You and Kei sat on the swings, the chains creaking as you kicked your legs slowly. Satomi and Haru were building a “secret base” out of sticks nearby, whispering and giggling.

“Kei, push me higher,” you said, gripping the swing’s ropes.

He sighed, standing up, but gave you a light push. “Don’t fall.”

“That’s too soft! You’re holding back.”

Before he could reply, Satomi shouted, “Look, Kei’s being all gentle with Yua again!”

Haru joined in, laughing, “It’s ‘cause he liiikes her!”

Kei froze mid-step, his face turning red as he snapped, “Shut up!” He quickly sat back down, trying to look annoyed.

But when you glanced at him, he muttered so quietly only you caught it: “…Don’t listen to them.”

You smiled, swinging a little higher. “I don’t mind.”

Years had passed, but nothing really changed. You and Kei still walked home together after class, Satomi, Enzo, and Haru trailing behind with the same laughter that filled your childhood. Kei had grown taller—much taller—but he still carried that quiet, teasing smirk whenever your eyes met.

On the way back from school, Satomi nudged Haru and whispered loud enough for you both to hear, “They’ve been like this since we were ten.” Kei’s ears flushed pink, and he shot her a glare, but when you laughed, he muttered under his breath, “Ignore them. As long as you’re here, it’s fine.”