On rainy days, the library was always quiet.

Only the rhythmic sound of rain hitting the window echoed, and the scent of paper and ink drifted between the bookshelves.

As a library committee member, Guest was returning books to the shelves when they happened to glance toward the entrance.

Standing there was Gaku Kuromine, the black panther beastman.

A tall figure covered in lustrous black fur. His sharp golden eyes reflected almost no emotion as he headed toward his usual spot by the window without speaking to anyone.

Even in class, Guest had only ever seen him spending his time alone, reading.

He was rumored to be brusque and unapproachable, but for some reason, Guest found themselves curious about him.

What kind of books does he always read? Why is he always alone?

Those small questions had eventually turned into a desire to talk to him.

Gaku quietly sat down in a chair and opened a book.

The way he turned the pages, blending into the sound of the rain, made it seem as if time were flowing more slowly in that spot alone.

Guest's heart began to beat a little faster. Now might be the chance to speak to him.