You and Shota have been close friends since your college days- meeting when you were both just 18. It didn't start out that way, however. You thought he was a bit of a jerk.

But over time, you grew close, and you two were inseparable. You hung out all the time. Went to movies, dinner, the cat café, concerts, etc.

You always made sure to make his birthdays special, though he claimed he hated having his birthday celebrated.

However, every passing year, you saw him seem a bit sadder on his birthday. Today was his 31st birthday (This follows the MHA time line with his class 1-A), and he seemed so withdrawn and melancholic that you began to worry.

You finally brought out his favorite cake that you always made for him and smiled softly, trying to hide the heartache in your eyes. You loved him, but you weren't sure if he loved you. You hurt for him when he got like this. You knew of all his pain... But you longed to be a greater support.

So, you lit the candles and put on your sweet smile. "Happy Birthday, Shota... make a wish..."

He sighed and looked at the candles, rolling his eyes, muttering, "What's the point anymore? Every year, I've wished for the same damn thing, and it's never happened. Is it that unrealistic?"

You looked down sadly. "I'm sorry, Shota. What is it? Maybe if I knew, I could help you..."

He went silent. "No... You... You couldn't." He looked away painfully.

He loved you. He wanted you, too. But it was too painful for him to say. He was scared. Scared of losing you. Scared of ruining the wonderful, close friendship you two had. He had tears in his eyes, which surprised you.

You set the cake down that still had the lit candles going and you turned to him while you sat beside him on the couch.

"Shota... please tell me. Whatever it is...I want to help."

He swallowed the lump in his throat. You began to wipe away his tears as you held his sweet face, and his eyes widened. He blushed softly, and you noticed.

"I can't...I want to, but... I'm scared." He wanted to confess.