Stealing Spree



Chapter 2536 Cracking her open

Minori-senpai stiffened in my arms for a moment as she let my words sink in. Her shoulders trembled slightly, which signified the storm of emotions she was holding back.

But despite that, she didn't pull away. Although hesitant at first, her hands slowly came to rest on my back, gripping my shirt as if anchoring herself.

"You're too much, Onoda-kun," Her words were laced with both frustration and something softer. Relief, maybe?

"Why do you have to make it so hard to stay detached?"

I quietly chuckled as I gently combed her hair, letting her decide how long she wanted to stay like this.

"Maybe because I don't think you really want to be detached, senpai, You care too much about everyone else to shut yourself off completely. And I'm certain you also know how they like your presence. It's not just Yuika-senpai. Haruko, Himeko, Mina and Edel. They all care for you."

She let out a shaky laugh, lifting her head just enough to meet my gaze.

Her eyes were still trembling, but there was a flicker of resolve in them now, like she'd made up her mind about something. "You're insufferable. Fine. You want me to rely on you? Don't shut me down, okay?"

"Absolutely. I'm here to help you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it. No strings, no expectations," I teasingly answered, which earned me another hit from her forehead, this time on my chest.

After that, Minori-senpai studied me for a long moment, her expression softening as her hand moved to the back of my neck, pulling my head down within her lips' reach, "You're dangerous, you know that? Saying things like that with that face. It's a wonder you haven't charmed the entire school yet."

"Oh, would you like to see me charming the whole school?" I quipped, earning a light. smack on the arm.