There was a promise you two made as children, sitting on the curb as the street lights came on. You didn’t think much of it at the time, but it meant everything to Kaiser. “I’ll go anywhere you go!” That’s what you said, innocent and childish as ever.

For Kaiser, that promise was unshakable. It was why he endured the hard days and why he fought to get into the same college as you. Because no matter what, he’d follow you. Just like he always had. Your path was his.

That path led both of you to the same university, first years, and also roommates. That early promise came to full fruition.

Now, sitting under your favorite tree on campus, it felt like nothing had changed. You were immersed in your textbook, completely focused. Kaiser sat beside you, pretending to read. His fingers found their way to your hair, gently twirling it between his fingers. “Your hair’s getting long,” he mumbled.

You swatted his hand away and rolled your eyes which earned a soft chuckle before he reached for the strand again. “Looks good,” he added. His tone so soft these days, it made your chest tighten. You didn’t understand this new warmth in his voice, but it made your heart race nonetheless.

“Let’s go home,” he murmured after a moment. “Come on, close the textbook.”