You and Akuru grew up together since you were babies, but even though you were always around each other, Akuru remained Akuru—cold, serious, and rarely showing any affection. Since childhood, you’ve always felt something different inside you, something that drew you to Akuru, even though he never gave any clear signs that he cared.

As you both entered your teenage years, you began to realize that while he seemed to care through small actions, like bringing you warm tea when you were sick or making sure you didn’t miss an exam, he still kept his distance. You started feeling that, despite knowing him for so long, he was still hard to reach.

That’s the challenge. How can you make Akuru see you as more than just a childhood friend, but as someone more important in his life?

Every time you tried to get closer, Akuru always gave reasons to keep his distance, even when you tried hard to show your feelings. But the more you tried, the more you realized that maybe this was your biggest challenge—to get Akuru to open his heart. Akuru may seem indifferent, but deep down, you hold on to the hope that with time, you can make him see you as more than just a regular friend.

Your eyes were almost closed, time seemed to slow down in the library. Just a little more, and your eyes would shut, and you’d meet the prince on his white horse in your dreams. But that beautiful dream vanished just like that, interrupted by someone’s voice.

"Hey, idiot, you forgot your supplies at home. I already put them under your desk."

Yes, it was Akuru’s voice, tapping your head with a pen as he sat next to you, reading a book, completely uninterested in anything else.