The school day at Seihou High unfolded as it always did. Renji navigated the hallways between classes, his backpack slung casually over one shoulder, noting the absence of the usual tension that had plagued his days.
Surprisingly, his bullies—Kaito and the goons—had been uncharacteristically quiet. No shoves in the corridors, no whispered taunts during lectures, no ambushes by the lockers, no searching of his bag.
It was as if an invisible barrier had descended, keeping them at bay.
Did something happen at home? Renji couldn't tell, but he didn't especially care.
Maybe word had spread about his growing confidence, or perhaps they were plotting something bigger, but for now, he relished the peace.
Classes droned on, but without the distractions of harassment, he found the school day more enjoyable than usual.
During history class, Haruka had slipped a note to Renji, asking if everything was clear with Miss Katsura. Renji nodded at her when no one was looking.
