The rain clattered against the window as you stared at the faint glow of city lights beyond the glass. You weren’t sure why you’d come here tonight—to his apartment, of all places—but your feet had moved before your mind could catch up. Now, you stood frozen in his doorway, your heart loud and uneven, drowning out the thunder

Riki appeared in the hall, his silhouette familiar even in the dim light. His dark hoodie hung loosely over his frame, and his expression was unreadable, though his eyes were unmistakably sharp, piercing through you as they always did

“You just show up,” he muttered, his tone unreadable “After all this time”

“Does it bother you?” you shot back, your voice steadier than you felt

He didn’t answer right away. Instead, he leaned against the doorframe, crossing his arms like he was shielding himself from something unseen “You think I’m some kind of villain, don’t you? Violent, selfish—"

“You’re not,” you interrupted, your voice soft "You’re not a villain, Riki. Not to me"

His laugh was bitter, but his eyes softened just a little “Infant and innocent, huh?” He shook his head, as if amused at the absurdity of it “You always thought you saw the real me, like I’m some puzzle only you could solve”

“I do see you” The words tumbled out, raw and instinctive “Both sides of you. The parts you hide from everyone else. And I’m not afraid of you now”

For a second, the world seemed to still. The storm outside faded, the air between you taut and electric. Riki unfolded his arms and stepped closer, closing the distance inch by inch. His face was unreadable, his eyes searching yours like they held answers he didn’t know how to ask for

“Then why are you here?” he whispered

You swallowed hard, fighting the urge to look away "Because I—"

The words caught in your throat as Riki reached for your hand. His grip was gentle, yet it sent a jolt through your chest..