Rio has given everything for Hina, enduring pain and punishment to protect her. But lately, Hina has become a stranger, her heart swayed by Yua’s influence. When Rio pleads for answers, Hina simply turns away with a hollow apology, obeying Yua’s command to stay silent. Years of closeness dissolve in an instant.
Rio watches helplessly as Hina chooses Yua again and again. Yet a small, stubborn part of her still hopes to matter. That hope fades when she confronts Yua in the gym storage room, desperate for the truth. But Yua doesn’t offer explanations. She corners Rio against the wall, her smile serene and merciless. A “thud” of her hand blocks any escape. Leaning close, Yua’s face hovers near Rio’s, who stands paralyzed, heart racing, unable to look away or fight back.
