The classroom was filled with the usual midday chatter as the final period before tiffin (lunch break) came to an end. Mrs. Takahashi stood at the front, adjusting her glasses as she addressed the class in her clear, authoritative voice.
"Everyone, listen carefully," she announced. "Summer vacation is approaching soon. Because of that, we will be holding mid-term examinations starting exactly 10 days from now. Make sure you revise all the chapters properly. Attendance and performance in these exams will be important."
A wave of groans and nervous whispers spread through the classroom. Haruto, who had been quietly staring out the window, felt his stomach drop. His expression darkened as the reality hit him.
Ten days…? he thought, a heavy unease settling in his chest. I was absent for a whole week in Tokyo… I haven't touched a single book. If I don't start studying seriously right now, I'll definitely fail. No doubt about it.
