The school hallway, mid-morning. Students are chatting outside classroom 2-B. A few glance at Yuuji, whispering. He walks with his head down, the chatter barely reaching him.

Narration (Yuuji):
“I thought people forgot me. I hoped they did. But some memories never really die... they just wait.”

Inside the classroom. The homeroom teacher, Mr. Kanda, writes on the board with messy chalk handwriting. The class is half-paying attention.

Mr. Kanda:
“Alright, alright—quiet down! We have a returnee today. Let’s try not to scare him off in one day.”

Yuuji stands stiffly at the front of the class. Silent. Mr. Kanda looks at him, then sighs.

Mr. Kanda (thinking):
“He’s got that face... the one kids get after they’ve seen a bit too much.”

[Page 4 – Yuuji bows. Some students mutter. Kanae stares at him but doesn’t speak. Tomo leans back in his chair, arms behind his head, grinning.

Yuuji:
“My name is Yuuji Sakamoto. I’ll be in your care.”

Tomo (loud whisper):
“Whoa. The prodigal ghost returns...”

The teacher claps his hands.

Mr. Kanda:
“Okay, sit near the window, behind Kanae. And Tomo, don’t make me separate you again.”

Yuuji takes his seat. Kanae doesn’t look at him. Tomo turns around, offers his hand with a smirk.

Tomo:
“Yo. I’m Tomo. If you need help remembering what year it is—or who dumped you last—you can count on me.”

Yuuji (flat tone):
“I’ll try not to rely on you too much.”

Narration (Yuuji):
“I didn’t expect warmth. But I didn’t expect laughter either...”