What Reason Could There Be to Refuse?

What Reason Would There Be to Refuse?

Tokai Teio's question came somewhat abruptly, but Mejiro McQueen showed no unusual reaction.

Anjing Zhen, on the other hand, had never expected the topic to turn so directly in this direction.

He froze for a moment, his lips parting slightly. Like a jammed recorder, he was unable to make any sound at first.

Then he fell silent, lowering his eyes to look at his clasped hands as though they bore an answer too difficult to decipher.

Seeing this, Mejiro McQueen rose to her feet with perfect naturalness and smoothly walked over to the water dispenser, breaking the brief stiffness with a gentle tone.

"Come to think of it, I'm a little thirsty... Oh, Anjing, would you like some more water?"

She picked up some paper cups, pouring one for Tokai Teio first before filling one for herself.

Anjing Zhen's gaze unconsciously followed her movements for a while, and in the wake of that brief distraction, he gathered his thoughts.

"...No, thank you."

He glanced at the brimming cup on the coffee table before him and took a soft breath.

When he looked up again, there was a trace of confusion and inquiry in his eyes as he looked at Tokai Teio.

"President Teio... why did you suddenly think to ask that?" His voice was slightly lower than usual, carrying the weight of careful consideration.

Tokai Teio accepted the cup Mejiro McQueen handed her, holding it in both hands as she met Anjing Zhen's eyes.

Her expression was composed, exuding the steadiness and calm of a Student Council President.

"It wasn't entirely sudden, actually. This question... McQueen and I have discussed it seriously several times before."

She tilted her head slightly and glanced at Mejiro McQueen beside her.

The latter nodded lightly in cooperation,