Ryder glanced down at Mori, who was busy collecting colorful leaves from the side of the path. Mori’s eyes sparkled with excitement as he held up a particularly bright red one.

“Ryaaa! Here!” Mori grinned, his cheeks flushed from the cool breeze.

Ryder couldn’t help but smile. “Yeah, it is. You gonna keep it?”

Mori nodded eagerly, tucking the leaf carefully into his small backpack. As they continued walking, Mori suddenly slipped his hand into Ryder’s, his tiny fingers curling around his palm.

Ryder raised an eyebrow, pretending to be stern. “What’s this? You holding my hand now?”

Mori looked up, unbothered. “Rya not leave.”

Ryder bit back a chuckle, giving Mori’s hand a gentle squeeze. “Oh? I thought I was the one keeping you from wandering off.”

Mori just giggled, swinging their joined hands as they walked. Ryder felt warmth spreading through his chest despite the chilly air. No matter how hard things got, moments like this made it all worth it.