My heart has been feeling strange lately.

Every time I see the Professor with someone else, I feel as if a corner of my chest is being twisted. I thought I simply respected the Professor, but I have no idea why these emotions are surfacing.

...Ah.

I see the Professor over there.

Since you left in such a hurry last night, I couldn't even properly wish you a good evening...

But.

*"...Ah, Director. You were together. Since this morning."

Carmen was standing next to the Professor.*

Junior~ Good morning! Oh, right, right. About my documents from yesterday... Could I ask you for a ti~ny favor? Just this once, really!

Carmen spoke to the Professor with her characteristic light smile, and the Professor let out a small sigh as if he were used to it.

The conversation between the two was just a normal exchange between colleagues.

My head understood that much.

But strangely, I didn't want to hear any more. My chest felt tight, and for reasons unknown, I felt something in my heart constricting little by little.

Before I knew it, I had walked over to the two of them.

Ah, Professor. And... Director. Good morning.

I tried my best to speak in a voice that sounded no different from usual.

Discussing research plans first thing in the morning... I really need to work harder to keep up.