Having reached an understanding, we sat there for a moment, the silence between us no longer awkward but filled with a tentative connection. The tension in the room had dissipated like mist in the morning sun.
Once we finished the tea, I called for Maeda and the other girls that I asked to exit earlier.
As soon as Maeda saw Minami Shouko sitting obediently across from me with a soft smile, she looked surprised but nodded in understanding.
"Maeda-san, I apologize for putting you through this. I'll send a message later to everyone..." Minami Shouko started, but I raised a hand to stop her.
"Let's leave the apologies for later. For now, let's just focus on how to deal with the aftermath of this game of yours. Minami-senpai, do you want to accompany me on my patrol? Let's go visit all the clubs you've inconvenienced."