The moment Sakura Airi said yes, it was as though all the strength had been drained from her body. Her knees suddenly gave out, and she swayed, only managing to stay upright when Horikita Suzune caught her.
Akiyama Shin watched her like this, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly before returning to its usual indifference in an instant.
But only he knew that tiny movement came from the certainty of a successful plan. He knew that Sakura Airi, this chess piece, had finally been placed exactly where it belonged.
"So the most urgent matter now is..."
He began to continue.
But before he could finish, Sakura Airi's timid voice interrupted him. Her head was lowered deeply, and there was a faint, barely noticeable tremor in her voice.
"A-Akiyama-kun... and Horikita-san... I'm sorry... I'm really very sorry..."
She paused, as though it took tremendous courage to go on.
"My camera... it accidentally got water in it a few days ago, so I took it to a digital store for repairs. I haven't picked it up yet... If possible, could you give me a little time? I'll go get it back today. I definitely won't delay anything!"
After saying that, she nervously stole a glance at the two of them, terrified they would be angry. Her eyes were full of unease and guilt.
Hearing this, Akiyama Shin did not hesitate in the slightest, nor did he show any impatience. He merely said calmly,
"There's nothing to apologize for. Since you need to pick it up, we'll go together."
He said it as though it were only natural, as if this were not a sudden change of plans, but an outing that had been arranged long ago.
Horikita Suzune, standing beside him, nodded as well and gave a quiet hum. She was