I came to class and immediately realized that she was gone.
The empty place next to me seemed to radiate silence.
The awkward one, when you're used to hearing someone's voice, used to light banter, to barely noticeable smiles.…
And now — nothing.
Miyako did not write. She didn't call. She didn't read my messages.
I stared anxiously at the door until…
—Good morning," Sayo's voice sounded almost gentle.
I turned around and she was already sitting next to me, without permission, without hesitation.
As if that's how it should be.
—Hi,— I managed.
She opened her notebook, folded her arms, and looked at me with interest.:
"Are you okay?"
— Yes... it's just…
— Are you worried about her?
I looked at her.
She was still smiling.
But there was a crackle in her gaze, as if she had asked this question on purpose.
Verification?
"She's probably sick," I said, looking away.
Sayo nodded. — Probably.
Change
Sayo didn't go anywhere.
When someone called her, she waved them away.
When I was silent, she spoke on her own.
About anything.
About me. About how difficult it is to get used to a new school. About how "nice it is to be around someone who understands."
—Kurume," she said suddenly, when I was about to leave. — Can we get home together today?
- what?
"Well, it's just... it's still hard for me to navigate, and you're so calm." It's easier with you.
I wanted to refuse. I really wanted to.
But there was something in her voice that was too... soft. Too deliberately kind.
"Let's see,— I said.
She smiled.
And I glanced towards the door for the umpteenth time.
Miyako never came.