Chapter 3
I went to university and attended my usual classes.
“In other words, the glucose absorbed by the body…”
This was the lecture hall—a standard university setup, with tiered seating rising from the professor’s podium.
Around me, students whispered to their friends, their voices blending into a low hum.
I sat somewhere in the middle—not studious enough for the front, not careless enough for the back. Just a lukewarm spot.
And there I was, alone.
I’ve never been good at making friends.
Even in middle and high school, I mostly kept to myself. I knew it wasn’t ideal, but small talk never came naturally, and I wasn’t athletic enough for clubs. So this was the result.
Over time, I leaned into solitary hobbies like reading. And that’s how I ended up here—still alone.
…Huh?
Wait, that’s strange. Something doesn’t add up.
…Right, Yuu. That’s what’s off.
She’s supposed to be my childhood best friend. So why was I always alone? Did I become isolated after she disappeared? No… that doesn’t feel quite right either.
—————Rustle—————
…Eh, whatever.
It doesn’t seem important anymore.
My school years weren’t exactly happy to begin with. No point digging through them now.
“That concludes today’s lecture.”
While I was lost in thought, the professor wrapped up, and the chime rang. He was known for ending right on time—especially nice since this was the last class of the day.
After packing up, I left campus.
The sunset painted my walk home, the street lined with eateries catering to students. Groups of friends around me exchanged goodbyes or made plans to grab drinks.
No one called out to me.
Of course not. I didn’t have friends.
…I’ve always hated this walk. Ever since elementary school.
Even if it was my own fault for being alone, it still stung. This commute just reminded me of that.
Moving through the crowd by myself only highlighted how empty things felt. Like proof I’d always be this way.
…At least, until a few days ago.
But now? Everything felt different.
My steps were lighter. Going home actually felt… good.
And the reason was simple: Yuu.
Just knowing my best friend was waiting for me—it warmed my chest.
…I really owe her.
She cooks dinner, handles the chores… Living alone had been harder than I’d expected.
Cleaning, laundry, ironing—none of it was difficult with appliances, but it still ate up my time.
Since Yuu showed up, all that stress disappeared.
…I should figure out a way to thank her.
“I’m home.”
As I opened the door, I heard quick footsteps approaching.
“Welcome back.”
Yuu appeared, smiling. Just seeing her face made me think—
Yeah, I’m happy right now.
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