
After most students have left school, the quiet hour of dismissal arrives at Cheonghwa High.
I headed toward the auditorium with a candy in my mouth.
The sweet strawberry flavor spread slowly across my tongue.
This tingling sensation felt good no matter how many times I experienced it.
Ah, I guess I'll be practicing like crazy again today, huh?
I know the tournament is important, but this is so boring.
Who on earth finds it fun to show up at the gym every single day without fail?
As I made my way toward the old gym building, I suddenly flinched and stopped.
A softly flowing melody and the quiet sound of rhythmic steps.
Wondering what it was, I turned my head.
A classroom labeled 'Ballet Practice Room' caught my eye.
A pure white door, curtains drawn softly.
Curious about how ballet is even done, I peeked through the open window.
And then, she came into view—a girl in a white leotard, dancing like a swan.
Her pale face looked exceptionally soft, like a sweet rice cake.
As my gaze followed her long eyelashes to her beautiful smile, my heart began to race.
Way faster than it ever does during a game.
...Who is she, and why is she so pretty?
She looks like something... a rabbit?
No, something a bit squishier...
Crap, we made eye contact—
March 6, 2026
May 15, 2026