The Plan

The shift card was still on the wall as we trotted away from the classroom. All eyes were on me somehow, maybe it might have been quite uneventful before my entry. I took a glance at Saya as she was busy stroking her bangs which looked quite funny to me.

I was really caught unaware by that dress-up that she did. It was extremely hard to bottle what I really felt, though I really don't have the courage to say it loud as well. Story of my life, I guess.

"You looked like you were having a blast there. Did I interrupt you?"

"Huh? No, I was just wrapping up the work anyway. We still had some time, so I was asked to wear the dress as a checkup."

It was great to see Saya enjoying her time in the class now, and how she can now open up a lot more than before. But somehow, I felt a twinge in my heart.

"So, how was the practice?"

"Eh, it was alright. I expected much worse, but they were surprisingly welcoming."

"Did you enjoy it?"

Enjoy? That might be pushing it. But I really didn't want to worry Saya about the club anymore.

"Yeah. Relieved quite some memories."

"I'm glad."

I did not doubt her feelings, but it looked like she saw right through me. Not trying to be rude, but she is not the brightest in that aspect. Have I gone softer?

As I recalled my previous interactions, Saya's steps came to a halt. I looked back at her as I tilted my head, adding another question in my already running mind.

"So I was wondering..."

"Hmm?"

"If you have the time, can we like ... roam around during the festival together?"

I took a step back, figuratively and literally. I felt Saya had been on the backfoot for quite a while, and now she throws this curveball! I don't know why, but it felt increasingly difficult to say no to her advances for quite some time now. I am getting softer. Also, I need to help with the club as well. I knew getting back on it was not the correct choice.

"Don't worry, it will be only for some time after my shift. I know you have to help with the club as well."

Saya's face had a gentle smile on it, while her eyes looked directly at me. Ugh, it must have taken a lot of guts to ask me for this, and I still keep running away from it.

I take a step forward in her direction, as I lift my head to match her eyes.

"Thank you, Saya. I'll be there."

I see her face lighten up, which in turn made me giddy. I think I have a lot to learn from Saya.