The college festival was approaching, and Arisa saw her chance.
She publicly challenged Noa to a debate competition on the main stage.
"Let's see who really deserves him," she whispered to Noa, smiling sweetly.
Noa's hands shook. She was shy by nature—but she couldn't back down.
On the day of the festival, the entire student body gathered to watch. Noa stood on stage, heart hammering. Arisa spoke first, flawless and charming. The crowd applauded.
Then it was Noa's turn.
She closed her eyes and remembered Yuto's words: "Believe in yourself."
When she spoke, she spoke from the heart: about kindness, loyalty, true strength. Her voice trembled at first, but grew stronger with every word.
When she finished, the entire hall erupted into cheers.
Noa had won.
Arisa smiled faintly, defeated but respectful.
"I underestimated you," she said.
"I won't lose next time," Arisa added, but deep down, she admired Noa now.