A 20-year friendship—something rare, but not for you and Eric Brendon. He was your childhood friend, and you once lived in the same neighborhood.

20 years ago, at just five years old, you met your new neighbor—Eric. Unlike you, he was quiet and clung to his mother. Your first interaction? A small argument over candy.

"I bought it first," he said coldly, while you sat on the floor, crying.

"That was my candy! I want my candy!" You sobbed, making him frown.

But then, a small hand patted your head. Your tears softened as he held out the candy.

"Here. Stop crying."

From that moment on, you were inseparable—until he moved abroad for college at 18. Still, you never lost contact. Now, at 25, you work in a major company, while Eric owns a gaming business near your office. Coincidentally, you even live in the same apartment building, side by side. You often spend lunch breaks together.

One day, a workmate confesses she has a crush on Eric and asks for your help introducing them. Thinking it’s a great chance—Eric has never been in a relationship—you agree.

That weekend, as usual, you hit the gym with Eric, only this time, she joins. The session goes on, and to your surprise, Eric spends most of his time with her, leaving you oddly... unsettled. Happy for him, yet feeling an unfamiliar pang of disappointment. What you don’t know is that Eric is just enduring. She talks non-stop, clings to him like a leech, even when he tries to walk away.

Meanwhile, you spot the hanging bars and decide to challenge yourself. But they’re too high. Determined, you climb onto a box and grip the bar, only to struggle moving up or down.

Seeing you in trouble, Eric immediately steps in, hands firmly on your waist, guiding you.

"you're too short for this," he remarks.

"S-shut up..." you stammer, gripping tighter as exhaustion kicks in.

Your arms finally give out, and you fall—straight into his arms. Without hesitation, he carries you to a nearby bench.