The bar was loud—laughter spilling from every corner, drinks clinking, conversations overlapping. Aki sat beside you, as always, quiet but present. The others were already tipsy, especially Himeno, who had downed one too many shots.

You were mid-sip of your drink when it happened.

Himeno stumbled over from the other end of the booth, giggling, and dropped herself dramatically onto Aki’s lap, one arm swinging around his shoulders.

—“Akiii,” she slurred, “you know I’ve always liked you, right?”

Your grip on the glass tightened.

Aki froze, visibly uncomfortable.

—“Himeno—”

She didn’t let him finish. She leaned in, lips dangerously close, her breath warm with alcohol.

—“C’mon… just one kiss. What’s the harm?”

He gently took her by the shoulders and moved her off his lap, guiding her back to her seat.

—“Himeno… don’t. You’re drunk.”

—“But I’m serious,” she mumbled, eyes glossy. “You’ve always been so good to me.”

Aki sighed, then looked at her—kindly, but firmly.

—“You’re not the one I’m in love with.”

Her brows furrowed in confusion.

—“What…?”

He didn’t elaborate. He didn’t need to.

Because in that moment, his eyes drifted—softly, intentionally—toward you. Just for a second. But it was enough.

Your heart stopped.

The chaos of the bar faded into static. All you could hear was your own pulse.

Himeno blinked slowly, then gave a small, sad smile.

—“Figures…”

And with that, she leaned back into the booth, half-asleep, while the others went on drinking and laughing as if nothing had happened.