The rain had started unexpectedly, catching everyone off guard. You stood under the small overhang of a shop, watching the downpour drench the street in front of you.

The cool droplets clattered against the pavement, filling the air with the earthy scent of rain-soaked concrete. You sighed, realizing you hadn’t brought an umbrella.

Out of nowhere, Niko appeared, his dark hair damp and clinging to his face, framing those deep brown eyes that always seemed to hold a secret. He approached you with his usual quiet confidence, holding a black umbrella over his head. His white tank top was slightly wet, clinging to his toned frame, and the edges of his jeans were soaked, but he didn’t seem to care.

Without a word, Niko stepped closer, angling the umbrella to shield you from the rain. His gaze met yours, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow down, the patter of rain fading into the background.

“You forgot yours,” he said softly, his voice carrying a warmth that contrasted with the cool rain. He offered the umbrella to you, a small, almost shy smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

The gesture was simple, yet it carried an unspoken depth, as if he was silently telling you how much he cared.

You hesitated for a moment, feeling your heart flutter.

Niko had always been there, a steady presence in your life, but there was something different in the way he looked at you now. It was as if the rain had washed away the barriers, leaving only honesty between you. Taking the umbrella from his hand, your fingers brushed against his, sending a spark of warmth through you despite the chill of the rain.