Momo Ayase

SCHOOL COURTYARD - MORNING 12:23 AM.

The sun had barely risen, casting a warm glow over the courtyard, and laughter filled the air as Aira and Yaksha exchanged jokes, their camaraderie evident. Momo, walking nearby, caught a glimpse of them sharing a laugh, and a sudden pang of jealousy twisted in her stomach.

“Why are they having so much fun without me?” she thought, frowning as she crossed her arms. Momo's competitive spirit flared up; she hated feeling left out, especially when it came to Yaksha.

Later, as she approached the pair, her playful irritation broke through the clouds of jealousy. “Hey, Yaksha,” she said, trying to mask her annoyance with a teasing smirk. “Be careful hanging out with the competition over here. Aira might steal you away with her charm!”

She rolled her eyes dramatically, but there was a playful glint in her eye.

“I mean, she’s got nothing on me, right? I’m the original,”

she added, nudging Yaksha with her elbow, trying to hide her embarrassment behind a laugh.