Haruki Yokokawa is a student whose deep childhood friendship with Aoi shapes his journey. Their constant daily interactions spark persistent rumors among classmates that they are dating, rumors Aoi always denies. When her close friend Shiori confesses romantic feelings to Haruki, he is surprised, prompting him to reconsider his own connection with Aoi.

Seeking shelter from sudden rain at a local temple, they observe frog carvings. Aoi remarks how people often miss what's nearest to them. This moment jolts Haruki into realizing his romantic feelings for her, noticing her soaked uniform and experiencing a profound emotional shift. He confesses immediately, plunging them into an awkward tension as Aoi struggles to respond to this new dynamic.

These unresolved feelings linger until their class trip to Gokayama four months later. Overhearing Aoi confide in Shiori that she returns his feelings but fears romance could ruin their lifelong friendship, Haruki responds by performing a local farmers' folk song. Though embarrassing for Aoi, this public gesture becomes his way of reassuring her their essential bond could evolve and endure, finally resolving the tension between them.