd love to, I'll be a bit late." I replied.

"Ehhh? Why not?" Sayori's expression dropped, her bottom lip jutting out in an adorable pout.

"I've got a lot of activities to catch up on. It's better if I prioritize that for now, especially with the teacher around."

Being transported into this world mid-semester left me with a mountain of material to catch up on. Honestly, I was just relieved I hadn't completely forgotten everything we covered today.

"Okay…" She said, looking a bit dejected. "I was hoping we could go get Takashi together…"

"Why do you need me for that, though?" I asked, genuinely puzzled.

It wasn't that I didn't want to help, but I couldn't quite wrap my head around why she would want me to join her.

"W-Well, because we're friends!" She replied, a light pink hue creeping onto her cheeks as she flashed a wide, hopeful grin. "…Right?"

What does that even mean?

I brushed the question aside, deciding to focus on her cheerful demeanor instead.

Humor her. She deserves a bit of happiness after everything she's been through.

"Yes, yes, we are! Don't worry." I managed, forcing a smile despite the confusion.

Her face lit up at my words, pure delight dancing in her eyes.

"Okay then! I'll see you later in the club! Bye-bye!" She chirped, waving enthusiastically as she dashed toward the exit, her bright laughter trailing behind her.

"Bye!" I called after her, a chuckle escaping my lips as I watched her bound away.

That is the most extroverted girl I had ever met. No joke.

Sayori radiated energy like a sunbeam. If there were a term beyond extroverted, it would apply to her.

As I scanned the now-empty classroom, the realization struck me, I was the last one left. It was time to get to work.

For a moment, a nagging feeling tugged at my mind.

Did I forgot something important?

...

I shook the thought away, refocusing on the task at hand.

---

Thanks to Natsuki's tour yesterday, I had managed to pinpoint each teacher's faculty room. The classrooms were neatly organized by subject, and since I was already familiar with the layout of the school, I only needed to ask a few teachers for directions.

As I navigated through the bustling halls, a wave of relief washed over me when one of the teachers handed me a modular assignment along with several projects to help me catch up.

Everything seemed to be falling into place...until a voice suddenly broke through the quiet.

"Aren't you the new kid who broke the basketball hoop?"

The words hung in the air, and I felt a wave of unwanted attention wash over me.

Turning, I found myself face-to-face with a man in his early forties. He wasn't particularly heavy, but he had a rounded figure, with a neatly trimmed beard and a high-cut hairstyle.

My heart sank at the sight of him, an anxious knot forming in my stomach as I feared he would report me for damaging school property.

"I-I'm so sorry, sir, it was an accident." I stammered.

He chuckled, a knowing glint in his eye.

"Well, you seem genuinely sorry, and I like that." He leaned back, clearly amused. "My boys are amazed by you, you know. I didn't believe it until I heard about it."

Confusion washed over me. What on earth was he talking about?

Then...it hit me.

Oh no…

"A-Are you by chance the coach of the team?" I asked hesitantly.

"Yeah, that's me." He replied with a grin. "I'm Mr. Taro Mori, their coach."

Great. Just great.

I bowed deeply, mimicking a traditional Japanese gesture, my forehead nearly brushing the floor. "I'm really sorry, sir! I didn't mean to break it. I just got caught up in the moment, and—"

"Relax, kid, you're good." He said, waving a hand dismissively. "The hoop's already been fixed."

Straightening up, I let out a relieved sigh.

"However." He continued. "That doesn't mean you're off the hook. I was actually planning to find you today to discuss something, and it looks like I got lucky."

Panic surged through me.

Was I really going to get expelled?

It was only the third day! I had just rekindled my friendship with Sayori, still needed to help Natsuki with her father issues, and figure out how to address Yuri's obsession without hurting her, all while wanting to be there for Monika too.

The weight of it all felt crushing.

If I got expelled…

"Damn, kid, you look like you're about to pass out." Mr. Taro said with a smirk, sensing my distress. "Relax, you're not going to be expelled or anything."

"R-Really?" I stuttered, surprised.

"Yeah." He crossed his arms, a grin still plastered on his face. "But since it's technically your fault, I want you to join our team."

I blinked, momentarily speechless.

"Uh…"

"My boys told me you flew from the three-point line to the hoop when you dunked." He said, excitement creeping into his voice. "The cultural festival is coming up, and after that, we'll have the sports fest. One of my players just backed out. You'd be a perfect fit. Tall and strong, you're more than qualified."

I blinked, trying to wrap my head around the whirlwind of information.

It felt like a lot to take in.

"...And if I refuse?" I asked cautiously, my heart racing at the thought of being roped into something I wasn't sure I wanted.

"Well, you could." He replied, his tone turning serious. "But your reputation here won't improve. I heard some students say you were spotted hanging out with the former president of the debate club and a few other girls. People are starting to talk, kid. Some think you might be developing a reputation as a womanizer or something."

"W-What!?" I shouted, disbelief washing over me.

It felt ridiculous that my life was being reduced to gossip. Shouldn't the school focus on the positive aspects of students instead of spreading rumors? I had no idea my image was already in jeopardy.

W-Wait, is he really trying to blackmail me into joining his team?

I didn't know if he was lying or not, but he had a point. I had spent most of my time hanging out with Sayori simply because she was my classmate, and I had been with Natsuki yesterday before breaking the hoop. Not to mention, the night after that, I had gone out on a date with Monika…

...

Oh dear Lord, he's right.

This was bad. High school was a breeding ground for gossip, and it didn't take much for rumors to spiral out of control. I hadn't meant for any of this to happen, but it seemed like I was already caught in something much bigger than I'd realized.

What a troublesome realization. I always told myself I didn't care what others thought of me, but now that people I cared about were getting involved, I knew I had to do something…right?

"Look, you seem like a good kid." Mr. Taro said. "I know this might be outside your comfort zone, but it's for your own good. You've got real talent, and this could actually help improve how others see you. Trust me, it'll be worth it."

"But I have a club..." I protested weakly.

"Really? What club?" Mr. Taro asked.

"…The Literature Club." I said, feeling a bit embarrassed.

Mr. Taro paused, his eyebrows raised in surprise before bursting into laughter.

"Bwahahah! No way! You're serious?" He exclaimed, clearly amused.

I nodded, feeling embarrassed yet defensive.

"Okay, okay, I'm not judging, but I didn't expect that from someone built like you. It's nice." A glint of mischief danced in his eye. "Let me tell you, joining two activities is perfectly fine. I did it when I was your age, playing basketball and being on the debate team."

His nostalgic smile somehow lightened the mood.

"Those experiences taught me to think on my feet and communicate better. Balancing both improved my skills in ways I didn't expect." Mr. Taro's voice took on an enthusiastic tone. "Who knows? You might find inspiration for epic poetry on the court! Picture poems capturing the thrill of the game, the camaraderie of teammates, and those moments of triumph. Life is full of poetry if you're willing to see it."

I stared at Mr. Taro, trying to make sense of what he was saying.

He's not wrong...

Joining the basketball team could boost my reputation and help me connect with more people in this new world.

But I didn't want to abandon the literature club. I genuinely enjoyed my time with Sayori, Natsuki, Yuri, Takashi, and Monika. Plus, I had the weighty responsibility of preventing the original events of the game from unfolding.

There were no do-overs. If someone died, they were gone for good.

High school was about more than just a single group of friends, it was an opportunity to explore various interests and build a diverse social circle. A well-rounded reputation could open doors to new friendships and experiences.

Reputation mattered here, and Monika was clearly a popular figure. But would pursuing basketball mean sacrificing my time with the literature club? If I joined the team, I could invite some of my clubmates to games, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and discover something new.

Balancing both activities might be challenging, but it could also enrich my time here and strengthen my connections with everyone.

...

Screw it.

"...Do I really have to?" I asked, trying to keep my tone light despite the anxiety gnawing at me. "I'm not exactly a basketball prodigy."

He chuckled once again. "Who said you have to? You already got a knack for making an impression. The boys are already buzzing about you, and if you can dunk like that, we could use you on the court."

"But what if I...I don't know..." I rubbed the back of my neck. "What if I let the team down?"

"Hey, it's a team." He reassured me. "We'll train together, support each other, and most importantly, we'll have fun. Besides, I'm not asking for a miracle. Just give it a shot. You might surprise yourself."

His enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself wavering.

"Okay." I said slowly. "I'll think about it."

Mr. Taro's grin widened.

"That's all I ask. Come to practice tomorrow after school, and we'll see what you can do."

With a playful pat on my shoulder, he walked past me, his confidence radiating like the sun.

I stood there for a moment, letting the weight of his words sink in.

Joining the basketball team? Me? The idea felt surreal, a whirlwind of excitement and anxiety coursing through my veins. A part of me wanted to leap at the opportunity, to embrace the challenge and prove myself. But another part hesitated, plagued by doubts and insecurities.

Mostly, I was here for a reason: to save the girls, not to join activities that didn't relate to my goal. This was a life-and-death situation, so why bother focusing on things that didn't benefit their well-being?

Still, I'd think about it. I'd definitely ask Monika for her thoughts.

With all that said and done, I made my way to the clubroom.

The school halls were nearly empty at this hour, a quiet lull settling in after the day's classes. I glanced down the open corridors, my gaze drifting to the cityscape framed by the mountain slopes. Fluffy clouds dotted the sky, and the cheerful chirping of birds filled the air.

The students, Sayori's friends, Mr. Taro—they are all real.

The people I spoke to—they are real.

From the moment I stepped into this world, I had resolved to embrace it, yet a lingering doubt still tugged at my mind. What if this wasn't real? What if they weren't real?

I shook my head, trying to dispel the thought.

No…they are real. Maybe not in the way I was used to, but undeniably real.

---

After a short walk, I stood before the door of the clubroom.

The past days washed over me as I pondered the connections I had formed.

Natsuki, with her tough exterior, had revealed a genuine side. A girl passionate about her interests, vulnerable despite her bravado.

I thought of Sayori, who, despite my fears of failing her, had faced her own struggles head-on. I didn't fully understand what she had gone through, but I was relieved to see her taking steps toward healing, albeit small.

And then there was Takashi. Eventually, I would need to have a serious conversation with him. He needed to understand that Sayori had feelings for him. It was time for him to recognize the depth of her affection.

Then there was also Yuri. Our conversations had been few and tentative. I still didn't grasp her complexities, but I promised myself I would prioritize her well-being soon.

As for Monika, I felt a mix of gratitude and unease. She had guided me through this world, even though she carried the burden of having torn it apart. I could only imagine the struggle of grappling with memories that felt both foreign and familiar, adjusting to a new environment that was both unfamiliar and yet oddly known.

Taking a deep breath, I slid the door open, bracing myself for whatever awaited me inside.

The chatter in the clubroom came to an abrupt halt as all eyes turned to me.

"Hey." I greeted, raising two fingers in a casual salute.

"Rezon! It's good to see you." Monika greeted with her usual warm smile. "Sayori mentioned you might be running a bit late, so we went ahead and shared our poems already."

I waved my hand awkwardly. "Oh, that's fine. I just need to show...my...poem…"

Oh no.

"Rezon, is everything okay?" Monika's smile wavered slightly, concern clouding her expression.

That's when it hit me.

I forgot to write a poem.

I could practically feel the sweatdrop forming. So that's what I'd been forgetting all this time…

"I...I forgot to write one." I confessed, the weight of my oversight sinking in like a leaden stone.

I'd been so caught up with Sayori last night that time had slipped away from me. Between trying to speedrun my math homework during class, navigating the chaos of my sudden transfer, and that unexpected meeting with the basketball coach...writing a poem had completely slipped my mind.

Forgetting something like this is normal, right?

Monika's expression shifted, a fleeting look of disappointment crossing her face.

I-I-I had a long day!

I wanted to say it so badly, but if I did, Sayori would probably feel guilty. I glanced at her, noticing the piece of paper clutched in her hands.

She looked at me with a sheepish smile.

How did she even manage to write a poem after everything we talked about last night?

...I suppose that just shows how dedicated she is to this club.

"I can write one now...if that's okay." I offered, my voice meek.

Monika shook her head gently.

"The point of the poem, Rezon, is to express what's in your heart. Rushing one now wouldn't capture that." She explained.

She stepped closer, her eyes locking onto mine with a mix of concern and mild disappointment. I felt like I was being gently scolded by a teacher. Not harsh, but enough to make me squirm.

After a moment, Monika sighed softly.

"I suppose there's only one thing left to do."

I blinked, confused. "What do you mean?"

"You deserve to be punished." She said.

"Wha...?" I blurted out, taken aback.

Monika's eyes sparkled with amusement, a small smile playing on her lips. "Don't worry, it's nothing too severe. But I can't just let you off the hook that easily, Rezon."

She turned to the other club member.

"Isn't that right, everyone?"

Sayori seemed a bit perplexed, tilting her head as if unsure how to respond.

"Umm...maybe?"

Takashi offered a strained smile, clearly trying to play along but not entirely comfortable with the idea.

"I'm not sure if that's necessary…" Yuri's expression was more concerning. She looked uneasy, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her book.

But Natsuki, on the other hand, was practically bouncing with excitement.

"Ohohoho, I've gotta see this!" Natsuki exclaimed, grinning like she'd just stumbled upon a rare event. "I suggest we make him dance!"

"Whoa, whoa, whoaaa, like I'm doing that!" I said, waving my hands in protest.

Monika chuckled softly, holding up a hand to calm everyone down. "Let's not get too carried away. I think we can come up with something a little more...poetic, don't you?"

She winked at me.

Oh, haha funny.

I couldn't help but sigh in relief, though part of me wondered just what she had in mind. Monika always seemed to have a way of turning the tables, and right now, I was at her mercy.

"You know, Natsuki might be onto something." She mused, tapping a finger thoughtfully against her lips.

I felt a chill run down my spine. "Wait, you're not seriously going to make me dance, are you?"

Monika tilted her head, her eyes gleaming with mischief.

"Not exactly. How about this instead?" She paused for dramatic effect, clearly enjoying the suspense. "I think you should sing a short, silly song for everyone. Just something fun and lighthearted, nothing too difficult."

A collective murmur of interest spread through the room. Sayori's eyes lit up with anticipation, Takashi tried to suppress a grin, Yuri looked more relieved than anything, and Natsuki was practically vibrating with excitement.

"A song?!" I protested, my face heating up. "In front of everyone?"

Monika nodded, her smile softening as she stepped closer, lowering her voice so only I could hear.

"Consider it a little challenge. And besides…" She leaned in, her voice dropping to a whisper. "I think it'll be cute."

There was no way I could refuse now, not with her looking at me like that.

I let out a sigh, already feeling my cheeks burning.

"Alright, fine. Just...promise you guys won't laugh at me."

With all eyes on me, I tried to think of something simple and silly enough to get through without completely dying of embarrassment. After a moment, I cleared my throat and began, singing a goofy little jingle that I vaguely remembered from some old commercial:

"I'm a little teapot, short and stout,

Here is my handle, here is my spout—"

The words felt ridiculous as they tumbled out of my mouth, and I could feel my face growing redder by the second. But as I got into it, I noticed the room filling with soft giggles, and when I reached the part about tipping over, I even threw in a little dance move, leaning to one side and pretending to pour out tea.

By the time I finished, the room was filled with laughter. Sayori was clapping enthusiastically, Takashi had finally broken into a wide grin, Yuri was hiding her smile behind her hand, and Natsuki was grinning from ear to ear, her phone suddenly appearing in her hand.

W-Wait, is she recording me!?

"H-Hey, stop recording!" I exclaimed, clumsily running toward her chair.

Natsuki quickly pulled her phone to her chest, holding it protectively.

"No way! That was way too good to not get on camera!" She said with a laugh. "Besides, it's not every day we get to see something like this."

I groaned, feeling my face heat up even more. "Come on, Natsuki, delete it. Please?"

She gave me a sly smile. "Oh, I don't know...I think I'll keep it for a while. Just in case I need a little leverage next time."

She stuck her tongue out at me, clearly enjoying every second of my discomfort.

"Natsuki, that's not fair!" I protested, but she just laughed again.

"Life's not fair, Rezon." She shot back, crossing her arms with a smug expression. "But don't worry, I won't show it to anyone...probably."

T-That's way too suspicious.

Monika, who had been watching the exchange with an amused smile, finally stepped in.

"Alright, that's enough." She said between laughs. "Rezon's punishment is officially over."

"Thank you." I said with a sigh of relief, deciding to sit down next to Natsuki.

As I did, she quickly hid her phone in her skirt, casting me a funny look.

Oh, I'm getting rid of that video alright. One way or another.

I gazed back at Monika, who was now glancing at me with a look of quiet satisfaction, as if she'd known all along how this would play out.

I feel like a victim...

"So, aside from sharing poems..." I asked, trying to regain my composure. "What did I miss?"

Monika tilted her head slightly, her eyes meeting mine with that familiar, almost knowing look.

"Not much, really." Monika replied with her usual poise. "But it's good to see you fitting in so well."

They might have not noticed, but I did. There was a subtle undertone to her words, as if she knew more than she was letting on.

"Well, we were talking about you and Mo—"

Sayori started, but before she could finish, Takashi quickly clapped a hand over her mouth, his eyes wide with panic.

"W-We were talking about how much you'll contribute to the culture festival!" Takashi blurted out as he forced a laugh.

Okay, he was clearly trying to deflect whatever Sayori had been about to reveal.

Monika's smile faltered for just a fraction of a second, her eyes narrowing ever so slightly as she assessed the situation. Something about this exchange seemed to catch her off guard.

"E-Exactly!" Monika chimed in, her voice a little too quick. "We're all really excited about the festival, after all."

Her demeanor had a hint of urgency to it, almost as if she were trying to steer the conversation away from dangerous territory.

My brow furrowed as I looked around the room.

Something was definitely off.

Sayori's eyes widened as Takashi removed his hand from her mouth. She appeared unusually hesitant, while Takashi seemed on the verge of a nervous sweat. Even Natsuki was uncharacteristically quiet.

"Yeah, we're planning...or something." Natsuki muttered as she kept her eyes down, avoiding mine.

Yuri fidgeted with a strand of her hair, a clear sign of her discomfort. Her eyes darted nervously over the pages of her book.

The whole scene felt surreal. It was like everyone knew something I didn't. Something about me, or maybe something about Monika. But what?

"Monika…" I began cautiously, my voice low as I tried to piece together the strange atmosphere in the room. "Is everything alright? You seem...different."

"Everything's fine, Rezon. Really." She assured me, her voice smooth and convincing.

There was something about the way she said it that left me feeling more uneasy than before.

Almost.

But the way they all seemed on edge, the sudden awkward silences, the nervous glances, something was definitely up.

Before I could press further, Sayori suddenly piped up, her voice almost too cheerful. "So, Rezon! What do you think we should do for the festival? We've got so many ideas, but we really want to hear yours!"

The abrupt change in topic felt forced, like she was trying to distract me from something.

"I don't have much to say, considering I'm still new here and all…" I replied, though my mind was still stuck on what Sayori had almost said before Takashi interrupted her.

'You and Mo—' she'd said. Was she about to say Monika?

Had they been talking about me and Monika before I walked in?

As I tried to focus on the conversation, I couldn't help but notice that Monika was watching me closely. Her smile was still in place, but her eyes seemed to be searching for something—maybe trying to figure out how much I knew.

And that only made me more suspicious.

Whatever it was they were hiding, I had a feeling it wasn't just about the festival. And from the way Monika was acting, it definitely had something to do with her.

"I heard some students say you were spotted hanging out with the former president of the debate club and a few other girls. People are starting to talk, kid. Some of them think you might be getting a reputation as a womanizer or something."

Do...they already know about the rumors?

My thoughts were interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps as I glanced at Monika rushing to the front of the classroom.

"T-That's okay! In fact, we're going to properly discuss it right now!" She said, her voice slightly shaky but bright. "If everyone could come and sit at the front of the room…"

She was definitely trying to avoid the subject. I could see it in her eyes. No matter how I looked at it, everyone was doing their best to steer clear of whatever was brewing beneath the surface.

I decided to go with the flow for now. I'd ask Monika about it later.

Everyone, including myself, obliged as we gathered around her desk.

"Okay, as you all know, the cultural festival is coming up in about two weeks." Monika announced, her tone shifting to a more official demeanor. "Sayori has already designed a fantastic poster for us, and I've been working on some pamphlets we can hand out during the event."

"That's great and all..." Natsuki chimed in, crossing her arms with an expectant look. "But that doesn't exactly tell us what we're going to be doing for the event."

"Ah, sorry! I thought I already mentioned it." Monika replied, her smile faltering slightly. "We're going to be performing!"

"Performing!?" Natsuki repeated, her voice rising incredulously.

"P-Performing?" Yuri echoed, her wide eyes revealing her concern. "Um…Monika…"

The room buzzed with surprise as I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety.

This scene felt oddly familiar; I remembered it well from the original game. Monika had suggested that each of us choose a poem to recite during the event and encouraged everyone to share their own poetry.

As expected, Natsuki and Yuri hesitated to participate, nervous about performing in front of an audience. Monika reassured them, offering encouragement, while Sayori and Takashi backed her up. Even I joined in, emphasizing that participating was a crucial step for the club's growth.

Eventually, both girls reluctantly agreed.

And now, Monika was discussing about our poster.

"If anyone wants to prepare ahead of time, Sayori is putting it on all the posters!" Monika announced.

"Hehe, ta-da!" Sayori exclaimed, proudly presenting her colorful poster. It burst with vibrant designs of cartoonish books and stars, cheerful fonts boldly declaring, "Join the Literature Club!"

I couldn't help but marvel at her handiwork. It was incredibly cute.

"Aww, it's adorable." I commented casually.

"Hehe, thanks, Rezon! That means a lot coming from you." Sayori glanced back at the poster, her eyes sparkling with joy. "I should have asked for your advice. You're so talented at drawing!"

"Nah, it's already perfect. I promise." I replied, smiling.

"Really? You think so?" Her cheeks flushed with delight, and she beamed at me. "That makes me so happy!"

"Oh, right! Sayori mentioned you're pretty good at drawing." Natsuki said, raising an eyebrow. "She said you drew Monika, too. Is that really true?"

"Uh, yeah… but I wouldn't say I'm that good," I admitted, scratching the back of my head. "And, yeah, we did draw Monika. We just had some free time in class, so we figured we'd do something to keep ourselves entertained."

I shot a sheepish smile at Monika, who responded with a warm grin.

"Well, now I'm really curious about how you'd draw me!" Monika said, her eyes sparkling with interest. "Why don't you show it to us?"

"Ah, nah, it's not that impressive—"

"Wait, let me show everyone!" Sayori interrupted, bouncing with excitement as she set down the poster.

"W-Wait, don't—" My voice faltered as she darted over to my bag, rifling through it until she pulled out my notebook.

Flipping to the last page, she held it up like a trophy.

"Look! He's actually really talented! See?" Sayori exclaimed, her eyes sparkling as she proudly held up my drawing.

Haaah, you're too much sometimes, Sayori.

I sighed, trying to hide my embarrassment.

The drawing she showcased was one I had created on my first day in this world. It depicted a girl looking sideways, her melancholic expression contrasting with her dress billowing in the wind.

The other members of the club looked at it in surprise.

"Whoa, that's amazing!" Takashi said, leaning in for a closer look. "The girl looks pretty."

"Amazing…" Yuri added, her eyes widening with admiration.

Natsuki simply stared, stunned.

"And here!" Sayori exclaimed, flipping to the second-to-last page and revealing my drawing of Monika. "This is the one where he drew Monika!"

The room erupted in awe.

"H-Holy shit, you really did drew her." Natsuki blurted, her full of disbelief. "It's scarily accurate."

"Wow..." Yuri said, her voice soft with admiration. "You've really nailed the details. It's almost as if she's standing right before us."

"This is seriously impressive, Rezon! No joke." Takashi added, nodding enthusiastically.

Uwaaa...

"See? Everyone likes it!" Sayori giggled, bouncing on her feet. "You should totally draw for the festival, Rezon! It would be so much fun! Oh, actually, I was planning to ask you that!"

"Ah, yeah...sure…" I replied meekly, still feeling a bit overwhelmed by the attention.

I glanced at Monika, who was studying my drawing with a soft smile, a faint blush on her cheeks. She met my gaze and raised an eyebrow, her expression playful.

Okay, what are you thinking this time, Monika? It's not creepy, I swear!

Both Sayori and I drew her, right? So surely she doesn't find this weird.

"Honestly, I'm really impressed. You've got the details just right, though..." Monika smiled bashfully. "I think my chest is a little bit bigger."

Such confidence!

"M-Monika!" Yuri exclaimed.

"Yeah, Monika, what the hell!?" Natsuki added, blushing.

"Come on, relax." Monika said with a laugh. "It's not that weird. But seriously, you nailed the details. I love it!"

She was gazing at me with that flirtatious look in her eyes. I avoided her gaze, scratching the back of my head again.

"T-Thanks..." I said as she let out a giggle.

Drawing is one of the most genuinely enjoyable hobbies I have. I sometimes share my art online, but if there's one thing that still makes me feel embarrassed, it's receiving compliments about it.

It feels even more absurd to realize that the people complimenting me right now were once just fictional characters.

"Hey, we're supposed to be talking about the festival, not me!" I declared, reaching for my notebook that Sayori was still clutching. She let out a small yelp of surprise as I gently pulled it away from her.

"...I think this could be really beneficial."

I looked at Yuri, who seem to be deep in thought.

"If Monika is right, we should definitely gather all the talents we can. Your art has a unique depth that could really enrich the atmosphere of our club." She said with a warm smile.

I stared at her, taken aback by her insight.

Uwaa, she's absolutely right. I'm genuinely surprised by how well she reasoned that out.

"Y-Yeah, you're right. Sorry." I murmured, feeling sheepish.

"I-It's completely understandable, Rezon." Yuri said, a hint of nervousness in her voice. "I know how overwhelming it can feel to be in the spotlight. It can really drain your energy."

"That is so true." I said, giving her a smile. "Thanks Yuri."

"E-Eh? Oh, um...you're welcome..." She replied, a soft blush creeping across her cheeks as she glanced down, her fingers nervously twirling a strand of her hair. "I'm just glad I could help..."

Yuri's awkwardness made her seem even more endearing. It was clear she cared deeply, even if her shyness held her back.

"Nah, he'll be fine." Natsuki chimed in, smirking as she crossed her arms. "I mean, he already stands out like a sore thumb."

"N-Natsuki!" Yuri exclaimed, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"What? I'm just joking!" Natsuki replied, rolling her eyes, though she couldn't suppress her grin.

Huh, I couldn't help but wonder when did Natsuki became so comfortable around me. It's a nice change from her usual tsundere antics. I half-expect her to suddenly shout, "I-It's not like I want to be this close to you, baka!"

But in all seriousness, it's good to see her let her guard down a bit.

I guess she really should ease up on the tough-girl act. Not that I mind or anything…

B-Baka!

"Yuri is right." Monika added. "We need more help for this. The festival will have a lot of engaging clubs, and while our club isn't particularly popular right now, we need to create enough interest to draw people in. Fortunately, we have two boys here to help us out. I'm sure both of you are willing to participate, right? Takashi, Rezon?"

Her gaze shifted between Takashi and me, a confident smile on her lips.

That's a bit unfair, Monika, using psychological tactics to appeal to our sense of masculinity. Well, I guess I'm being charmed by her enthusiasm.

Just kidding! Not that I have much choice in the matter.

"Yeah, I will." Takashi said without hesitation, seeming perfectly at ease with the idea.

I internally sighed, feeling the pressure mounting.

"Yeah, don't worry. I'll help too." I said, trying to sound enthusiastic despite my lingering reservations.

"That's the spirit, you two!" Sayori exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement as she jumped in place, pumping her fist in the air.

Monika smiled, her confidence visibly growing.

"Alright, moving on." She said. "For our last activity today, I'd like each of you to choose one of your poems. We're going to practice reciting them in front of each other!"

"EEEH!?"

The room filled with a mix of nervous anticipation and excitement, especially from Natsuki and Yuri, whose flustered expressions were almost endearing. I couldn't help but smile as I watched the scene unfold, feeling a strange sense of nostalgia. It was surreal to see them reacting in real time, their faces full of genuine emotion, unlike the static sprites and hovering text boxes I remembered.

Every nervous twitch, every awkward glance—they were real.

As each girl took her turn to perform, I clapped along with the others, a grin slowly spreading across my face. It was oddly comforting, seeing them like this—normal, without any of the disturbing glitches or sudden shifts in personality.

Yeah, it was a relief.

"Okay, Rezon, you're up next!" Monika's voice pulled me from my thoughts.

"Oh, uh, didn't I mention that I didn't write a poem today…?" I said, scratching the back of my neck awkwardly.

"What about the one you showed us yesterday?" Monika suggested, her curiosity piqued.

"Is it okay to repeat it?" I asked hesitantly.

"Of course it is!" Monika replied. She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "Unless you're trying to save something special for someone else? You wouldn't want to disappoint your future girlfriend, would you?"

"H-Huh?" I stammered, completely caught off guard.

Monika laughed softly, making it clear she was just having fun.

"I'm just kidding, Rezon." She said, though her eyes suggested she enjoyed keeping me on my toes. "Or am I?"

Once again, I sigh internally.

She's definitely girlfriend material, no doubt about it. A girl this beautiful, this intelligent, and with natural leadership qualities. Sometimes, I wonder if I'm living in a dream.

Because...despite everything around me, it's hard to shake the feeling that this situation might not be real. As charming as she is, a persistent unease gnaws at my mind. Something feels off.

...

It's not about her, it's about this entire place. The world is filled with life, a stark contrast to the game where the main cast often felt isolated. I can't help but think that something ominous lurks beneath the surface.

I know I've pondered this before, but it just keeps nagging at me.

Maybe not today, but someday, I just know something is bound to happen.

...

"This is going to be the death of me…" I murmured, shaking my head.

"NO!"

Monika's sudden outburst jolted me, her voice sharp and edged with an intensity I hadn't anticipated.

The air grew heavy with an unspoken tension, as if the very atmosphere shifted around us.

"M-Monika…?"

In an instant, her expression transformed, her playful demeanor evaporated, replaced by a strained, almost haunted look. It was as if the weight of the world had pressed down on her shoulders in that split second.

My heart raced as I tried to decipher her feelings, caught off guard by the sudden shift.

"Please, don't say those words…just don't."

The fear in her voice sent a shiver down my spine, tightening my throat.

I stood there, dumbfounded, nodding slowly as confusion washed over me.

I glanced at the others, their expressions mirroring my bewilderment at her unexpected reaction.

Something was wrong—deeply wrong—and an unsettling feeling crept in, making me wonder if I was somehow responsible for it.

"Monika, is everything alright?" Sayori asked as she approached us, her voice gentle and laced with concern.

"...Everything's fine, Sayori. Rezon just surprised me with his choice of words. I thought he was going to perform a declamation!" Monika replied, forcing a smile that fell short of reaching her eyes.

She shot me a glance, her expression unreadable, but I detected a flicker of something.

Anger, perhaps, or fear.

I frowned, uncertainty gnawing at me.

What did I do wrong?

I racked my brain, trying to understand the sudden shift in her demeanor.

"This is going to be the death of me…"

Was it because of what I said? I was just expressing my thoughts about my whole dilemma.

So why is she...oh...ohhhh.

...

Oh no.

The realization hit me like a tidal wave. In her eyes, I could see flickers of the past—the trauma she had endured and the insanity she had fought against. Death, even in jest, was a loaded word for her.

My heart raced, guilt settling in my chest like a stone. What had seemed like a harmless comment now felt like a misstep, like I'd wandered into a dangerous territory.

I really messed that up.

"Oooh, really?!" Sayori's eyes lit up, completely oblivious to the tension thickening the air.

"I would love to see him try it." Yuri chimed in, her curiosity piqued.

Natsuki, grinning like a Cheshire cat, had already whipped out her phone, eager to capture the moment.

"Well, what are you waiting for?" Monika said, her smile returning, yet it carried a hint of something I couldn't quite identify. "You've got an audience waiting!"

It was clear she was struggling to keep herself steady.

"Monika…"

I met her gaze, but she quickly averted her eyes, a flicker of something unreadable crossing her face.

I sighed, feeling a mix of resignation and anticipation.

Yeah…we definitely need to talk about that later.

---

Author's Note:

Wow, this is the longest chapter I've ever written, 16,000 words! I'm honestly surprised I managed to get it done. How did I even do this? XD

But hey, it's finished, so I'm rolling with it. Well, mostly, I'm not entirely satisfied, but I needed to wrap it up so I could get back to my schoolwork. Physics is really giving me a hard time...

There's a lot going on, so let me introduce you to the OCs featured in the story so far:

1. Sakura Hoshino:

A third-year student at Midokita High School with light blue hair and silver-gray eyes. She's shy, much like Yuri, but her passion is in the arts rather than literature. Ironically, she's the president of the Arts Club, which makes her responsibilities even more challenging. Luckily, her extroverted vice president is always there to support her. Sakura is also friends with Natsuki, they bond over their shared love of manga and, interestingly, writing smut fanfics.

2. Koto Shimizu:

The head of the main office, where students go for tardy passes or enrollment forms. Koto is in her late 40s, with black hair streaked with strands of white. She's strict about school protocols, but outside of work, she's a genuinely kind person.

3. Hikari Naozawa

A middle-aged woman in her early 30s with raven hair tied in a neat ponytail and glasses. She is the club supervisor of the Literature Club and tends to be a bit mischievous, often teasing the members. Despite this, she's a good person at heart. She's single, which Monika loves to tease her about, leading to some playful banter between the two when Monika assists her with club duties.

4. Ren Takeda

A laid-back third-year student with messy brown hair and green eyes. He's a classmate of Sayori and one of Sayori's regular friends. Ren isn't particularly sporty, but he enjoys hobbies like cycling, boxing, and photography. He's a member of the Photography Club and is easy to get along with.

5. Kaori Nishikawa

A girl with moss-colored hair tied in a ponytail and wide maroon eyes. She's an extrovert, similar to Sayori, but more composed and relaxed. Kaori is one of Sayori's regular friends in the classroom and plays table tennis as part of the sports club. She loves exploring and has a strong affinity for nature.

6. Yuna Yaori

A quiet girl with raven hair and hazel eyes. Yuna has a gentle presence and usually keeps to herself, often choosing not to speak to preserve her voice. She's the only one among Sayori's friends who isn't in a club. Yuna has a secret passion for reading yaoi manga.

7. Taro Mori

The coach of the Midokita Basketball team and a history teacher. Taro is in his early forties, not particularly heavy, but with a rounded figure. He has a neatly trimmed beard and a high-cut hairstyle. He's a chill teacher, though he can be robust, aggressive, and loud when the situation calls for it. Despite his extroverted nature, Taro is smart and strategic when it comes to making decisions for the betterment of his students.

So, that's a rundown of some important side characters for now. I'm eager to hear your thoughts! See you in the next chapter—if I decide to keep this going, of course!