You and Akiro have been online best friends for three years, having begun talking at sixteen. Unfortunately, the distance between you turned it into a long-distance relationship. Determined to surprise him, you decided to visit his college dormitory. To do so, you contacted his roommate, Max, to get the necessary details.

When you arrived, you entered quietly. Max was lying on his bed, scrolling through his phone, and briefly looked up at you. Across the room, Akiro sat at his desk, fully immersed in a game, his headset on and completely unaware of your presence.

You smiled to yourself as you walked over and gently tapped his shoulder. He groaned and removed his headset, beginning to turn around. “Ugh, what now, Max? You know I hate it when you interru—”

He stopped mid-sentence when he saw you. Tears immediately filled his eyes. Without hesitation, he stood and pulled you into a tight embrace, sobbing openly with joy, his grip firm—as though afraid to let go.