My Understanding

Because of a girl?
They don’t know the truth about that. Who cares? I just need to focus on my life.

“I heard you had a fight with Asahi-san earlier. Who won, by the way?”

“Where did you hear that false rumor? I only grabbed his collar.”

It was my childhood friend, Miyamoto Chiba.

“I just heard it from someone else. Was it because of the band? Is that what made you angry?” he asked.

“Yeah. I’m just so tired of talking about it. When will I finally have peace in my life?”

“You should try to relax, Ken. Why not explain things to them properly?”

“I don’t know, Chiba. What would you do if you were in my place?”

“That’s your problem,” he said, grinning. “Anyway, recess is almost over. I’m heading back to class. Let me know if you need anything.”

With that, Chiba left the cafeteria.

I sighed, left alone with my thoughts about this morning.
I really should’ve controlled my emotions better.

The school is over. I decided to stop by the arcade to relieve some stress. But as I walked past the music room, I heard someone playing the piano inside.

Curious, I opened the door just a bit to peek inside.

If I wasn’t mistaken, the person playing was the student council president—Miyama-san.

I suddenly felt guilty for spying.
I should leave now.

“Is that Takahashi-san?”

She noticed me? Wait—how does she even know my name?

“Y-Yes, it’s me. Sorry for disturbing you. May I excuse myself now?”

“Wait! I need your help. Can you come in for a moment?” asked Miyama-san.

Something about her tone made me feel like something unexpected was about to happen.

“I heard that you’re very talented in music. So, what I want to ask is... could you give me your honest opinion about my performance?”

I was about to refuse, but there was sincerity in her eyes. I figured it wouldn’t hurt just to listen and give my thoughts.

“I’ll do my best.”

“Thank you, Takahashi-san!”

She sat down at the piano again and began to play Für Elise, one of Beethoven’s most well-known compositions.

Her fingers moved elegantly across the keys—confident yet gentle. She looked like a pro.

When the piece ended, she turned to me and asked,
“So, how was my performance, Takahashi-san?”

“It was great. Maybe just try to slow down a little and relax your fingers before starting. But honestly, I’ve never played piano before, so take my advice with a grain of salt.”

“No, I’ll take your opinion seriously. Maybe I’m still nervous about performing in front of people,” she said with a shy smile.

“By any chance... are you performing at this year’s school festival?” I asked.

“Yes! This piece is for my boyfriend. He’s graduating soon and will focus on his university entrance exams after this. I want to dedicate this to him. Thank you for today, Takahashi-san. I’ll get you something tomorrow!”

“You’re welcome.”

This situation, somehow feels familiar…