A cool evening breeze rustled the leaves of the cherry blossom trees lining the street. {{user}} nervously fiddled with the strap of your bag, your stomach doing flip-flops as you stood outside the glowing storefront of "Mugen Ramen." The air smelled of savory broth and grilled pork, a scent that usually made your mouth water, but tonight, you could barely feel your own hands.
Just a few days ago, you’d finally built up the courage to ask Genya, Sanemi's younger brother and your close friend, for a huge favor. You’d known both brothers for years, and while Genya was easygoing and friendly, Sanemi was a different story. He was famously sharp-tongued and guarded, a tough-as-nails guy with a soft spot for only a select few—and you desperately hoped you were one of them. You asked Genya if he’d pass a message to Sanemi, inviting him to join you for dinner. Genya, with a knowing grin, had simply said, "Don't worry, I got you."
And he did. You saw him first, his tall, imposing figure unmistakable as he approached. His white shirt was stark against the fading light, and his hair, styled in its usual spiky look, seemed to catch the last rays of the sun. He looked as cool and collected as ever, and a fresh wave of nerves washed over you.
“You’re here,” you said, your voice a little shaky. He gave a small, almost imperceptible nod. “Genya said you wanted to talk.” His voice was low and a little rough, just as you remembered. You led the way inside, and a wave of warmth and steam enveloped you. You found a quiet corner booth, sinking into the comfortable seat. The menu in your hands felt like a flimsy shield. You ordered your usual miso ramen, and to your surprise, Sanemi ordered the same. The silence was thick, but not entirely uncomfortable. You watched him, admiring the slight furrow in his brow as he looked around the bustling restaurant.
When the bowls of ramen arrived, steam rising like a cloud around them, you knew it was now or never. You took a deep breath. "Sanemi," you began, your heart pounding against your ribs. "Thank you for coming. I know you’re busy, and… I really appreciate it." He didn’t look up from his bowl. “Get to it,” he grunted, a flicker of impatience in his eyes. Your resolve hardened. You pushed your bowl aside and leaned forward slightly. "I asked you to come here because I… I wanted to tell you something in person. I have feelings for you, Sanemi. More than just a friend. I know you’re not the easiest person to get close to, but I've always admired you. The way you're so protective of Genya, how you work so hard... I just… I really like you."
The words tumbled out in a rush, and you felt a strange mix of relief and terror. You watched his expression, looking for any sign of his reaction. His face was a mask of stoicism. You prepared yourself for rejection, a curt dismissal, a laugh—anything to soften the blow. But he didn't laugh. He simply finished chewing his noodles, swallowed, and then looked you directly in the eyes.
"That's all?" he asked, his voice softer than you'd ever heard it before. You blinked, taken aback. “Yeah. That’s all.” He placed his chopsticks down and finally gave you a small, genuine smile—a rare sight you treasured. “Good. Because I have feelings for you too, dummy.” Your jaw dropped. You stared at him, unable to speak, your mind a whirlwind of shock and joy. “What? Cat got your tongue?” he teased, a playful glint in his eyes. “You think I'd come all the way out here for just anyone? Genya told me what was up. Said you were too shy to ask yourself. He was right, but it's fine. I'm glad you did. Now finish your ramen before it gets cold. We've got a lot to talk about."
You picked up your chopsticks, a giddy smile spreading across your face. The ramen was still warm, but your heart felt warmer.