7/10

It was a Sunday, and I went over to LeBlanc to hang out with Ren. Though it seemed like Sojiro put him to work. I sat at the counter and drank some water as Sojiro got a phone call.

I couldn't hear the other person's voice, but from what was being said, they were talking about a printer. He left and put Ren in charge.

"Well Ren, you're the man of the house. How does it feel?"

Ren:"Feels as exciting as you'd expect."

We shared a laugh before turning our attention to the TV. It was a news reporter talking about the Phantom Thieves. This caused an elderly couple to discuss whether what we did was right or wrong. The old woman asked us how we felt, and so we told her that we believed they weren't doing anything bad. She was in agreement before her and her husband left.

I stayed longer to chat with Ren in case business was slow when Ryuji and the others showed up. They were here to form a study group.

Makoto:"Why am I here too?"

Ryuji:"You're one of us now, so of course you gotta help us. We're in trouble if you don't teach us, you know?"

"Maybe you are. I don't need to study."

Ryuji then turned to me and scoffed.

Ryuji:"Ohoho, oh, I'll hold you to that! Wanna see who gets the higher test scores?"

"Ryuji, that's a losing bet for you."

Ann:"Let's leave them be."

Makoto then took a look around the restaurant.

Makoto:"What is this place supposed to be? I don't see the owner around."

"This is Ren's humble abode. He lives upstairs."

Makoto:"Really?"

Ren:"Yep. The reason being..."

He explained the situation to her, which left her feeling pity for him. After a bit more talking, we all got to studying. Though Ryuji was complaining and so we opted to take a break. During our break, the TV started to play an interview involving Akechi. They were asking him if he thought Kaneshiro's capture and confession was the work of the Phantom Thieves.

He agreed that it was our work, but he claimed we were skirting around the law in order to crack these cases. He said that we were the same as the very criminals we put away. After the break, Ryuji insisted on coming up with something for our celebration. We decided to go to a fireworks festival.

After our group study, we all went home. Once I got home, I decided to do some workouts.

7/11

In class, Dr. Maruki asked me how long I thought we could retain our long-term memories. I told him forever, which was correct.

After school, I began to walk to the station when Makoto caught up with me.

Makoto:"Hey (Y/n), it's rare catching up with you as you're heading home."

"You think so?"

Makoto:"Yes. Anyway, I wanted to ask if you've taken part in Dr. Maruki's counseling?"

"I have. Why do you ask?"

Makoto:"I'm just curious about it. His counseling seems to be growing quite popular. The teachers sat he's been well worth his time here, but I have a feeling there's more to his popularity than just talent... Maybe I should find out for myself at some point... Do you recommend it?"

"Well, he's the first counselor I've ever talked to, so I can't really compare him to anyone else. I appreciate him for training me in mental fortitude, but the way he talks about reality is a bit strange... Hang on, isn't this a bad time, especially with exams coming up?"

Makoto:"No need to worry there. My study routine's rigorous enough that I'm not panicking over it. I appreciate your concern, but how about yourself? Depending on the exam scores, there may not be a fireworks festival for anyone to attend. Were you aware?"

"No need to put that unnecessary pressure on me. I got this in the bag. Just watch me."

She giggled a bit.

Makoto:"Very well then. See you later."

I got to station square when Kasumi approached me.

Kasumi:"(L/n)-senpai. What a pleasant surprise. Are you headed home, too?"

"That's right."

Kasumi:"Same here. I don't have club practice today. That reminds me, there's something I wanted to report to you. Would now be a good time?"

"Sure thing. I've got time."

Kasumi:"Thank you. Why don't we go find a seat somewhere?"

Before we could leave, Akechi of all people approached us.

Akechi:"Huh? (L/n)-kun? And you are...?"

Kasumi:"It's been quite a while, Akechi-san."

Akechi:"And the same for you... Yoshizawa-san, right?"

"You two know each other?"

Kasumi:"My father works at a TV station. Have you ever seen "Good Morning Japan"? My father's the director."

Akechi:"I've been brought onto the show as a guest a number of times now. That's how I ended up becoming acquainted with Yoshizawa-san. I didn't know you knew her as well, (L/n)-kun."

I narrowed my eyes at Akechi, who was smiling widely before I dropped my glare.

"Yeah. She and I made a deal."

Akechi:"Oh?"

Kasumi:"Mhm! He helped me out of a jam before, and now he's been offering me guidance."

Akechi:"Helped you out of a jam, eh? I see... So, what were you two up to?"

Kasumi:"Oh, right! I was just about to share some exciting news. It's nothing to keep secret, so I may as well spill it now."

"Go on."

Kasumi:"About that summer competition I mentioned to you before? I was chosen to be our club representative!"

"Haha! Sweet! Congratulations."

Kasumi:"This only feels like the beginning to me, though."

Akechi:"Isn't your club's team considered to be quite prestigious? And you're their representative? I must say, that's extremely impressive."

Kasumi:"Thank you! I'll do my best to make everyone proud."

Akechi:"I'll be cheering you on as well. Ah, I have an idea--since all three of us are here, why don't we go somewhere as a group? We can call it our little celebration for Yoshizawa-san's success."

Kasumi:"That would be wonderful! Does that work for you, (L/n)-senpai?"

Oh... This rat bastard Akechi...

I let out silent sigh before smiling.

"I'm down."

Akechi:"That settles it. Would you mind if I chose the place? There's a wonderful little café I know about..."

Kasumi:"Of course! Lead the way!"

"Right behind ya."

We soon arrived at the café and hot ourselves a table outside.

Akechi:"Yoshizawa-san, you drink hot beverages even in the summer?"

Kasumi:"I have to prevent my body from getting too cold, since the meet is coming up rather soon."

Akechi:"I see, you make sure you're covering all your bases."

Kasumi:"I had this image that you enjoy sweet things, Akechi-san. Is that untrue? I swear I saw you eating fried sweet bread on TV just the other day..."

Akechu:"It's all part of a marketing strategy. That sort of stunt is an easy crowd-pleaser."

Kasumi:"You seem to have your own bases covered as well."

"You're breaking my heart here, Akechi. I feel lied to..."

Kasumi giggled a bit.

Akechi:"Presenting oneself in a favorable light is nothing surprising. More surprising is just how innocent you seem to be."

I faked a chuckle.

Kasumi:"I've been wondering: how do you two know each other?"

"My social studies class visited the set of a TV show he appeared on."

Kasumi:"Ah, that's right. Second-years got to go to a TV station."

Akechi:"He and his friend exchanged our opinions during the shoot and their way of thinking intrigued me."

Kasumi:"I can definitely see that! Senpai's take on things often helps me as well."

Akechi:"That reminds me, Yoshizawa-san. You had mentioned that he's been providing you with some guidance."

Kasumi:"Yes--like you just said, his way of thinking is intriguing. I figured I could benefit from his input."

Akechi:"In that case, let's play a little game... Would you mind if I posed the same question to you that I first asked him?"

Kasumi:"No, go right ahead."

Wait... Is he...

Akechi:"What do you think of the Phantom Thieves, Yoshizawa-san?"

Kasumi:"The Phantom Thieves? You mean in the case that they do in fact exist, yes? I admit that the assistance of others in need is a truly great act... But I simply can't agree with their methods."

I turned over to face her.

Akechi:"I see. Care to explain why?"

Kasumi:"I suspect the Phantom Thieves' existence isn't going to be beneficial to society in the long run."

Akechi:"How so?"

Kasumi:"Well, for example, when someone's faced with a problem to overcome, I believe they need to do it themselves. Getting help from others is totally fine, but in the end, it takes a person's initiative to truly create lasting change. If society relied upon a safety net like the Phantom Thieves, I worry that people would stop making a conscious effort. Granted, this depends on how severe the problem is, and it's inaccurate to apply generalizations to an entire population... But I believe a society where everyone simply leaves matters to the Phantom Thieves wouldn't last for very long."

Akechi:"I see... So, in the sense of a person's growth, their actions actually hinder it. Quite an interesting take on the matter. Let me ask you, then--what do you think of Yoshizawa-san's opinion?"

"I can't even lie... That was helpful."

Akechi:"I have to agree. It was quite inspiring for myself as well."

Kasumi:"Wait... Could you actually be a fan of the Phantom Thieves, (L/n)-senpai?!"

"Yeah, somewhat."

Akechi:"I didn't mean to start an argument. I just can't help myself sometimes. Let's change the subject to something a bit lighter."

We continued to chat for a while longer before Kasumi had to leave.

"Good luck on your competition, Kasumi. I'll be rooting for you."

Kasumi:"Yes! Thank you! Well then, see you later!"

We all soon split up and left. During the evening, I went to hang out with Hifumi.

We played shogi at the church for a bit before Hifumi asked me to go with her to Jinbocho.

Hifumi:"That was a good match. I really do enjoy teaching you.. You're such a quick learner. Today, I thought we'd find you something to help you train on your own. This bookstore is filled with shogi-related books. I've been coming here a lot lately. There's also a curry restaurant just around the corner. I recommend their katsu curry. I always eat katsu curry before an important match.. for good luck."

A woman then noticed us and greeted Hifumi.

Hifumi:"..Hello. I hope your match went well today..."

Girl:"What are you talking about? Today's our day off."

Hifumi:"...My apologies. I forgot that there aren't any matches scheduled for today..."

Girl:"Out shopping with your boyfriend? Hmph, how nice for you. I shouldn't be surprised. You ARE a famous shogi player, after all. Well, I won't intrude. Bye..."

Hifumi:"Sorry. She was only glaring at you because you're with me... She's my senior... I defeated her in a recent title match."

"Must've been the katsu curry. "

I responded in a joking manner.

Hifumi:"Actually... Yes! I did have katsu curry before that match. The truth is... I'm not very well liked by my seniors... The more attention I get, the more enemies I make, and the more lies are spread about me... Perhaps it's odd to compare myself to them, but... I wonder if it's the same for the Phantom Thieves. People are so divided about them on the internet. Some love them, while others hate them... I can't help but see similarities between us. What do you think about them?"

"I think they're cool."

Hifumi:"...I feel the same way, actually. It's amazing that they're still doing what they do, even though so many people criticize them... They give me courage. But their victories can't be won with will alone. How do they change a person's heart? I'm interested from a tactical standpoint, and... Oh, I'm sorry! We really are quite off-topic..."

She then smiled.

Hifumi:"I feel like I've become much more talkative as of late. I usually don't talk this much... You're more than just someone I can practice new moves with. You're someone I can confide in."

I smiled as our bond grew more.

Hifumi:"Um, if you don't mind this sort of thing... I'd like to go out and chat with you again. Oh yes, there's a book that I'd love for you to read. Let's go."

Soon enough, I went back home when she called me.

Hifumi:"Hello. Thank you for accompanying me today. My intention was to show you how great Jinbocho is, but I ended up just talking about myself... My apologies. I was shocked, though. Ordinarily, I don't talk that much, I assure you... Perhaps it's because I never had friends at school who I could talk to about shogi... I hope this won't discourage you from spending time with me. Really, I would be delighted to do this again."

"I'd love to."

Hifumi:"Thank you! Other than used books and katsu curry, there are many things l'd like to recommend in that city. If you have the chance, perhaps we can explore more of the city next time. Well, I'm afraid I must go. l'll see you at the church."

"Bye."

7/12

In class, I was asked if I knew what crime Goemon committed for him to get boiled alive. The answer was thievery.

For the remainder of the day I simply went to the gym.

7/13

It was now time for the summer exams.

The answer to the first question was 64 degrees. The next question was to explain the origin of baozi. It was invented by Zhuge Liang. And then they offered barbarians' heads to quell the river. He did this to offer them instead of heads.

7/14

The first question asked me to write the name and genus of some crab they had on the test. It was a red king crab (Paralithodes).

The next question asked me what happened when the government issued paper and hard currencies in Japan for the first time? It caused confusion in the economy.

7/15

I was asked what the English equivalent of the Norwegian idiom "raining witches" was. The answer was "raining cats and dogs."

The next question was which of the following is another name for the soumen noodles traditionally eaten on Tanabata? The answer was demon guts.

7/16

Today was the last day of exams, and the questions were a breeze. After school, I exited the classroom and overheard two girls talking about how Kasumi gets an extra week to prepare for exams since she's an honor student. That's when Dr. Maruki showed up to ask me for my help.

Maruki:"It sure has heated up now that the rainy season's passed. I just know my electric bill's going to start climbing this month... Anyway, as I'd mentioned, there's something I'd like your opinion on."

"Is it money troubles?"

Maruki:"Well, there's a subject where I could definitely use some input, but not at the moment. l've had something on my mind lately, and I want to hear your take on it. Okay, here goes... Oh--this is all hypothetical, mind you, but imagine there's somebody for whom you have high expectations. They're trying their absolute hardest to meet those expectations. Now, this person receives an awful lot of special treatment from people so they can perform to the best of their abilities. So, what do you think those people will do if the expectations leveled on this person aren't met?"

"They'll turn on that person."

Maruki:"You're saying their expectations will turn into anger and scorn, right? Yep, that's definitely true. When you work as a counselor... You always think, "I have to help this person so their heart doesn't break, but... that's easier said than done. This world really is a callous one. No matter how much positivity or dedication a person has... Just a bit of influence from their peers can easily mess with their heads. Every time I'm confronted with such a situation, I can't help but grasp the limitations of therapy as a profession."

"You just have to keep trying."

Maruki:"Oh, I'm not sick of this job or anything like that--don't worry. Sorry, I didn't mean to get all analytical. What I meant was, if we want to truly help people stuck in a predicament like that, we need a fundamental solution."

"A fundamental solution?"

Maruki:"Hmm... Nothing really comes to mind at the moment. This is just a thought, but what if we got the Phantom Thieves to change our hearts? Maybe have them shift our feelings so we won't lose to this unfair reality? It would ultimately be for the positive."

"Is that really a change of heart, though?"

Maruki:"Haha, good point. You're right. Sorry, I was just thinking out loud. I seem to have lost track of the time. I should be getting back to my work."

He let me go, and I met up with the others at the hideout. We talked a bit about our plans for the celebration, which was going to be the 18th. When I got home, I was getting ready to sleep when Ryuji called me to let me know I was invited to join him, Ren, and Yusuke to the summer festival tomorrow.

7/17

Ryuji:"It's soooo hot.."

Yusuke:"It's as if we're walking around in an enormous sauna..."

Ryuji:"Whose bright idea was it to come here?"

"Yours, genius!"

We then heard a female reporter talking about the turnout for the festival.

Yusuke:"A TV crew, eh?"

Ryuji:"We should grab our kebabs and get outta here."

Host:"Ah, let's interview those four."

Yusuke:"Hey, is she talking about us?"

Ryuji:"What the-"

Morgana:"What do we do, Ren?"

Ren:"Let's just stay calm."

"Agreed. We'd look mad suspicious if we just suddenly bolted from a TV crew."

They soon walked over to us.

Morgana:"They got us!"

Ryuji:"Aw hell..."

"Ryuji, just act like a fool so they can't use any footage."

Ryuji:"Good idea. I'll be sure to say some cringey comments."

Host:"Hello! It sure is hot today, huh?"

Ryuji:"Oh, for sure, yeah! And if it's this hot in July, can you imagine just how insane the weather's gonna be in December?"

The woman then gave an awkward chuckle as I struggled to keep a smirk off my face.

Host:"Ah, anyway.. Since you're here for the festival, does that mean you and your friends there are meat lovers?"

I then decided to chime in briefly.

"Phrasing."

Ren quickly elbowed me as I got a quick glare from the host.

Ryuji:"I'd say that we're really lovers of fruit! Oh, and sweets! Sweets are just to DIE for!"

She forced another chuckle.

Host:"Well, ah... Thank you very much for your time!"

She soon left and we all let out a collective sigh of relief.

Ryuji:"Phew, that was too close..."

Yusuke:"That was truly cringeworthy, but are you certain that they won't air any of it?"

Ryuji:"I'm pretty sure she thought that was a broadcast disaster. We oughta be okay. Plus, (Y/n) came up with the idea so it should be fine."

"Don't you go pawning this off on me! You actually went through with it. I'm not cosigning anything!"

Morgana:"More important than that, though: it's time to get some MEAT!"

"I'll let that one slide since you're a cat."

Morgana:"I am not!"

Ryuji:"Oh, right! My kebab!"

We all then went to grab ourselves some food from the various stalls set up. Yusuke got himself a kebab, Ryuji got a plate full of various meats, and Ren got himself a snow cone. I had myself a plate of spicy meatballs that a stall was selling. It was surprising that someone opted to sell them, but they're damn good so it evens out.

Ryuji:"The lines for the food stalls were even more insane than the heat!"

Yusuke:"Standing around in this sweltering heat was rather trying."

Ryuji:"And almost all the good stuff was already sold out..."

Morgana:"I didn't even eat breakfast this morning. I'm starting to get lightheaded.."

"That sounds like a skill issue to me."

Morgana:"Shut up!"

Yusuke:"Even still, an occasion like this seems to make everything taste delicious... How mysterious."

Ren:"It's because we're here together."

I smirked and raised my plate of food.

"Here, here."

Ryuji:"Haha! Here, here!"

Yusuke:"Here, here."

Ryuji:"Welp, we came all the way out here, so we might as well go check that thing out."

"What thing?"

Ryuji:"I heard they're building some kinda huge-ass stadium or somethin' nearby. Wait, was that what it was?"

"Do you even know what you're talking about?"

Yusuke:"A stadium... Well, such buildings often have intriguing architecture--I'd love to see it for personal reference."

Ryuji:"Yeah? Then c'mon, let's go."

We finished our food first, well, most of us did. Morgana got cooped up in Ren's bag and accidentally knocked his snow cone out of his hands. Ryuji was able to snap a picture of it happening in real time. We then went to that stadium Ryuji was talking about.

Ryuji:"So, that's it? They barely even started?"

Yusuke:"We seem to be premature spectators."

Ryuji:"I guess this is what people call "jumpin' the gum."

"Jumping the gun, you bozo."

Ryuji:"Whatever! There ain't nothin' to do here--you wanna go grab a bite somewhere?"

Yusuke:"Sorry, I'm considering picking up more art supplies. I have a summer assignment to work on. Also, the summer festival drained my coffers. Even if I did grab a bite, all I could order would be water and a hot towel."

Ryuji:"Ah... In that case, we probably oughta just call it quits for today."

Ren:"Yeah."

I then looked over to my right to see Kasumi.

Ryuji and Yusuke started to walk off as Ren followed.

Ryuji:"Yo (Y/n), ain't you gonna head home?"

"You guys go on ahead without me."

Ryuji:"Huh? Welp, see ya, then."

Yusuke:"Yes, catch you later."

Ren:"Take it easy (Y/n)."

"You too."

They soon left and so I approached Kasumi.

Kasumi:"(L/n)-senpai?!"

"What a pleasant surprise."

Kasumi:"Y-Yes. Did you come to see the stadium too?"

"Yeah."

Kasumi:"Same here. I needed to give myself a pep talk."

"Is something wrong?"

Kasumi:"Sometimes, when things get me down, I come here. Although, that doesn't really answer your question, does it? I know this may get in the way of your plans, but would you be willing to join me for lunch?"

I looked at her and noticed her eyes look a little red and puffy. It would be best if I accompanied her.

"I'd love to."

She smiled and we went over to a restaurant where she demolished several plates of food easily.

Kasumi:"Phew! That was delicious."

"You sure packed it away."

Kasumi:"I'm always like this after a meet. In all honesty, I'd like to keep going... but any more will end up harming my performance."

"Was it worth it?"

Kasumi:"Simply put? It was a disaster. I've been feeling like I'm getting back into the natural flow of things, thanks to you, (L/n)-senpai... But when the moment of truth arrived, my body still wouldn't move the way that I wanted it to..."

"Is it more of a mental thing?"

Kasumi:"I think... that's a big factor. Something similar happened to me in middle school--but back then, I had someone by my side that kept me going..."

"Really?"

Kasumi looked away briefly before speaking.

Kasumi:"I... have a younger sister. We promised each other that we'd win international gymnastics competitions together... But this spring, she... died, in an accident. I promised her we'd take the gold for our routines across the world... But I can't stop worrying about my lack of improvement lately. I've really been throwing myself into practice, but I wonder if even that won't be enough..."

"Is this really your limit, Kasumi? You can't just stop there."

Kasumi:"(L/n)-senpai... No. And you're right--I can't let it end like this! You just keep on rescuing me, don't you? Okay! No more brooding! There are still more meets left this year. I'm going to start from scratch and train as hard as I can. Thank you so much for listening to all that! Now I feel like I've been recharged, mind, body, and spirit--"

Her stomach suddenly growled.

Kasumi:"...Well, at least my mind and spirit are recharged! The best way to stave off hunger is with some vigorous activity! I'm going to jog home--take care!"

"Bye!"

We soon both left the restaurant and I returned home. I decided to head to bed, but before I did, Kasumi texted me about how she was thankful for me helping her out once again.

7/18

I was at the station with Ren, Ryuji, and Yusuke waiting for Ann and Makoto. Yusuke himself was wearing a yukata. The rest of us had normal clothes on. Ren came without his glasses. As we stood around, two girls in yukatas approached Yusuke and asked him to accompany them to the fireworks festival. However, Yusuke didn't really know anything about social cues, so he scolded them and ran them off.

Ryuji whined about him ruining his chances at getting a date with any of those girls. Soon, Ann and Makoto arrived in their yukata.

We all left together and stood on the sidewalk trying to see the fireworks, when all of a sudden, heavy rainfall occurred, so we retreated inside a convenience store. We all then went home. On the news, the Phantom Thieves were mentioned alongside some internet group called Medjed. They called us out, so Ryuji wanted them to be our next target, but it would be tough since it's a group and not one person.

7/19

The test scores were posted, and I got myself in the top ten. After looking at the exam scores, we went to find Mishima to see if he knew anything about Medjed, but he didn't have much information on them, unfortunately. After school, I decided to hang out with Ann.

Ann wanted me to help her bring Shiho up to the rooftop since today was the day she moved away.

Shiho: *pant* *pant* "Ann, (Y/n)-kun... I'm pretty heavy, huh? Thanks for the help."

Ann:"Isn't (Y/n) super reliable?"

Shiho: *giggle* "Mm-hm, just like you were telling me."

She then walked over to where the ledge once was. It was fenced off now, but she peered through the holes and looked straight down.

Shiho:"We're so high up..."

"Why did you want to come here?"

She then turned around to face us.

Shiho:"I think... to settle things. To tell you the truth... I wanted to reenact that moment. Wearing these clothes, standing here again... I wanted to know what it would feel like."

Ann:"...What about back then? What were you thinking?"

Shiho:"I... I didn't want to die. I just needed to escape... It was like another person inside of me was screaming, telling me to come up here... It almost felt like that person was trying to kill me..."

Ann:"..."

Shiho:"But I know that person was part of me too... My weakness. So, I wanted to see if she would show up again now."

"She's gone, isn't she?"

Shiho:"Yeah... She doesn't exist anymore."

Ann:"...You're so strong, Shiho. The only reason you can stand here now is because of how hard you worked for your rehab."

Shiho:"Maybe... but that was all thanks to you, Ann."

Ann:"Me?"

Shiho:"Because I saw how hard you were trying, too. Trying to be strong, to be cool... Wanting to be an action star... Striving to be a better model... You were so positive... Your eyes sparkled with motivation. With you putting that much effort in, I couldn't just let my life go to waste in a hospital bed. That's why I wanted to stand again. It was because of you. Being able to change others. That's what true strength is."

Ann:"Shiho... I'm not strong... I'm nothing without you. I'm just a lonely, scared girl..."

Shiho:"Ann... I'm sorry... for deciding to change schools..."

Ann:"Shiho... I'm... I'm going to become a real model! That way you'll be able to keep seeing me... and keep giving life your all... I'm gonna be in a bunch of magazines, and I'll say tons of good stuff in interviews... So... So... Stay healthy. Work hard, but not too much... and keep in touch. Just... take care of yourself..."

Ann's voice was faltering as tears were welling up in her eyes. Shiho walked over to her friend and enveloped her in a hug.

Shiho:"Ann... I love you... Once I can smile again from the bottom of my heart, I'll come visit..."

Ann:"Y-Yeah..."

Shiho then left with her family. This just left Ann and I on the rooftop alone.

Ann:"I need to be the number one model around. I made a promise with Shiho, so there's no turning back now. I'm gonna study how to properly exercise, and even relearn how to walk the runway. I want to pick up on some other languages and cultures too, so I can start doing overseas events. Because, well... the only way I can help Shiho is to show her how hard I'm working."

"I believe in you, Ann."

Ann:"Mm-hm! If I can do that, Shiho... She'll definitely..."

She sniffled and buried her face in her hands.

Ann:"Dammit, I told myself I wouldn't cry... But it just... won't stop..."

She tried to hold her tears back and I looked at her solemnly.

I should choose my next words carefully...

Ann:"I guess... I'm alone again, huh...?"

"That's not true..."

Ann:"Huh?"

She got her face out of her hands to look at me.

"You have us, Ann. All of us. Ren, Ryuji, Yusuke, Makoto, and... me..."

Ann:"(Y/n)..."

"No matter what, Ann, we'll always be with you every step of the way. You're important to us."

Ann looked away briefly as more tears filled her eyes before she faced me.

Ann:"Am I... important to you?"

I met her puffy red eyes with my own (e/c) eyes and spoke with my chest.

"Very much so."

Ann smiled softly before embracing me in a tight hug.

Ann:"(Y/n)... Thank you..."

She started to cry softly on my shoulder and I just let her as I hugged back. We stayed like that for a bit until she calmed down. We then went home. Once I got home, she called me.

Ann:"Hey (Y/n)... Thank you for everything... I just wanna ask... If I ever needed you by my side, would you be there...?"

"I would. No questions asked. No matter the distance, I will be there for you, Ann. Always. Never forget that."

I heard her sigh in relief.

Ann:"Thank you, (Y/n)... You mean a lot to me... More than you know... I... I lo... I gotta go!"

She abruptly ended the call, which left me confused for a minute before I entered my house. Once I closed the door, I leaned against it and slid down it.

"Holy... I can't believe that just happened... Hoo boy..."

I looked at my arms and thought back to our hug.

"It felt... nice being there for someone."

I smiled to myself.

"Don't worry, Ann, if you ever need me, I'll be there. No questions. No hesitation."

I exhaled before walking straight to my bed.

To Be Continued...