I started thinking to myself.

  What is Mayoki doing here? Where did she come from, or did she leave home like me? Questions began to swirl in my mind.

  Mayoki is the top student in our college, and her results were always good.

  So, what is she doing here so late at night? Or did she come from somewhere else?

  — Hiroshike, Hiroshike.

  Your name is Hiroshike, right? And you’re a student at my college, right? Hello, hello… what’s wrong? Can’t you hear me?

  I snapped out of my thoughts when Mayoki gestured with her hand in front of me, and I said,

  — You’re Mayoki, right?

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  — Yes, I’m Mayoki. And your name is Hiroshike. You’re my college student, and I think you were also my classmate.

  I was surprised.

  A student like Mayoki recognized me—and that too inside the college. We never really spoke. At most, it was just a quick hi or hello. Besides, Mayoki always hung out with the top students. Yet here she was, talking to me.

  I answered softly,

  — Yes, I’m Hiroshike. But how did you recognize me? I’ve never even told you my name.

  Mayoki smiled lightly and said,

  — Why, is it forbidden to know your name?

  I felt a little embarrassed.

  — Well, we never really talked inside. And even if we did, I never told you my name. That’s why I asked.

  Mayoki replied, slightly annoyed,

  — Fine, I’ll tell you. I saw you doing martial arts once inside the college. As far as I know, they were trying to provoke your chubby friend as much as possible, and you gave them a lesson. Later, I saw them apologize to you. I was on the second-floor terrace at the time, watching. I was amazed to see you know martial arts, yet you don’t look like someone who would in class.

  My face turned red with embarrassment.

  — What, you saw me fight that day? But I made sure to check carefully around before touching them. Are you telling this to someone else?

  Mayoki said proudly,

  — Who! Do you think I would tell anyone these things? I only told my closest friend, but don’t worry, she didn’t believe me at all, and that’s how I know your name.

  Mayoki asked with mild curiosity,

  — How did you know my name? I never told you either. Or have you been following me? Tell me.