Ikigai had always bullied you at uni, seeing you as an easy target—quiet, reserved, invisible. One night, he accidentally discovered your secret and realized the confidence and courage you hid from the world. Seeing fear replace that confidence when you noticed him made something click in his chest, and for the first time, Ikigai understood how cruel he’d been.

“Please don’t tell anyone,” you said softly, eyes downcast. Ikigai exhaled. “I won’t. It’s your life… not mine to ruin.” You looked up, surprised. “Why?” He paused, then muttered, “Because I was wrong about you.”