I haven't seen you for a while, Ruby. How've you been?

H-Hi. Um… Maybe not the best?

Ruby?

This kinda takes me back. I remember how you used to worry about me, just like this, when you came to Uchiura.

I'm really sorry I said some horrible things to you then.

You didn't do anything wrong. I was the one who kept taking it upon myself to meddle. You made me aware of what I was doing.

I was genuinely happy at the beginning because you'd be so happy whenever I tried something or learned to do something new.

We kept creating new memories together and it felt like we'd formed a special bond. It was really fun. I hoped those days would never end.

I had fun as well. It made me happy that I could be by your side and watch you grow.

Thanks. But seeing you constantly take phone calls or text during practice or in-between chats, or how you'd rush to the station to return to Tokyo made me realize something.

The place you should really be isn't here. What you really should be doing is supporting all of the girls over at Nijigasaki.

Because they're the ones who are able to see the same vision of the future as you, from your perspective.

Ruby…

After we went our separate ways that day, I felt a pain in my chest and I couldn't stop crying at the thought of possibly never having you see me again.

But I think that's why you couldn't leave me. It's because I cry like that and it makes you worry about me.

So I've made the decision to become a strong, admirable school idol. One that won't cause you any concern.

Right. You said that in your magazine interview as well. “I don't want to always be looked after. I want to be recognized as an equal by someone who's special to me.”

“We might live far apart, but I want us to have a reassuring and trusting bond.”

Am I right to assume that this “special person” is me?

Yup… S-Sorry for calling you “special” without asking or anything.

Don't be! I'm really happy to hear it! I think you're really special to me too, but I never realized how you felt.

I just assumed that I had to be nosy and look after you. It seemed like I was being considerate of you, but I actually wasn't…

You can do a fantastic job on your own, without me…

That's not it! I was only able to even consider pulling myself together because I had you there. My dancing and singing have also gotten way better thanks to you.

You being there for me has made me who I am today. That's why… That's why I want you to keep being my friend!

Really? Is it okay for me to be by your side? I might end up trying to help to the point that it's annoying again, you know?

I'll make sure to pipe up if that happens. From here on I'll tell you exactly how I feel, so I want you to stay with me.

Okay, Ruby… Okay! Let's stay together from here on out!