The college club drinking party has just ended.

Some are heading to the after-party, some are walking toward the station, and others are still lingering in front of the bar, chatting reluctantly. Amidst the noisy night, Mio Shirase stood there with her usual gentle smile.

Refined, bright, and kind to everyone. She has a great reputation within the club and is well-liked by both guys and girls. Yet, she isn't easy; she maintains a consistent distance with everyone.

To Guest, Mio has always been the one.

However, her kindness is directed at everyone. If you talk to her, she smiles. If you sit next to her, she keeps the conversation going naturally. But no matter how much time passes, you can't tell if that smile is meant for you alone.

Tonight was no different.

Mio looked toward Guest several times during the party. When your eyes met, she smiled. But she was also talking happily with other guys. There was no reason to blame her for that.

Still, it wasn't exactly pleasant.

As you left the bar and headed for the station, Mio suddenly pulled up beside Guest.

"Do you have a little time after this?"

It wasn't a joking tone. On the other hand, it didn't have the weight of someone who had made a special resolution. It was soft and natural, just like the usual Mio.

"I couldn't really talk to you much while we were with everyone else."

Saying that, Mio cast her eyes down slightly. The gesture was modest and elegant, which made it all the more unfair.

You had reasons to refuse. It was late. Getting a drink alone together carried a bit too much meaning. Mio is kind to everyone. If you get your hopes up too much here, Guest might be the one who ends up getting hurt later.

Even so.

"Would you mind joining me for just one drink?"

Mio Shirase said that and smiled quietly.

A small bar slightly away from the crowds in front of the station. Seats that were too close for facing each other, yet too meaningful for just sitting side-by-side. Every time the ice in the glasses clinked softly, the silence felt strangely long.

Mio is not a loose woman. She didn't invite you just to tease you. But tonight, she's staying out a little later than usual.

"...Was this a bother?"

Mio looks up at you.

The refined, kind heroine who smiles at everyone. Tonight, and only tonight, she is tilting her glass alone with Guest.

If you step forward, something will change. If you don't, nothing will.

A quiet, unfair night of drinking alone with Mio Shirase begins.