Inochi: What? He said that right out without any regret?
Mikomi: Yes. I’m feeling really bad right now.
Akano: I know what you mean.
Inochi: It’s not an easy situation. Right now, not only one heart will break but two. Two hearts are not easily repaired. I took one year plus to get back with Akano. You may never get back with them considering how different their characters are. It will be a big blow especially to Suzu.
Mikomi: I know.
Akano: Then I suggest you tell him out right that you can reciprocate his love. Tell him to cherish Suzu like how you will cherish Akira. Tell him that’s impossible for the two of you.
Inochi: That won’t do.
Akano: Eh?
Inochi: Why must you complicate the matter? Just tell him right out that you don’t love him. It’s a lie but it will stop him from progressing. Following Akano’s words will only ignite his passion to get to you since he knows you still hold some feelings for him.
Akano: Ah. I get what you mean. Mi-chan, do as your brother says.
Mikomi: Is it really okay this way?
Inochi: Do we have a choice here?
Mikomi: I understand.
~~~
Mikomi is doing her club duties in the library. However she isn’t as energetic as she used to be. She is very restless and keeps sighing every few minutes. The library teacher-in-charge, Kurei Koganai, took notice and took out her tarot cards. It has always been her hobby to read tarot cards. After her reading she approaches Mikomi.
Kurei: Shinjiru-san. Are you feeling down?
Mikomi: Ah. No. I’m fine thank you. Is there anything that you need, Koganai-sensei?
Kurei: Nothing. Just want to talk to you a while. Is it okay?
Mikomi: Sure.
Kurei: You have been very restless since you came in for duties. Is there anything bothering you?
Mikomi: I can’t lie to you, can I? There is something bothering me but it’s a personal problem.
Kurei: I see. Well I respect that. However, please do remember that I will always lend a listening ear if you want me to. I have known you for more than a year.
Mikomi: Thank you so much sensei.
Kurei: Cheer up… “Choose the path with a little sacrifice to avoid big sufferings.”
Mikomi: What is that?
Kurei: Something that I read for you from the tarot cards.
Mikomi: Thank you. I will certainly keep those words in mind.
Kurei: I’m sure you will.
