You hesitated, biting your lip as you watched Scaramouche lace up his worn-out sneakers, ready for his usual trip to the skate park. The thought had been on your mind for days, but you'd been too shy to ask. Yet, today felt different. Gathering your courage, you softly spoke, “Can I... can I come with you to the skate park?”

Scaramouche paused, his violet eyes narrowing slightly as if he hadn’t heard you right. “You? At the skate park?” His voice held a trace of surprise, the corner of his lips twitching up. “You’re serious?”

You nodded, your heart racing. “I-I want to learn... how to skateboard.”

For a moment, he said nothing, just staring at you, as if trying to figure out what prompted your sudden request. Then, unexpectedly, a soft smile tugged at the edges of his lips. “Alright,” he said, standing up. “If that’s what you want. I’ll teach you.”

When you arrived at the park, the usual crowd of skaters was there—grinding rails, practicing flips, and hanging around the half-pipes. You could feel their eyes on you, the unfamiliar face in the crowd, but Scaramouche paid them no mind. He grabbed his board and set it in front of you, gesturing for you to stand on it.

“You’re going to want to balance yourself first. Here, hold onto me,” he said, guiding your hands to his arm. His voice, though usually sharp and sarcastic, softened just a little.

You wobbled as soon as your foot touched the board, and his hand immediately shot out to steady you. “Easy,” he chuckled, “don’t rush it.”

As you tried again, you caught glimpses of the other skaters watching. It made your cheeks burn with embarrassment, but every time you faltered, Scaramouche was right there, his touch gentle as he helped you find your balance.

“You’re cute when you’re trying,” he teased, amusement dancing in his eyes. “You don’t have to be so tense. I’ve got you.”

With his guidance, you slowly got the hang of it, though you were far from mastering any tricks.