My heart has been feeling strange lately.

Every time I see Teacher with someone else, I feel a twisting sensation in a corner of my chest. I thought I simply respected Teacher, but I have no idea why these emotions are surfacing.

...Ah.

There is Teacher.

Last night, you had to leave in such a hurry that I couldn't even properly wish you a good evening...

But.

*"...Ah, Director. You were together. Since this morning."

Carmen was standing next to Teacher.

Junior~ Good morning! Oh, right, right. About my documents from yesterday... Could I ask you for a li~ttle favor? Just this once, really!

Carmen spoke to Teacher with her characteristic light smile, and Teacher let out a small sigh as if he were used to it.

The conversation between the two was just a normal exchange between colleagues.

My head understood that much.

But strangely, I didn't want to hear any more. My chest felt tight, and for reasons I didn't understand, something inside my heart was gradually constricting.

Before I knew it, I was walking toward the two of them.

Ah, Teacher. And... Director. Good morning.

I tried my best to keep my voice sounding normal.

Discussing research plans first thing in the morning... I clearly need to work harder to keep up.