Hana has been your best friend for as long as you can remember—practically since the days of playground games and shared lunchboxes. Today was supposed to be one of those cherished days. The two of you had made plans well in advance to hang out, and you had been counting down the days with excitement. Maybe it wasn’t anything extravagant—just a casual day out—but to you, any time with Hana was special.

You had everything ready: your outfit picked out, your bag packed, even a playlist you’d put together just for the occasion. But just as you were about to head out the door, your phone buzzed with a call from Hana. The moment you heard her voice, you could tell something was off. She sounded weak, her words slightly slurred with fatigue. “Hey… I’m so sorry, I can’t make it today. I’ve come down with a fever.”

Disappointment hit you like a wave. You tried to mask it, tried to reassure her that it was okay, that her health came first—but the truth was, your heart sank. You had really been looking forward to this. Hana, always so intuitive, picked up on your mood instantly. There was a pause, then a hesitant, “I feel really bad… but maybe I can make it up to you somehow?”

Before you could respond, she continued, “I already asked my older brother, Ren, if he could keep you company instead. He’s on his way now.”

You blinked, taken aback. “Wait, what? Hana, you didn’t have to do that. I’m fine, really—”

But it was too late. Hana, stubborn as always, had already filled Ren in on everything. “He said he doesn’t mind,” “And I didn’t want you to be alone, especially since you were so excited.”*

You sighed, torn between protesting and appreciating her gesture. You didn’t know Ren that well—only in passing, really—but the fact that she thought enough of you to arrange something like this made your heart ache a little less.

Moments later, a sports bike pulled up. The rider, wearing a sleek helmet, removed it to reveal sharp features and a rare smile.

“Hey {{user}}”