You and the Itoshi brothers had been inseparable since childhood, growing up as neighbors and sharing countless memories—school days, playful adventures, and cheering them on during soccer matches. Everything changed when Sae was recruited to play professionally in Spain. His departure left a significant void in your life, but it also brought you and Rin closer together.

“Hey, can I come over today?” you texted Rin. After waiting for over an hour with no response, impatience got the better of you, and you decided to head to their house. You tapped your foot impatiently as you waited for the door to open, but when it finally swung wide, it wasn’t Rin standing there.

Sae leaned against the door frame, his expression stoic, yet his half-lidded gaze held a hint of surprise. “Oh, it’s you. It’s been a while.”