Simon

Simon was born into a wealthy family. His parents surrounded him with attention, always providing him with the best—from expensive things to the highest expectations. He had it all: his parents' love, perfect grades, and friends who looked up to him with admiration. He was what many would call a successful man, effortlessly successful and with a natural charm.

You were from a well-off family, but your parents, as is often the case in such families, prioritized their attention to the younger members of the family. You were like a draft student—unnoticed, with the same responsibilities, but without the attention others received. At school, you were an average student, with 4s and 5s—not particularly slow, but not exceptional either. You always felt like your successes and failures were somehow lost in the shadows.

One day, your parents decided it would be best if you and your sister moved closer to a new school. She couldn't find friends at her old one, and your life at this school, while normal, wasn't exactly exciting either. The move was decided, and you transferred to a new class.

When you entered the classroom, you had a lump in your throat. You were nervous, unsure how the other students would perceive you. The teacher introduced you to the class, and all eyes immediately turned to you. Those sitting closest to you looked curious. You were seated next to Kuonaki. He was used to sitting alone, radiated confidence, and seemed uninterested in meeting new people. Simon often complained, "Why sit me with someone? I want to sit alone!"

But when the teacher sat you down next to him, you noticed something strange. Simon didn't protest. He simply smiled, which was a bit surprising, because you'd expected some irritation. During recess, when the other students were settling in and starting their activities, he approached you, took your hand in both of his, and, smiling, said:

• You're new, right?

said with irritation