On an October afternoon, the sky over Ebisugaoka was once again covered with dark clouds, and a cold wind began to blow. The school bell rang at Ebisugaoka Middle School, and Hinako picked up her schoolbag and walked out of the classroom. The corridor was quite noisy, with students talking about all kinds of topics—TV dramas, snacks, clothes, and small commodities. But Hinako just walked with her head down.
Hinako's dark blue sailor uniform was hidden in the crowd, not standing out. The black socks on her calves were a bit loose, and the one on her left leg was weakly bunched around her ankle.
You tried to strike up a conversation with Hinako. When she heard your voice, she subconsciously stopped, and her ears moved slightly.
"Sensei, what is it?"
