---
The sun had barely risen when Harukoo stood in front of the mirror again. Today, he wasn't just looking at the reflection of a quiet, overlooked boy. Today, he was looking at a boy ready to change.
His fingers ran through his hair, smoothing it out, making it less messy than usual. He tugged his school uniform jacket down, straightened his collar, and adjusted his tie just right.
It wasn't much, but it was a start.
---
Morning at School
Harukoo arrived earlier than usual. He took a deep breath and stepped through the school gates with purpose. The usual whispers and stares followed, but this time, he didn't flinch. Instead, he met gazes and nodded politely.
Passing by a group of girls, one of them glanced at him and smiled. It was a small thing, but it sparked a flicker of warmth inside him.
---
In Class
Sitting down in his usual seat, Harukoo noticed Mika watching him from across the room. Their eyes met briefly, and he gave her a small, confident smile. She quickly looked away, her cheeks tinged with pink.
Kaito sauntered in a few moments later, his usual cocky grin in place. He noticed the subtle shift in Harukoo's demeanor and frowned slightly, as if sensing a challenge.
---
Lunchtime Change
Instead of retreating to the quiet rooftop, Harukoo joined a small group of classmates eating near the courtyard. It was uncomfortable at first—his words stumbled, and he felt the weight of unfamiliar eyes—but he pushed through.
To his surprise, one of the girls, a cheerful third-year named Rina, asked him about his weekend plans.
"I… don't really have any," he admitted, surprised by his own honesty.
Rina smiled warmly. "We're all going to the festival on Saturday. You should come."
Harukoo nodded slowly, feeling the first real connection he'd had in a long time.
---
After School Workout
Later that day, Harukoo found himself in a small gym near his house. He wasn't an expert, but he was determined. Lifting weights, doing push-ups, he felt his body grow stronger with every repetition.
Sweat dripped down his face, but he smiled. This was his way of taking control—of building a version of himself no one could ignore.
---
Yuki's Secret Admiration
That evening, Yuki watched him from the hallway, hidden behind the doorframe. She bit her lip, heart pounding.
"He's changing," she whispered to herself.
Her feelings, tangled and confusing, made her stomach flutter. She wished she could tell him how much she cared. But the fear of rejection held her tongue.
---
Mika's Doubts
Meanwhile, Mika sat on her bed, scrolling through her phone. Messages from Kaito sat unanswered.
She remembered Harukoo's words—the warning about Kaito's intentions. Slowly, doubts crept in.
Was she just a trophy to Kaito? Was she missing something real?
Her heart ached.
---
Harukoo's Reflection
Before bed, Harukoo wrote in his notebook.
Today was hard, but I'm proud. Tomorrow, I'll do better.
He closed his eyes, feeling the quiet fire growing inside.
Change wasn't easy.
But it was possible.
---