After-school at Suzakura High School’s audiovisual room.

With the Suzakura Festival fast approaching, the members of the ‘Secret Society for the Devoted Admirers of Lady Iori’ were preparing for a major announcement.

“Alright, everyone — as you may already know, Lady Iori will be participating in the Suzakura Festival’s beauty contest this year.”

At the president’s words, the dozens of Suzakura students collectively held their breath. They were all devoted fans who had spent many sleepless nights imagining their beloved idol’s big moment.

“Of course, victory is practically guaranteed. What concerns me is something else — the fact that many students from Aotaka High School will be attending the Suzakura Festival.”

“Ever since the Aotaka Festival, followed by the summer beach outing, Lady Iori has been gaining more attention from Aotaka students. Even that Yamabuki Natsuki might show up.”

The vice president added this comment. Yamabuki Natsuki, an Aotaka student and employee at Cyberia where Iori worked, was someone the fan club watched closely.

…If he were just some ordinary guy, no one would be this wary. Even the Suzakura students knew that when it came to that guy, there was reason to be cautious. Natsuki’s behavior at Cyberia was refined enough to justify their concerns.

“President, should we keep an eye on Yamabuki Natsuki?”

A voice called out from somewhere. The president didn’t have an answer to that question. She furrowed her brow, exhaling heavily as if forcing out her words.

“…I don’t know. It’s clear that Lady Iori and Yamabuki Natsuki are close. If Lady Iori truly wants that… we may not be able to interfere.”

“Are you saying it’s okay if Lady Iori dates someone!?”

This time, the president was completely speechless.

The president was just an ordinary high school girl, one who simply loved Iori.

She wasn’t mature enough to wholeheartedly celebrate if her idol started dating someone. But at the same time, she genuinely wanted Iori to be happy. Deep down, she hoped that if that happiness could somehow involve her, it would be even better.

“…”

The audiovisual room was enveloped in a heavy atmosphere.

No one knew anything about Iori’s preferences. No one knew if she liked men or women, or even if she was the type to fall in love at all. What kind of relationship she had with Yamabuki Natsuki was impossible to guess.

…Naturally. After all, no one had ever really tried to see ‘Tachibana Iori’ as a person.

“…In any case. The photography team should take as many pictures of Lady Iori as possible. Additionally, everyone must remain vigilant and ensure no suspicious individuals approach her. That’s all for today’s meeting.”

With that, the president hurried out of the audiovisual room. Her heart felt scattered in all directions, and she could no longer understand her own feelings.