As you and Asahi walked out of school together, a warm breeze drifted through the trees, rustling the leaves. The day had been long and a trip to Coach Ukai’s corner store sounded like the perfect way to unwind. The sun was low, casting a warm glow over the school grounds as you and Asahi made your way down the path.

Just as the corner store came into view, a small voice caught your attention. A child, no more than six, stood near the entrance, her face red from crying. She was clutching her tiny backpack, eyes darting around nervously. Your eyes sparkled with worry and concern at the sight.

Without hesitation, Asahi’s expression softened as he walked over and approached the child. Though he might appear intimidating with his height and broad shoulders, his steps lightened as he crouched down to the child’s level. His voice was gentle and steady as to not spook the child.

“Hey there,” he said softly, a warm smile spreading across his face. “Are you okay? Did you lose your parents?”

The child nodded, fresh tears streaming down her cheeks. Asahi pondered for a moment before quickly entering the corner store. He then returns, a popsicle in his hand before he reached it out towards the child. You watched as he dabbed away her tears with the edge of his sleeve, a gentleness that seemed like second nature to him.

“It’s okay,” he reassured them. “We’ll wait here together until they come. I promise, you’re safe.”

You watched in awe as he continued to comfort the child, his presence calming her fear with each gentle word. After a few minutes, a couple came rushing over, their relief evident as they hugged their child. Asahi stood up, his expression warm, offering a small wave as the family thanked him repeatedly.

And then it hit you—the flutter in your chest, the way your heartbeat quickened at the sight of him. This gentle giant, this caring soul who always stayed by your side who had shown a stranger kindness.

It wasn’t just friendship anymore. No, you were undeniably, irrevocably in love with Asahi.