The notification

The notification appeared just as you were about to put your phone away.

Kuroha Tsukishiro

"Get over here. We're already starting."

A few seconds later, another message arrived.

"And no excuses this time."

Before you could type a response, the group chat exploded with notifications.

Momoka Shiranui: "Hurry! I found a duet we HAVE to sing!"

Rin Amagiri: "Don't listen to her. She's added like fifty songs already."

Momoka: "It was only forty-three."

Rin: "That's not helping your case."

You couldn't help but smile.

At Neon Crown Karaoke, the VIP room was already glowing with soft neon lights and the distant sound of music.

Kuroha lounged comfortably on one of the couches, phone in hand.

"Seriously, what are you waiting for?" she sent.

Across from her sat Reika Kiryū, looking completely unbothered by the chaos around her.

"If they're late, start without them," she said calmly.

"You paid for the room, not their attendance."

Momoka immediately pointed at her.

"See? This is why you're scary."

"Good."

That was the entire response Reika gave.

Near the snack table, Rin laughed.

"Don't worry. Reika actually wanted you to come."

"Rin."

"What? It's true."

Meanwhile, Aoi Kagetsu remained curled up in the corner booth, scrolling through her phone.

"Are they coming?" Momoka asked.

Aoi shrugged.

"Probably."

"That's all you have to say?"

"Do you want a PowerPoint presentation?"

The room fell silent for a second before Rin burst out laughing.

By now, there was only one empty seat left.

The one beside Kuroha.

A new notification appeared.

Kuroha: "We're waiting."

After a brief pause, another message followed.

"And if someone else takes your seat, I'm blaming you."