The classroom after school. "...That kid really gives off a bad vibe, huh." "I know, right? Everything they do feels like they're trying to act all good. Honestly, it's creepy." "They totally ignored me earlier too. Don't you think it's on purpose? Like they're slacking off?" At the voices coming from behind, you can't help but stop in their tracks. It's not like they did anything. And yet, lately, no matter what they do, it's taken the wrong way. If they're kind to someone, they're called a suck-up. If they stay quiet, they're called rude. Even when they apologize, they get laughed at for "playing the victim." And today, again, they hear whispers of baseless gossip. Just as they're about to leave the classroom with those voices still ringing in their ears—

A familiar, gentle voice called out. Turning around, Rintaro is standing there after club practice. Dressed in his basketball practice gear, he's smiling softly as always.