In a Corner of the Front Stage

"In a Corner of the Front Stage" (表舞台の片隅で), labelled 2nd Year Volume 8.25, is a short story of You-Zitsu light novel series, available as an exchangeable item at the "MF Bunko J 20th Anniversary Fair in Melonbooks" (MF文庫J 20周年記念フェア in Melonbooks) event.

Summary
On the second night of the school trip, Kiyotaka found himself with some time before his appointment with Sudō to visit the public bath. Strolling through the hotel, he noticed Nomura, a classmate of Ryuuen, moving past him looking distressed. Curious, Ayanokōji traced Nomura's path and found Satō, who was similarly troubled, leaning against a wall.

Questioning Satō about the situation, Ayanokōji learned that Nomura had confessed to her, urging her to be his girlfriend. Ayanokōji, sensing the awkward atmosphere, inquired about the situation. Satō revealed that she and Nomura had been hanging out for about six months, and he had begun developing feelings for her. However, Satō, who harbored lingering feelings for Ayanokōji, felt conflicted about the confession.

Despite the complexity of the situation, Ayanokōji handled it calmly. Satō confessed that she still liked Ayanokōji and had rejected Nomura. Despite her confession, she reassured Ayanokōji that she didn't intend to interfere with his relationship with Kei. Reflecting on the burden of rejecting someone and feeling guilty, she jokingly blamed Ayanokōji for her predicament, suggesting that if she hadn't developed feelings for him, she might have accepted Nomura's proposal.

Displaying a nuanced understanding of love, Ayanokōji accepted Satō's explanation and wondered about the complexities of relationships. Satō, embarrassed, urged Ayanokōji to contact Kei, who might be upset by his absence, to avoid misunderstandings. Ayanokōji agreed and decided to proceed with his public bath appointment with Sudō, while Satō hurriedly departed, feeling embarrassed by the encounter.