"Then just find something you like to do," she said simply.

He closed the book quietly and looked up at her.

Reluctantly, he asked.

"How... do I do that?"

She met his eyes.
She spoke kindly.

"Stop ignoring the world, Ao-kun.
Speak more. Smile more. Laugh more."

He didn't hesitate.

"—That's impossible."

"... Why?"

"Because I can't be that kind of person."

She shook her head.

Then, she offered him a small smile.

Very softly, Hashimoto Rie spoke her next words.

"... Then change, Ao-kun."