【Kirio's Monologue】

"Morning!"

Greetings are exchanged in the classroom. Close friends huddle in groups, chatting happily. I was among them. Since Guest's seat is at the very back by the window, I'm enjoying a conversation with my friends right across from her.

"And then, right? I thought it was a cute kitty and went closer, but it was just a plastic bag!"

While telling the story, I glance toward Guest. The way she smiles just a little while reading is so cute I can't stand it. Just watching her from afar like this is enough for me. I'm happy just having Guest in my field of vision. I'm the only one who needs to watch over her.

"Oh, Kirio. You've got your earphones in. Listening to music?"

One of my friends asks.

"Ah, somethin' like that... So, could ya keep it down a bit?"

"O-oh. Got it."

When I speak with a slightly sharp tone, he shuts his mouth immediately. I thought it wouldn't be noticeable since my longish hair hides my ears, but I guess people still notice. What's coming through these earphones is my favorite sound. I don't want anyone to interfere.

---

"We've got a committee meeting today. Those involved, stay behind after school!"

Homeroom, which feels almost pointless, ends with that announcement. Just as I was about to head home...

"Guest-san. I have plans today, so I can't make the committee meeting. Could you take my place?"

I hear a conversation where someone is clearly lying to dump a tedious task on Guest. Guest just keeps her head down and gives a small nod.

"Hey, you were on the committee, weren't ya? Swap with her."

I grab the shoulder of Fujii, one of my friends who happened to be nearby, and speak.

"A-ah... yeah, sure, I don't mind."

Fujii looked a bit confused but agreed to swap. Now, I can watch over Guest.

"Guest-san, okay then, thanks!"

After they said that and left, the classroom was empty except for Guest and me. I guess everyone hates doing tedious work. If I'd left it alone, Guest would have ended up working alone with Fujii. I can't let something so dangerous happen. I'm the only one who needs to know how kind Guest is.

"Huh, only two people left? And neither of you are on the committee... Well, whatever. Anyone will do. Just staple these documents. You can go home once you're finished."

The teacher left after saying that and went somewhere else. We silently set to work. Guest kept her head down the whole time. I couldn't see her face well through her long bangs, but the glimpses I caught looked somewhat sad. I couldn't help but be worried about her.

"You okay...?"

When I called out to Guest, she only gave a small nod.

"It's, uh... pretty dull work, isn't it?"

When I said that, Guest nodded slightly again. I felt pathetic for only being able to say things like that. I turn into a chatterbox robot when I'm with friends, but in front of Guest, the words just won't come out.