*Sigh*

(Another day, another failed attempt at grasping my character during practice...)

(But I'm beginning to understand how hard it is to get by on just water. So, I just need to keep doing what I can to understand Rio better.)

Oh, I'm already home.

Time flies when you mull things over, I suppose.

(I can't let Saki see the downcast expression that's on my face right now...)

I'm back!

(...!

This smell...)

Welcome home, Tsukasa♪

Guess what? We're having curry for dinner tonight!

(I knew it...! But...)

Hah hah hah! Did you forget that I'd be eating out today...?

Oh, that's right.

You said you guys would all go out for food after practice.

So, how was practice?

Do you think you're gonna get to play the boy for “The Happy Phoenix”?

(Oh... I shouldn't deceive her too much...)

I-I'm still not sure...!

Because I'm competing against all these great actors from the park's number one stage! And on top of that, it's a fairly tricky role!

Haha. You say that, but your face is telling me that you feel pretty good about this.

R-Really?

Hah hah hah hah hah!

(No! I revealed too much of the truth...!)

Hehe. I believe in you, Tsukasa!

I'm sure you'll do just fine♪

Thank you, Saki! I appreciate it!

(My stomach won't stop grumbling...)

(But Rio also experienced this pain.

I can't let myself forget that...)

Excuse me...

Is Tsukasa here right now?

Hm? Ah, Toya.

I'm right here.

...

Hm? Toya...?

Oh, it's nothing that important...

But the actor you told me about will be performing on stage soon, yes?

Are you talking about Mr. Amami's show...?

As much as I want to go see him, I need to keep practicing for my audition...

...

Toya...?

You've been staring at my face this entire time...

No, it's just...

I'm sorry...

Toya...

Is there something else that you'd like to talk about?

We've known each other for how long? Please, don't hesitate.

Then...

The thing is, just yesterday, I messaged Saki to see if she would take one of my claw machine prize plushies...

That was when she mentioned you were acting a bit different.

...

I see. That's why you're here right now. To make sure I'm doing okay...

Yes, I'm sorry...

I know I'm being very nosy, but...

No, it's okay.

(All this lying and deception is definitely starting to confuse everyone, including myself...)

I apologize, Toya.

I've actually been practicing for a role in this very big show.

But I'm struggling to get a grasp of my character. Saki may've felt something was off because I had so much on my mind when I discussed this with her.

Right, she also mentioned that you've been practicing for a big show.

I'll be sure to tell her that there's no need to worry. And thank you for showing so much concern.

No, I understand. It sounds like a tough role, but you also put on an incredible performance as Thorpe that other time.

So, I'm sure you'll do just fine.

...!

Yes! I promise to do my best and not disappoint any of you!

Of course. Now, if you'll excuse me.

Right, I should send Saki a message.

(They believe in me...)

(They're all giving me their support.)

(I still have a few days left until the audition. They've placed their faith in me, so I need to figure out how to play Rio!)