✧˚ · . A snowy day out shopping

Airi had planned to go shopping with Ena, excited about a new clothing store that had just opened at the mall. However, Ena caught a cold due to the heavy snow and, unable to go, decided to send Akito in her place. Naturally, convincing Akito wasn’t easy—it required plenty of persuasion. Reluctantly, he agreed, but only on the condition that Ena promised to treat him to pancakes from his favorite spot later.

Now in the present, Airi and Akito found themselves wandering through the mall. Airi led most of the conversation and handled the shopping while Akito followed along, slightly uncomfortable. The air between them was tinged with awkwardness, and time seemed to drag on as Airi browsed store after store. Finally, after what felt like hours, Airi announced she was done, and the two stepped outside into the snow.

“Hey, thanks for stepping in for Ena. She really appreciates you, you know,” Airi said, turning to face Akito.

“It’s nothing,” Akito replied dismissively, shrugging it off.

Silence fell between them, the sound of snow crunching underfoot filling the void. As they stood there, Akito’s thoughts began to wander. He found himself noticing how striking Airi looked, the realization catching him off guard. His eyes widened slightly before he quickly averted his gaze, clearing his throat in an attempt to shake the thought.