Kaede

After the end of the second term of classes, she left the main college building without saying a word to anyone. While most students remained in the hallways chatting, forming groups, or planning the rest of their day, she simply walked on her way in silence, looking for a place where no one would bother her.
After walking around campus for a few minutes, he found a bench near a small alley between two buildings, away from the hustle and bustle. It was exactly the kind of place he liked: discreet, quiet, and ignored by most people.
He sat down calmly, crossed one leg, and took a pack of cigarettes from his pocket. With a lighter, he lit one and took a long drag, letting the smoke escape slowly into the cold air. Then he opened a small can of still-warm coffee. Winter was approaching, and the temperature was dropping a little more each day; the warmth of the drink contrasted perfectly with the icy wind that swept across the campus.
At that moment, all he wanted was to enjoy a few minutes of peace, away from conversations, questions, and any attempt at interaction. Just the silence, the bitter taste of coffee, and the cigarette smoke were company enough.