[Fade in/out.]

(The deadline is tomorrow at noon… It'll be tight, even if everything goes according to plan.)

(We'll just have to save time where we can and try to increase our productivity.)

…Huh?

Hello.

Oh, hello…

I was watching the Game Creator Contest live stream.

Oh, really?! Thanks for tuning in!

I don't know if I could throw away something I was mostly finished making. You took quite the risk, huh?

Haha… Yeah, that's true.

But once I knew what Rina really wanted to make, starting over was the only thing to do.

Of course, it is a bit chaotic and last-minute.

But we're all pulling together as best as we can. I'm sure we'll get it done.

…How can you give so much of yourself to supporting Rina?

It's not like she's doing all of this as some school idol activity…

Huh? Um… I guess I'm doing it because it's Rina.

I love school idols.

I get to enjoy every day meeting up with school idols, and I've really gotten to know all the girls in the School Idol Club.

I love each and every one of them and want to spend all my time cheering them on.

The more time I spend with them, the stronger that desire gets. I want to get behind them in whatever it is they choose to take on. That's why I do it.

Even if they decide to take things in a different direction than what you had in mind?

What do you mean?

Like, what if they quit being school idols and want to do something else?

If they're serious about it, I'll be right there for them every step of the way.

They're all dazzling when they're giving it their all, doing the things they really want to do. I can't help but want to support them.

And besides, I support them for my own reasons as well, so I wouldn't call it selfless or anything. Either way, I want to be by their side, helping them shine.

I see…

I should've been as supportive as you.

Huh?

Ah, nothing. Sorry for stopping you. Here, they're only from the convenience store, but I got you some supplies.

Oh, thank you.

Do your best with your remaining time…

Will do!

[Fade in/out.]

Let me see. I'd better set an alarm on my phone so I don't oversleep…

Whoa! Since when did I get a billion texts?!

There are so many messages of support from Ayumu and the girls, μ's, and all our Aqours friends too.

I was so wrapped up in getting my work done that I didn't even notice. Everyone's cheering us on so much.

Whoa?!

[Taking out phone.]

Hello. Ayumu?

Sorry, you must be tired, but I saw you were going for a break.

I just wanted to say…do your best, but don't push yourself too hard. Though, I doubt anything I say will stop you.

Haha. If I don't push myself now, then when will I?

Besides, I still haven't used my secret weapon yet.

Your secret weapon?

I've got one of the cookies from you guys left. I have it ready to eat before the final stretch.

What?! Wh-Why?!

Because I know it's packed with you and everyone else's feelings of encouragement for us.

I know I'll be able to give my all once I eat it.

W-Well, don't go blaming me if it gives you a tummy ache!

Don't worry. It'll be fine.

I'd love to keep chatting with you, but you should really get whatever rest you can.

Let's go have some fun after all of this is over to make up for it.

Sounds good. I'll have to find you a bag that suits you this time for sure.

*Giggle* It's a date, then.

Well then, give it your best shot! I'm behind you all the way!