The Final Note

1

“What do you mean you're quitting?!” Himari Hinokawa’s voice cracked like a broken string, a look of disbelief on her face.

Across the room, the lead guitarist shoved his amp plug back into his bag.

“We’ve been going in circles, Himari. No gigs, no real vision. Just talent shows and practice sessions that get us nowhere!” His voice started to crack. “It’s not worth it anymore.”

Another member—a keyboardist who used to joke they were the glue of the group, nodded.

“But that’s not fair!” Himari’s eyes darted to another girl in the corner of the room. “Tsubaki! You're with me on this, right?”

Tsubaki Shirogane leaned against her drum set, arms crossed, jet black hair framed her cool expression.

Himari had a realization.

“You knew! You knew this was coming, didn't you?”

“I did.” Tsubaki sighed. “It’s been building up for weeks, you just didn't notice.”

“What do you mean? I thought…” Himari’s voice cracked. She couldn't believe it. She didn't want to believe it.

“Thought what? That we would survive this long?”

“Yeah! I still do!”

But it was already over. Their two former members left. No goodbyes, no glances. Just silence.

Himari and Tsubaki glanced at each other before losing eye contact. Himari wept in her lap, while Tsubaki just stared at the wall.

Silence.

More silence. The only noise was the breeze coming in from the window cracked behind Himari.

Until…

“Are you leaving too, Baki?” Himari whispered.

“No. I didn't stay this long just to get pushed aside like that.” Tsubaki didn't meet Himari’s gaze, but at least she was acknowledging her. “But we both know the music club is finished.”

“Then, what are we?”

“Two girls with too much time and a dream.”

Himari didn't say anything, but she smiled softly.

2

Outside, the students of Aozora High rushed by, unaware that a chapter had just closed inside.

The room felt colder somehow, emptier.

And yet, unknown to either of them, that empty space made room for someone new.