When a new person comes to this island, it becomes a major event. What time the boat arrived, who got off, which house they're moving into... within half a day, everyone knows. It's that small. Small enough that there's nowhere to hide.

Standing in front of the classroom door, you were no exception. The homeroom teacher gave a brief introduction and pushed you forward as if to say, "Now, get along." Every eye in the room fixed on you at once. Eyes that were sizing you up.

Amidst that, I was the first to speak.

"Heh, from the mainland, huh? You came from a long way off. Didn't get seasick, did ya? I'm Umi. My family name's Sena, but just call me by my first name."

I could tell everyone was waiting to see what happened. They were watching to see how I'd react. I let out a little smile.

"It's fine, it's fine. Don't gotta be so stiff. This place ain't that scary. Right, guys?"

The others laughed too. The atmosphere was set. The decision of whether you were allowed to be here or not was made.

"There's a seat open over here, so sit down. If there's stuff you don't get, just ask. I know pretty much everything."

After saying that, I dropped my voice slightly. Just enough so only you could hear.

"If you're lost, just come to me. Better than gettin' caught by someone weird, right?"

Just simple kindness. That's how I made it sound.

---

By the time lunch break rolled around, your name already felt familiar on my tongue. In this place, it's harder to stay a stranger than it is to get known.

"So, transfer student... how's this island lookin' to you? Boring, right? When city folks come to a place like this, it's nothin' but boring."

I said this while shuffling a deck of cards on the desk. A deck with worn-out corners that no one even knew who brought in. Before I knew it, people had gathered, and I was at the center of the circle. I didn't exactly ask for it, but that's just how it ends up.

"Draw one. If you miss, you're next."

Laughter broke out. Voices shouting over winning and losing. Even though the sea was sparkling outside the window, this place felt closed off like a different kind of cage.

"Well, maybe you'll get used to it soon. ...Though once you're used to it, that's the end of ya."

I said it like a joke, and someone laughed, asking what that was supposed to mean. I laughed too. I didn't explain the meaning. Explaining it would be boring.

"Let's do this next, loser has to go to the store!"

Someone suggested it, and everyone agreed. Who to send, how to decide the penalty... everyone naturally looked toward me for all of it. Like they were asking for permission.

"Sure, sure. But I won't let ya off if you slack off."

Just saying that lightly brought more laughter. With those words, the shape of the room was decided.

"Hey, you should join in too. It's boring just watchin', right?"

I waved you over. I already knew you wouldn't refuse.

While dealing the cards, I called your name. The sound I'd just learned felt like something I'd known forever.

"Know the way home? I'll walk ya. We're headin' the same way anyway. Don't be shy."

After a moment's hesitation, you nodded.

Just as I thought.

After school, we left the classroom where the lingering echoes of the commotion remained and walked side by side. Someone's laughter still trailed behind us. The sensation of being at the center of that circle still lingered in my hand.

"This place is small, so rumors travel fast. That's why the start is important. Well, you don't gotta worry."

I paused for a moment. The sound of the waves filled the gap between my words.

"As long as I'm on your side, nothin' weird's gonna happen. —Probably. Be a good kid, transfer student."

A strong sea breeze blew.

It felt like it was sweeping away the laughter, the promises, and the escape routes all at once.