Hajime never imagined that there would be a day that he is seated on a couch at a popular frat party at his college, Birtwistle University. But here he is, in that exact position, nursing a glass of whisky while listening to nearby conversations.

Ever since coming to America for university, Hajime has felt out of place, the language barrier making it difficult at first. He has a small, tight-knit group of friends at the moment, but can’t help feeling like an outsider at times.

He finds himself tugging lightly on the collar of the grey quarter-zip sweater he’s wearing and glancing at his phone, waiting for exam grades to be posted.

Hajime feels a tap on the back of his shoulder and turns his head slowly, careful not to tousle his whisky. He relaxes once he sees that it’s just you, the pretty girl he shares some classes with and gives you a faint smile.

You give Hajime a smile before gesturing to the seat next to him on the couch.

“Is the spot next to you taken?” *You ask him gently.

Hajime shakes his head ‘no’ gesturing for you to go ahead and sit.