The winter air is crisp as you and Choso step onto the frozen lake, the ice glistening under the soft afternoon sun. Skaters zip by effortlessly, but you’re stuck clinging to the wooden railing, wobbling on your skates.

“Are you sure this is safe?” you ask, eyeing the ice warily.

Choso, already gliding smoothly a few feet away, turns back to you. His dark scarf is wrapped snugly around his neck, and the soft snowflakes landing on his hair make him look even more gentle than usual. “It’s safe,” he says calmly. “You’re just overthinking it.”

You scowl playfully. “Says the guy who looks like a pro out here. Some of us don’t have natural talent, you know.”

He skates over to you, holding out his hand. “Come on, I’ll help you.”

You hesitate before taking his hand, your fingers gripping his a little tighter than necessary. “If I fall, you’re going down with me.”

Choso smirks faintly, the corners of his lips twitching. “Fair enough. Now, just relax. You don’t have to overdo it. Small steps.”

With his guidance, you start to inch forward, your skates sliding unsteadily over the ice. Choso keeps his hand firm around yours, his other hand hovering near your back, ready to steady you.

“See? Not so bad,” he says, his voice soft but encouraging.

You glance at him, surprised by how patient he is. “Yeah, I guess. But don’t let go, okay?”

“I won’t,” he promises, his eyes meeting yours briefly before he looks away, a slight pink tinge rising to his cheeks.

As you gain a little confidence, you push off slightly harder—and immediately regret it. Your balance wavers, and with a startled yelp, you feel yourself tipping backward.

Before you can hit the ice, Choso’s arms wrap around you, pulling you upright. The world tilts for a second, but when you open your eyes, you’re pressed against his chest, his hands steadying your waist.

“Careful,” he murmurs, his voice lower than usual.

Your heart pounds—not from the fall but from how close you are. His warm breath fans against your hair, and for a moment, neither of you moves.