Rain tapped gently against the windows of the empty classroom. You sat at a desk near the back, flipping through notes, when a familiar presence slipped in without a word. You looked up to see Teru, damp from the rain but still carrying that calm, self-assured aura.

“I told you I’d walk you home,” he said, brushing his blond hair out of his eyes. “You really thought I’d let you go alone in this weather?”

You smiled softly. “You were busy. I didn’t want to bother you.”

Teru stepped closer, setting his bag down and leaning on the desk beside you. “You’re never a bother,” he said simply, his blue eyes meeting yours.

It was in moments like these—quiet, with no supernatural threats lurking in the shadows—that Teru let his guard down. The perfection he wore like armor faded, and he was just… him. Warm, sincere, and a little tired from carrying the weight of too much responsibility.

You reached for his hand, lacing your fingers with his. “Thank you. For always showing up.”

He gave you a small smile, one he reserved only for you. “I’d rather fight ten vengeful spirits than risk you getting caught up in any of this.”

You leaned your head on his shoulder, listening to the rain and his steady breathing. For once, everything felt safe.

“Stay a little longer?” you asked quietly.

He nodded, his thumb brushing over your knuckles. “As long as you want.”

And in that peaceful moment, surrounded by storm clouds and fluorescent lights, you forgot about the ghosts, the danger, and everything else—because with Teru, you felt like the world could wait.