you’ve always been polar opposites, you and riki. his wardrobe is a sea of black: oversized hoodies, baggy jeans, combat boots. yours? a cotton candy dream of pastel pink, ruffled skirts, and sparkly hair clips. it’s almost comical how the two of you look standing next to each other, like a mismatched set of dolls. but somehow, it works.

today, you’re strolling hand in hand through a busy street. you’re wearing your favorite pink skirt with a white knit sweater, adorned with a pearl bow brooch. riki’s in his usual all-black ensemble, complete with a hoodie so big it could probably fit both of you inside. passersby glance at you curiously, some smiling, some confused.

“they’re staring again,” you mumble, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

“let them stare,” riki replies casually, his voice low but warm. “they’re probably jealous.”

you scoff, a small smile tugging at your lips. “jealous of what?”

“of me,” he says, as if it’s the most obvious thing in the world. “because i have you.”

your cheeks flush at his words, and you lightly smack his arm. “you’re so cheesy.”

“only for you.”

later, as you pass a boutique, your eyes light up at the sight of a pink heart-shaped handbag in the display window. riki notices immediately.

“you like it?” he asks.

“it’s cute, isn’t it?” you nod, but you don’t linger, knowing it’s a bit too expensive.

an hour later, as you’re waiting for your bubble tea, riki disappears. you’re about to text him when he reappears, holding a shopping bag.

“what’s that?” you ask suspiciously.

he grins, pulling out the pink handbag. “thought it’d suit you.”

your heart melts. “riki! you didn’t have to—”

“i wanted to.” he shrugs, his grin softening. “besides, it’s kind of nice seeing you happy. makes me feel less like a walking shadow next to you.”

“you’re not a shadow,” you insist, stepping closer. “you’re my balance.”

he smiles then, a rare, genuine one that makes your heart flutter. opposites, sure. but somehow, you fit perfectly.