The days continued as Fuyuka and Asahi gradually got more and more used to calling each other by their first names. They’d faced several hurdles—at first, they stumbled over their words, their voices cracked more often than not, and they even backtracked multiple times to using surnames. It hadn’t been a smooth process, but it finally seemed that they were accustomed to it.
There was no particular change to their daily routine, however. Fuyuka assisted Asahi with his studies; in exchange, he taught her how to cook. The only noticeable difference was in Fuyuka’s demeanor—Asahi could sense her ice-cold attitude beginning to melt away.
“This is where the quadratic formula must be implemented to derive our answer. First, you need to substitute for alpha, and then... are you listening to what I’m saying, Asahi?”
“O-Oh, yeah. Sorry. Just spaced out a bit.”
“Please pull yourself together; it’s vital that you focus on this. The final exams are practically knocking on the door,” she rebuked.
“Yeah, you’re right...”
Fuyuka had changed the strategy of the studying sessions in accordance with the rapidly approaching exams. She had compiled a bundle of short quizzes and other notes she had taken, and it had really paid off—he was making impressive progress on his studies as a result. It was clear he understood the responsibility placed upon him. Fuyuka had gone to a notable amount of trouble to provide all this supplementary material for him, not to mention the time and effort she took each day to teach said materials to him. That was why he was so determined to give his all. Recently, however, he’d been unfocused with his studies... and for good reason.
“I’m positive that this problem will appear on the exam. This third one, too—on the next page...”
Fuyuka was sitting right next to Asahi and pointing out the questions that she expected would turn up on the upcoming exams. Unfortunately, her earnest explanations went in one ear and out the other. His mind was too occupied with how close they were to each other, especially considering how they used to sit face-to-face not long ago. Their shoulders brushed against each other each time someone would go to flip a page, and he could clearly make out the fragrant scent of her perfume. Although he usually wasn’t the type to get overwhelmed by such minute details, he felt that it was slowly chipping away at his sanity.
“Let’s stop here for the day,” she abruptly concluded.
“Already? It’s kinda early, isn’t it?” he asked.
“Your head’s in the clouds, Asahi. I doubt you can concentrate any longer,” she clarified as she pouted in obvious displeasure. He couldn’t come back with a retort—”The Ice Queen” had hit the mark once again.
“I’m sorry, I really am. You’re putting in this much effort for me, and here I am, getting all distracted...” he apologized.
“There’s no need to apologize. Our sessions give me the perfect opportunity to review the material, as well,” she assured him, her mouth curled up into a faint smile. This gentle expression of joy had long ceased being a rare sight to behold. Ever since they had started calling each other by their first names, she began to smile more than ever before; she had even grown more talkative. Although her speech was still just as stiff and formal, Asahi could sense that the distance had closed between them.
“Well then, I guess I’ll take my leave. Good night.”
“Bye. See you tomorrow. Same time, same place, right?” he asked as he escorted her to the door.
“Of course. Please ensure you’re able to fully concentrate by then,” she said with a smirk. This was yet another new side of her that he had never seen before. Her recent demeanor made her usual distant attitude seem like nothing more than a fever dream. He was certain this was a new facet to their friendship. Such were the musings Asahi dwelled upon as he returned to the living room. His cellphone, left neglected on the counter, vibrated, breaking him out of his reverie. Someone must have sent him a message.
Probably from Hinami or Chiaki, he thought to himself as he checked the notification. His expression soured as he saw who had sent it. It was from Toko Kagami—his mother.