Even after devouring an extravagant afternoon tea, it was still morning. But I was tired, so I decided to head back to the dorm.
And yes—I'm aware that "afternoon tea" before noon is a contradiction. But I've learned not to question the logic of luxury.
As I trailed behind a certain cheerful Rice Shower, ready to call it a day, fate had other plans.
"Ara."
"What—oh, excuse me!"
We bumped into Shinko Lovely.
She was dressed in adorable civilian clothes, clearly on her way somewhere. I couldn't tell if her outfit was better than mine, but it was definitely cute.
"Viola, you look unusually cute today."
"Rice picked it!"
"I see. She has good taste."
"I—I think Lovely-san looks cute too."
"Hehe, thank you."
Rice would melt if you complimented her, but Lovely just smiled gracefully, unfazed. That's the power of a girl who's used to being admired. Rice might be the exception—still innocent, still flustered.
"So, it's still early. Are you heading home?"
"Yeah. What about you, Lovely?"
"I'm going to karaoke with my classmates."
As Rice and Lovely chatted, Lovely's group arrived—my classmates too. And before I knew it, I was surrounded.
"You're wearing such cute clothes today, Viola!"
"Mugh."
Ayrton Symboli, tall and well-built, suddenly hugged me. My face sank into her soft chest. We weren't close, so why the sudden intimacy? Was this a trap? A symbol of chaos?
I tried to resist, but it was hopeless.
"We're heading to karaoke. Viola-chan should come! What about you, Rice?"
"Mugh."
My muffled voice—trying to say "I want to go home"—was swallowed by Ayrton's plush embrace.
Help me, Rice! I sent the thought telepathically.
"Viola, you can go ahead. And sorry, I've got training after this. But thanks for inviting me!"
"Oh, no problem. Let's hang out another time!"
"Muguu!!"
And just like that, Rice Shower left me behind.
I mean—I'm her trainer! Isn't she supposed to stick with me?
Then again, I'd already given her the training menu. She didn't technically need me to supervise…
So I was swept away by my classmates, dragged into a karaoke box, and showered with affection until I somehow managed to sing "Umapyoi" perfectly.