The summer sun hanging in the sky was dazzlingly hot. As I took each step along the tree-lined path to school, my body screamed in agony. Sweat poured down my face. A cheerful student ran alongside and overtook me. She certainly looked lively. Alternatively, perhaps she was crazy? I probably wouldn't run even if I were being chased by the apocalypse.
Just beyond the trees, light filtering down through their leaves, a lone female student was sitting against the handrail. She looked over at me. How could this beautiful girl be so good at positioning herself against the scenery? The thought occurred to me to capture this idyllic scene in a photograph. However, I didn't have the guts to take her picture.
"Good morning, Ayanokouji-kun."
"Were you waiting for someone, Horikita?"
"Yes. I was waiting for you."
"I guess if you wanted to confess your feelings, it'd be best just to get the words out."
"Are you an idiot?" she spat. I felt hotter than ever.
"Everything will be decided today," I said.
"Yeah."
"I was thinking...maybe I made a mistake. The wrong choice..."
"Would you be happy if we'd compromised?"
I didn't want to think about it, but Horikita continued. "If Sudou-kun is penalized for this, it'll be my responsibility."
"So you do worry about things like this, huh?"
"The truth is that we're gambling. I'm a little anxious of the outcome. Are you okay?"
"We have the strategy you proposed yesterday. Ichinose will be there, too. We'll manage."
I lightly patted Horikita's shoulder and continued walking.
"Hey—"
"Hmm?"
"Nothing. After we settle this case," replied Horikita, as if she'd been about to say something. She shut her mouth.