Zeke’s Wife

The first thing you learned after summer ended was that Choso was very bad at missing people quietly.

Not because he complained.

Not because he demanded your attention.

Actually, it was the opposite.

Choso would never make you feel guilty for being busy.

He understood.

You had classes. Assignments. Exams. Your own life.

But... He missed you. And somehow, you always knew.

The first week after returning to university felt strange.

Not bad. Just different.

You had gotten used to waking up and seeing him. To walking downstairs and finding him making coffee. To sitting beside him while he worked. To his hand finding yours without thinking.

Now there was distance. But Choso made sure it never felt like too much.

Every morning, there was a message.

Good morning sweetheart. Did you sleep well?

Every evening.

Did you eat something?

And whenever you complained that he sounded like an overprotective parent...

His answer was always the same. "I care about you."

And somehow, you could never argue with that.

He visited whenever he could.

Sometimes it was planned. Sometimes it wasn't.

One night, you were on a call with him.

You were both tired.

You were lying in bed, barely keeping your eyes open while Choso was telling you about something funny Yuji did earlier.

You weren't even sure when you said it.

It slipped out. "I miss you."

A pause. A very long pause.

"Choso?"

"I'm here."

You smiled sleepily. "Good."

The next thing you knew, you fell asleep.

The next morning... Someone knocked on your apartment door.

You frowned. You weren't expecting anyone.

You opened it. And froze.

Choso stood there. Holding flowers. With the softest smile. "Surprise."

You stared. "Choso?"

"Hi."

"What are you doing here?"

He looked almost confused. "I missed you too."

Your heart immediately melted. "You drove here?"

"Mhm."

"Just because I said I missed you?"

He shrugged. "It seemed important."

You laughed. "You took time off?"

"Yes."

"Choso."

He smiled. "I wanted to see you."

And that was the thing about him. He never made huge gestures to impress you. He did them because, to him, they were obvious. Of course he would come if you missed him. Of course he would help if you needed him. Of course he would show up.

Two weeks after the summer house ended, the distance hit hard. Choso called you every night. He was never shy about missing you or how badly he needed you. One evening the texts started getting filthy fast.

Choso: miss your pussy so much Choso: been hard all day thinking about you Choso: can we try something tonight?

You agreed. That night you both set up on video. Choso appeared on screen shirtless, two messy buns slightly askew, cheeks already pink. His hand was already inside his sweats.

“Hi,” he said, voice low. “I’ve been thinking about this all day. First time doing this with you. I’m nervous but… fuck I want it so bad.”

You stripped slowly for him on camera. His eyes followed every movement. When you spread your legs and let him see how wet you already were, he groaned and shoved his sweats down. His cock sprang free, thick and already leaking.

“Touch yourself,” you told him. “Show me how you stroke it when you think about me.”

Choso wrapped his hand around himself and started pumping slowly, eyes locked on your screen. You slid two fingers through your folds, circling your clit while he watched. The first time he heard you moan his name through the speakers his hips jerked hard.

“Fuck,” he breathed. “You sound so good. Keep going. Please.”

You talked him through it, telling him exactly how to touch himself, when to slow down, when to speed up. He followed every instruction like the good boy he was. Every time you praised him—“such a good boy for me, Choso”—his cock twitched visibly on camera and he moaned louder.

He came first, thick ropes spilling over his fist while he gasped your name. You kept touching yourself, letting him watch you finish. The second you came he was already half-hard again, high sex drive kicking in immediately.

After that night the calls became regular. Almost every evening you’d both end up naked on screen, touching yourselves while the other watched. Choso never held back. He’d tell you how hard he was at work thinking about your voice, how he’d jerked off in the bathroom remembering the way you tasted. Sometimes he’d beg you to let him come, other times you’d edge him for twenty minutes while he whimpered and thanked you. The distance only made the calls hotter. He’d send you videos of himself stroking his cock in the morning, and you’d send him pictures of your fingers buried inside yourself at night. Every session ended with him calling you his everything and you reminding him what a good boy he was for waiting so patiently for your next call.

You had been counting the days until Choso’s next visit. The long-distance stretch between you felt heavier every week, but he never hesitated to close the gap. Sometimes he would text you at noon that he was already in the car, and by the time you opened your door he would be standing there with that soft, eager look on his face, two messy buns slightly wind-blown from the drive.

The moment the door clicked shut behind him your hands were on his chest. “Choso, I need you so fucking much I’m losing my mind,” you breathed against his mouth. He didn’t even drop his bag. He just let it fall and kissed you back hard, already walking you backward toward the couch. Clothes came off in frantic pulls—his shirt over his head, your shorts shoved down your thighs. He was hard before you even touched him, cock straining against his jeans until you freed it with one impatient tug.

You pushed him down onto the cushions and climbed into his lap. Choso’s big hands gripped your hips as you sank onto him in one smooth motion. The stretch made both of you groan. You rode him slow at first, rolling your hips so you could feel every thick inch drag along your walls. He watched you with glassy eyes, mouth parted, completely lost in the way your pussy squeezed him.

“Fuck—yes—ride me just like that,” he panted. You leaned down and kissed him, then sat back up and started bouncing harder. Every time you dropped down he thrust up to meet you, the wet slap of skin filling the room. You kept your hands on his chest, nails digging into muscle while you praised him nonstop. “Such a good boyfriend, driving all this way just to let me fuck you. My perfect boy. Look at you, letting me use this cock whenever I want.”

Choso whined at the words, hips stuttering. He loved when you rode him, loved watching your tits bounce and feeling your thighs shake around him. But sometimes the need flipped and he flipped you instead—strong arms lifting you off his lap and turning you around so your knees hit the couch cushions. He lined up behind you and pushed back inside in one deep thrust. The angle made you cry out. Choso gripped your waist and fucked you hard, the sound of his hips slapping your ass echoing through the apartment. You reached back and grabbed his wrist. “That’s it, baby. Take what you need. You’re so good for me.”

He came first that time, buried deep, moaning your name as he filled you. You kept rocking back on him until you followed, clenching around his still-twitching cock. Afterward he stayed inside you, pressing soft kisses between your shoulder blades while you both caught your breath.

The work situation also became something surprisingly easy. Like he promised, Choso occasionally sent you smaller projects.

Nothing overwhelming. Nothing that interfered with your studies. Just enough to gain experience.

The first time you completed one, he looked ridiculously proud. "You did really well."

You smiled. "You sound like my professor."

"I'll take that as a compliment."

"It is."

Later, he admitted something.

"I talked with HR."

"About what?"

"About you."

You looked up. "What?"

He immediately explained. "Don't worry. I wanted to make sure everything was transparent."

"Because I'm supervising you."

"Exactly."

You smiled. "Choso, you really think about everything."

"I have to."

"No, you choose to."

He smiled slightly. "Maybe."

"And my boss knows."

"About us?"

"Mhm."

"What did he say?"

Choso laughed quietly. "He said..." He paused. "That he wasn't surprised."

"Why?"

"Because apparently I have never volunteered to mentor anyone before."

You smiled. "Really?"

"Never."

"And now?"

"Now I have a student I want to help."

Your heart warmed.

"He also said something else."

"What?"

Choso looked slightly embarrassed. "He said I must think you're special if I was willing to take responsibility for someone."

You smiled. "Your boss sounds smart."

"He is."

Of course, Choso still visited Yuji.

Because despite everything... Yuji was still his little brother. And that would never change.

Sometimes you would find them together, arguing over something completely ridiculous.

"You're annoying." Yuji would say.

"I know."

"And you're still doing it."

"Yes."

"You admit it?"

"Yes."

You laughed every time.

His protectiveness never disappeared either.

If you walked home late?

A message.

Text me when you get there.

If you mentioned feeling sick?

Immediately:

Do you need anything?

If you said you were tired?

Rest. I'll call you later.

"You know I'm an adult, right?"

"Mhm."

"I can take care of myself."

"I know."

"Then why?"

He always smiled. "Because I want to."

Eventually, you met his parents.

And honestly?

You understood immediately where Choso got his warmth from.

They welcomed you like they had known you for years.

And Yuji... Yuji was dramatic as always.

During one family dinner, he leaned back and sighed.

"Finally."

Everyone looked at him.

"What?"

He pointed around the table.

"This family needed someone interesting."

"Yuji."

"What?"

"You invited yourself to this conversation."

"I always do."

You also visited Choso's apartment. And that was an experience. Because you knew he was comfortable financially. He never hid it. But seeing his place?

Different.

It was beautiful. Modern. Spacious. Quiet. Everything looked expensive but somehow still warm.

You walked around slowly. Then looked at him. "I have a rich handsome boyfriend."

Choso blinked. "What?"

You turned dramatically. "Let me have a moment."

He laughed. "You are ridiculous."

"Let me enjoy this."

"Okay."

And the fact that he actually waited patiently while you admired everything made you laugh even more.

But the money was never what mattered. Not really. Because Choso's favorite way of showing love wasn't expensive things. It was taking care of you.

One day, you casually mentioned:

"I think my period is coming."

You didn't think much of it. It was just a comment. A few hours later... Your phone buzzed. A delivery notification.

You frowned. You hadn't ordered anything.

When you opened the door... There were sweets. Tea. Your favorite snacks.

You immediately called him. "Choso."

"Hm?"

"Did you send me this?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Because you said you weren't feeling good."

You smiled. "You're unbelievable."

"Is that bad?"

"No."

You laughed. "It's very you."

Another time: "I broke my nail."

A normal complaint.

A dramatic one.

But normal.

Choso's response? "Send me your schedule."

You stared. "Why?"

"I'll arrange something."

"Choso."

"What?"

"It's a nail."

"I know."

"Then why?"

"Because you liked going there before."

You went silent. Because of course he remembered. The next day, you received a confirmation. Appointment. Best salon in the city. Paid. Already scheduled.

You called him. "Choso."

"Yes?"

"You booked me a nail appointment?"

"Mhm."

"And paid?"

"Mhm."

"Why?"

He sounded genuinely confused. "Because you wanted it."

You laughed. "You just added my nails to your monthly expenses?"

"Yes."

"Like that's normal?"

"It is."

"For you maybe."

But the moment that showed you everything happened after one of your worst days. Nothing dramatic. Just one of those days where everything felt too much.

You called him. You weren't even crying. Just tired. Exhausted.

"I hate today."

A pause.

Then:

"Give me an hour and a half."

You smiled weakly. "Choso, you're in another city."

"I know."

"Don't do anything stupid."

"I'm not."

An hour and a half later... There was a knock. You opened the door. And there he was.

Choso.

Standing there.

Again.

You stared. "You actually came."

He smiled softly. "Of course."

"You drove here?"

"Mhm."

"Just because I had a bad day?"

He looked at you like the answer was obvious. "Yes."

And that was when you understood. Choso loved through actions. Through flowers. Through showing up. Through remembering. Through making your life easier whenever he could. He never needed grand speeches. He never needed to prove anything.

Because every single day... He showed you.

And distance? Distance was just a detail.

Because Choso Kamo had spent years protecting the people he loved. And now that you were one of them... He made sure you never had to wonder if he was there.

Then came exam season. The absolute worst week imaginable. You were surviving on coffee, highlighters and pure determination.

During one video call, you rubbed your eyes. "I'm exhausted."

"I can tell."

"My brain stopped functioning yesterday."

He smiled sympathetically. "Did you eat dinner?"

Silence.

"...YN."

"I forgot."

"You forgot."

"I was studying."

He pinched the bridge of his nose. "You need food to study."

"I know."

An hour later... Your doorbell rang.

Again.

Food. Healthy. Warm. Your favorite dessert.

You didn't even have to check who sent it.

When you called him... He answered on the first ring.

"Did it arrive?"

"You are unbelievable."

"Is that a yes?"

"Choso."

"You forgot dinner."

"I was going to eat."

"When?"

"...Eventually."

He smiled. "I know."

Another time...

You were buried under textbooks. Papers covered the floor. Your laptop. Your desk. Even your bed.

Choso came over after work. He stood in your doorway for a full minute. Looking around.

"...Sweetheart."

"What?"

"You've created a crime scene."

You laughed. "It's organized."

"It absolutely isn't."

"It is."

"No." He gently took the notebook from your hands. "When was the last time you stretched?"

You blinked. "I..."

"When?"

"...Yesterday?"

He looked at you. "...Morning?"

You smiled sheepishly. "I don't remember."

"I know." He walked behind you. Placed his hands lightly on your shoulders. "Stand up."

"I'm studying."

"You've been studying for six hours."

"I have an exam."

"You also have a spine."

You burst into laughter.

He convinced you to take a fifteen-minute break. Fifteen minutes became thirty. Because somehow... You ended up sitting on the balcony with tea while Choso quietly organized your notes into neat piles.

"You know." You smiled. "You don't have to clean my chaos."

"I know."

"You'll make me dependent."

He looked up. "I hope not."

"You don't?"

"No." He smiled softly. "I hope you'll always know you can do everything yourself." He folded another stack of papers. "I just like making difficult days a little easier."

Your laptop broke once. Completely. Two weeks before a major deadline. You called him nearly in tears.

"I don't know what to do."

"What happened?"

"It won't turn on."

"Did you save everything?"

"Most of it."

"Okay." He was already calm. "I'll handle it."

"You can't."

"I can."

"You live two hours away."

"I know."

"You have work tomorrow."

"I know."

"Choso—"

"I'll be there tonight."

He arrived close to midnight. With another laptop. You stared.

"...Where did you get this?"

"I had a spare."

"You own a spare laptop?"

"I'm in IT."

"...Fair."

He spent almost three hours recovering your files. By the end... Everything worked again. You looked at him.

"You saved my semester."

He smiled. "I fixed a laptop."

"You saved my semester."

He couldn't argue with that.

Money was another subject entirely. Because Choso earned... Very well. And you... Were a student.

He never wanted you to feel embarrassed about it. So he found the most ridiculous ways of helping.

One afternoon... The two of you went grocery shopping. You quietly reached for the cheaper pasta.

He noticed immediately. "Sweetheart."

"Hm?"

"You don't like that brand."

"It's cheaper."

"I know."

"It's fine."

"No." He gently replaced it with your favorite.

"It's almost twice the price."

"I know."

"Choso."

He looked at you. "You shouldn't have to choose things you like less just to save a few bucks."

"But I don't want you paying for everything."

"I know."

"I mean it."

"So do I."

He thought for a second. Then smiled. "How about this."

"What?"

"You buy dessert."

"I can do that."

"I'll buy everything else."

You narrowed your eyes. "You're manipulating me."

"I prefer 'negotiating.'"

The cashier smiled knowingly. "You two are cute."

You immediately hid your face in Choso's shoulder. He just smiled. "Thank you."

Flowers became another habit. Not once a month. Not only for anniversaries. Just... Whenever.

You opened your apartment door one Friday. There he stood. Holding sunflowers.

"No occasion?" You asked.

He shook his head. "I walked past them."

"And?"

"They reminded me of you."

"...Why?"

"They made me smile."

One evening, after finishing another brutal week of classes, you sighed dramatically.

"I'm so tired of being a broke student."

Choso looked over from his laptop. "You know..."

"What?"

"I've been thinking."

"Oh?"

"When you graduate..."

He smiled. "I'll spoil you exactly the same."

You laughed. "That wasn't what I expected."

"What did you expect?"

"I don't know."

"Less honesty?"

"Maybe."

He walked over and wrapped his arms around your waist. "You know why I like taking care of you?"

You looked up. "Why?"

"Because I spent a long time taking care of everyone else."

"Yuji. My parents. My team." He smiled. "But with you..." His forehead rested against yours. "It doesn't feel like responsibility. It feels like love."

Your heart melted. "You know..."

"What?"

"I think you secretly enjoy it."

He laughed. "I absolutely do."

"You really love spoiling me."

"I really do."

"You realize I love you even if you don't buy me flowers?"

"I know."

"Or coffee."

"I know."

"Or dinners."

"I know."

You smiled. "So why?"

He kissed your forehead. "Because every time I get the chance to make you smile..." He looked at you with that familiar warmth that still made your heart race, no matter how many times you'd seen it. "...I can't think of a better way to spend my money."

You wrapped your arms around his neck. "You know what my favorite gift has always been?"

"What?"

"You."

He blinked. "...Sweetheart."

"You drove three hours to fix my laptop. You remember my favorite snacks. You notice when I skip breakfast. You somehow know when I'm pretending I'm okay." You smiled. "I've never cared about the price of anything you've given me." You cupped his face. "My favorite thing has always been knowing that someone loves me enough to notice the little things."

For a long moment, Choso didn't speak. Then, very quietly, he admitted, "...That's the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me."

And somehow, despite all the flowers, all the dinners, all the little surprises... You knew that sentence would stay with him far longer than any gift ever could.

Graduation day felt unreal. For months you had imagined it.

The final exams. The last assignments. The moment where everything you worked for finally paid off.

And somehow… It arrived.

The four of you stood together. You. Yuji. Nobara. Megumi.

The same group that had somehow formed at university and became something much bigger than any of you expected.

Nobara fixed everyone’s clothes. “Okay.” She looked at all of you. “We look good.”

Yuji grinned. “Obviously.”

Megumi sighed. “You say that every time.”

“Because it’s always true.”

You laughed. And for a moment, you just stood there. Remembering.

The first days of university. The first conversations. The summer house. The person you met there. Choso had been waiting outside. Of course he had. And the moment he saw Yuji walking in his graduation clothes… Something changed in his expression.

You noticed immediately. Because you knew him. You knew every small reaction. The way his eyes softened. The way he smiled. The way he tried to hide how emotional he was. But he failed. Completely.

“Choso?”

He quickly looked away. “I’m fine.”

You smiled. “You’re crying.”

“No.”

“Choso.”

“…A little.”

You laughed softly. Yuji walked over. And immediately noticed. “Are you crying?”

“No.”

“You are.”

“I am not.”

“You literally are.”

Choso looked at him. “You graduated.”

The teasing disappeared for a moment.

Yuji smiled. “Yeah.”

And Choso pulled him into a hug. A real one. The kind that showed exactly how much Yuji meant to him. “I’m proud of you.”

Yuji smiled. “Thanks, old man.”

Choso immediately frowned. “I’m not old.”

“You are older than me.”

“That doesn’t make me old.”

“It does.”

Then Choso looked at you. And the second he did… His entire expression changed. Because even after everything… He still looked at you like he couldn’t believe he got lucky. And then he handed you the flowers. A huge bouquet. Of course.

You stared. “Choso…”

“For you.”

“You didn’t have to.”

“I know.”

“You always say that.”

“Because it’s true.”

You smiled. “And the gift?”

He looked slightly embarrassed. “You noticed?”

“It’s literally in your hand.”

“Oh.”

You laughed.

After graduation, the biggest change came.

Moving.

Together.

With Choso.

You knew it was coming. You had talked about it for months. But actually standing in your old apartment, packing your things… That was different.

“You don’t have to do everything today.” Choso said.

You looked over. He was carrying another box. “You say that while carrying my books.”

“Because books are heavy.”

“They are.”

“So I’m helping.”

You smiled. “You really decided this is your mission.”

“Yes.”

“What mission?”

“Making sure you don’t have to do everything alone.”

Graduation week arrived in a blur of caps and gowns. The moment the last box was loaded into the moving truck you found Choso in the empty living room of your old apartment. He was wiping sweat from his forehead, shirt clinging to his broad chest. You stepped close, fingers hooking into his belt loops.

“Last quickie here?” you murmured, already tugging at his zipper.

Choso’s eyes darkened instantly. He didn’t need to be told twice. He spun you around and bent you over the kitchen counter that had seen so many late-night talks. Your shorts were yanked down, his cock freed in seconds. He pushed inside you with one smooth thrust, both of you gasping at the sudden heat. The counter dug into your hips but you didn’t care. Choso fucked you fast and deep, one hand between your legs rubbing your clit while the other held your waist. You kept talking the whole time, voice shaky with pleasure. “Good boy - my perfect boyfriend—gonna miss this counter.”

He came with a broken groan, hips jerking as he pumped you full. You followed right after, thighs trembling. When he finally pulled out he turned you around and kissed you slow and sweet, like the frantic fuck had only made him softer.

Living with Choso was… Amazing. Not perfect. Because no life was perfect. But somehow… Perfect for you.

The first day in your new apartment, Choso took you shopping. And you had expected him to be practical. You expected him to choose only things you needed. Instead…

You became completely invested. “Oh my God.”

“What?”

“These sheets.”

Choso looked at them. “They are sheets.”

“They are beautiful sheets.”

“They are white.”

“Exactly.” He nodded seriously. “Okay.”

You laughed. Then came pillows. Decorations. Small kitchen things. Plants. Blankets. Little things that made the apartment feel like yours. You were so focused that you didn’t even notice. Until you reached the register. And Choso paid.

You stared. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“You paid for everything.”

“Yes.”

“Everything?”

“Mhm.”

“You didn’t tell me.”

“You were happy.”

“That is not an answer.”

“It is.”

You sighed. “You are impossible.”

He smiled. “I know.”

That evening… After everything was unpacked enough to sit comfortably… Choso opened a bottle of champagne. A very expensive one.

You looked at the bottle. “Choso.”

“What?”

“This looks expensive.”

“It is.”

“Of course it is.”

He smiled. Then poured two glasses. He lifted his.

“To our new life.”

Your heart melted. You clinked your glass against his. “To our new life.”

The cork popped and you poured two glasses, but they barely got touched. You were both too busy kissing, hands roaming, clothes falling to the floor. You ended up on the living-room rug, Choso on his back while you straddled him. The champagne fizz still tingled on your tongue when you sank down onto his cock. You rode him slow, rolling your hips in deep circles while he gripped your thighs and moaned your name.

You leaned down, lips brushing his ear. “You’re the best boyfriend ever. I love you so much.”

Choso’s breath hitched. He kissed you hard, hands sliding up to cup your face. When you pulled back you smirked and whispered, “And you’re such a good boy, Choso.”

He whined, hips bucking up into you. The praise flipped a switch. He sat up, arms wrapping around your waist, and started thrusting from below while you stayed in his lap. The new angle made you see stars. You kept murmuring praise between gasps—“good boy, taking me so deep, driving hours just to fuck me, my perfect boy”—and Choso grew frantic. He flipped you onto your back, hooked your legs over his shoulders, and fucked you hard and deep. Every thrust punched a moan out of you. He was relentless, sweat-slicked muscles flexing, messy buns falling loose around his face.

You came first, clenching around him so tight he followed seconds later, burying himself to the hilt as he spilled inside you. But neither of you stopped. The overstimulation only made everything hotter. Choso pulled out, flipped you onto your stomach, and slid back in from behind. He fucked you through another orgasm, then another, until you were both shaking and the rug was damp beneath you.

Later, when you finally made it to the bed, you rode him again—slow and lazy this time—while he looked up at you with pure adoration. Every time you called him good boy his cock twitched inside you. Every time you told him you loved him he kissed whatever skin he could reach. You lost count of how many times you both came. The night stretched long, filled with sweat, praise, desperate kisses, and the kind of deep, aching connection that only came from finally living under the same roof.

By the time the sun rose you were both exhausted, limbs tangled, champagne glasses still half-full on the nightstand. Choso pressed one last sleepy kiss to your shoulder and whispered, “Best night of my life.” You smiled against his chest, already planning the next time you would call him your good boy and watch him fall apart all over again.

Starting work was another adjustment. Because now you weren’t just a student doing occasional projects. You were officially part of the company. And being new meant being in the office more often.

Choso understood. So naturally… He came with you. Not because you couldn’t handle yourself. Never that. But because he liked being near you. And because he knew the environment.

“You’re literally my guide.” You teased him.

“I am helping.”

“You are showing me where the coffee machine is.”

“That is important.”

“It is.”

“I knew you would agree.”

You laughed.

Sometimes he stayed home. And those days were honestly adorable. You would come back exhausted… And find him cooking. Or cleaning. Or organizing something.

“Did you clean today?”

“Mhm.”

“You didn’t have to.”

“I know.”

You smiled. “You really love saying that.”

“Because it applies often.”

One afternoon, you were walking back from the cafeteria together. Talking about nothing important.

When someone called out. “Choso.”

You both turned. His boss. Well… Your boss too. He smiled.

“I’m surprised to see you here.” Then his eyes moved toward you. “Ah.”

A small smile appeared. “You must be the reason. Welcome to our company miss Kamo.”

You immediately blushed. “It’s actually still Miss LN.”

The man blinked. Then laughed. “Sorry, I didn’t mean—”

“It’s okay, boss.” Choso chuckled. “She is future Miss Kamo.”

You froze. “Choso.”

He looked completely calm. “What?”

Your boss smiled. “I see.”

Later that evening… You were sitting together at home. And Choso was strangely quiet.

You looked at him. “What?”

“Hm?”

“You’re thinking.”

He smiled. “You always notice.”

“Yes.”

He looked at you. “Can I ask something?”

“Of course.”

A pause.

Then: “Would you like to be Miss Kamo someday?”

You blinked. Slowly. “Are you proposing?”

Immediately… Choso looked offended.“What?”

You laughed. “That’s what it sounded like.”

“You think I would propose in our apartment?”

You covered your mouth, laughing. “Fair point.”

“I would do better than that.”

“I know you would.”

Then you leaned closer. And kissed him. Softly.

“I would love to spend my life with you, Choso.”

For once… He didn’t immediately answer.

Because the words hit him. Not because he doubted them. Because they meant everything. Then he smiled. The happiest smile you had ever seen.

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

The funny thing about Choso was that once he finally let himself believe you actually wanted him...

He changed.Not into someone completely different. He was still Choso. Still the man who worried too much. Still the man who asked if you were comfortable every five minutes.Still the man who would quietly refill your drink before you even noticed it was empty But there was something different. He stopped holding himself back.

The first few days after everyone found out were probably the funniest. Because Choso had gone from being incredibly careful around you... To openly affectionate. Not in a way that was overwhelming.

Just naturally.

Like he finally stopped fighting the fact that he wanted to be close to you. His hand would find yours when you walked. He would sit next to you instead of across from you. He would casually put an arm around you while everyone watched movies.

And every single time... Yuji had something to say.

"So."

You looked up from your book. "Hm?"

Yuji grinned. "How does it feel?"

"What?"

"Being my future half-sister-in-law."

You immediately laughed. "Yuji."

"What?"

"You can't just say things like that."

"Why not?"

"Because Choso is right there."

You glanced toward the kitchen. Choso was making coffee.

He heard his name. "What happened?"

"Nothing."

Yuji smiled innocently. "Just talking about family."

Choso narrowed his eyes. "Yuji."

"What?"

"You are being annoying."

"Correct."

Nobara loved it. Absolutely loved it. Mostly because she had spent weeks watching the two of you awkwardly circle around each other.

"So basically," she said one evening.

"You both spent the entire summer crushing on each other."

"Yes."

"And neither of you planned to say anything."

"Apparently."

She shook her head. "Painful."

Megumi nodded. "Very."

The rest of the summer became something you never wanted to end.

It was simple. And somehow that made it perfect.

Choso took you on dates. Not extravagant ones. Even though he could have. He had the money. The connections. The ability to plan something huge. But he always chose things that felt personal.

A small café he discovered while driving around. A walk by the lake. A bookstore where he let you spend an hour looking through shelves while he patiently followed behind. A little restaurant where he remembered exactly what you liked ordering after only one visit.

"You remember everything." You told him once.

He looked confused. "Of course."

"Most people don't."

"Maybe they should."

And that was Choso.

He loved buying you flowers. Almost too much.

At first, you thought it was just because he wanted to be romantic. Then you realized... He genuinely enjoyed it.

He liked walking into a store and choosing something for you. He liked seeing your expression when he handed them to you. He liked that something small could make you smile.

One day you teased him. "Choso."

"Hm?"

"If you keep buying me flowers, I'm going to run out of places to put them."

He thought about it. Then nodded seriously. "I'll buy you bigger vases."

You laughed. "That's not the solution."

"It seems like a good solution."

He also loved taking pictures with you. Which surprised everyone. Because Choso didn't seem like someone who cared about social media.

But with you? Different story.

A picture of you laughing. A picture of your hands holding coffee. A picture of the two of you at the lake.

Nothing overly dramatic. Just little moments. Proof that this summer happened. Proof that he was happy.

Yuji nearly fell off the couch the first time Choso posted a picture of you. "You posted her?"

Choso looked up. "Yes."

"Publicly?"

"Yes."

"Choso."

"What?"

"You never post anything."

"I wanted to."

Yuji stared. Then looked at you. "Wow."

"What?"

"My brother is gone."

You laughed.

The sweetest part was probably how comfortable he became around you. Especially when he worked.

At first, he apologized.

"Sorry, I have to answer some emails."

"You don't have to apologize."

"But I'm spending time with you."

"And you're working."

"Mhm."

"That's okay."

He looked surprised. "You don't mind?"

"Choso." You smiled. "I like being around you."

Eventually it became normal. You would sit beside him while he worked. Sometimes reading. Sometimes studying. Sometimes scrolling through your phone.

And Choso would work with one hand while the other rested on you. Sometimes holding your hand. Sometimes resting gently on your ankle.

Sometimes, if you were tired, he would insist: "Come here."

"Choso, I'm fine."

"I know."

"Then why?"

"Because you should be comfortable."

And before you could argue, you would already be sitting on his lap while he continued working.

"You realize this is ridiculous?" You told him once.

He looked at you. "Why?"

"Because you are literally working."

"Mhm."

"With me sitting here."

"Mhm."

"Doesn't that distract you?"

He thought. "Sometimes."

You smiled. "But?"

"I like it."

And that was enough.

But eventually... Summer started coming closer to an end. And the thought of going back to normal life became harder.

Because normal life meant distance. Different cities. Different schedules. Different responsibilities.

One evening, while you were sitting together outside, Choso became quieter.

You noticed immediately. "What?"

"Hm?"

"You're thinking."

He smiled slightly. "You always notice."

"Yes."

He looked at you. "I was thinking about after summer."

Your expression softened. "Me too."

"I can't move closer right now."

You stayed quiet. Because you wanted him to continue.

"My work is based near here."

"And Yuji's parents' house is close enough for me to visit."

"But..." He took your hand. "I don't want distance to mean something changes."

Your heart warmed.

"I can visit you. You can visit me. We'll make it work."

You smiled. "I know."

Then he said something that made your heart stop. "After you graduate..."

You looked at him.

"I want you to move in with me."

Your eyes widened slightly. "Choso."

He immediately looked nervous. "I know it's a big thing. Maybe too soon. I just..." He squeezed your hand. "I know I want you in my life. Not just for summer. Not just because this feels good right now. I want ordinary days with you. Breakfasts. Coming home after work. Watching movies. Everything."

You smiled. "Do you know how long I've wanted to hear you say something like that?"

His eyes softened. "Really?"

"Really."

But before any future plans... There was one thing Choso insisted on.

Doing things properly. Of course he did. Because he was Choso.

The day he asked you officially was simple. Almost too simple. You were walking together after dinner. The sun was setting.

He stopped.

You looked at him. "What?"

He smiled nervously. And even after everything... Even after kisses. After sleeping beside each other. After spending weeks together...

He was still nervous. "I wanted to ask you something."

"Okay."

He took your hands. "Would you like to be my girlfriend?"

You smiled. "Choso."

"Hm?"

"You know I already act like your girlfriend."

"I know."

"And you act like my boyfriend."

"I know."

"Then why are you asking?"

His cheeks turned slightly pink. "Because I want to do it properly."

And that answer... Was so him.

You smiled. "Yes."

His whole face changed. Like he had been waiting for that one word. "Yes?"

"Yes."

He pulled you into a hug immediately. Not dramatic. Not overwhelming. Just happy.

Two days later. The rest of the group decided to spend the whole day in the nearby city. Leaving two of you alone for the whole day. Perfect.

You spent the entire day teasing Choso without mercy. Every time you passed him in the summer house you let your fingers trail along his waist, or you brushed your chest against his back while reaching for something on the shelf. In the kitchen you leaned in close, lips brushing the shell of his ear as you whispered, “I’m not wearing anything under this dress.” His breath hitched every single time. By the time the sun dipped low and the two of you were finally alone in the bedroom, Choso’s hands were shaking and his cock was already straining hard against his pants.

You turned your back to him and slowly peeled your dress off, letting it slide down your body until it pooled at your feet. You weren’t wearing a single thing underneath. Choso made a broken sound behind you. Before you could even face him he was on you, pressing his face into your neck, arms wrapping tight around your waist.

“Please,” he mumbled against your skin, voice already wrecked. “Please let me eat you. I’ve been so good for you all day. I didn’t touch myself once. I waited. Please.”

You smirked, turning in his arms. Your fingers threaded into his messy buns and you tugged just enough to make him look at you. “On your knees then.”

Choso dropped instantly, knees hitting the floor with a soft thud. He looked up at you with glassy eyes, already panting. You stepped closer, spreading your legs just enough for him to lean in. The moment his tongue dragged through your folds he moaned like he was the one being touched. He licked broad and hungry, sucking your clit between his lips, nose pressed against you as he devoured every inch. His big hands gripped your thighs, holding you open while his tongue fucked into you in deep, wet strokes.

You praised him the whole time, voice low and steady. “That’s it, good boy. Just like that. You’re doing so well for me, Choso. Keep going.” Every word made him whimper and work harder. His tongue circled your clit before plunging back inside, licking and sucking with desperate enthusiasm. You rocked your hips against his face and he groaned, the vibration shooting straight through you.

Choso’s hips started jerking on their own. He was still fully clothed but his cock was throbbing painfully in his pants. The wet sounds of his mouth on your pussy filled the room. You kept feeding him praise, telling him how perfect he was, how good his tongue felt, and he grew more frantic. His moans turned higher, needier. Suddenly his whole body jerked and he came untouched, cock pulsing in his pants as he spilled hot and messy against the fabric. He didn’t stop licking you for even a second.

When you finally tugged his hair to pull him back, Choso looked up at you with flushed cheeks and wet lips. A dark wet patch spread across the front of his pants. He looked embarrassed but still painfully turned on.

“I’m sorry,” he mumbled, voice small. “I made a mess. I couldn’t help it. You taste so good and you kept calling me good boy and I just—”

You cupped his cheeks with both hands, thumbs stroking over his flushed skin. “Choso baby, you couldn’t help yourself?”

He whined, leaning into your touch. “’M sorry. I’m really sorry.”

“Want me to clean you up?” you asked softly.

His eyes lit up instantly. He nodded fast, almost frantic. “Yes. Please. Want your mouth. Need it.”

You helped him out of his ruined pants. His cock was still half-hard and shiny with his own cum. You pushed him back onto the bed and settled between his legs. The moment your lips wrapped around the head he gasped, hips twitching. You licked him clean first, tongue dragging over every inch, tasting the mess he’d made. Then you took him deeper, sucking slow and steady while your hand stroked what your mouth couldn’t reach.

Choso fell apart immediately. He was oversensitive from coming once already, so every pull of your mouth made him moan loud and broken. “Fuck—too much—feels so good—your mouth—please—don’t stop—” His hands fisted the sheets. His muscular thighs trembled on either side of your head. You kept sucking, hollowing your cheeks, tongue swirling around the head on every upstroke. He babbled nonstop, voice cracking. “Good—your good boy—thank you—love your mouth—gonna come again—please let me—”

You hummed around him and that pushed him over the edge. Choso came hard down your throat, hips jerking as he spilled again. You swallowed every drop, licking him clean even as he whimpered from the overstimulation. When you finally pulled off he was shaking, eyes glassy, chest heaving.

You crawled up beside him and pulled him into your arms. He buried his face in your neck, still whispering soft apologies and thank-yous while you stroked his messy buns.

The rest of summer passed too quickly.

Days filled with laughter.

Dates.

Friends.

Quiet mornings.

Long conversations.

And Choso.

Always Choso.

The man who once thought he shouldn't get involved because you were Yuji's friend.

The man who thought you might only see him as a nice older brother figure.

The man who was terrified of wanting too much.

Now stood beside you without hesitation.

And every time you looked at him...

You couldn't believe how lucky you were.

Because the summer house wasn't just where you spent your vacation.

It was where you found him.

And where he finally let himself be found.

It wasn't supposed to happen that day. Neither of you had planned it. There was no anniversary. No special occasion. No candlelit dinner. Just another warm summer evening at Yuji's parents' lake house.

The others had gone into town.

Again.

Yuji had looked between the two of you with a grin that promised trouble.

"We'll be back late."

Nobara had rolled her eyes. "Very late."

Megumi sighed. "They're impossible."

Now the house was quiet. You and Choso were sitting on the wooden dock, your feet dangling above the lake. The water reflected the orange and pink sky. It was peaceful. You rested your head on his shoulder. He automatically intertwined your fingers.

"You know..." 

You smiled. "Hm?"

"I've never had a vacation like this."

"You haven't?"

He shook his head. "I usually worked."

"You worked here?"

"A little."

"A little?"

He smiled sheepishly. "...A lot."

You laughed.

"I can believe that."

"But this year..." He looked out over the water. "I don't really think about work."

"No?"

He looked down at your joined hands. "I'm usually thinking about you."

Your heart fluttered. "You know..." You nudged him gently. "You're very romantic for someone who insists he isn't."

"I'm not."

"You absolutely are."

"I just say what I think."

"Exactly."

Silence settled between you again.

Comfortable.

Easy.

You watched a family of ducks swim across the lake.

Choso absentmindedly rubbed circles over your knuckles.

The air smelled like pine trees and water.

"I'm really happy." You said quietly.

He looked at you. "You are?"

You nodded. "I didn't know this summer would change my life."

His expression softened so much it almost hurt to look at. "It changed mine too."

You smiled. "I'm glad Yuji invited me."

He chuckled. "So am I."

You looked up at him. "What?"

He hesitated. Then smiled to himself. "Nothing."

"No." You poked his side. "Tell me."

He looked almost embarrassed. "I was just thinking..."

"What?"

"...that I almost didn't come this summer."

Your eyes widened. "What?"

"I had a project."

"You almost stayed home?"

He nodded. "I was going to."

You stared at him in horror. "Choso."

"Hm?"

"Don't ever scare me like that again."

He laughed. "I didn't."

"You almost erased our entire relationship."

"I know."

"And you tell me this now?"

"I figured enough time had passed."

You gently hit his arm. "I can't believe you."

"I'm sorry."

"No, you're not."

"...Not really."

You laughed until your stomach hurt.

God.

You loved him.

The thought appeared so naturally that it caught you off guard.

It wasn't dramatic.

It wasn't overwhelming.

It was simply...

True.

You looked at him.

Really looked at him.

The messy buns.

The scar across his nose.

The soft smile that only ever seemed to belong to you.

The way he was already looking back.

Like you hung the moon.

He tilted his head. "What?"

You smiled. "Nothing."

He narrowed his eyes playfully. "You're looking at me."

"I know."

"Why?"

"Because you're beautiful."

His ears immediately turned pink. "You always say things like that."

"Because they're true."

He looked away shyly. You couldn't help smiling. He was thirty-three years old. A respected IT specialist. Confident enough to lead an entire team. And yet. One compliment from you still made him blush.

Before you could stop yourself... The words slipped out.

"I love you."

Silence.

Your own eyes widened. "...Oh."

You hadn't meant—Well.

You had meant it. You just hadn't meant to say it yet.

You covered your face. "Oh my God."

"I'm sorry." You laughed nervously. "I wasn't planning to—"

Warm hands gently took yours away from your face.

You looked up.

Choso was staring at you.

His eyes were shining.

Actually shining.

"You..." His voice cracked. "You love me?"

Your cheeks burned. "I..." You laughed softly. "Yeah." A tiny nod. "I do."

For a second... He didn't say anything. Not because he didn't know what to say. Because he looked like he was trying very hard not to cry.

"You don't have to say it back." You whispered quickly. "I know it's—"

He kissed you.

Softly.

Carefully.

Like you were something precious.

When he pulled away, his forehead rested against yours. "I've been trying not to say it."

You blinked. "What?"

A quiet laugh escaped him. "For days."

"You have?"

He nodded. "I almost said it when you made me breakfast."

You smiled.

"I almost said it when you hugged me after I got you that internship."

Another kiss.

"I almost said it during our picnic."

He laughed quietly.

"And definitely when you fell asleep on me."

"So..." You whispered. "You've been holding it in?"

"I wanted to make sure."

"Of what?"

"That I wasn't saying it just because I was happy."

He smiled softly.

"I wanted to know it was real."

You touched his cheek.

"And?"

He leaned into your hand without thinking.

"It is."

His eyes never left yours.

"I love you."

There it was.

Simple.

Honest.

No grand speech.

No rehearsed confession.

Just Choso.

"I love you so much."

He whispered.

"You make every ordinary day feel like the best day of my life."

Your vision blurred.

"You make me feel safe."

You murmured.

"You make me feel loved."

"You are." He answered immediately. "So loved."

You laughed through your tears.

"You know..."

"What?"

"I thought the first one would be dramatic."

He smiled.

"I like this better."

"So do I."

The sun slowly disappeared beyond the trees.

The lake grew darker.

The evening air became cooler.

Neither of you moved.

You stayed there on the dock, fingers intertwined, foreheads touching.

Not because either of you had anything left to say.

But because, somehow...

When you woke up… For a moment, you forgot where you were. The room was filled with soft morning sunlight. The sheets were warm.The air smelled faintly like summer.

Then you realized. You weren’t in your room. You were in Choso’s. And… You were alone.

You blinked. “Choso?”

No answer.

You sat up slightly.

A tiny bit disappointed. Of course he was already awake. You should’ve known.

The door opened a few minutes later. And there he was. Hair tied back in his usual messy buns. A soft smile on his face. Holding a tray. And flowers.

You stared. For a second, your brain completely stopped working.

“Morning, sweetheart.”

And there it was. That nickname.

That simple word that somehow still made your heart race.

“Morning.” Your voice came out softer than you intended.

He walked over carefully. Of course he did. Like he was afraid of disturbing the moment. He placed the breakfast on the nightstand. Then handed you the flowers.

“For you.”

You looked down. Then back at him. “Choso…”

He immediately looked slightly nervous. “Is everything okay?”

You laughed quietly. “Yes. It’s perfect.”

His shoulders relaxed. “I wasn’t sure what flowers you liked. So I chose these.”

“You chose them yourself?”

“Mhm.”

“You are unbelievable.”

He smiled. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

“It is.”

You leaned forward and kissed him. Softly. Naturally. Because now you could. Because now you didn’t have to wonder if he wanted it.

When you pulled away, you smiled. “Thank you.”

He looked at you. “For the flowers?”

“For everything.”

His expression softened. “You don’t have to thank me.”

“I know. But I want to.”

You looked at the breakfast. “You made this?”

“Mhm.”

“When did you wake up?”

“Early.”

“Choso.”

He smiled innocently. “What?”

“You barely slept.”

“I slept.”

“You watched me sleep, didn’t you?”

A tiny pause. “…Maybe.”

You laughed. “You’re impossible.”

“I wanted to make sure you were comfortable.”

“You were asleep.”

“I know.”

“So how would you know?”

“I just…” He shrugged. “I wanted to.”

Your heart melted all over again.

You started eating while he sat beside you. Not rushing you. Just enjoying being there.

“So…” He asked.

“Hm?”

“How did you sleep?”

You smiled immediately. “Really well.”

“Good.”

"Actually…” You looked at him. “Probably the best I’ve slept in a while.”

His expression became soft. “I’m glad.”

“You?”

He nodded. “Very. I liked waking up and seeing you there.”

Your cheeks warmed.

The morning continued slowly. No dramatic moments. No big declarations. Just conversation. The kind that somehow felt more intimate than anything else. You talked about the plans for the day. About what everyone would probably say when they noticed you two were suddenly much closer.

About Yuji definitely being unbearable.

“He’s going to act like he created this relationship.” Choso sighed.

“He probably will.”

“He’ll say he’s the reason.”

“He will.”

“And Nobara.”

“She’ll be worse.”

You laughed. “You’re right.”

“She’ll say she knew from the beginning.”

“She did.”

“That is annoying.”

“It is.”

Eventually, you leaned back against him. His arm immediately wrapped around you. Like it belonged there. You looked at the flowers beside you. The breakfast. The quiet morning.

And him.

The man who had somehow gone from a stranger you thought was impossibly handsome… To someone who made you feel completely cared for.

You smiled.

“What?” Choso asked. “You look happy.”

You looked at him “I am.”

His expression softened. “Good.”

And somehow… That simple answer meant everything. Because Choso didn’t need grand gestures. He didn’t need to prove anything. He just wanted you happy. And maybe that was the reason you felt so sure.

Because with him… Love didn’t feel overwhelming. It felt peaceful. Like waking up in the morning and realizing you were exactly where you wanted to be.

The morning had been perfect. Almost too perfect. The kind of morning you wanted to keep somewhere safe. The kind you wanted to remember years later. The quiet conversations. The flowers. The breakfast. The way Choso looked at you like he still couldn’t believe you were really there.

Eventually, though… Reality returned. And reality was downstairs. With three very observant people.

You changed into something comfortable. Well… Technically, something comfortable that belonged to Choso. His shirt. It was soft. A little oversized. And when you looked in the mirror, you couldn’t help but smile. There was something ridiculously domestic about it. Something that made your heart flutter.

When you walked out of the room, Choso was waiting. And the second he saw you… He smiled. That soft smile. The one that always made you feel like you were the only person in the room.

“You look nice.”

You rolled your eyes playfully. “It’s literally your shirt.”

“Yes.”

“So?”

“So you look nice in it.”

You laughed. “You’re impossible.”

“Maybe.”

The two of you walked downstairs together.

And neither of you realized just how obvious you looked.

Not because you were doing anything dramatic.

Quite the opposite. It was all the little things.

The way Choso’s hand rested naturally on the small of your back.

The way you leaned slightly closer to him.

The way neither of you even thought about the distance between you anymore.

It was just… Normal. Comfortable. Like it had always been that way.

The moment you stepped into the kitchen

Silence.

Complete silence.

Yuji, Nobara and Megumi all looked up. Then looked at each other. Then back at you.

You blinked. “…What?”

Nobara slowly pointed. “Are you wearing…” She looked at Choso. Then at the shirt. Then back at Choso. “…His shirt?”

You immediately felt your cheeks warm. “Oh.”

Yuji’s eyes widened. “Oh.”

Megumi sighed. “Of course.”

“Good morning.” Choso said calmly.

Like nothing unusual had happened. Like he wasn’t standing there with his hand on your back while you wore his clothes.

“Morning?” Yuji repeated. “Morning?”

Choso tilted his head. “Yes.”

Yuji looked at Nobara.

Nobara looked at Megumi.

Megumi looked exhausted.

“I knew this was going to happen.”

“What?”

Megumi gestured vaguely. “This.”

“What is this?”

“Whatever this is.”

Nobara crossed her arms. “I just want to say…” She looked between you and Choso. “I am proud.”

You stared. “Proud?”

“Yes.”

“Of what?”

“Of finally getting two people with zero awareness to realize they like each other.”

“We had awareness.”

“No.”

“Absolutely not.” Yuji nodded.

“You two were painful.”

“Everyone said that.”

“Because it was true.”

You laughed. Choso looked slightly confused.

“Was it really that obvious?”

The entire room went silent.

Then…

Three people answered at once. “YES.”

Choso blinked. “…Oh.”

You covered your face. “Choso.”

“What?”

“You thought I was subtle.”

“You were.”

“No, I wasn’t.”

“I thought you were just friendly.”

Nobara made a dramatic sound. “That is the most Choso thing I’ve ever heard.”

Yuji walked over. A huge grin on his face. “So.” He looked between you two. “How’s my favorite couple?”

Choso immediately looked embarrassed. “We’re not…” He stopped. Looked at you. Then smiled. “…Actually.”

You looked at him.

He squeezed your hand. “We are.”

The room exploded.

“FINALLY.” Nobara practically shouted.

Megumi closed his eyes. “I need coffee.”

Yuji pointed dramatically. “I knew it.”

“You did.”

“I did.”

“You literally helped.”

“I know.”

“You are going to mention this forever, aren’t you?”

“Absolutely.”

Through all of the chaos… Choso stayed calm.

Actually… He looked happier than you had ever seen him.

And then, as everyone continued talking over each other… He quietly stepped closer. Wrapped his arms around you. And rested his head against your shoulder.

You froze for a second. Because it was adorable. The same man who seemed intimidating to everyone else… Was currently hiding his face against you while his little brother and friends teased him.

Yuji stared. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“Are you seriously doing that?”

Choso didn’t move. “Yes.”

“You are aware everyone can see you?”

“Yes.”

Nobara smiled. “Oh my God.”

“What?”

“He’s clingy.”

Choso finally lifted his head slightly. Then looked at you. Almost sheepishly. “I’m clingy.”

You laughed softly. “I noticed.”

His expression became uncertain for half a second.

Then you smiled. “And I love it.”

The effect those words had on him was immediate. His whole face softened. Like he had been waiting to hear that. “Really?”

“Mhm.”

“I thought maybe…”

“No.” You squeezed his hand. “I love that you want to be close. I love that you’re affectionate. I love that you care.”

A small smile appeared.

“Wow.” Yuji interrupted.

Everyone looked at him.

“What?”

He pointed. “He’s smiling.”

Choso frowned. “I smile.”

“Not like that.”

“Like what?”

“Like someone gave you everything you wanted.”

The room became quieter for a moment.

Because… Yuji wasn’t wrong.

Choso looked at you. Then, without embarrassment anymore… He simply leaned closer again. His cheek resting against your shoulder.

You laughed. “You’re really comfortable now, huh?”

“Mhm.”

“After one day?”

“Mhm.”

“You went from asking permission to sit next to me…To using me as a pillow.”

He thought about it. “…That sounds accurate.”

You laughed.

Megumi picked up his coffee. “I give up.”

Nobara smiled. “No, this is actually cute.”

Yuji grinned. “I told you.”

“You told us everything.”

“I know.”

And while your friends continued arguing around you… You just smiled. Because this was exactly what you wanted. Not something dramatic. Not something complicated.

Just this.

Choso’s hand holding yours. His head resting against you. His quiet happiness.

And the knowledge that the man who had spent so much time worrying about whether he was enough…Finally understood that he was.

Not despite who he was.

Dinner had long since ended. The pizza boxes had been thrown away. The kitchen was clean.

The evening settled comfortably over the summer house, the windows open just enough to let the cool breeze drift inside.

You were curled up on one end of the couch, absentmindedly scrolling through your phone.

Across the room, Choso was rinsing the last wine glasses. He insisted on doing the dishes. Of course he did.

You had stopped trying to argue with him two days ago.

It never worked.

The peaceful atmosphere lasted approximately forty seconds.

Then—

“Guys.” Yuji appeared dramatically in the living room. “We’re going into town.”

“We?” Choso looked over his shoulder.

“Mhm. Nobara. Megumi. Me.”

Nobara nodded enthusiastically. “There’s apparently some summer festival.”

Megumi looked considerably less enthusiastic. “There are food stalls.”

Yuji added. “And live music. And Nobara wants to buy earrings.”

“I heard that.”

“I wanted you to.”

Choso dried his hands. “Do you want me to come?”

The question came so naturally that it almost made you smile.

Yuji didn’t even hesitate. “Absolutely not.”

Choso blinked. “…No?”

“No. We’ll be fine.”

“I can drive.”

“We don’t need a ride.”

“I wasn’t—”

“You also don’t need to supervise us.”

Choso opened his mouth. Closed it again. “…Alright.”

Megumi looked at Yuji. “…You could’ve been slightly nicer.”

“I was nice.”

“You weren’t.”

“I was efficient.”

Then… Choso looked toward you. His expression immediately softened. “…You’re not going with them?”

Before you could answer— “She has a headache.” Nobara replied far too quickly.

You turned toward her. “…I do?”

“Terrible headache.” She nodded solemnly.

“The absolute worst.” Yuji immediately joined in.

“Yeah.”

“I think she should stay home.”

“And rest.”

“Someone should definitely take care of her.”

Megumi pinched the bridge of his nose. “…You two are unbelievable.”

You stared. Then looked at Choso. Then back at your friends.

“…Really?”

Nobara smiled innocently. “What?”

“You are terrible liars.”

“We’re amazing liars.”

“No.”

Yuji dramatically looked at Choso. “I trust you with the patient.”

“The patient?” You repeated. “My headache disappeared thirty seconds ago.”

“It came back.” Yuji decided.

“…Conveniently.”

“Bye!” Nobara announced far too loudly. She grabbed Megumi’s sleeve.

Yuji was already halfway out the door. “Have fun!” He called. “Don’t wait up!”

The front door closed. Then immediately reopened.

Yuji leaned back inside. “Oh!” He pointed dramatically at Choso. “No working tonight!”

Then at you. “And drink water.”

The door slammed shut again.

Silence.

A long… Very long silence.

Choso slowly looked toward the closed door. Then at you. Then back toward the door.

“…Did they just…”

You couldn’t hold it anymore. A laugh escaped you. “They absolutely did.”

He let out a quiet laugh too. “I can’t believe…” He rubbed the back of his neck. “They just tried to set us up. They’re not exactly subtle.”

You snorted. “They’ve never been.”

He smiled. “No. They really haven’t.”

Another comfortable silence settled between you. You looked down at your hands. Then admitted quietly— “…But…”

He looked at you.

“I absolutely don’t mind.”

For a heartbeat… He simply stared.

Then… His entire expression softened. Not dramatically. Just enough that you noticed. “…Neither do I.”

Your heart skipped.

He cleared his throat. “So…”

You looked up.

“Would you…” He smiled shyly. “…Like to watch something?”

“I’d love that.”

“The movie you mentioned earlier?”

Your smile widened. “You remembered.”

“You talked about it three separate times.”

You laughed. “…Fair.”

“So?”

“I would love to.”

He nodded once. “Perfect. I’ll grab snacks.”

By the time he’d disappeared into the kitchen… You had already curled up in one corner of the couch. The lights were dimmed. Only a small lamp remained on.

You started a movie. A minute later… Choso returned. Not with chips. Not with popcorn. Instead— A bottle of red wine. Two glasses. A bowl of strawberries. Chocolate. And a small plate of sliced fruit.

You blinked. “…Choso.”

“Hm?”

“You somehow manage to outshine yourself every single time.”

He laughed quietly. “I try.”

“I was expecting popcorn.”

“I wasn’t sure what you’d prefer.”

“So…” He smiled. “…I brought several options.”

You looked at the spread. “…Of course you did.”

He sat beside you. Close enough that your knees almost touched. The movie began. For a few minutes… Both of you simply watched. Comfortable. Quiet. Relaxed.

Then… Almost absentmindedly… Choso rested one arm along the back of the couch. Not around you.

Just… There.

Leaving plenty of space. He didn’t move any closer.

Instead… He glanced at you.

Just once.

Almost questioning.

As though silently asking, Is this alright?

Your heart melted.

Instead of answering with words… You shifted. Just a little. Closing the distance between you.

His shoulders relaxed almost immediately. The tension you’d barely noticed disappeared. Slowly… Carefully…His arm slid behind you. Resting lightly around your shoulders. Not pulling. Not insisting. Simply there. Warm. Steady.

You looked up.

He looked down.

“…Okay?” He asked quietly.

You smiled. “Mhm.” Without thinking too much about it… You leaned sideways. Resting your head against his chest.

For the briefest second… He froze. Then… You felt him exhale. Long. Slow. Like he’d been holding his breath.

His arm settled a little more comfortably around your shoulders. His other hand rested gently against your waist.

Not possessive.

Not demanding.

Just… Holding you.

As though it was the most natural thing in the world.

The movie continued playing. Neither of you paid much attention. At least… Not compared to the fact that your heartbeat was loud enough you were convinced he could hear it.

“So…” You whispered.

“Hm?”

“You’ve never seen this?”

He shook his head. “No.”

“You’ll love it.”

“We’ll see.”

“You sound skeptical.”

“I’m gathering evidence.”

You laughed. “You sound like you’re reviewing software.”

“I review everything.”

“I noticed.”

Half an hour later… One of the characters made an absolutely terrible decision.

You groaned dramatically. “No.”

Choso looked amused. “…What?”

“Why would he do that?”

“He lacks critical thinking.”

You laughed into his chest. “You analyzed the protagonist.”

“He made poor strategic choices.”

“He was in love.”

“That’s not an excuse.”

“It absolutely is.”

“I disagree.”

“You’ve clearly never been in love.” The words slipped out before you could stop them.

Silence.

Your eyes widened.

“…I…” You looked up. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean-“

Choso looked thoughtful for a moment. Then smiled faintly. “…Maybe.”

Your heart skipped. “Maybe?”

He looked back at the television. “…People do irrational things when they care about someone.”

His hand unconsciously brushed your side in a slow, reassuring motion.

“I suppose…” He murmured. “…I’ve always understood that.”

You weren’t sure whether he meant the movie. Or something else.

Later, you reached for another strawberry. Held it toward him without thinking.

He smiled. “…Again?”

“You didn’t complain earlier.”

“I didn’t.” He leaned down and took a bite. His lips accidentally brushed the tips of your fingers this time. Barely.

Both of you froze.

“…Sorry.” He whispered immediately.

You laughed softly. “You apologize too much.”

“…Probably.”

“You absolutely do.”

The movie kept playing. The wine slowly disappeared from your glasses. The strawberries became fewer. The chocolate remained mostly untouched. Outside, the sky darkened completely.

Inside… The two of you stayed exactly where you were. Your head against his chest. His arm around your shoulders. His hand resting lightly at your waist.

Neither of you saying anything for a while. Neither of you wanting the evening to end. The monie continued playing. Somewhere.

Neither of you had any idea what was happening anymore.

A character was speaking. Someone else was probably crying. There might have even been an explosion. You couldn’t have said for certain.

Not when you were so aware of Choso’s heartbeat beneath your cheek.

Not when his arm rested so naturally around your shoulders.

Not when every now and then his thumb absentmindedly brushed against your waist.

It was… Comfortable.

Comfortable in a way that made leaving his side feel impossible.

You reached toward the bowl of strawberries. Only two remained.

“Hm…” You picked one up. Then smiled. “Last one.”

Choso looked down. “…We should split it.”

“Or…” You held it toward him. “You can have it.”

“You’ve offered me strawberries all day.”

“So?”

“You like them too.”

“I do.”

“But I also like sharing.”

His smile softened. “…Alright.” He leaned in. Instead of taking it from your hand… He took a bite directly from the strawberry. His lips brushed your fingertips for the briefest second. He immediately pulled back.

“…Sorry.”

You laughed quietly. “There it is again.”

“…What?”

“The apologizing.”

A sheepish smile tugged at his lips. “…Right.”

A moment later… He picked up the very last strawberry.

“This one…” He looked at it thoughtfully. “…Should probably go to you.”

He held it toward you.

You leaned forward.

Taking a bite.

This time… Deliberately.

Your lips barely brushed the tips of his fingers. Just enough that he would notice. And he did.

Immediately.

His hand remained exactly where it was. His eyes slowly lifted to yours.

You swallowed.

Neither of you moved. The room suddenly felt impossibly quiet.

He was looking at you differently. Not confused. Not uncertain. Just… Very, very gently.

As though he was trying to read something in your expression.

Your heartbeat quickened.

He noticed.

Of course he did.

“You…” His voice was barely above a whisper. “…Did that on purpose.”

Your smile grew just a little. “…Maybe.”

The corners of his mouth lifted. Just enough. “I thought so.”

For a long moment… Neither of you spoke. There was no need. Everything important seemed to exist in the silence between you. Then… Very slowly… He lifted his free hand. Not quickly. Not suddenly. Giving you every opportunity to move away.

You didn’t.

His palm came to rest lightly against your cheek. Warm. Careful. His thumb brushed your skin so gently you barely felt it.

His eyes searched yours one last time. “You don’t have to answer if…” He smiled nervously. “…If I’ve misunderstood.”

“You haven’t.”

He let out a breath that sounded almost like relief. He leaned even closer. His forehead nearly touched yours.

“…Can I kiss you?” The question was so quiet. So sincere. As though he genuinely believed you might say no.

Your heart melted.

You smiled. “I thought you’d never ask.”

For the first time since you’d met him… Choso laughed from pure relief. A tiny, breathless laugh. Then… He closed the remaining distance.

The kiss was… Everything you imagined Choso would be. Gentle. Patient. Unhurried. His lips brushed yours so softly that for a moment it barely felt real. Almost as though he was asking one final time,

Is this alright?

You answered by leaning into him. Closing the distance yourself.

His hand remained against your cheek. His thumb stroked your skin once. The gesture was impossibly tender.

You smiled into the kiss.

He smiled too.

You could actually feel it.

When you finally pulled back… It was only by a few centimeters.

Neither of you spoke.

You simply looked at each other.

Smiling.

Unable to stop.

“I’ve wanted to do that…” He admitted quietly. “…For a while.”

You laughed softly. “I know.”

“You knew?”

“I was hoping.”

He shook his head with a small smile. “I was convinced you were just being kind.”

You blinked. “…Choso.”

“Hm?”

“I’ve been flirting with you for days.”

“I…” He looked genuinely embarrassed. “In hindsight…I can see that.”

You laughed.

“So Yuji was right.”

“…About what?”

“That I’m oblivious.”

You laughed even harder. “He wasn’t wrong.”

Before either of you could say anything else… You leaned in again. This time it was your turn. A soft, lingering kiss that made him smile against your lips. Neither of you seemed particularly interested in watching the movie anymore.

Without breaking the kiss… Without even looking away from you… Choso reached one hand toward the coffee table.

His fingers searched for a moment.

Found the remote.

Pressed a button.

The television fell silent.

You pulled back just enough to look at him. “…Really?”

He was still smiling. Still impossibly close. “I think…” A quick kiss. “…We might…” Another one. “…Get a little distracted.” Another brief, affectionate kiss.

You laughed, the sound warm and bright. “…Fair point.”

“I thought so.”

“So…” You tilted your head. “The movie loses?”

He looked into your eyes with a smile that reached all the way to them. “…I think it never really had a chance.”

You shook your head, laughing. “Poor movie.”

“It tried its best.”

“It really did.”

Then, without another word… You cupped his face this time. Mirroring the gentle way he’d held yours only moments before.

His eyes softened immediately.

You smiled. “I’ve wanted to kiss you too.”

For just a second… He looked completely speechless.

Then he rested his forehead against yours. “…I’m really glad.”

“So am I.”

The room remained quiet. The paused movie forgotten. The untouched chocolate still sitting on the table. The wine glasses half full.

Outside, the summer evening carried on as if nothing had changed.

Inside… Everything had.

Not because of one kiss. But because it felt like the beginning of something both of you had been quietly hoping for long before either of you found the courage to ask.

You were still close enough that your noses brushed every now and then. Every time one of you smiled. Which, admittedly… Was often.

You slowly pulled back just enough to really look at him.

His cheeks were still faintly pink. His hair had become even messier than usual. And he was looking at you with such an unbearably soft expression that your heart threatened to climb right out of your chest.

You smiled. “So…”

He tilted his head. “So?”

“I think…” You couldn’t help teasing him. “…You can finally relax a little around me.”

For a second… He simply blinked. Then a quiet laugh escaped him. “…Finally.” He shook his head. “You have no idea.”

“No?”

“No.”

Before you could react… He gently wrapped his arm around your waist again and pulled you a little closer until you were comfortably tucked against his side.

“So much better.”

You laughed. “Were you really that nervous?”

He looked almost embarrassed. “…Constantly.”

“Seriously?”

“Mhm.”

You stared. “But…You always seemed so calm.”

“That was acting.”

Your eyes widened. “You can act?”

“Barely. I was just trying very hard.”

“At what?”

He looked at you for a long moment before answering. “…Not to make you uncomfortable.”

The words were so simple.

So genuinely Choso.

You felt your chest tighten.

“Oh…” Without thinking… You nestled a little closer against him. “You are so sweet.”

His arm instinctively tightened just slightly around you. “I’m glad you think so.”

After a comfortable silence… He cleared his throat. “There is…” He hesitated.

You looked up. “Hm?”

“…Something I wanted to ask.”

“Go ahead.”

He looked almost shy again. “If… I mean…I know everyone is different. So…” He rubbed the back of his neck. “…Is there a certain way you don’t like to be touched? Or…” He looked adorably flustered. “…Called. Or anything else. Id rather know. So I don’t accidentally…” He trailed off.

You didn’t let him finish.

Instead… You leaned forward and kissed him

A slow, gentle kiss that made him immediately stop talking.

When you pulled back…

You smiled. “I’m fine with whatever comes from you.”

His expression softened instantly. Almost melting. “…Really?”

“Mhm. I trust you.”

For just a second… He looked genuinely moved. Then a smile slowly spread across his face. One you’d never seen before. Warm. Happy. Almost relieved.

“…I’m glad.” His thumb brushed your waist absentmindedly. Then, before he seemed to realize he was saying it— “Sweetheart.”

Silence.

Your brain completely stopped functioning. You stared at him.

He blinked. “…Too much?”

You covered your face with both hands.

“…Oh no.” He looked alarmed. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have assumed—”

“No!” You laughed, peeking through your fingers. “No. My brain just…” You shook your head. “…Actually started screaming.”

He laughed. A genuine, warm laugh that filled the room. “…In a good way?”

You slowly lowered your hands. “The best way.”

His smile somehow became even softer. “…Good. I like calling you that.”

You could physically feel your heartbeat speeding up. “…Please don’t stop.”

“I wasn’t planning to.”

Another quiet moment settled between you. Then… His expression became a little more thoughtful.

“You know…”

“Hm?”

“I’ve been thinking.”

“Oh?”

He nodded. “I know…” He chose his words carefully. “I’m older than you.”

You looked at him. “You’ve noticed?”

He chuckled. “By a few years. A handful.”

“…A handful.”

“I wasn’t sure if…” He sighed quietly. “…If that would bother you.”

You couldn’t help laughing. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“I have a confession.”

He looked mildly concerned. “…Okay?”

“I’ve always liked older guys.”

He blinked. “…Really?”

“Mhm. I like stability. I like maturity. I like someone who already knows who they are.” You smiled at him. “…Kind of reminds me of someone.”

He looked away, trying—and failing—to hide his blush. “…You’re teasing me.”

“A little.”

“You enjoy that.”

“I really do.”

He laughed under his breath. “I noticed.”

“There was another reason…” He admitted quietly.

You tilted your head. “What?”

“I didn’t…” He searched for the words. “I didn’t want this…” He gestured vaguely between the two of you. “…To become something uncertain.”

Your smile faded into something gentler. “You mean?”

“I don’t really…” He shrugged. “…Do situationships. I’ve never understood them. If I’m with someone…” His eyes met yours. “I’m with them. I don’t date several people. I don’t play games. I don’t disappear for three days and come back pretending nothing happened.” He smiled faintly. “I don’t know how.”

You listened quietly.

“If I care about someone…” “I’d rather build something real. Even if it takes time. And if the other person doesn’t want that…” He shrugged gently. “Then I’d rather walk away before anyone gets hurt.”

You stared at him.

Completely speechless.

Because… Those were exactly the words you had secretly hoped to hear.

“I…” You smiled so brightly your cheeks hurt. “…That’s exactly what I want.”

His eyes softened. “Really?”

“Mhm. I don’t want something temporary. I don’t want to wonder where I stand. Idon’t want games. I want…” You smiled shyly. “…Someone who chooses me. And keeps choosing me.”

Without hesitation… He reached for your hand. Interlacing your fingers with his. “I can do that. The sentence was quiet. Simple. Without grand declarations. Which somehow made it even more meaningful.

You squeezed his hand. “I know.”

He looked at your joined hands for a moment before lifting his gaze back to yours. “So…” A tiny smile tugged at his lips. “Would it be alright…”

He asked with that same gentle sincerity he’d shown all evening. “…If I officially took you on a proper date?”

You laughed softly. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“You packed me a surprise picnic. You carried me through half a forest. You remembered my favorite pizza. You brought wine, strawberries and chocolate. You asked before you kissed me.”

You leaned over and kissed his cheek. “I think you’ve been taking me on dates all week.”

He blinked. “…Oh.”

You laughed. “I’d still love to go on another one.”

His smile lingered, quiet and impossibly happy. “…Good.”

Then, almost absentmindedly, he brushed his thumb across your knuckles. “So would I, sweetheart.”

This time… Instead of your brain screaming… You simply kissed him.

Because somehow… Hearing him call you that already felt like coming home.

You pulled back from the kiss just enough to breathe, lips brushing his as your fingers curled into the fabric of his shirt.

Choso’s hands slid down to your waist, gripping firmly before tugging you flush against him.

The hard line of his cock pressed into your stomach through his pants, and you rolled your hips without thinking, grinding slow and deliberate against him.

“Bedroom?” you murmured against his mouth.

He swallowed hard, eyes half-lidded and dark. “Are you sure you want this?”

“Yes.” You smiled, nipping at his lower lip. “You?”

Choso answered by kissing you deeper, tongue sliding against yours with sudden hunger. “You have no idea,” he whispered, voice rough. “I’ve been thinking about this all night.”

The two of you stumbled upstairs, mouths locked, hands roaming. By the time you reached his bedroom both of you were breathing fast.

Choso broke the kiss, chest heaving. “Wait,” he breathed, looking away shyly. His cheeks flushed dark. “There’s something you should know.”

You waited, fingers still threaded through his hair.

“I actually like to be dominated,” he admitted quietly. “Not like some weird shit, just… I enjoy taking care of someone and being praised. I know this is weird.”

“Choso.” You cut him off with another kiss, slow and reassuring. “I would love to take care of you. You don’t have to be embarrassed about that.”

He whimpered softly against your mouth, the sound going straight between your legs.

You stepped back and started undressing him first, peeling his shirt off to reveal the broad, muscular planes of his chest and the defined lines of his abs. His two messy buns had loosened during the climb upstairs; strands of dark hair framed his flushed face. You ran your hands over his shoulders, down his arms, feeling the strength there while he watched you with wide, eager eyes.

“God, look at you,” you whispered, tracing the hard ridges of muscle. “So strong, so beautiful.”

Then you let him undress you. His fingers trembled slightly as he slid your top off, then your bra, then your pants and underwear. Every new inch of skin he revealed earned another whisper.

“You’re beautiful,” he breathed, kissing your collarbone. “Your body is gorgeous. Fuck, look at you. Every part of you is perfect.”

Once you were both bare, you guided him down with a gentle hand on his shoulder. “Now,” you whispered. “Do you want to make me feel good?”

Choso actually whined, the sound needy and raw, before dropping to his knees between your legs. He didn’t hesitate. His tongue dragged hot and wet through your folds, licking broad and eager before sealing his mouth over your clit. You gasped, one hand flying to his hair, gripping the messy buns.

“Oh fuck,” you breathed. “God, you are so—fuck—so good at this.”

He moaned against your pussy, the vibration making your thighs shake. You praised him steadily, voice shaking as pleasure built. “Fuck, feels so good, Choso. You’re doing so well. Such a good boy for me. Keep going just like that.”

He went feral between your legs, tongue fucking into you, sucking your clit, nose pressed against your mound as he devoured you like he couldn’t get enough. His muscular arms wrapped around your thighs, holding you open while he licked and sucked with desperate enthusiasm. Every time you moaned his name or told him how good he was, he doubled down, licking faster, groaning into your cunt until your legs started to tremble.

“Right there,” you gasped, hips rocking against his face. “You’re such a good boy, Choso. Eating me so perfectly. Don’t stop.”

He whimpered again, the sound muffled against your dripping pussy, and doubled his efforts, tongue circling your clit before plunging deep inside you. Your fingers tightened in his hair, guiding him exactly where you needed him.

You came hard, thighs clamping around his head, hips grinding against his mouth. Choso didn’t stop until you gently tugged his hair, pulling him back. He looked up at you, lips shiny, eyes glassy with lust.

“Let me fuck you, please,” he mumbled against your core, voice wrecked. “I need to be inside you so bad.”

You smiled down at him, stroking his cheek. “You did so good for me. You want this? You want to be inside me?”

He nodded enthusiastically, almost frantic. “Yes. Please. I want it more than anything.”

You lay back on the bed, spreading your legs. Choso climbed over you, positioning the thick head of his cock at your entrance. He pushed in slowly, groaning at the tight heat. Once he was buried to the hilt, you wrapped your legs around his waist and pulled him closer.

“Move,” you ordered softly.

He started thrusting, deep and steady at first, then faster as your praises filled the room. “Good boy,” you whispered, running your hands over his flexing back. “Such a good boy, fucking me so well. You feel so good inside me.”

Choso went absolutely crazy. His hips snapped harder, a string of broken nonsense spilling from his lips. “Fuck—feels so good—your pussy—tight—warm—love it—love you—please—more—” He was pussy-drunk, eyes unfocused, checking your face constantly for every reaction. The second he realized you were enjoying this just as much as he was—moaning, gripping his arms, meeting every thrust—his rhythm faltered into something desperate and needy.

“Tell me again,” he begged, voice hoarse. “Call me your good boy again. Please.”

“You’re my good boy,” you moaned, nails dragging down his back. “My perfect boy, fucking me so deep. You’re doing everything right.”

He buried his face in your neck, fucking you harder, whispering frantic thanks and praise between every thrust. “Thank you—thank you—feels so fucking good—I’ll be good for you—I promise—” You kept calling him your good boy, stroking his hair, telling him how perfect he felt inside you. Every word made him twitch and moan louder, his muscular body trembling with the effort to hold back until you came again.

When your second orgasm hit, walls clenching around his cock, Choso followed right after, groaning your name as he spilled deep inside you, hips still rocking through the aftershocks.

He collapsed gently on top of you, breathing hard, still half-hard inside you. You stroked his back and kissed his temple.

“You were perfect,” you murmured.

Choso pulled back from the kiss just enough to rest his forehead against yours, his breathing still uneven as he studied your face with quiet concern. His thumb traced gently along your cheek before he eased away, moving with careful purpose as he reached for the soft towel he had set aside earlier.

"Let me take care of you," he murmured, voice low and steady. He began wiping you down with slow, deliberate strokes, making sure every trace was cleaned away. His touch stayed light, almost reverent, pausing every so often to check your expression.

"Does anything hurt?" he asked softly, eyes flicking up to meet yours. "Are you feeling okay? I want to know if I did something wrong."

You shook your head, a warm smile spreading across your lips. "I feel good. Really good. It was amazing, Choso. You were amazing."

Color rose in his cheeks, and he ducked his head a little, focusing on folding the towel neatly before setting it aside. "You really think so?" he asked, almost shy. "One girl... she broke up with me because she said I wasn't dominant enough. I guess she wanted something different."

You reached for his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Choso, you're so sweet. There's nothing wrong with that. It's normal, and honestly... I liked it more than I thought I would. You made me feel safe and cared for. That's what matters to me."

He let out a small breath, the tension in his shoulders easing as he looked at you again. "Thank you," he whispered, leaning in to press another soft kiss to your temple. "I'm glad it was good for you."

The room had become quiet again. Not the awkward kind of quiet. The comfortable kind. The kind where neither of you felt the need to fill every second with words. You had changed into one of Choso’s shirts. It was obviously too big on you. The sleeves covered part of your hands, and the fabric carried the faint scent of his laundry detergent.

When you walked back toward the bed, Choso looked up.

And froze.

You noticed immediately. “What?”

He blinked. “…Nothing.”

You narrowed your eyes. “Choso.”

He looked away. “You look beautiful.”

The answer came so honestly that it caught you off guard.

Your expression softened. “In your shirt?”

He nodded. “Mhm.”

“Why?”

He looked genuinely confused by the question. “Because it’s you.”

Your heart melted.

“You make everything look good.”

You smiled. “You know you’re really good at saying things that make me blush, right?”

He looked embarrassed. “I don’t mean to.”

“I know. That’s why it works.”

You climbed back onto the bed beside him. This time there was no nervousness. No wondering where to put your hands. No hesitation. You simply settled next to him. His arm immediately found its place around you. Like he had already memorized how you fit beside him.

You rested your head against him. For a while, neither of you spoke.

Then… “Can I tell you something?”

You looked up. “Of course.”

He stared at the ceiling. A habit you were starting to notice. Whenever Choso had something important to say, he needed a moment.

“I noticed you immediately.”

You smiled. “You did?”

“Mhm.”

“When?”

“The first day.”

You looked surprised. “Really?”

He nodded. “You were standing with Yuji, Nobara and Megumi. And you were laughing.” A small smile appeared on his face. “I remember thinking…” He paused. “That you looked happy.”

You stayed quiet.

“And then I noticed how you treated everyone. How you listened. How you remembered small things. How you made people feel included.” His fingers gently traced over your hand.

“And I thought you were beautiful.”

Your cheeks warmed. “Choso…”

He smiled slightly. “I’m not finished.”

You immediately closed your mouth. “Okay.”

He chuckled softly. “I thought you were beautiful. But then I got to know you.”

“And that was worse.”

“Worse?”

“Mhm. Because then I realized you weren’t just pretty. You were kind. Smart. Caring. Funny. You are the type of person who notices when someone is uncomfortable and tries to fix it. The type of person who gets excited about helping someone. The type of person who makes friends feel like family.”

You felt your chest tighten. Because Choso wasn’t saying it like a compliment. He was saying it like a fact. Like he had simply been observing you. Learning you.

“Do you remember the breakfast?”

You smiled. “Of course.”

He looked almost embarrassed. “I know it probably wasn’t a big deal. It was pancakes.”

“Choso.”

“Wait.”

You laughed quietly. “Sorry.”

He smiled. “But…” He looked down. “I genuinely thought it was one of the nicest things someone had ever done for me.”

Your expression softened. “Really?”

“Mhm. You woke up early. You made something because you thought about me. Not because you wanted anything. Not because you had to. Just because you wanted me to have a good morning.” He shook his head slightly. “I don’t think people realize how much small things matter.”

You reached for his hand. “I do.”

“I know.”

There was a pause. Then his expression became more serious.

“There was one thing I was worried about.”

You looked at him. “What?”

“Yuji.”

Immediately, you understood. Your heart softened.

“Choso…”

“I know he likes you ….as a friend.” He quickly added. “And I know he trusts you.” He sighed. “He’s my little brother. He matters more than anything. And I didn’t want…” He swallowed. “I didn’t want him to feel like I chose something else over him.”

You smiled sadly. “Oh, Choso. He would never think that.”

“I know. But I still worried.” He looked at you. “Because if this became something more…I didn’t want to hurt him.”

You smiled. “Can I tell you something?”

“Mhm.”

“Yuji literally told me he wants to be your wingman.”

Choso blinked. “…What?”

You laughed. “He knows. He has known. Actually, he figured it out before either of us did.”

He looked genuinely shocked. “How?”

You smiled. “Because apparently we are both terrible at this.”

A small laugh escaped him. “That is true.”

“He told me he thinks we’d be good together.”

Choso stared. “He said that?”

“Mhm.”

“When?”

“After he accused me of talking to you in ‘italic font.’”

There was a pause. Then… Choso laughed. Actually laughed.

You smiled because you loved seeing it.

“He really said that?”

“Yes.”

“I don’t know whether to be embarrassed or impressed.”

“Both.”

“Probably.”

You leaned closer. “He loves you, Choso.”

His expression softened. “I know.”

“And he loves me.”

“I know.”

“So…” You smiled. “You don’t have to worry.”

For a moment he just looked at you. Then his entire expression changed. Not dramatically. Just a quiet kind of happiness. Like a weight had been lifted.

“You make everything feel easier.”

You smiled. “Good. I want you to feel like you can tell me things.”

“I can.”

“I want you to know you don’t have to earn being cared for.”

The words seemed to surprise him. He looked away. “…You’re really good at this.”

“At what?”

“Making people feel important.”

You smiled. “I learned from someone.”

“Who?”

You touched his cheek. “You.”

He looked at you. And you couldn’t help it.

You smiled. A huge, impossible-to-hide smile.

Then you leaned forward and kissed him. Softly. Just because you could. Because you wanted to. Because after all the uncertainty… After wondering if he liked you. After him thinking you liked Yuji. After both of you being too careful… You finally didn’t have to wonder anymore.

When you pulled away, he was smiling. “You do that often.”

“What?”

“Kiss me when you’re happy.”

You shrugged. “It’s a good habit.”

“I like it.”

“I know.”

He pulled you closer. Not desperately. Not like he was afraid you would disappear. Just comfortably. Like he knew you were staying. And for Choso… That meant everything. Because he had spent so much of his life taking care of others. Protecting. Providing. Making sure everyone else was okay. But now… Someone was looking at him and saying: you are worth taking care of too.

And somehow… That felt like the most beautiful thing of all.

The night had become quieter. Not empty. Just peaceful. The kind of quiet that only existed when two people felt completely comfortable with each other.

You were still curled against Choso, your head resting near his shoulder, his fingers gently tracing through your hair.

Neither of you seemed in a hurry to move.

After a while, Choso looked down at you. “Would you…” He paused.

You already knew that pause. The one where he carefully considered every word. “Hm?”

“Would you like to stay?”

You smiled softly. “I was planning to.”

His expression immediately relaxed. “No, I mean…” He looked slightly embarrassed. “Stay here. With me. Sleep.”

The last word was quieter. Almost shy. You looked at him. And your heart warmed. Because you knew exactly what he meant. Not because he didn’t want to be alone. Because he wanted you there. He wanted to wake up and know you were still beside him.

You smiled. “I’d love that.”

The moment you settled closer, Choso looked like he was still surprised you said yes.

“You know…” You whispered.

“Hm?”

“I’ve wanted this.”

His fingers stopped for a second. “This?”

“Just…” You looked around. “Falling asleep next to someone. Feeling safe. Not having to wonder.”

His expression softened. “I understand.”

And you knew he did.

Because Choso understood things that weren’t always said out loud.

By the time you and Choso reached the summer house, the sun had almost disappeared behind the trees.

Your cheeks hurt from smiling.

You hadn’t even realized it until you caught your reflection in one of the windows as you walked inside.

You looked… Happy.

Ridiculously happy.

The front door had barely closed behind you before Yuji appeared in the hallway.

“There you are!” He looked dramatically between the two of you. “Took you long enough.”

“We were walking.” Choso answered calmly while slipping off his shoes.

“For six hours?”

You blinked. “…Six?”

Choso checked his watch. “…Oh.”

You looked at him. “…Oh?”

“I may have underestimated how long we stayed.”

Yuji snorted. “May have?”

Nobara wandered into the hallway. “There they are.”

She looked between you. Then smiled. “…Cute.”

You frowned. “What?”

“What?”

“You said ‘cute.’”

“I did.”

“…Why?”

“No reason.”

She walked away before you could ask anything else. You exchanged a confused glance with Choso. He looked just as lost.

“Since apparently no one planned dinner…” Yuji dramatically threw himself onto the couch. “I’m starving.”

“I can order something.” Choso pulled out his phone. “Pizza?”

Four voices answered immediately. “YES.”

He smiled. “Alright.”

Watching Choso order food was… Oddly attractive.

He was somehow discussing pizza toppings with the same concentration he used while explaining data analysis.

He made sure everyone got something they liked.

Double-checked allergies.

Asked whether anyone wanted extra garlic sauce.

Then looked at you.

“What about you?”

“Hm?”

“What pizza do you want?”

“I honestly don’t mind.”

He frowned slightly. “You have to.”

You laughed. “…Mushrooms?”

“Mhm.” He nodded. “And extra olives?”

Your eyes widened. “…How do you know I like olives?”

“You picked them first yesterday.”

“…You noticed?”

He looked genuinely confused. “You did it three times.”

“…Right.”

Of course he noticed.

About forty minutes later… The doorbell rang.

“I’ll get it.” Choso stood. “I’ve got it.”

He disappeared into the hallway. The second he was out of earshot… Three heads slowly turned toward you. You looked around.

“…What?”

Nobara was smiling far too knowingly.

Megumi looked tired.

Yuji looked delighted.

“What?” You repeated.

Nobara leaned closer. “So.”

“No.”

“So.”

“No.”

“Yuji told us.”

You froze. “…He WHAT?”

Yuji raised both hands. “In my defense—”

“There is no defense!”

“I only told them the important part.”

“The important—”

“You have a crush on Choso.”

You covered your face. “Oh my God.”

Nobara laughed. “Relax. It’s adorable.”

“I want to disappear.”

“We know.”

Megumi, who had been quietly scrolling through his phone, finally looked up. “…Honestly?”

You looked at him. “What?”

“You two are painful to watch.”

“…Excuse me?”

He sighed. “You flirt.”

“He blushes.”

“You blush.”

“He gets flustered.”

“You accidentally touch each other every five minutes.”

“You look at each other when the other isn’t looking.” He shrugged. “It’s exhausting.”

Nobara nodded. “I’ve never seen two adults so incapable of communicating.”

“We communicate!”

“You absolutely do not.”

Yuji grinned. “You communicate in longing glances.”

“I hate all of you.”

“No, you don’t.”

“…No.” You sighed dramatically. “I don’t.”

The front door opened again. Conversation stopped immediately.

Choso walked back inside carrying several pizza boxes. He looked between everyone.

“…Did I interrupt something?”

Four voices answered at once. “No.”

He looked suspicious. “…Alright.”

He carried the boxes into the kitchen. Then returned with paper plates.

Instead of simply putting everything on the table…

He walked directly toward you. “This one.” He smiled. “Mushrooms. Extra olives.”

He placed the box in front of you first.

Your heart warmed. “…Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Then he handed boxes to Yuji.

Nobara.

Megumi.

Only after everyone had theirs…

Did he finally take one for himself.

Yuji watched the entire interaction.

Nobara kicked him under the table before he could say anything.

Without really thinking about it… Choso sat beside you. Not across from you. Not on the other side of the table. Beside you. Like it was the most natural thing in the world.

“…Is it alright?” He asked quietly.

“What?”

“The pizza.”

You opened the box. “It looks amazing.”

“I mean…” He smiled shyly. “Do you like the toppings?”

“You remembered them.”

“Of course.”

Your smile softened. “I love it.”

The corners of his mouth lifted almost immediately. “I’m glad.”

He reached into the paper bag.

“Oh.”

“I also got garlic sauce.” He placed one in front of you.

“I remembered you liked it.”

“…You remembered that too?”

“You dipped the crust yesterday.”

“…Right.”

He looked genuinely puzzled. “Is that strange?”

“A little.”

“I just pay attention.”

You looked at him for a long second. “…I’m starting to notice.”

Halfway through dinner… You picked up one of your slices. “This one has way too many olives.”

Choso looked over. “…Too many?”

“Mhm.”

“You like olives.”

“I do.”

“But this is ridiculous.” You laughed. “Here.” You held the slice toward him. “Trade?” He blinked.

“…Trade?”

“Mhm.”

“You like olives too.”

“…I do.”

“So?”

A tiny smile appeared. “…Okay.”

He handed you one of his slices.

You exchanged them.

Neither of you thought anything of it.

The other three, however…

Absolutely did.

Yuji slowly looked toward Nobara.

Nobara slowly looked toward Megumi.

Megumi slowly looked toward the ceiling.

As if asking for patience.

A few minutes later…

Choso said something that made you laugh.

As he smiled back…

You noticed a tiny streak of garlic sauce near the corner of his mouth.

Without thinking— “Oh.”

He looked at you.

“Hm?”

“You’ve got…” You reached over. Your thumb gently brushed the sauce away. “There.”

Silence.

Complete silence.

Choso didn’t move.

Didn’t even blink.

He just… Looked at you.

His expression softened so much it almost hurt to watch. “…Thank you.” His voice was barely above a whisper.

“You were smiling.” You teased. “I couldn’t let you walk around with garlic sauce.”

He laughed quietly. “…That would’ve been unfortunate.”

Across the table…

Yuji stared.

Nobara stared.

Megumi pinched the bridge of his nose.

Finally—

Megumi sighed. “…I told you.”

Nobara whispered back, “They’re actually hopeless.”

Yuji grinned so hard his cheeks hurt. “They’re basically dating.”

“They’re not dating.”

“They’re emotionally dating.”

Megumi nodded once. “…That’s somehow worse.”

“What are you three whispering about?” Choso asked.

Immediately. Three innocent faces turned toward him.

“Nothing.” Yuji answered.

“Absolutely nothing.”

Choso narrowed his eyes. “…You’re smiling.”

Yuji smiled wider. “I smile often.”

Choso looked strangely unconvinced.

Then glanced at you.

You simply smiled back.

Completely unaware that your friends had already accepted one undeniable truth.

You and Choso weren’t together.

Not officially.

Not yet.

But watching the two of you exchange food without asking.

Remember each other’s favorite toppings.

Sit shoulder to shoulder.

Quietly take care of one another in a hundred tiny ways…

Made one thing painfully obvious.

Neither of you had fallen alone.

The only people who hadn’t realized just how mutual it was…

You spent far too long deciding what to wear. It was ridiculous. You knew it. Because it was just a walk. A normal walk.

With Choso.

Who definitely didn’t mean anything by inviting you.

Probably.

Maybe.…Hopefully not.

You sighed for what felt like the tenth time before settling on a simple white sundress and comfortable sneakers.

“It’s just a walk.”

You repeated it to yourself all the way downstairs. Choso was already waiting by the front door. The second he saw you, he smiled.

“Hi”

“Hi again”

For a brief moment, neither of you moved.Then he opened the front door for you.

“After you.”

“Thank you.”

As you stepped outside, something caught your eye. A black backpack slung over one of his shoulders. You frowned.

“…Planning to survive in the woods?”

He looked down at the backpack. “Oh.…Maybe.”

You laughed. “You packed for a two-hour walk?”

“…Perhaps.” He smiled sheepishly. “I like being prepared.”

You narrowed your eyes dramatically. “That sounds suspicious.”

“It does?”

“Mhm.”

“Should I be worried?”

“No…Probably.”

“…Probably?” You laughed.

“I’m kidding.”

“I hope so.”

The trail wound through the forest just behind the summer house. The morning air was pleasantly cool, carrying the scent of pine trees and damp earth. Birds chirped somewhere above your heads. It was peaceful. The kind of silence that never felt awkward.

Especially with Choso. At first… He seemed different. Still gentle. Still attentive. But…A little nervous. He kept adjusting the strap of his backpack. Running a hand through the loose strands of hair escaping his messy buns. Looking like he wanted to say something… Then deciding against it. You smiled to yourself.

Cute.

“So…” You looked at him. “Did you always want to work in IT?”

His shoulders visibly relaxed.

Talking.

Talking he could do.

“Actually…No.”

“No?”

“I wanted to be a firefighter.”

You stared. “…Really?”

“Mhm. When I was little.”

“What happened?”

He smiled. “I discovered computers.”

“Quite the career change.”

“I suppose.”

You laughed. “And now you supervise people.”

“I supervise exactly one person. You.”

You smiled. “I feel honored.”

“You should.” He said it with such a straight face that you burst into laughter.

A second later… He laughed too.

The conversation flowed naturally after that. He told you about university. About his first terrible internship. About living on instant noodles for almost a year.

“You?” You blinked

“You never told me why data analysis.” He Changed the subject smoothly

“Oh.” You smiled. “I like puzzles.”

He nodded immediately. “I noticed.”

“I like finding patterns.”

“I also noticed.”

“I like when numbers actually tell a story.”

He smiled. “I definitely noticed.”

“You’ve been observing me.”

His ears turned pink. “…Maybe.”

Nearly an hour later, the trees slowly opened. You stepped out into a clearing overlooking a lake. The water sparkled in the sunlight. Wildflowers covered the grass. There wasn’t another person in sight. You stopped walking.

“…Wow.”

Choso smiled. “I thought you’d like it.”

“It’s beautiful.”

“I come here sometimes.”

“I understand why.”

For a moment… Neither of you spoke. Just watched the lake. Then… You noticed Choso taking off his backpack. He knelt on the grass. Unzipped it. Reached inside. Pulled out… A blanket.

You blinked. “…Choso?”

“Hm?” He spread it over the grass. Then reached into the bag again. Sandwiches. Fruit. Drinks. Cookies. Napkins.

You stared.

He looked up. “…What?”

“…Choso.”

“…Yes?”

“…Are we…” You couldn’t stop smiling. “…Having a picnic?”

He looked almost embarrassed. “…Only if you want to.”

Your heart practically melted. “You packed a picnic.”

“I…” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I thought…We might get hungry.So…” His voice became quieter. “I made a little extra.”

You laughed softly. “You carried all of this the entire way?”

“…Mhm.”

“Without telling me?”

“I wanted it to be…” He searched for the word. “…A surprise.”

You looked at him for several long seconds. Then smiled so warmly his heart almost stopped.

“I would absolutely love a picnic.”

His shoulders relaxed immediately. “Really?”

“Really.”

You sat down on the blanket. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“You’re incredibly sweet.”

The blush returned immediately. “I…It wasn’t anything special.”

“You packed an entire picnic.”

“…”

“…Maybe slightly special.”

You laughed. “There you go.”

You spent the next half hour eating, talking and laughing. It felt… Easy. Like neither of you had to force conversation. You reached for the strawberries. Picked one up. Without thinking too much about it… You held it toward him.

“Here.”

He blinked. “…For me?”

“Mhm. You said yesterday they’re your favorite.”

For a second… He just stared. Because…mYou remembered that.

“I…” He leaned forward slightly. “…Thank you.”

He carefully took a bite from the strawberry you were holding. Trying very hard not to accidentally brush your fingers.

Your heart fluttered anyway.

He chewed. Then smiled. “…It’s really good.”

You laughed. “I should hope so.”

Something shifted after that. The nervousness he’d carried all morning… Slowly disappeared. He leaned back on one hand. The breeze moved a few loose strands of his hair. He looked… Comfortable. Relaxed. Like he wasn’t constantly monitoring himself anymore.

Your gaze drifted to his face. To the faint scar stretching across the bridge of his nose. You hesitated.

Then quietly asked, “Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.”

“…Your scar.”

His fingers instinctively brushed over it. “Oh.”

“You don’t have to answer if it’s personal.”

He was quiet for a moment. Then smiled faintly. “No. It’s okay.” Another pause. “I actually don’t like talking about it.”

You immediately looked guilty.n“I’m sorry.”

“No.” He shook his head. “I don’t mind talking to you about it.”

Your chest warmed. “It happened when we were kids.” He looked toward the lake instead of at you. “There were older boys. They liked picking on Yuji.”

You frowned.

“He was tiny. They knew he wouldn’t fight back.” His smile was sad. “So I did.”

You listened quietly.

“They pushed me. Ifell. There was…” He laughed softly. “…An unfortunate encounter with a broken metal fence.”

You winced. “Ouch.”

“Mhm.”

“I got lucky.”

“You call that lucky?”

“It could’ve been much worse.” He shrugged. “I was stitched up. And that was that.”

You looked at him. “Does Yuji remember?”

He shook his head. “Not really. He was little. I don’t think he understood what happened. And…” His fingers absentmindedly traced the scar again. “I never reminded him.”

“Why?”

He smiled. “Because he would feel guilty. You know him. He’d somehow convince himself it was his fault. So… I’d rather carry this. Than let him carry guilt.”

Your eyes softened. “You’re a wonderful brother.”

He looked almost uncomfortable. “I just…I love him. He deserves an easy life.”

You hesitated. “…Are you insecure about it?”

His answer came surprisingly quickly. “…Yeah.” Then he laughed quietly. “I know it’s silly.”

“It isn’t.”

“I just…” He looked down. “I know it’s noticeable.”

You reached out before you could overthink it. Your fingers gently brushed against the scar. So lightly it was barely a touch. “I think it suits you.”

His breath caught.

“It…” Your thumb traced the edge once. “It makes you look…” You smiled. “…Like someone with a story.”

His eyes stayed on yours. Unable to look away. “…Really?”

“I like it.”

He swallowed. “…No one has ever said that before.”

“Then they were blind.”

The conversation drifted naturally after that.

To relationships.

Dating.

Life.

“So…” You asked casually. “You’ve had girlfriends?”

He nodded. “A few.”

“Were they serious?”

“Some were.”

“What happened?”

He shrugged gently. “Life. No huge drama. No betrayal. No fights. We simply…Wanted different things.”

You smiled. “That’s… surprisingly healthy.”

“I think relationships don’t always need a villain.”

“I agree.”

“And you?” He asked. “What do you look for?”

You smiled. “I don’t know.”

“You do.”

You laughed. “I like kind people.”

“Mhm.”

“I like stability.”

“Mhm.”

“I like feeling safe.”

He nodded slowly. “That’s important.”

“What about you?”

He thought for a moment. “I care. A lot. Sometimes too much. I don’t really…” He searched for the words. “…Chase people. If someone doesn’t want me…I will let them go You deserve someone who chooses you willingly.”

Your heart squeezed.

“And…” He smiled faintly. “I care what Yuji thinks.”

You tilted your head. “Really?”

“Mhm. If someone important to me…Didn’t get along with him…I don’t think I could ignore that.”

You looked at him quietly. “He’s your family.”

“Exactly. Itrust his judgment.” He smiled. “And besides…if Yuji genuinely disliked someone…There would probably be a reason.”

You couldn’t help smiling. “He really means the world to you.”

“He does.”

The sun climbed higher. The lake shimmered quietly. Neither of you noticed how many hours had passed. Because somewhere between strawberries, stories and quiet confessions… A simple walk had become something much more precious. The picnic had somehow turned into an afternoon. Neither of you had planned for it. At least…You hadn’t.

Looking at the carefully packed backpack, you had a suspicion Choso might have secretly hoped you would stay a while.

The blanket lay stretched beneath the shade of an old oak tree. The basket was nearly empty. The drinks had long since been opened.

The conversation never stopped. It simply drifted. From one subject to another. Without either of you noticing.

“You know…” You smiled. “I think this is the nicest afternoon I’ve had in a long time.”

Choso looked over. “I’m glad.”

“I mean it.” You looked around at the lake. “The view. The food. The weather.”

Then your eyes found his. “…The company.”

He looked away almost immediately. “…Thank you.” His ears were turning pink again.

You were beginning to realize how easy it was to fluster him. And, admittedly… You enjoyed it a little too much.

The breeze picked up. A few loose strands of your hair fell across your face. You puffed out a quiet breath, trying to move them away. It didn’t work.

Before you could try again… Choso reached out. Slowly. Giving you every chance to pull away if you wanted. His fingertips gently caught the strand. Carefully tucking it behind your ear. His touch was impossibly light. Almost hesitant. Like he was afraid of startling you.

“There.” His voice was quiet.

You looked up at him.“…Thank you.”

For a second… Neither of you looked away. Then Choso awkwardly cleared his throat. “I’m sorry.”

You laughed softly. “Why are you apologizing this time?”

“I…” He smiled sheepishly. “I don’t know.”

“You’ve made apologizing into a hobby.”

“…Maybe.”

You leaned back onto the blanket. Stretching your arms above your head.The grass smelled warm beneath you. The sunlight filtered through the leaves overhead, painting little patches of gold across the blanket.

“This is nice.”

“It is.”

“You come here often?”

“Mhm.”

“When I need to think.”

“Or when I need to stop thinking.”

You smiled. “Does it work?”

“Sometimes.”

“And today?”

He looked at you. “…Today it does.”

Your heart skipped.

The conversation slowed. Not because you had run out of things to say. Because silence had become comfortable. You found yourself inching a little closer without really thinking about it.Your shoulder brushed his arm. He didn’t move away. Instead… He shifted slightly. Giving you more room. As though he had noticed what you were doing and quietly accommodated it. The gesture was so subtle that anyone else might have missed it. You didn’t.

You rolled onto your side. Looking up at him. He was sitting with one knee bent, absentmindedly looking out across the lake. The sunlight caught the scar across his nose.

He really was handsome.Dangerously so.

“Comfortable?” He asked.

“Mhm.”

Another moment passed. Then, acting entirely on instinct… You moved closer. Carefully. Until your head laid on his tight.

For one heartbeat…Nothing happened. Then…Everything did. Choso froze.Completely. His entire body went still. You immediately looked up.

“Oh.”

“I’m sorry. I should’ve asked—”

“No.” His answer came so quickly it surprised both of you. “I mean…” He swallowed. “You don’t…You don’t have to move.”

“You sure?”

“…Yes.”

His voice was noticeably quieter now.“If you’re comfortable.”

“I am.” You smiled.

“Then so am I.”

He still looked uncertain. As though he wasn’t entirely convinced this was real. His hands rested awkwardly on his own lap. Clearly unsure where they belonged.

You almost laughed. He was so unbelievably careful. After a few long seconds… His fingers moved. Lightly. They brushed your hair.

Once. Then again. Slow, gentle strokes. Almost absentminded. Like he wasn’t consciously deciding to do it anymore.

You closed your eyes. “…That’s nice.”

His hand immediately stopped. “I’m sorry.”

You opened one eye. “There it is again.”

“…What?”

“The apologizing.”

A tiny smile appeared on his lips. “…Right.”

His fingers returned to your hair. This time with a little more confidence. Still gentle. Still careful. But less hesitant.

“You have really soft hair.” He murmured before he could stop himself.

You smiled without opening your eyes. “Thank you.”

“I…” He looked embarrassed. “I don’t know why I said that.”

“Because you’re thinking it?”

“…Probably.”

“I like when you say what you’re thinking.”

He chuckled quietly. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea.”

“Why not?”

“I think too much.”

“I’ve noticed.”

ou stayed like that for a while. His fingers lazily combing through your hair. The breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers. The lake quietly lapping against the shore. It felt… Peaceful. Like the world had become very small. Just the two of you beneath the tree.

“So…” You said eventually.

“What were you like as a kid?”

Choso laughed. “Quiet.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“It’s true.”

“Worse than now?”

“Mhm.”

“Oh my God.”

He smiled. “I preferred reading. Building things.”

You laughed. “You were born thirty.”

“I was not.”

“You absolutely were.”

“I wasn’t.”

“You came out of the womb paying taxes.”

He laughed properly this time. A warm sound that made you smile.

“And Yuji?”

“Oh…” His eyes softened immediately. “He was chaos.”

“I can imagine.”

“He climbed everything. Trees. Fences. The roof once”

“The roof?”

“Mhm.”

“Our mother nearly fainted.”

“And you?”

“I climbed after him. To get him down.”

You laughed. “So you’ve been rescuing him your whole life?”

“…More or less. He once got stuck halfway up a tree because he realized he was afraid of heights.”

“No.”

“Mhm.”

“So?”

“I climbed up. Carried him down.”

“You carried him?”

“He refused to let go.”

You covered your mouth, laughing. “Please tell me you have photos.”

“I do.”

“Oh my God.”

“You are showing me.”

He sighed dramatically. “I had a feeling you’d say that.”

“What about you?” He asked. “Were you the quiet kid?”

You snorted. “Absolutely not.”

“Oh?”

“I talked. A lot. I still do.”

“I’ve noticed.”

You nudged his leg. “Rude.”

“Just observant.”

You told him stories from university. About Nobara insisting everyone should celebrate surviving exams. About Megumi accidentally becoming the group’s designated problem solver because he always looked responsible.

“One time…” You laughed. “Yuji convinced our professor the projector was haunted.”

Choso blinked. “…How?”

“He kept unplugging it.”

“…Yuji.”

“The professor spent twenty minutes trying to fix it.”

“Oh no.”

“And then Nobara started pretending she heard whispers.”

Choso covered his face.

“I raised my hand.”

“And?”

“I suggested maybe ghosts preferred PowerPoint presentations.”

He laughed so hard he actually bent forward. “You didn’t.”

“I absolutely did.”

“And Megumi?”

“He walked out because he said he didn’t know us.”

“…Fair.”

The laughter slowly faded. Leaving behind another comfortable silence. Without really thinking… Choso looked down. You were still laying on his laps.Looking completely at peace. He smiled Small. Soft. Almost unnoticeable.

His fingers continued moving through your hair. Carefully untangling a few strands caught by the breeze. He didn’t even realize he was doing it anymore.

It had become instinct.

You looked up just enough to catch that smile. Your heart fluttered. “You know…”

“Hm?”

“I think you’re smiling more.”

His hand paused. “…Am I?”

“Mhm.”

“I like it.”

He looked away, suddenly shy again. “I think…” He admitted quietly. “It’s because you laugh a lot.”

You blinked. “What does that have to do with anything?”

He met your eyes. “Your laugh is…” He hesitated. “…Contagious.” For a moment…

Neither of you spoke. Neither of you looked away. And neither of you noticed that somewhere between shared stories, gentle touches and easy laughter…

Whatever this was had quietly become something neither friendship nor coincidence could fully explain anymore.

Time had slipped away from both of you. The sun had begun its slow descent, bathing the lake in warm shades of gold and amber. The breeze had cooled. The blanket beneath you was scattered with the last few strawberry leaves and empty bottles. Neither of you had noticed how many hours had passed. It had simply… Happened.

Choso’s fingers had slowed in your hair. Not because he wanted to stop. He had grown almost too comfortable with the feeling of you resting against him.

Too used to the quiet weight of your head against his leg. Too aware that if he let himself…He could stay exactly like this until sunset. Or longer.

Eventually… He let out a quiet breath. “…We should probably get going.”

You didn’t move. Instead, you looked up at him. His dark eyes met yours almost immediately. There was something reluctant in them. Almost apologetic.

“Do you want to?” The question came so softly that for a moment he simply looked at you.

Then… He smiled. A small, honest smile. “…No.” He laughed under his breath. “But…” his thumb brushed your cheek “We still have to eat dinner.”

You smiled. “Right.”

For a few quiet seconds neither of you made any effort to stand. Almost as if both of you were silently hoping the other would suggest staying just a little longer.

Neither of you did.

You looked up at him again. “…Did you enjoy today?”

His answer came immediately. “Yes” Not polite. Not automatic. Certain. “I really did.” His thumb absentmindedly brushed a loose strand of your hair away from your forehead. “So much more than I expected.”

Your heart skipped. “…Me too.” You smiled. “I had a wonderful time.”

His expression softened. “I’m glad.”

A comfortable silence settled again. Then Choso cleared his throat. “If…” He hesitated.

You had started recognizing that hesitation. It meant he was trying very hard not to assume too much.

“…If you’d like…” He looked away for just a second. “We could…” Another pause. “…Come here again sometime.”

The sentence sounded almost shy. As though he expected you to politely decline. As though he had already prepared himself for disappointment. Before he could spiral any further…

You smiled. Brightly. “I would love to, Choso.”

His eyes found yours again. “…Really?”

“Mhm. I’d love to.”

The relief on his face was almost impossible to miss. “Oh.” A tiny laugh escaped him. “…Good.”

He looked down for a second, smiling to himself. “I was hoping you’d say that.”

Your cheeks warmed.

Eventually… Reality won. You both reluctantly stood.

Choso folded the blanket with practiced precision while you gathered the remaining bottles.

“You really planned everything.”

He smiled. “I tried.”

“You succeeded.”

“…Thank you.”

“You know…” You laughed. “You accept compliments almost as badly as you accept people thanking you.”

“I don’t.”

“You do.”

“I simply don’t know what to say.”

“Try…” You tilted your head dramatically. “‘You’re welcome.’”

He chuckled. “…I’ll practice.”

The backpack somehow looked even fuller than before. You frowned. “How is that possible?”

“I have no idea.”

“You packed physics into that thing.”

“I work in IT.”

“So?”

“So maybe I compressed it.”

You laughed. “I cannot believe I almost accepted that explanation.”

The walk back started slowly. The afternoon sun warmed your shoulders. Neither of you hurried. There was no reason to. Your legs, however… Had started protesting.

The trail suddenly seemed much longer than before.

After nearly twenty minutes, you let out an involuntary groan.

“…Everything okay?”

You looked at Choso.

“…Maybe.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Maybe?”

“My legs are beginning to hate me.”

He smiled. “Tired?”

“…A little.” You stretched one leg dramatically. “I think this was more walking than I’ve done all month.”

He looked at you for a second. Then… Entirely casually… “I can carry you.”

You blinked. “…What?”

“I can carry you.”

“Choso.”

“Hm?”

“You absolutely don’t have to.”

“I know.”

“I can walk.”

“I know.”

“So…”

“So?”

“…Why?”

He looked genuinely confused by the question. “Because you’re tired. “As simple as that.”

You stared at him. “…That’s your reasoning?”

“Mhm. You look tired. I can help.” He shrugged lightly. “So I offered.”

As though carrying someone through the forest was the most ordinary thing in the world.

You laughed quietly. “…You’re unbelievable.”

“I’ve heard that.”

“Usually as a compliment?”

“…Not always.”

You smiled. “…Are you sure?”

He nodded once. Without hesitation. “I’m sure.”

You bit your lip. “…Okay.”

Before you could overthink it… He stepped closer. One arm slipped carefully behind your knees. The other supported your back.

“So this is happening.”

He smiled. “If that’s alright.”

“It is.”

Then, with surprising ease… He lifted you. As though you weighed almost nothing. Your eyes widened.

“Oh.”

He looked concerned immediately. “Did I hurt you?”

“What? No. You just…” You laughed. “…Picked me up like I was a backpack.”

He smiled. “I work out.”

“I noticed.”

For a few moments… Neither of you spoke. You could hear his steady heartbeat through his shirt. The scent of laundry detergent mixed with pine trees. The warmth of his arms around you. Comfortable. Safe.

You looked up at him. “You know…”

“Hm?”

“The gym is really showing.”

He looked down at you. “…Is it?”

“Oh, absolutely.”

He laughed softly. “I’m glad.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever been carried this effortlessly.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment.”

“You should.”

After a few more minutes… You gently tapped his shoulder.

“Okay.”

“Hm?”

“You can put me down now.”

“You sure?”

“Mhm.”

“My legs forgave me.”

He carefully lowered you back onto the path. Waiting until you were steady before letting go completely. Even then… His hand lingered near your elbow for a second. Just in case. Only withdrawing once he was certain you wouldn’t stumble. Gentle. Always gentle.

The rest of the walk felt… Different somehow. You naturally fell into step beside him. Your shoulders brushed every now and then. Neither of you moved away.

Sometimes your hands came dangerously close. Close enough that your fingers almost touched. Almost. But not quite.

You talked about nothing important. Favorite movies. The terrible coffee on campus. Whether pineapple belonged on pizza. Choso admitted he secretly liked cheesy romantic comedies.

You laughed so hard he looked embarrassed.

“I thought you were judging me.”

“I am.”

“…Fair.”

“And your favorite movie?” He looked genuinely curious.

You told him.

He immediately wrote the title into his phone.

“You’ve never seen it?”

“I haven’t.”

“You don’t have to.”

“I want to.”

“…Why?”

He smiled so naturally that it almost stole your breath. “Because if you like it…” He shrugged. “…There’s a good chance I will too.”

Your heart melted.

By the time the summer house came into view… The two of you were laughing over another ridiculous story from university. Neither of you noticed the figure sitting on the porch.

Yuji.

Who had been “reading” the same page of a comic for the last twenty minutes.

Waiting.

The second he saw the two of you approaching—

Walking far closer together than when you’d left…

Both smiling…

Laughing…

Looking lighter somehow…

He slowly lowered the comic.

A grin spread across his face.

“…Finally.” He muttered to himself. “They’re getting somewhere.”

He had no idea that the “somewhere” included a picnic, hair playing, emotional confessions, and Choso carrying you through half the forest.

The next morning… You woke up a little before eight. Not as ridiculously early as yesterday. But still earlier than everyone else. You stretched. Changed into a simple summer dress. Brushed your hair. And wandered downstairs.

The smell of coffee greeted you before you even reached the kitchen. You smiled automatically. Of course.

Choso.

He was standing by the counter, making breakfast.

When he heard your footsteps, he turned around.

And for a split second… He just looked at you.

“…Morning.” His voice sounded… different. A little quieter. Almost nervous.

“Morning.”

He smiled. A tiny one. “You…” He stopped.

You tilted your head. “Hm?”

He looked away for a second. Then back at you. “…You look nice today.”

Silence.You blinked.

Did… Did Choso Kamo just compliment you first? Your heart immediately started beating faster.

“Oh.” You smiled. “Thank you.”

His ears turned slightly pink. “You always look nice.” He froze. “…I mean…” He cleared his throat. “…The dress. No.” He winced “I mean—”

You couldn’t help laughing. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“It’s okay.”

He looked almost relieved. “Right.”

A comfortable silence settled between you. He flipped another pancake. Then glanced at you again.

“So…”

“Hm?”

“I was about to eat.” He hesitated. Then, a little more quietly— “…Would you like to have breakfast with me?”

Your smile became impossibly soft. “I’d love to.”

“Okay.” He smiled too. A little bigger this time. “Good.”

The two of you sat across from each other. Just like always. But… Something felt different. Not worse. Just… New.

Like there was a little more awareness between you. A little more nervousness. You caught him looking at you twice. Each time he immediately looked back at his plate. Cute.

Halfway through breakfast… He put his coffee down. “So…”

You looked up. “Hm?”

“If…” He paused. “You don’t already have plans later…”

You waited patiently.

“Would you…” Another pause. His fingers tightened slightly around his mug. “…Like to go for a walk?”

Your heart practically stopped. “A walk?”

“Mhm. Just…” He smiled shyly. “The weather is supposed to be nice. And I know a trail nearby. You don’t have to, of course. It could be nice.”

You looked at him for a moment. Unable to stop smiling. “I’d love that.”

The relief that crossed his face was almost immediate. “Oh.”

“Okay.” He smiled. “Great.” Then, almost to himself— “…Great.”

From the hallway, hidden just enough not to be seen… A sleepy Yuji peeked around the corner. He watched his older brother trying—and spectacularly failing—to act casual. Then he looked at your bright smile.

He silently gave Choso a thumbs-up.

His brother, thankfully, didn’t see it.

Because otherwise Choso probably would’ve canceled the walk out of embarrassment.

Yuji grinned to himself.

Progress.

Finally.

His brother had stopped standing still.

Your room had slowly started feeling like your own. Which was funny. Because you had only been at the summer house for a short time. But between the unpacked books on your desk, clothes scattered around your suitcase, and the small pile of notes from your data cases… It already felt familiar. Comfortable. Safe.

You were sitting on your bed when someone knocked. Except… They didn’t really wait for permission.

“YN.”

You looked up. “Yuji.”

The pink-haired menace walked inside like he owned the room. Which, technically, he kind of did.

“What?”

He closed the door behind him. Then immediately sat on the floor.

You narrowed your eyes.

“Why do I feel like you’re about to annoy me?”

“Because you know me.”

“Unfortunately.”

He ignored that. “So.”

You sighed. “No.”

“I didn’t even say anything.”

“You walked in with that face.”

“What face?”

“The face you make before you cause problems.”

Yuji looked offended. “I don’t cause problems.”

“You absolutely do.”

“Okay, maybe sometimes.”

“Always.”

He grinned. “Anyway.”

You already knew where this was going.

“Choso.”

You froze. “…What about him?”

Yuji’s smile widened. “Progress report.”

You immediately grabbed your pillow and threw it at him. “No.”

He caught it easily. “Yes.”

“Yuji.”

“What?”

“You are way too invested.”

“Of course I am.”

“Why?”

“Because this is the most interesting thing that has happened all summer.”

You stared. “Seriously?”

“Yes.”

“You have no hobbies.”

“I have many hobbies.”

“Name three.”

“…”

“Exactly.”

He leaned back against the bed.

“So.”

“What happened?”

You looked away. “Nothing.”

“Wrong answer.”

“Yuji.”

“YN.”

You sighed. “You already know.”

“I want details.”

“No.”

“Please.”

“No.”

“Please?”

You looked at him. “You are unbelievable.”

“I know.”

A pause.

Then you gave up. “…He thought you and I were dating.”

Yuji immediately made a face. “Ew.”

You blinked. “Wow.”

“What?”

“You didn’t even hesitate.”

“Because no.” He shuddered dramatically. “Absolutely not.”

“Yuji.”

“You’re like my sister.”

“That’s not helping your case.”

“And also…” He pointed at himself. “I have eyes.”

You laughed. “Okay.”

“Continue.”

You told him everything. The conversation. The kitchen. Choso’s relief. The way he looked when he realized you weren’t together. The job offer. The email. The meeting with his boss. And unfortunately… The more you talked… The more obvious it became. Because every time you mentioned Choso… Your expression changed. Your voice softened. You smiled without realizing it.

Yuji noticed. Of course he did. He noticed everything.

“So…” You finished. “And he’s just…” You sighed. “He’s just so…”

“Nice?”

“Yes.”

“Kind?”

“Yes.”

“Handsome?”

You immediately looked away.n“…Yes.”

Yuji grinned.n“There it is.”

“Shut up.”

“No.”

You hugged your pillow. “He is just…” You searched for the words. “He cares. He remembers things. He listens. He doesn’t make you feel stupid. He actually wants to help.And…” You smiled. “ He believes in me”

Yuji’s teasing expression softened. Because despite everything… He really did understand. Choso wasn’t someone people easily got close to. And you had somehow done it without even trying.

“You really like him.”

You covered your face. “Yes.”

“Like…Really like him?”

You peeked at him. “…Yes.”

Yuji nodded. “Okay.” He stood up. “Perfect.”

You blinked. “Perfect?”

“It’s my time to shine.”

“Oh no.”

“Yes.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

“Yuji.”

He pointed dramatically. “I will become the ultimate wingman.”

You groaned. “Please don’t.”

“I won’t tell him.”

You froze. “Really?”

“Mhm.”

“Why?”

“Because that’s your job.”

“Also…” He smiled. “It’s more fun this way.”

You narrowed your eyes. “You are enjoying this.”

“A little.”

“Yuji.”

“Okay, a lot. But.” He raised a finger. “I will give him hints.Subtle hints.”

“You cannot be subtle.”

“I can.”

“You literally told me I was talking to him in italic font.”

“That was an accurate observation.”

“That was bullying.”

“It was loving teasing.”

You rolled your eyes. “Whatever.”

Yuji grinned. “Trust me.”

“I got this.”

The house had finally gone quiet. The kind of quiet that only happened after everyone had spent an entire day together. The living room was empty. The lights were dimmed. Everyone had disappeared into their rooms.

Except Choso.

Of course.

Yuji wasn’t surprised when he found him in the kitchen. Choso was standing by the counter, making tea. Because apparently even on vacation, his older brother couldn’t just exist. He needed a routine. A schedule. A cup of tea. Probably a mental checklist.

Yuji leaned against the doorway. “So.”

Choso glanced over. “So?”

Yuji nodded toward him. “You and YN have been spending a lot of time together.”

Immediately. Very slightly. Choso stiffened. Not enough that most people would notice.

But Yuji wasn’t most people. He had known him his entire life.

“Have we?”

Yuji raised an eyebrow. “Yeah.”

“Have we?”

“Choso.”

“What?”

“You literally spent most of today teaching her about your work.”

“Mhm.”

“And yesterday you helped her with the cases.”

“Mhm.”

“And you two were talking for like three hours this morning.”

Choso looked away. “She was interested.”

Yuji smiled. “Yeah. Inoticed.”

There was a pause. Then

“She’s smart.”

Yuji looked at him. “I know.”

“She understands things quickly.”

“Mhm.”

“She asks good questions.”

Yuji nodded. “Uh-huh.”

“She’s…” Choso stopped.

Yuji waited. Because he knew. He knew exactly what was happening. Choso was accidentally describing his feelings. And he didn’t even realize.

“She’s what?”

Choso frowned slightly. Then looked away.

“She’s just a good person.”

Yuji smiled. “Yeah.”

“She is.”

For a moment, neither of them spoke. Then Yuji walked further into the kitchen.

“You know…”

Choso looked over. “Hm?”

“I was kind of surprised.”

“About what?”

“That you thought me and YN were dating.”

Choso immediately looked uncomfortable. “I apologize.”

Yuji blinked. “For what?”

“I shouldn’t have assumed.”

“Choso.”

“What?”

“You weren’t being weird.”

“I know.”

“No, I mean…” Yuji shrugged. “You were just trying to understand the situation.”

Choso was quiet. Then softly: “She’s important to you.”

The answer was so simple. So very Choso. Yuji’s expression softened.

“Yeah. She is.”

A few seconds passed.

Then Yuji smiled slightly. “But not like that.”

Choso looked at him. “What?”

“Me and YN. We’re friends.”

“I know.”

“No, I mean…” Yuji opened the fridge. “Very much friends.”

Choso watched him. And Yuji caught it. The smallest change. The way his shoulders relaxed. Almost immediately. Interesting. Very interesting.

“So.” Yuji grabbed a drink. “Good to know.”

Choso narrowed his eyes. “Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why are you telling me this?”

Yuji shrugged. “Because you seemed worried.”

“I was not.”

“You were.”

“I wasn’t.”

“You literally looked like you were about to apologize for existing.”

Choso frowned. “I did not.”

“You did.”

“I don’t.”

“You do.”

A pause. Then Choso quietly admitted: “…Maybe slightly.”

Yuji had to bite the inside of his cheek not to laugh. Because that was basically a confession by Choso standards.

Yuji leaned against the counter. “So.”

“What?”

“Are you having fun?”

Choso looked confused. “With what?”

“Summer.”

“Oh.” He nodded. “Yes.”

“Good.”

A pause. “With everyone?”

“Mhm.”

Another pause.

Then: “Especially?”

Choso immediately looked suspicious. “Yuji.”

“What?”

“You’re doing something.”

“I’m literally asking a question.”

“You have a tone.”

“I have no tone.”

“You have a tone.”

Yuji smiled. “Okay.”

“Maybe.”

Choso sighed. “YN is easy to talk to.”

Yuji looked away so Choso wouldn’t notice his grin.

“Mhm.”

“She doesn’t make things complicated.”

“That’s good.”

“She listens.”

“Yeah.”

“She…” Choso stopped again.

Yuji waited. Because pushing would ruin it. He didn’t need to. Choso already knew.

“She’s nice to be around.”

There it was.

Yuji nodded. “Then maybe you should spend more time with her.”

Choso immediately looked at him. “What?”

“What?”

“You said that strangely.”

“No, I didn’t.”

“You did.”

“I just think…” Yuji shrugged. “If someone makes you feel comfortable, you shouldn’t avoid them.”

Choso was quiet. “She’s your friend.”

“Yeah.”

“And you’re okay with…”

“Choso.” Yuji interrupted. “She’s an adult.”

“I know.”

“You’re an adult.”

“I know.”

“You’re both smart.”

Choso looked away. “That’s not the point.”

“Then what is?”

A pause.

Choso didn’t answer. Because the real answer was: Because I like her. And saying it out loud made it real.

Yuji smiled softly. “You know…YN is pretty easy to read.”

Choso looked at him. “What do you mean?”

“Nothing.”

“Yuji.”

“Nothing.”

“You’re smiling.”

“I smile often.”

“Not like that.”

Yuji laughed. “Good night, Choso.”

“Yuji.”

But Yuji was already leaving.

At the doorway, he turned around. “Oh.”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t overthink everything.”

Choso stared. “I don’t.”

Yuji laughed. “Sure.” Then he disappeared upstairs.

Choso stayed in the kitchen. Quiet. Thinking. Which was exactly what Yuji told him not to do. Because of course he did. But… For the first time… The thought didn’t feel impossible.

Maybe you didn’t only see him as Yuji’s older brother. Maybe you actually enjoyed being around him. Maybe… He didn’t have to immediately step away.

Upstairs, Yuji closed his bedroom door. And smiled to himself. Progress. Slow progress. But progress.

Because Choso Kamo was the type of person who needed permission to breathe if he thought it might inconvenience someone else. And apparently…His little brother’s job for the summer was teaching him that sometimes… People wanted him around. Especially you.

Choso wasn’t usually an overthinker.

At least…Not at work.

At work, there were facts.

Problems.

Solutions.

Everything followed a pattern.

People, however… People were complicated.

And right now…His little brother had somehow made everything infinitely more complicated.

He stood outside Yuji’s bedroom. A mug of tea still in his hand. Staring at the closed door.

This is ridiculous.

He was thirty-two years old.

Why was he standing outside his younger brother’s room like a teenager asking for permission to borrow the car?

He sighed quietly.

Turned around.

Took three steps toward his own room.

Stopped.

Then walked back.

He raised his hand.

Hesitated.

Lowered it.

Raised it again.

Finally— Knock.

“Come in.”

Choso opened the door slightly.

Yuji looked up from his phone. “…You okay?”

“I…” Choso immediately looked like he regretted coming. “Can I ask you something?”

Yuji put his phone aside. “Sure.”

Choso stayed awkwardly by the door.

“You don’t have to stand there like you’re talking to the principal.”

“…Right.”

He stepped inside. Still looking uncertain.

For a few seconds, he simply stood there. Thinking. Trying to find the right words.

Then finally— “So…”

Yuji waited.

“Hypothetically.”

The corner of Yuji’s mouth twitched. “Hypothetically.”

“You aren’t…” Choso rubbed the back of his neck. “…mad that I’m spending time with your friend?”

Silence.

Yuji blinked once. Then… A smile slowly spread across his face. Not teasing. Not mocking. Just…Fond. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“You came all the way here to ask me that?”

“I just wanted to make sure.”

Yuji shook his head, laughing quietly. “You really are unbelievable.”

“I mean…I know she’s important to you.”

“She is.”

“And I didn’t want you to think I was…” He struggled for the word. “…taking advantage of that.”

Yuji’s expression softened immediately. Because…Of course. Of course that was what Choso had been worrying about. Not whether you liked him. Not whether he should ask you out. Not even whether he had a chance.

His biggest concern was whether Yuji would feel betrayed.

Yuji stood up. Walked over. Then gently patted Choso’s shoulder. “Choso.”

“Hm?”

“You have a green light.”

Choso looked confused. “What?”

“A green light.” Yuji smiled.

“In everything you’re thinking about right now.”

“…What?”

Yuji laughed. “You heard me.”

“I…” Choso’s ears immediately turned pink. “I wasn’t—”

“You were.”

“I didn’t say—”

“You don’t have to.” Yuji crossed his arms. “I know you.”

Choso looked down. “…You’re sure?”

“I’m sure.”

“You won’t be uncomfortable?”

“No.”

“You won’t think I’m…”

“What?”

“…Crossing a line?”

Yuji smiled. “No.” A pause. Then, with the biggest grin imaginable— “And…” He tilted his head. “From where I’m standing…I’m not the only one giving you a green light.”

Choso froze.“…Yuji.”

“What?”

“You…” His blush spread all the way to his cheeks now. “I don’t know what you mean.”

“Oh?”

“I really don’t.”

“Sure.”

“I don’t.”

“Choso.”

“What?”

“You’re terrible at lying.”

“…”

“I’ve known you my entire life.”

“…”

“You look like someone just confessed to you.”

Choso covered part of his face with one hand. “…Good night.”

Yuji burst into laughter. “That’s your escape?”

“…Good night.”

“Good night, brother.”

As Choso reached the door—

“Hey?”

Choso looked back. “Yeah?”

Yuji smiled. “I like seeing you happy.”

For just a second… Choso’s expression softened. A genuine one. “…Thank you.”

_________________

Choso had always been good at understanding things.

Patterns.

Systems.

People.

Not perfectly.

He wasn’t someone who claimed to know everything about others.

But he paid attention.

It was part of who he was.

In his job, details mattered.

A small inconsistency.

A strange pattern.

A number that didn’t fit.

Sometimes the smallest thing told you the most.

And lately…

He had been noticing a lot about you.

The first thing he noticed was that you smiled with your whole face.

Not just your lips.

Your eyes changed.

Your entire expression softened.

Like happiness was something you couldn’t hide even if you tried.

He noticed it when Yuji made stupid jokes.

When Nobara said something dramatic.

When Megumi accidentally made a sarcastic comment.

But especially…

When you talked about things you cared about.

Your studies.

Your future.

Your interests.

Your plans.

You became almost impossible not to watch.

And that was the problem.

Because Choso had noticed you.

A lot.

More than he should have.

He noticed the way you always woke up early.

At first, he assumed it was coincidence.

Then he realized…

You were usually awake around the same time he was.

He noticed how you sat next to him during conversations.

How you asked about his work.

How you remembered small details he mentioned.

How you always thanked him.

Not casually.

Actually thanked him.

Like his efforts mattered.

He wasn’t used to that.

Not really.

People appreciated him.

His work.

His reliability.

His ability to solve problems.

But you…

You appreciated him.

Not what he could do.

Him.

And that was different.

You were beautiful.

That was the first thing he noticed.

And he felt slightly embarrassed admitting it, even only to himself.

Because it wasn’t just that you were attractive.

Although…

You were.

Very much so.

It was everything else.

The way you laughed.

The way you got excited.

The way you looked when you were concentrating.

The way you bit your lip slightly when you were thinking.

The way you looked at him when he explained something.

Like you were actually interested.

Like listening to him wasn’t a burden.

And that was dangerous.

Because Choso knew himself.

He knew that if he allowed himself to think about it…

He would start hoping.

And hoping was where things became complicated.

At first…

He thought you liked Yuji.

Honestly?

It made sense.

You two were close.

Very close.

The first day you arrived, you hugged him immediately.

You laughed easily with him.

You teased each other.

You had inside jokes.

You were comfortable around him.

And Yuji…

Yuji loved people.

But he especially loved people who made him happy.

So when Choso saw the two of you together, he thought:

Of course.

She likes Yuji.

And honestly?

He understood why.

Yuji was easy to love.

He was bright.

Warm.

Kind.

The type of person who made everyone feel welcome.

Choso had spent his whole life protecting him.

Supporting him.

Making sure he was okay.

If someone made Yuji happy…

That mattered.

So when he saw you and Yuji together, he immediately created distance.

Not because he didn’t like you.

Because he did.

Too much.

And that was exactly why he couldn’t interfere.

Then…

You and Yuji disappeared to talk.

And Choso tried not to think about it.

He told himself it was nothing.

Maybe they were discussing something private.

Maybe it had nothing to do with him.

Maybe…

He was simply being stupid.

But then you came back.

And Yuji said it was just a friendly conversation.

And later…

You told him.

Just friends.

You and Yuji.

Nothing more.

He remembered the exact feeling.

Relief.

Immediate.

Almost embarrassing relief.

Because for a moment…

He allowed himself to think:

Maybe.

Just maybe.

And then immediately…

He reminded himself why he shouldn’t.

Because even if Yuji wasn’t interested…

There was still the other problem.

You were his brother’s friend.

Yuji’s best friend.

Someone important to him.

Someone he trusted.

And Choso would never do anything that could hurt Yuji.

Never.

Because he knew Yuji.

He knew how much he cared about people.

How deeply he attached.

How much he valued his friendships.

What if Yuji was uncomfortable?

What if he felt betrayed?

What if he thought Choso had crossed a line?

The thought alone was enough.

No.

He couldn’t.

And besides…

There was another possibility.

A more realistic one.

You didn’t actually like him.

You were just kind.

That was all.

You were naturally warm.

Friendly.

You treated everyone well.

You laughed with him because he was Yuji’s older brother.

You sat next to him because he was easy to talk to.

You hugged him because you were grateful.

Not because you wanted something more.

And honestly?

That was okay.

More than okay.

Because being your friend was already something he valued.

But sometimes…

Sometimes he caught himself.

Like when you smiled at him after he helped you.

Or when you sat beside him without hesitation.

Or when you looked genuinely happy because of something he did.

Sometimes he wondered.

What if?

What if you actually did see him differently?

What if he wasn’t just Yuji’s older brother?

What if you looked at him and saw Choso?

Not the responsible one.

Not the protective one.

Not the person who always helped.

Just him.

Then he immediately pushed the thought away.

Because it wasn’t fair.

To Yuji.

To you.

To himself.

He was older.

You were still building your future.

He had a responsibility.

A position.

A life that was already settled.

You had so much ahead of you.

You deserved someone who could give you something uncomplicated.

Not someone who spent days overthinking whether he was even allowed to like you.

And yet…

Every morning when he walked downstairs and saw you already there…

Every time you smiled at him…

Every time you asked him questions and listened…

Every time you thanked him…

He found himself wanting to stay.

Just a little longer.

He didn’t know when it happened.

When you stopped being just Yuji’s friend.

When you became someone he looked for when entering a room.

Someone whose opinion mattered.

Someone whose happiness affected his own.

But he knew one thing.

He cared about you.

A lot.

Maybe too much.

And that was exactly why he had to be careful.

Because Choso Kamo could handle rejection.

He could handle disappointment.

He could handle someone not liking him back.

What he couldn’t handle…

Was hurting someone he loved.

Especially Yuji.

So he would stay close.

He would help you.

He would support you.

He would be there.

But he wouldn’t cross that line.

Because you deserved the choice.

And Yuji deserved a brother who never put him in a difficult position.

Even if…

Some selfish part of him quietly hoped…

That maybe one day…