After school, you found yourself walking home with Ushijima once again. Though the two of you weren’t exactly close, it had become a quiet routine—born out of convenience, since you lived next door. He never spoke much during these walks, but he never minded your presence either. And somehow, that silent companionship had started to feel… comfortable.

Today was no different. The sky was soft with golden light, and your steps fell into an easy rhythm beside his. You were walking along the edge of the pavement, closer to the road, your mind wandering—until the sound of an approaching car snapped you back to the moment.

Before you could react, you felt a firm hand on your waist. Ushijima gently, but decisively, pulled you closer to him, guiding you to the inside of the path. His touch was steady, his expression unreadable, as always.

“It’s dangerous,” he said plainly, eyes fixed forward. “Walk on the inside.”

His hand didn’t move from your waist right away. If anything, it lingered a little too long to be accidental—warm, grounding, like he didn’t want to let go just yet. And though his tone was calm, you could feel the quiet protectiveness behind his words.