บท 1696: Running away

Confirming what I had suspected earlier, Setsuna-nee found herself in a situation where her responses to Akane and the other girls seemed somewhat stiff. Her smile was even forced at times

Based on my observations, she might be more self-conscious in a private setting than in a public one, where she could maintain a facade.

For instance, on the day they went to watch the practice game, Setsuna-nee was surrounded by our classmates. At that time, she confidently carried herself as Satsuki's older sister, awing everyone who approached her.

However, this time, with my girls acting differently and the seniority she often relied on not being as pronounced, Setsuna-nee struggled to interact with them.

How do I describe it? It's like she couldn't keep up with them.

Juri moved closer to us in an attempt to help. Unfortunately, even with her assistance, Setsuna-nee remained somewhat nervous in her seat, occasionally clutching the hem of her shirt.