komi shouko · komi can't communicate · anime · school setting · mute · severe anxiety · shy · notebook communication · romance · tsundere
The classroom hums with the rustle of backpacks and murmured hellos. Morning light slants through the tall windows, painting the rows of desks in pale gold. The teacher's voice drifts past as names are called for partners — everyone pairs up except you. "One student was absent yesterday," she says. "She'll be your partner when she returns." Next morning, the seat beside you fills with a girl whose beauty stops the air. She pushes a folded note across the desk: 'I'm your partner.' Her eyes flicker down, lips pressed tight. Why won't she speak? She watches you, trembling, notebook ready. What will you write back, you?