Upon exiting the Administration Building, Juri and I didnt have any set destination apart from the excuse she used for our exit; walking her around the school.

With the classes for the day already over, students littered the school grounds. They were either going to their clubs or just wandering as well to pass the time. Its still just midday so few were rushing to go home.

We walked past a lot of them and more often than not, wed be gathering their attention even if theyre locked in their own conversations.

Its probably because of my recognizable face and the head-turning capability of Juris charm. Its the usual recognition of me being the Disciplinary Officer and the boundless rumors surrounding me. But for Juri, both boys and girls would be mesmerized by her elegant aesthetic.

Well, I couldnt blame them for that, I would do the same if I were in their shoes. Besides, Juri wasnt that bothered by the attention. Shes already used to an excess of it for being a model.

However, since she was opting to protect me from further rumors or simply to not become an addition to the troubles I was facing because of my popularity or notoriety, whichever was the most prominent between the two she refrained from clinging to me or outright showering me with her affection.

Thats fine for me. Because every time we would reach an area where no one was around, she wouldnt miss that opportunity.

First, at the side of the School Building and later on, behind the Club Building.

Obviously, I matched her friskiness to the point that we almost got caught again because of getting so lost in it.

After that, we just continued our walk while conversing about other things. Trivial or not, it provided us with more information about each other. She also brought out a small digital camera with her to capture the nostalgic scenery of the school for herself. Also, whenever she would find a good spot, we'd also take a photo together.

Minutes later, we were on our way back after circling the Gymnasium.

Juri was humming jubilantly next to me as her great mood showed no signs of ending.

Its been a while since Ive taken a walk on this ground. The last time I was here, I went straight with you there. She said while pointing back at the Gymnasium. With a meaningful smile on her lips, shes probably reminiscing about the moment we shared there. Youve shown how gentlemanly you are. But halfway through, you disappeared somewhere. I kept wondering where you went after bringing us to your classmates... I think I now have an answer for that.

Juri turned her attention back to me and her eyes narrowed slyly. Theres no need to guess what shes trying to imply. Its obvious, after all.

Mhm. I apologize for that. I have other matters to attend to back then. Important matters.

Taking care of your girls, right? Geez. Thats too inappropriate, Ruki. Maybe if I found that out that day, I might not be this accepting of whatever you revealed to me...

Although theres a hint of frustration in her voice when saying that, the girl still pulled a bright smile, sweeping away the negative aspects of that realization.

You still didnt want to hear all of it though. But youre right. That information alone should be enough to feel resentment towards me. I picked you and Setsuna-nee up to watch Satsukis match and yet... I also spent my time with other girls.

Theres no need to lie about that anymore. I was more than ready to tell her everything about me, after all. Its just Juri whos refusing to be bogged down by it all at once. Much like how Eguchi-sensei wanted to understand me slowly through our future interactions.

Anyway, Juri went silent for a moment, perhaps trying to figure out what to say next.

In the end, she took a step closer to me and asked a question.

Do you regret it?

Whatever she meant by that whether its about my audacity to be with my girls during that match or ditching her for them my answer would never change...

No. I looked her in the eyes as I said that, conveying my thoughts on it that couldnt be put into words.

Juri matched that and inspected my face for a moment before eventually pulling back.

Yup. This is another reason why I also became drawn to you. Youve shown no fear at all even if that might lead to a negative outcome. No regrets, hmm? How inappropriate.

Ending her words with a chuckle, Juri then hugged my arm before poking my cheek multiple times, each one digging deeper than the last.

I guess thats her way of forcing out her frustration.

When she eventually stopped, her lips landed on my cheek before whispering in a compassionate tone, Ruki, dont ever force yourself to change. Your charm lies here. However, I believe youre already aware of how to adjust yourself to take care of everyone around you. A lot of people will not like it if they find out, however, as long as we believe in you... you dont need to conform to the outsiders perspective.

This woman... Shes not going to stop with her glib tongue... But if thats her honest thoughts about how I act then... shes so damn supportive of a playboy. Her propriety was truly taken off of consideration when it comes to me.

Shes so precious that... It's making me lose control of myself. Should I just take her home?

Maybe if I brought that up to her, she might truly bite at it... Thats how much shes doting on me.

Mhm. Thank you, Juri. Youre already aware of how I am as a person... I couldnt care less about anyone but for those I care about, Ill do everything for them. Thats why I dont mind pitting myself against anyone if its for your sake.

Pfft. Are you trying to outdo me in a battle of words? Juri giggled and this time she pulled her finger back to cup my cheek again and endearingly caressed it.

No, Im not. Like always, its just my honest thoughts. But well, if thats how it looks to you, wanna see who will win between us?

No. I know Ill lose against an expert like you. And her sweet giggles continued.

After a while, we resumed our steps to return. While doing so, she once again started taking photos with her and each time, she would show it to me and ask for my evaluation.

Upon arriving at the vicinity of the Club Building, Juri acted as though she just remembered something.

Oh. We still have time, right? Why dont we visit my previous club? If my memory serves me right, I should still have a junior there.

Your previous club?

Un. Did I forget to tell you? Heh, wanna guess which club it is?

You like photography so... the Photography Club?

I first thought of a modeling club but not only does it not exist in this school or perhaps any other school, but thats not where her passion lies. Besides, theres an obvious hint clutched by her hand.

Juri unhappily pouted at my answer, Was it too easy? Ugh. I shouldnt have tried to make it a game.

I smirked at that, finding this a chance to tease her, You know, I can act like I dont know and throw wild guesses. Are you up for it?

What for?! You do love to tease, huh? Thats correct, its the Photography Club. Lets go and visit them.

Puffing up her cheeks, Juri grabbed my wrist and pulled me towards the entrance of the Club Building, fully ignoring the other students who were confused as to who she is or why she was dragging me with her.

Well, thats adorable of her so... I played along. Besides, going to her old club could bring me another treasure trove for things related to her.