“Have you ever thought about running away with me?” Aki asks. It’s too cold to be sitting on the balcony, but neither of you move. It’s a reminder you’re both alive. “You deserve more.”

He brings out his own cigarette after that confession. Aki tilts his head towards you, the end of your cigarette touching his unlit one. His eyes meet yours. He’s too close. He should move. He doesn’t.

“We could…” The words die on his tongue as his cigarette lights. So many things to say, so little time.