The narrative follows Azuki Tetsu, a seemingly ordinary high school student, as he becomes increasingly entangled with the enigmatic and beautiful Hiyama Koyuki, known as the "Ice Snow Queen" for her cold demeanor and striking appearance.
The chapters begin with Tetsu's classmate, Kazuki Sato, a popular soccer player, questioning Tetsu about his connection to Hiyama. Sato reveals a rumor that Hiyama has been using Tetsu's name, "Azuki-kun," when rejecting confessions, leading to speculation about their relationship. Tetsu, initially dismissive, is forced to confront the reality of Hiyama's rejections when he witnesses her harshly turn down a student on the school stairs. He intervenes, preventing a physical altercation and later questions Hiyama about her use of his name. Hiyama admits she used his name as an example of someone she wished others would emulate, but her genuine confusion about why she thought of him suggests a deeper, unacknowledged feeling.
Tetsu's prior encounter with Hiyama occurs two weeks earlier at a quiet cafe. He witnesses Hiyama, who works there part-time (a violation of school rules), being gossiped about by a group of female classmates. Tetsu intervenes, defending Hiyama and subtly defusing the situation by offering to speak to a teacher about the cafe's policy. Hiyama, in turn, thanks him with a free cake and coffee, and they exchange contact information, solidifying a nascent connection.
The rumors escalate, leading to further confrontations with Sato and Tetsu's cheerful friend, Kohinata Himari. Tetsu receives a homemade bento from Hiyama as thanks for his help, which impresses both Himari and Sato. Himari, inspired by Hiyama's culinary skills, vows to improve her own cooking.
Hiyama begins to seek Tetsu's company more frequently. She asks him to accompany her to a cafe where she works, and later to a shopping mall to buy clothes. During these outings, Tetsu observes Hiyama's unusual behavior and her apparent lack of understanding of social norms, particularly regarding relationships and personal space. He learns that Hiyama's family situation is difficult and that she is saving money, suggesting a plan to leave home. Tetsu deduces that Hiyama's "ice queen" persona and her desire to leave are linked to her father, and that she is preparing for an independent future.
The climax of these chapters involves Tetsu confronting Hiyama on a rooftop. He pieces together her situation, realizing she is planning to leave her home and possibly the school. He offers his support, not as a romantic partner, but as someone who wants to help her navigate her difficult circumstances. Hiyama, touched by his sincerity, admits that if Tetsu were to confess his feelings, she would be able to accept them with gratitude, a significant admission for someone who struggles to connect with others. The narrative ends with Tetsu resolving to support Hiyama, acknowledging the complexity of their relationship and the potential for future emotional development.
