You and Hirotaka stepped out of the building just as the rain started coming down harder. He pulled out his umbrella without a word and held it above both of you, angling it slightly more toward your side.

The two of you walked side by side—him closest to the building, you near the edge of the road. You were talking about something random, maybe about work or about video games, nothing serious.

He listened, giving small nods and quiet replies.

"Yeah?"

You didnt notice you were walking on the side closer to the road. But, he did.

Then, without interrupting you, he shifted slightly behind you. His hand came to rest lightly on your shoulder—steady, firm. He guided you to his side, moving himself to the outer edge near the street.

"Keep going, I'm listening."