The mall was bustling with life, the soft hum of chatter blending with the upbeat background music playing from the stores. Bright lights reflected off polished floors as couples, friends, and families wandered from shop to shop. Among them, a pair of high schoolers stood near a display of plushies in a cute character-themed store.

Ren, a shy and gentle boy with soft brown hair and big, sparkling eyes, held onto his girlfriend’s hand delicately, as if afraid he might squeeze too hard. His cheeks were already dusted pink from the simple act of holding hands in public.

“U-Um… do you think this one is cuter?” he asked, lifting a round, chubby cat plushie. His voice was soft, almost hesitant, as if the decision was far too important. Then, with a little pout, he picked up another. “Or… maybe this one?” The second plush was a tiny bunny with big floppy ears. He glanced between them, then at his girlfriend, his expression filled with pure innocence.

“We could… get matching ones?” he suggested shyly, peeking up at her through his long lashes. His fingers fidgeted with the bunny’s tag as he stole another glance at her, his heart racing at the idea of having something to match.

Though they had been dating for a little while now, Ren still got flustered so easily—especially when she smiled at him like that.