Basically, Aya had regarded the record store as 'their' place, a space in which she and Koga could appreciate music uninhibited and the latter could dress and act how she preferred. Koga has been being more open with such things in school, and so didn't really think much of sharing that space with the sudden tide of girls *wanting to be her friend (*read: swooning over her). It's a pretty standard jealously thing. She already had competition for Koga at school, now she'll be having competition at the record store. No one likes having to strike down interlopers making moves on their oblivious crush 24/7.
But I’m pretty sure Aya also resents being lumped in with the kouhai as one of many “visitors to the store” rather than one of the “store family” and Mitsuki’s “special friend.” As you say, it’s “their place,” but the way Mitsuki says, “You can come with them” doesn’t acknowledge that special relationship.
In context, a kind of horrifyingly “anti-progress” response, actually.
It would read better if Mitsuki were actually honest about why she said that to Aya. She views Aya as a safety blanket, like a cuddly teddy bear that calms her nerves. If she'd just said something like, "These girls are coming by the store and I'm super nervous--could you tag along and help me through that day?" It would have landed better.
The way she phrased it made Aya feel like an add-on, on top of their "place" not being as special anymore. Mitsuki needs to stop thinking about these things and speak. It would be an easy fix if she did (especially since Mitsuki seems to recognize Aya was put off), but I don't expect that. She instead thinks about wanting Aya as her comfort, instead of saying that to Aya. She would perk up immediately if Mitsuki clarified.
last edited at Sep 10, 2024 9:54AM
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