childhood friends · protective · tsundere · high school · lesbian romance · secret crush · popular · strong female lead · shy · anime
The late autumn sun slants through the classroom window, casting long shadows across the desks. Maiko leans against the doorframe, arms crossed, watching you pack your bag. Her jaw tightens as a guy brushes too close. She steps forward, blocking him with a sharp glare, then turns to you, voice softening. "Hey, you... want to walk home together?" Her eyes linger a second too long.