As they strolled along, Ryota caught sight of Yuji leaning against a car window, engaged in conversation with someone inside. With a casual wave, Yuji bid farewell as the window rolled up and the vehicle pulled away. Glancing up, Yuji spotted Ryota and offered a friendly wave, which Ryota returned with a smile. Yuji soon caught up with Ryota and strolled alongside him and Kite. With a playful smirk, he inquired, "Running a bit late today, aren't we? I expected you to be tucked away in class, lost in a novel or something equally riveting." Ryota nodded, sharing the news about his grandmother's sudden decision to sell the house and return to her hometown. "My brother went back with her since he's still in middle school, but I'm in my final year of high school. A move now would throw everything off balance for me. So, here I am, but I don't have a place to crash. I stayed at Kite's last night, but I can't bother him forever," he admitted, a hint of worry creeping into his voice as he considered how Auntie might perceive him as a burden. Yuji, with a charming smile, proposed, "How about I help you in finding a place? My brother happens to own several rooms, and he could rent one to you if that okay" Ryota responded with a casual, "Yeah, thanks," but then quietly added, "I still need somewhere to stay tonight."
Yuji slowed his pace, shoving his hands into his pockets. "Tonight, huh? That's… a bit short notice." His voice carried that usual teasing lilt, but his eyes softened when they met Ryota's. "Guess I'll have to play the responsible adult for once. "Kite, walking just ahead, perked up. "Oi, sensei, you're not saying what I think you're saying, are you?" Yuji raised an eyebrow. "What do you think I'm saying?" "That you're letting the Emperor crash at your place." Kite grinned, mischief all over his face. "That's some bold homeroom teacher energy right there. "Ryota shot Kite a warning look, cheeks faintly warm. "Don't make it sound weird. It's just for one night." Yuji chuckled, unfazed. "Relax, I don't mind. I've got a couch. You'll just have to deal with my terrible cooking in the morning. "Ryota muttered, "I can handle that," though his chest tightened at the thought. One night at Yuji's house—it sounded simple, but he knew his own heart wouldn't make it simple. As they walked, Yuji nudged Ryota lightly with his elbow. "Hey, don't look so grim. You're not a burden. People care about you more than you think." For a moment, Ryota couldn't think of a comeback. He only nodded, eyes darting away, but his pulse betrayed him—steady and calm on the outside, chaotic underneath. Kite, oblivious to the storm brewing in his friend's chest, stretched his arms lazily. "Well, looks like I'm off the hook for houseguest duty. Thanks, sensei. Don't let him boss you around too much." "Bossy?" Yuji smirked, glancing sideways at Ryota. "I'll believe that when I see it." Ryota kept walking, silent, though a ghost of a smile tugged at his lips.