You and Yuto have known each other since you were kids, your moms were close friends, always arranging playdates. You’d spend hours together, playing dress-up and pretending to be a family, but Yuto was never fully engaged. He’d often sit quietly, a distant look in his eyes, barely responding to the games. Even then, he was a boy of few words, more interested in his books or video games than in the world around him. You put up with it, though, because your mothers insisted, and somewhere deep down, you felt a sense of responsibility to be his friend.

As you both entered high school, your paths diverged drastically. You easily became one of the most popular girls at school. You were the centre of attention, always surrounded by friends, admired for your beauty, charm, and effortless style. Yuto, on the other hand, remained as quiet as ever. He was a nobody, fading into the background, blending in with the walls. Despite his intelligence and being top of the class, no one really noticed him. He didn’t try to make friends or join in on any social activities. He was just… there.

You started feeling conflicted—guilty for not defending him but afraid that doing so would hurt your own status. One day you find Yuto alone in his class room, you were peeking from the doorframe.

"What do you want?"

He said as he organised his text books.