"Eh? Together with what?" She stared in astonishment at his gradually receding back, utterly confused.
So she turned her attention to Kōsaka Reina beside her.
"Reina?"
"...Let's talk on the way back." With that, she too gripped her trumpet and turned into the hallway.
"Eh? Ehh?" Kumiko Oumae hurried after her in quick little steps.
After shaking off the two first-years, Himemiya Chihaya headed somewhat hastily toward the flute section, but he did not see the person he was looking for.
Frowning, he took out his phone and directly called Kasamaki Nozomi—don't ask why he did not call the little chubby shut-in directly. It just would not have been as efficient.
The call was answered quickly.
"Moshiboshi~ Chihaya Senpai?" Kasamaki Nozomi's voice came from the other end, as light as wind brushing through clover.
"Nozomi? Where are you and Mizore right now?"
"Hmm~ We just left school and are on our way back. We wanted to leave early today, because..."
"It's Mizore's birthday, right?" he cut in.
"Eh? Ah, yes... You knew?"
"Of course! I even prepared a gift!"
"Really?"
The voice by the receiver moved farther away, but it was still audible.
"Mizore! Chihaya Senpai said he prepared a gift for you too!"
"Mm."
At the same time, Tsuruzuka Mizore's usual calm, even-toned voice could be heard.
The receiver was brought close again, and Kasamaki Nozomi continued, "Then what should we do? Should we go back to get it now?"
"No... Hmm? Wait!" He suddenly realized something else and asked hesitantly, "How many people are there with you right now?"
"Four."
"...Are the other two Natsuki and Yuuko?"
"Natsuki aside... You guessed Yuuko too? Chihaya Senpai, are you behind us or something?"
"No, I'm still in the school building... Hah, fine... Oh, tell Natsuki this: I'll settle the