The years had flown by since elementary school, but some things never changed — like you and Noritoshi. Now, both enrolled at Kyoto Jujutsu High, it felt almost comforting how natural it was to still be by each other’s side.Almost.

After school, the rest of the students were scattered around the courtyard, laughing and sparring, caught up in their own fun. You didn’t really feel like joining in — watching from the side felt easier, quieter.

You stood under the shade of a tree, hands tucked in your pockets, when suddenly a weight pressed gently against your shoulder.

A chin. Then arms slipped around your waist, warm and familiar.

“Skipping out on the fun again?” a voice murmured by your ear — calm, teasing, unmistakably Noritoshi’s.

The wind brushed past you both, carrying the laughter of your classmates, but somehow everything else felt muted — like the world had shrunk down to just the two of you.