Chapter 1: The Sound Behind the Fringe
(The Melody of the Hidden)
A Life Hidden in Plain Sight
Yuto's mornings began in silence. After losing both of his parents, he had learned to cook, clean, and manage this small apartment on his own with meticulous care. As he glanced into the mirror before heading to school, all he saw was a mimic of a bowl-cut hairstyle hiding his forehead, and thick glasses concealing almost half his face.
"It's freer this way… Nobody cares about me, and I don't need to care about anyone."
At school, he was the "Invisible Student." Matters of romance and having a crush felt like distant, unreachable notions to him.
The Secret of the Afternoon
After school, Yuto often made his way to a small, obscure eatery at the edge of town. That place was more than just a part-time job—it was the only space where he could let his spirit breathe freely.
The moment he sat at the piano in the corner, the entire world seemed to fall silent. Removing his glasses and tidying his hair, the "bookish" persona vanished, revealing a composed, calm young man.
The Meaning Behind the Keys
As his fingers glided across the keys, the notes that emerged were a mixture of pain, loneliness, and warmth. He was a hidden prodigy. Even the patrons of the café would pause mid-bite, captivated by the nameless pianist's performance.
But for Yuto, this went beyond earning a living. The melodies he played carried words he had never spoken, emotions he had never expressed—spoken silently through each note.
Chapter 2: The Brightest Star's Shadow
(The Shadow of the Shining Star)
A Perfect Girl
Sakura Shirogane was the school's radiant light. With her silky long hair, dazzling smile, and graceful demeanor, she was always surrounded by friends. Everyone admired her, labeling her as the "perfect girl."
"Sakura is amazing… she can do anything," everyone said, but only she knew the truth behind that flawless facade.
Secrets and Pretenses
In reality, Sakura was hopeless when it came to household chores. Whenever she entered the kitchen, she inevitably ended up breaking a plate or two. Her popularity was a tiring performance, a mask she wore, and she was secretly afraid of revealing her true self.
An Evening of Fate
One evening, she accompanied her family to a quiet little eatery in the city. Seeking a brief escape from the bustling noise outside, she stepped inside—and at that very moment…
A magnificent melody from the piano struck her heart.
A Sight to Behold
There, in front of the piano, sat a young man. Completely unlike the cold, bookish Yuto from school, he exuded calmness and an irresistible charm. His eyes, unhidden behind glasses, were focused intensely on the keys, and his fingers moved with extraordinary skill.
Sakura's lips parted slightly as her heart raced.
"Who is this…?"
Standing right before her was her classmate, Yuto Kagari—but she couldn't have dreamed that the nameless pianist she had just heard was the same quiet, invisible boy from school. Completely captivated, she felt herself melt within the melody.
Chapter 3: Echoes in the Night
(Resonances in the Darkness)
Unforgettable Sensations
Even after returning home and collapsing onto her bed, the echoes of the piano from earlier continued to reverberate in Sakura's ears. Gazing at her ceiling, her mind replayed the scene—the pianist's intense eyes, his fingers dancing across the keys with precision and passion.
"I've never felt anything like this… it's overwhelming."
She pulled out her phone, searching for the name of the café, yet what she truly wanted to know wasn't about the place—it was about him. For Sakura, who had always lived under the pressure of appearing perfect, the music that night had gently thawed her loneliness, leaving her with warmth she hadn't known before.
A World Moving as Usual
Meanwhile, Yuto remained completely oblivious to the fact that someone had been captivated by him. After finishing his work, he changed back in the café's back room and resumed his usual appearance: the bowl-cut hair, the thick glasses.
When he returned home in the deep hours of the night, his life continued exactly as it had before. He meticulously prepared his meals for the next day and calmly took care of household chores. For him, playing the piano was never about impressing others—it was a way to soothe the wounds in his own heart.
"That's enough for today…"
With that thought, Yuto turned off the lights and slipped into bed, fully aware that when he returned to school tomorrow, he would once again be the unnoticed "Invisible Student" to everyone around him.
Chapter 4: Unseen Harmony
(The Hidden Melody)
A Reunion
The next evening, Sakura invited her three close friends—Ren Ishida, the ever-energetic boy, Hina Sato, and Mio Tanaka—to return with her to the little café from the previous day. Deep down, she wanted them to hear the mesmerizing piano melodies that had been lingering in her mind since yesterday.
"Is this café really that good, Sakura?" Hina asked. Sakura merely nodded subtly, her attention fixed toward the piano at the far end.
Yuto in His Routine
Meanwhile, Yuto had finished changing in the back room, removed his glasses, tidied his hair, and was ready. As he stepped onto the piano bench, he sensed the curious gazes of a group of girls inside the café—but remained perfectly calm. For him, this was nothing more than a passionate hobby, not a stage for admiration.
He placed his fingers on the keys and began to play. This time, the melody matched the tranquil evening perfectly—a soft jazz tune, gentle and soothing.
The Pull of the Unknown
"Whoa… he's amazing! That pianist is incredible!" Ren exclaimed, eyes wide in awe. Mio and Hina were equally captivated, momentarily forgetting about their meals as they watched the young man on the bench.
Sakura remained silent, unable to utter a word. 'These eyes… these fingers…' she thought, feeling a connection she had never imagined. Yet she could never have guessed that the composed, cold Yuto from their classroom was the very same person creating this enchanting music.
Yuto, fully aware of his classmates' presence at the table, paid them no attention, immersing himself entirely in the melody. The music formed a bridge between the two worlds—yet they remained strangers to one another, still unaware of the connection forming silently between them.
Chapter 5: The Mask at School
(The Veiled Presence)
A Typical Morning
The next day at school, Sakura sat quietly at her desk, her mind unable to shake the image of the pianist from the previous night. Her classmates excitedly recounted their experiences at the café, but Sakura's gaze remained fixed out the window, lost in thought.
"Hey Sakura… the pianist yesterday was amazing. Imagine if someone like that were at our school!" Hina whispered enthusiastically.
An Invisible Presence
At that moment, someone quietly passed by Sakura's group—it was Yuto Kagari.
With his usual disguise—the messy bowl-cut, thick glasses, and slightly oversized school uniform—he melted into the crowd, invisible to everyone around him. Carrying his neatly packed lunch, he slipped silently to his seat without a word.
A Small Encounter
As Sakura pulled out her textbook, a sheet of paper fell from Yuto's bag. It was the piano sheet for the song he had played the night before. She reached to grab it—but Yuto was quicker.
"Sorry…", he said in a soft, almost fleeting voice, swiftly reclaiming the paper.
Sakura froze for a moment. 'That voice… I've heard it somewhere before…' she thought, but quickly shook her head.
'Impossible… there's no way the quiet student in my class is the pianist from last night.'
The Secret of Lunch Hour
At lunch, Yuto climbed to the quiet rooftop alone. With headphones on, he ate in silence while listening to music. His fingers moved almost unconsciously, dancing across imaginary piano keys in the air, mirroring the melodies in his mind.
Meanwhile, Sakura laughed and chatted with her friends in the classroom, yet her eyes repeatedly drifted, searching for someone she couldn't stop thinking about.
Chapter 6: Resonance in the Hallway
(Echoes Along the Corridor)
A Quiet Music Room
After school, Yuto found himself alone in the music room. Today, he felt an irresistible urge to play. He closed the door carefully, as always removed his glasses, and tidied his hair.
As his fingers touched the keys, a delicate and melancholic melody emerged. Unlike the jazz of the café, this classical piece reflected the true emotions he kept locked inside—pure and unfiltered.
A Confession Just Outside
Meanwhile, Sakura stood along the corridor outside the music and science rooms. In front of her was one of the school's famous athletes, confessing his feelings.
"Sakura… I've liked you for a long time. Will you go out with me?"
Normally, Sakura would have politely refused such a confession, but today her mind was elsewhere. All her attention was drawn to the piano music spilling out from the music room—matching perfectly the skill and emotion of the young pianist she had heard every evening in the café.
An Unexpected Reaction
"Sorry… I have something important to do right now!"
Sakura left the boy standing there and dashed toward the music room, her heart pounding wildly. 'Could it really be him? The same quiet student from our school?'
As she reached for the door handle, the music abruptly stopped. Yuto, sensing someone's approach, quickly put on his glasses and covered his face with his usual calm precision, just moments before she entered.
A Face-to-Face Encounter
When the door swung open, Sakura saw the composed, cold "bookish" Yuto seated at the piano bench.
"Kagari-kun…?" her voice trembled. "Were you… playing just now?"
Yuto looked at her calmly, as if nothing had happened.
"No… I was just cleaning the piano. The music… it must have been coming from the radio."
Though his words were unbelievable, his calm and composed demeanor left Sakura completely flustered.
Chapter 7: The Unraveling Thread
(The Loosening Strand)
The Seeds of Doubt
Since the events in the music room, doubt had taken root in Sakura's mind. She knew there was no way the sound could have been coming from a radio. For once, she set aside her polished, popular façade and quietly decided to follow Yuto, keeping a safe distance behind him.
Trailing After School
After school, Yuto followed his usual routine: head down, moving silently toward the back exit. Even when Sakura's friends called to her, she ignored them, tiptoeing behind him. Though his steps seemed effortless, she noticed the calm precision in each movement.
Yuto arrived at the small eatery on the outskirts of town. Sakura hid in the shadow of a nearby lamppost, watching him intently. Soon, a young man emerged from the café's back door.
The Mask Removed
This time, he wore no glasses. His disheveled hair was neatly swept back, and he was dressed in the café's official black uniform. Standing in the sunlight, his figure exuded a natural, unshakable charm.
'It's really him… Kagari-kun is the pianist!' Sakura's heart leapt uncontrollably. Startled, she accidentally kicked a nearby trash bin, which clattered loudly.
Confrontation
The sudden noise made Yuto spin around. His intense eyes fell precisely on Sakura's hiding spot.
"Shirogane-san?" His voice was calm, clear, and firm—not the soft tones heard at school. "Why are you here?"
Sakura stepped out from the shadows, unable to hide any longer.
"I… I wanted to know. Why… why do you act like that at school? Why hide such an incredible talent?"
Yuto exhaled slowly, then took a measured step closer, studying her intently.
"Not everyone wants to shine like you, Sakura. For me, these piano melodies are my own little world. I don't want them tainted by other people's expectations or gazes."
His words struck her heart. Sakura, who had always worn a mask to please others, finally understood Yuto's desire for freedom.
"I… I won't tell anyone. I promise. But I have one request." Sakura lowered her head, meeting his gaze steadily.
"Could you… play a song just for me?"
Yuto blinked in surprise. After a moment, a faint, shy smile—the first she had ever seen—appeared at the corner of his lips.
Chapter 8: The Sound of Loneliness
(Melodies of Solitude)
High and Quiet
As the café approached closing time, the last of the customers had left, leaving only the soft glow of the lamps. Yuto invited Sakura inside, seating her in front of the piano. For her, this was the first time she had stepped into the private world of the artist she admired.
"This is my own melody… I've never played it for anyone," Yuto said quietly.
A Painful Melody
His fingers pressed down on the keys with deliberate weight, and the first notes struck Sakura's chest with an almost physical ache. Unlike the lively jazz she had heard before, this was a sorrowful song—a sad ballad.
The notes flowed like rain hitting a window, lonely and searching, echoing through the empty café. Every movement of his hands seemed to speak of vanished parents, and the cold nights he had spent alone—his past laid bare in sound.
Tears and Understanding
As she listened in silence, a single tear traced down Sakura's cheek. Always accustomed to projecting brightness and cheerfulness, she felt something stir deep within her, witnessing such unguarded sadness.
When the song ended, the café fell silent. Yuto lowered his head, his hands trembling slightly.
"Why… does this feel so painfully beautiful?" Sakura whispered, her voice shaking.
"Because… it's my truth," Yuto replied softly, glancing at her. "These melodies are all that remain of me when I feel like nothing else is left."
Sakura no longer hesitated. She placed both her hands gently over Yuto's trembling ones.
"From now on… you're not alone, Kagari-kun. I'll listen to this song with you. I'll witness your truth."
Seeing her warm, steady gaze, Yuto felt a ray of light enter his previously cold world. Slowly, the walls around his heart began to crack, allowing the warmth of connection to seep in.
Chapter 9: The Queen's Proclamation
(The Pop Queen's Declaration)
A Mundane Morning
The next morning at school, the classroom buzzed with the usual chatter. The boys were talking about games, while the girls discussed fashion—and couldn't help but gush about the "angelic pianist" from the café they had been raving about yesterday.
Yuto, however, rested his head on his desk, pretending to nap. To him, the events with Sakura last night felt like a dream. 'She probably won't even think about me today,' he thought.
An Unexpected Arrival
"Kagari-kun!"
The moment her clear, commanding voice rang out, the entire classroom went silent, as if someone had pulled the plug on the noise. Standing at the classroom door was none other than Sakura Shirogane—the school's Pop Queen herself.
With a radiant smile and confident steps, she made her way to Yuto's desk. Every eye in the room was on them.
"Kagari-kun… let's have lunch together today. I need to talk to you."
Whispers and Shocked Gasps
The classroom erupted in a wave of stunned whispers. Everyone had always seen Sakura as dazzling and untouchable—why was she coming to speak to a mere "pianist"?
"Huh? Kagari? That bowl-cut kid?"
"Impossible… how does Sakura even know him?"
"Wait! Why is she inviting him? They're not even friends!"
The combination of annoyed stares and murmured shock rippled through the room like crashing waves.
Yuto, peeking from behind his thick glasses, glanced at Sakura. She, in turn, met his gaze, giving a look that clearly said, "Don't resist."
*"I… I…" Yuto started, but before he could finish, Sakura reached out, taking his hand and leading him out of the classroom.
The remaining students could only gape in disbelief. For the boys—especially Ren and his friends, who had long admired Sakura—this was an utterly unimaginable scene.
Chapter 10: Under the Gaze of Envy
(Beneath Eyes of Resentment)
Lunch in the Midst of Everyone
The school cafeteria was noisier than usual. The attention of everyone present was glued to Sakura Shirogane, the school's shining Pop Queen, as she called Yuto to sit with her at her private table.
Sakura opened her neatly prepared lunchbox with a practiced elegance, though inside, it was just the usual store-bought food. On the other side, Yuto quietly ate his own homemade bento, simple yet rich in aroma and flavor, savoring each bite with calm composure.
"Wow… Kagari-kun, your bento is incredible!" Sakura exclaimed, her voice bright and clear. The words seemed to ignite the surroundings, catching the attention of every student nearby.
Shadows of Discontent
'Why him? Why not us?'
Whispers of displeasure started spreading from the surrounding tables. Among them, Daiki, the school's star athlete who had been rejected by Sakura back in Chapter 6, flushed with anger. As the captain of the baseball team and a generally popular guy, he could not tolerate being overshadowed by a mere "pianist."
Daiki whispered sharply to his friends while glaring at Yuto, his eyes burning with resentment.
Trouble Brews
Yuto, sensing the tension rising from the air beside him, remained calm. Sakura, oblivious to the brewing storm, continued offering food to Yuto, inadvertently escalating the situation.
After finishing his lunch, Yuto quietly went to get a drink, only to find Daiki and his friends blocking the way.
"Hey… Kagari," Daiki said, shoving Yuto roughly on the shoulder. "Do you even realize that someone like you shouldn't be sitting next to Sakura? Do you know your place?"
Yuto adjusted his glasses and tried to walk past silently, avoiding confrontation. But Daiki pushed him again, causing Yuto's cup of water to spill onto the floor.
The cafeteria went silent instantly. Every student's eyes turned toward the scene, riveted by the sudden clash.
Chapter 11: The Quiet Departure
Calm Amid the Clash
The sound of the spilled water had silenced the entire cafeteria. Just as Daiki, furious, reached to grab Yuto's collar, Sakura dashed swiftly through the crowd.
"Stop right there, Daiki! What do you think you're doing?" Her voice cut through the tension, sharp and filled with authority. Standing in front of Yuto, she glared at Daiki. "Kagari-kun hasn't done anything wrong. You should apologize immediately!"
The sight of the school's Pop Queen boldly defending a mere pianist left the whole cafeteria in awe. Daiki, embarrassed and flustered, turned bright red, unsure of what to say.
Yuto's Response
But what surprised everyone the most was Yuto's reaction. He showed no anger, nor did he take advantage of Sakura's protection. Calmly, he bent down, grabbed a cloth from his bag, and began to mop up the spilled water from the floor.
"It's fine… I wasn't paying attention," he said softly, avoiding Sakura's gaze. She tried to speak, but Yuto only gave her a small nod and quietly walked out of the cafeteria.
A Solitary Refuge
He made his way to the empty music room. Once inside, he quietly closed and locked the door, then let out a long, exhausted sigh. Sitting before the grand piano, he removed his glasses and pressed his palm against his face.
"Hoo… today has been… long," he murmured.
His voice carried the weight of solitude and fatigue. Yuto knew that the calm, simple life he desired had been disrupted by the events surrounding Sakura. Slowly, he pressed a piano key, letting the sound respond to the turmoil inside him—a subtle, trembling echo of his conflicted emotions.
Chapter 12: Fading Into Shadows
A Quiet Evening
After the events in the cafeteria, Yuto, feeling drained, called the café manager to request the evening off. He knew better than anyone that his calm piano playing wouldn't emerge if his mind wasn't clear.
That night, he spent his time alone in his dimly lit room, refraining from touching the piano at all. "The moment someone enters my life… it only brings complications," he thought. Sakura's radiant presence was like an intense light, far too bright for someone who preferred the shadows of solitude.
The Invisible Man at School
The next morning, Yuto adopted an even more "invisible" persona. He arrived at school early, taking pains to avoid contact with anyone.
Sakura, however, waited by the classroom door, her eyes filled with concern and lingering worry from yesterday. But when Yuto finally entered, he didn't notice her; his gaze was fixed on his desk, and he walked straight to his seat.
"Kagari-kun! Please… wait…" Sakura called softly. Yet Yuto, putting on his headphones, focused intently on the books in front of him. Even during lunch, while Sakura searched for him, Yuto sought out quiet corners under staircases or in the older, abandoned sections of the building.
The Growing Distance
Sakura felt a heavy weight in her chest as she followed him. As the Pop Queen of the school, she was usually surrounded by people, always admired, always in control. Yet now, she couldn't even reach the back of this "pianist" who had quietly claimed a place in her thoughts.
The cold, invisible barrier Yuto had constructed around himself had become an obstacle between them—impenetrable, silent, and suffocating. His withdrawal into solitude was his way of shielding her from the complications of his life. Yet he could not foresee the pain this act would cause in Sakura's heart.
Chapter 13: Breaking the Silence
Following Him
As the dismissal bell rang, Yuto once again tried to slip quickly through the crowd, moving like a shadow to leave unnoticed. But today, Sakura wasn't willing to give up. Ignoring the calls of her classmates, she sprinted after him all the way to the school's front gate.
"Kagari-kun! Wait… just for a moment!"
Underneath a row of trees outside the school, Sakura managed to grab the sleeve of Yuto's jacket. Her chest heaved with exhaustion, her breath coming in sharp, uneven gasps. Yuto stopped his steps but didn't turn toward her.
A Tearful Apology
"I'm sorry… for everything that happened yesterday. I really am," Sakura's voice trembled as tears welled in her eyes. "Please… don't ignore me like this. I just… I just want to be close to you. I want to listen to your piano… only you."
Seeing the usually radiant, confident girl kneeling and apologizing in front of someone unknown to the crowd was enough to leave anyone stunned. Yuto's shoulders twitched slightly. Slowly, he turned to see Sakura, her face wet with tears.
Acceptance as a Friend
Yuto let out a long, soft sigh. He had realized he could no longer deny the sincerity in her eyes. Adjusting his glasses, he spoke in a gentle tone.
"You don't need to apologize, Shirogane-san. I… I'm just afraid my calm little world will be shattered. But it's my fault for letting it get this far with you."
After a brief silence, he looked at her and gave a faint smile.
"Alright… we'll be friends then. But… can you promise not to follow me like this at school?"
Sakura wiped her tears, nodding repeatedly, a smile breaking through her sorrow. "Yes! I promise. We'll be friends… just outside school grounds!"
Under the golden glow of the sunset, the tension between them melted away. The invisible barrier Yuto had built dissolved, replaced by the quiet warmth of friendship.
Chapter 15: The Fallen Mask
Uncontrollable Rumors
The next morning at school was more tense than usual. Word of the "angelic pianist" that Sakura's three friends had witnessed the night before had spread like wildfire across every SNS group, reaching the entire school by dawn.
As Yuto entered the school grounds, he immediately felt the intensity of countless stares and whispered comments converging on him. Yet he remained unaware of the storm around him, bowing his head as he walked into the classroom as usual.
Scrutiny Amid the Crowd
Once inside, Yuto noticed the peculiar atmosphere. Everyone was staring, some even holding their phones up to capture images of his face. One of the photos being circulated was the one Ren had secretly taken last night.
"Hey… Kagari! Is this really you in this picture?" a student asked, holding the phone close to Yuto's face.
The photo showed Yuto, without glasses, playing the piano with a serene yet strikingly captivating expression. The girls in the classroom were speechless, staring in awe at the stunning revelation.
Truth Revealed
Before Yuto could respond, Daiki stepped forward from the crowd and snatched his glasses off.
"Show us… your face!"
The moment Yuto's eyes were revealed, the intensity and magnetism that matched the photo were undeniable. Gasps of astonishment echoed through the classroom. Sakura, watching anxiously from the crowd, felt her heart skip a beat.
"So he really is the most handsome guy in school!"
"No wonder Sakura was following him!"
Yuto's Choice
Yuto's heart trembled at the realization that all his carefully kept secrets had been exposed. The quiet, solitary life he had longed for was over. He glanced at Sakura, noticing the concern and worry in her eyes. With a steadying breath, he spoke clearly, letting everyone hear.
"Alright… yes, it's me. So what?"
The classroom went silent for a moment, stunned by his composed yet unwavering gaze. Without putting his glasses back on, Yuto faced the world as he truly was—bold, unguarded, and undeniably himself.
Chapter 16: The New King and the Jealous Queen
A Changed Morning
The next morning, Yuto walked to school without any attempt to hide himself. His naturally messy hair framed his sharp, expressive eyes, and the absence of his thick glasses revealed his full, intense gaze.
As he entered the school gates, the attention of every girl in the vicinity immediately converged on him.
"Whoa… is that really Kagari-kun? He's so handsome!"
"Even better than in that photo from yesterday!"
Usually, Yuto preferred to stay invisible in the crowd, blending in like a shadow. Today, however, he moved through the school like a prince illuminated by the spotlight of admiration.
Surrounded by Admiration
The scene worsened once he reached his classroom. Girls who had never spoken to him before now circled around his desk.
"Kagari-kun, can you play the Sandya song for me too?"
"Let's have lunch together today, okay?"
Yuto struggled under the intense focus, longing for his usual calm, quiet space. He tried politely to decline, but the girls didn't easily back off.
Sakura's Outburst
Watching from the doorway, Sakura's expression darkened, clouded with emotions she had never experienced before. A wave of jealousy surged through her. "I was the only one who knew his true self… now everyone is trying to claim him," she thought.
Unable to stand it any longer, she pushed her way through the crowd and grabbed Yuto's arm firmly.
"Everyone… move aside! Kagari-kun needs to hear me!"
Her decisive voice and authoritative presence caused the other girls to step back immediately. Without looking at anyone else, Sakura pressed her lips together in determination and led Yuto away from the crowd.
"Sakura… what are you doing?" Yuto asked, astonished.
"Nothing! But why are you just calmly listening to what they're saying? Your true self belongs to me!" Sakura said, her cheeks flushed, yet refusing to let go of his hand.
Chapter 17: Confessions and High Notes
A Sudden Confession
At the schoolyard corner, Sakura's voice rang out sharply, momentarily freezing the air around them. "Your true self belongs to me!" Her cheeks flushed like a ripe berry as she continued, summoning all her courage.
"I… I mean…" She stumbled over her words for a moment, then gathered her resolve and fixed her gaze on Yuto. "I like you, Kagari-kun! I like everything about you—the quiet, bookish Kagari, and the Sandya teacher Kagari I see now… I like all of you."
Yuto froze, unprepared. He had never paid much attention to romance in his life, but Sakura's heartfelt confession struck him like a bolt.
Hesitation and Reflection
"Sakura… I…" Yuto began, pausing to lower his head and think. "Give me a little time. I need to sort through my feelings… to see if I can return your affection with more than friendship."
Sakura lowered her head, a trace of sadness in her eyes, but she understood. For someone like Yuto, this was no small decision—it was monumental.
The Teacher's Invitation
When they returned to the classroom, Sato-sensei, their music teacher, awaited them. She held up her phone, showing a video of Yuto playing the Sandya that had gone viral on social media.
"Kagari-kun… why have you hidden such talent all this time?" Sensei smiled. "Next week, during the school's founding anniversary music event, we'd like you to perform officially on behalf of the school."
A Decision that Cannot Be Divided
For Yuto, the situation was daunting. Appearing publicly in front of everyone was something he had always avoided. But when he glanced at Sakura, her eyes full of hope and encouragement, he felt the warmth of support.
"It's time to let everyone see your true self, Kagari-kun," Sakura said softly but firmly.
After a moment's thought, Yuto looked at the teacher and nodded. "Alright, Sensei… I'll play."
In that instant, Yuto realized that this decision was not only a turning point for Sakura, but also a new chapter in his own life—a step into openness, courage, and the beginnings of change.
Chapter 18: The Melody of Redemption
A Quiet Rehearsal
The day before the school's founding anniversary music event, the entire campus was buzzing with anticipation. In the grand music hall, under the soft glow of amber lights, Yuto sat alone before his Sandya. Around him, the music teacher and a few organizing students quietly observed, giving him space as he practiced.
As Yuto's fingers danced across the keys, the melodies filled every corner of the hall. This was no longer a sorrowful tune for Sakura; it was a strong, resolute melody, overflowing with hope and determination. His expression, unhidden now, remained calm despite the faint beads of sweat trickling down his face.
Outside the hall, students peeked through the windows, unable to believe their eyes. "Is this really the Kagari we know?" they whispered in astonishment.
An Unexpected Guest
At the end of a piece, Yuto paused for a breath. From the doorway, footsteps echoed. At first, he thought it might be Sakura, coming to cheer him on—but it was someone else entirely: Daiki.
Gone was the rivalry and resentment. With his head slightly lowered, Daiki stepped forward toward Yuto, followed by some of his friends. Sakura watched nervously from a distance.
Reconciliation and Apology
"Kagari…" Daiki called, stopping beside Yuto's Sandya. "I've been listening from outside."
Yuto stayed silent, attentively listening. Daiki took a deep breath, then met Yuto's gaze.
"I'm sorry… for underestimating you, for opposing you, for all the ill will I carried. I realize now that you've always been far more worthy than we gave you credit for. Your music… it's made me let go of my grudges."
The hall went silent as Yuto's classmates absorbed Daiki's words. No one expected the school's star athlete, once jealous of the "bookish" Kagari, to apologize like this.
"It's alright… I hold no grudge either," Yuto replied calmly. "I was only hiding myself before."
Daiki smiled faintly. "Make sure you play your best tomorrow. I'll be there to support you." With that, he turned and left.
Sakura's Smile
Once Daiki departed, Sakura hurried to Yuto's side, her eyes shining with happiness. "Kagari-kun… you're truly amazing. Now, everyone finally understands you."
Yuto looked at her and allowed a small smile to escape. The careful consideration he had taken had led him to clarity. Tomorrow's music performance wouldn't just showcase Yuto's skill—it would also mark a significant day for their relationship.
Chapter 19: The Symphony of Hearts
The Grandest Stage
The day of the school's founding anniversary concert had finally arrived. The grand hall was packed to capacity, filled not only with students but also invited guests and visitors from other schools.
All eyes were focused on a single name—
Yuto Kagari, the mysterious pianist known across social media as "The Ghost Pianist."
As the lights dimmed, a single spotlight fell upon the stage. Yuto stepped forward calmly, no glasses, no disguise—standing exactly as he truly was.
For a split second, the hall fell into complete silence.
Then, a wave of cheers—especially from the female audience—burst forth like thunder.
Family and Heartbeats
Seated among the audience, Sakura sat between her parents. They had come out of pure curiosity—to finally see the boy their daughter talked about so often.
"So that's him…" her father murmured quietly. "Kagari, you said? He has a very composed presence."
Sakura couldn't bring herself to reply. Her hands were clenched tightly in her lap, her heart pounding so hard it felt like it might leap out of her chest.
The Power of the Melody
Yuto took his seat before the piano. He closed his eyes for a brief moment and drew in a deep breath.
Then, his fingers descended upon the keys.
The very first note rang out—clear, sharp, and breathtaking. From that instant, his performance seized the hearts of everyone listening.
The audience watched in silent awe: his focused expression, his masterful hands moving effortlessly across the keys. Many of the girls could only stare, breathless, caught between admiration and disbelief.
Within the melody lived not only loneliness and sorrow—but also something new.
Warmth.
Hope.
The will to live.
Emotions he had discovered through Sakura.
The music washed over the hall, stirring the souls of hundreds as if each note resonated directly within their hearts.
SNS and Sudden Fame
Even as Yuto played, students were already recording videos and streaming the performance live on social media.
"This is professional-level!"
"Is that really Kagari from that school? He's unbelievably handsome!"
"An angel hiding behind glasses!"
The school's SNS feeds exploded with comments. Even students from other schools, watching the live broadcast, were already making plans to come see him in person.
The Unspoken Answer
As the final note faded, the entire hall rose to its feet. Thunderous applause echoed endlessly, refusing to die down.
Before leaving the stage, Yuto lifted his gaze—searching through the crowd until he found Sakura.
Their eyes met.
That single look spoke louder than any confession.
You already know my answer.
And in that moment, amidst the applause and music still lingering in the air, Sakura understood.
Chapter 20: The Dawn of a New Stage
Thunderous Applause
As the final notes of Yuto's performance faded, the grand hall fell silent for just a heartbeat.
Then—like a sudden storm—thunderous applause erupted, shaking the entire venue. Students, teachers, and guests alike were on their feet, cheering and clapping with unrestrained enthusiasm.
Yuto, standing atop the stage, smiled—a kind of pure, unguarded joy he had never felt before. Under the spotlight, the once withdrawn "mushroom-haired pianist" had become a symbol of inspiration, the hero of the moment.
An Offer from the Media
As Yuto stepped off the stage, he noticed two sharply dressed men waiting beside the music teacher.
They introduced themselves as representatives of one of Japan's top classical music agencies.
"Kagari-kun," one of them said respectfully, "your performance moved us profoundly. Your videos have already amassed millions of views online. We would like to officially offer you the opportunity to debut as a professional concert pianist. We will support you every step of the way."
Yuto froze, astonished. He had played only for his passion, never imagining that his talent could now open doors across the world. But as thrilling as the offer was, his gaze instinctively sought the one person who had always believed in him first.
A Reunion in the Crowd
At the back of the hall, Sakura stood with her parents, watching anxiously. Tears of pride shimmered in her eyes as she realized just how far he had come.
"Kagari-kun!" she called, breaking free from her parents' side. "You did it! You were amazing!"
Her mother smiled warmly, praising Yuto's music: "He is even more incredible than our daughter said. His music… it's so moving."
Yuto bowed politely to Sakura's parents, then turned to Sakura herself.
"Sakura… it's because you were there for me that I've come this far. I received an offer from the agency… but my answer is…"
He paused for a moment, squeezing her hands tightly in his. In that instant, the cheering crowd, the cameras, and the endless online attention all faded into insignificance.
At this moment, the girl before him—the one who had been by his side through everything—was his entire world.
Chapter 21: The Final Encore
A Quiet Reunion
The day after the school's grand celebration, the campus lay in calm silence. The grand auditorium was now empty, and Yuto found himself returning to the small, familiar music room where he and Sakura had first met—a place of quiet intimacy.
Soft rays of the setting sun filtered through the windows, painting the room like a delicate work of art. Yuto sat at the piano, gently letting his fingers wander over the keys, coaxing out a tender, heartfelt melody. The door creaked open, and there she was—Sakura. Exhausted but smiling, she paused at the entrance, her eyes lighting up the moment she saw him.
The Sweetest Answer
"I knew you'd be here…" Sakura murmured, stepping closer.
Yuto paused his playing and turned to her. Gone was the cool detachment he had once carried; warmth and gentle emotion radiated from his gaze.
"Sakura… my answer to the confession you made the other day…" he began, stopping for a moment to hold her cheeks softly in his hands. "In my life, nothing mattered without my piano. But you… you walked into the shadows of my world like a ray of light. I can't even imagine a future without you in it."
Sakura's eyes glimmered with tears as her heart raced.
"I love you, Yuto. Thank you for letting me into your world," she whispered.
The First Kiss
A smile of pure happiness spread across Sakura's lips, and she rested her hands gently against Yuto's chest. In the warm glow of the evening sun, their shadows merged as if to become one.
Yuto leaned forward slowly, his gaze locked on her eyes. Sakura closed hers, leaning into his touch. Time seemed to freeze in that quiet music room. Their first kiss was soft, delicate—a melody in itself, tender and lingering like the sweetest note.
Towards the Future
Years later…
Yuto now played on stages across the world as a celebrated classical pianist. Always by his side was Sakura, radiant and smiling, the ever-present light of his life. The story of the "Mushroom-haired Pianist" and the "Pop Queen" had become one of enduring love—a harmony that, like their music, would last forever.
- THE END -