Chapter 7: The Principal's Decision
The morning was filled with chatter and excitement. Students rushed around, packing bags and preparing for the long-awaited school camping trip.
On the bus, laughter bounced from row to row. Iris sat beside Ueno and Hyana, trying to join in their jokes, but her eyes kept drifting.
Across the aisle, Ryo sat alone by the window, his gaze fixed on the scenery outside. His reflection in the glass was as unreadable as ever.
Ueno nudged her.
"Iris… why do you keep staring at him?"
Iris flinched, face heating.
"N-No reason!"
---
Night fell at the campsite. The glow of the campfire flickered against cheerful faces as students sang and laughed together.
But, as always, Ryo sat at the edge of the group, isolated in his silence.
Suddenly, Professor Kazuki approached him.
"Ryo. Walk with me."
Without hesitation, Ryo stood and followed.
Unnoticed by them, Iris rose quietly, her curiosity tugging her steps after them into the shadows.
---
Deep in the woods, far from the fire's glow, Kazuki's voice dropped low.
"Ryo… the principal has made his decision. After what happened, he doesn't want you at this school anymore."
Ryo's expression didn't shift. His voice was flat, resigned.
"…If that's what he wants, then so be it."
Kazuki's composure cracked. His fists clenched.
"Don't act like it doesn't matter! This is your one chance at a normal future."
Ryo lowered his gaze, his tone heavy but calm.
"A future…? That was never meant for me."
---
From behind a tree, Iris froze, her hands trembling as she pressed them to her chest.
"They're… expelling him?" she whispered, breath shallow.
Her heart pounded painfully, not just from fear of losing him, but from the way he spoke—as if hope had never belonged to him at all.
---
Later, Ryo returned to the camp as though nothing had happened. Students laughed around the fire, unaware of the weight hanging over him.
Sitting apart once more, he struck a match. The tiny flame flared to life, dancing in his eyes as he watched it burn slowly down.
From across the fire, Iris watched him, her mind echoing with his words.
"The future… was never meant for me."
The flame flickered out. Sad music filled the night.