The shops closed down, so it served no more purpose than a place to chat, which served our purpose just fine.
In the large, dimly lit space, many large tables and chairs were lined up. The only sound was the faint buzzing of the vending machine by the wall.
As soon as I got to school today, I dropped a letter in Mikage-san’s shoe box.
The time, place, and my name. That should be enough to get her here.
“Yaa, Yuzuki-san.” She leaned to the pillar opposite to mine.
She was glamorous, as always. I got a little nervous just by being in her presence.
Ahh, I’m terribly sorry, Mikage-san…
I have to lie to you here.
“It’s been a little while. And on that note, thanks.” Mikage-san smiled and sat down without asking any questions.
The two of us were alone in the middle of the spacious cafeteria.
After taking a deep breath, I sipped from a can of cider I had left on the table.
I rarely drink soda, but only recently, I found myself drinking it a little more often. Why…?
“Is there anything? I’m a little nervous, what could you possibly have for me?”
“Not exactly anything… I chose this timing because we wouldn’t stand out.”
“Fufu, if it’s our combo, maybe,” she teased.
Io, I can’t hold this long, you got this.
“You’ve talked with the Angel?”
“Ahh, that went fine. Must have caused lotta trouble. For that part I’m grateful, though.”
Mikage-san did not seem to be reluctant to answer, exactly like how Io said she’d be.
“Oh, good to hear. I was a little worried.”
“Yeah, all thanks to you!” said Mikage-san amiably.
I’m feeling guilty…
Io, what are you doing?
“The recent buzz about you…”
“Haha, don’t say that. I never knew it’d get that big.”
“Is that by Angel’s help?”
“Ummm… yes, and no. The Angel said not to tell anyone… But you might be an exception…” Mikage-san was deep in thought.
From the sound of it, it should be that condition before consultation. You really think ahead, don’t you, Io?
“I’m sorry, but I’ll leave it to your imagination. You’re on the right track.”
“Right. I should have thought more before asking.”
Before I could say “sorry,”
Clack
The cafeteria double door swung open.
Simultaneously, Mikage-san’s gaze darted towards the sound.
Io walked in. He was furiously typing on the phone. I would have believed he was actually texting someone had he hadn’t told me beforehand. He looked up at us disinterestedly before continuing texting.
That was acting. He must have been as nervous as me.