Haruto shook his head firmly at Azame's offer. "I'm good. Thanks though." He adjusted his school bag strap and gave her a polite but dismissive wave. "If Ryouta's got beef with me, then that's something I gotta handle myself, you know? Can't have someone else fighting my battles."
Azame looked like she wanted to argue, her eyebrows furrowing in that stubborn way she had when she disagreed with something. But Haruto was already backing away, his breath forming small clouds in the cold air. "Look, I appreciate you wanting to help and all, but this is just how it's gotta be. See you tomorrow, okay?"
