The truth hits her slowly, painfully. What she thought was harmless now feels like a betrayal. The color drains from her face. Beside her, Aki says nothing, her silence a quiet judgment.
"I didn't mean to…" Reika starts.
But Ryohei cuts her off. "Save it. Pack your things. And get out."
Suddenly, a booming voice breaks through.
"That's enough!"
Coach Nakahara's tone silences everyone. He stands in the doorway, Hiroshi behind him, eyes blazing.
"Didn't I tell you this matter was closed?"
Okabe clenches his jaw. "With all due respect, Coach, she doesn't belong here."
"This is my gym," Nakahara says quietly. "I decide who stays. If you can't respect that, the door's right there."
The words hang like a challenge. Okabe's pride snaps before his voice does. He turns away, gathering his things.
Ryohei hesitates, then follows, muttering as he passes Reika: "This is on you."
