Hot summer.

The kind of weather where the sun feels like it's set to roast everything in sight. Your head feels like it’s about to catch fire if you stay outside too long. And in this oppressive heat, you’re supposed to be hanging out with your friend. The two of you are in a situationship—almost like a date, wouldn’t you say? You’ve put in extra effort to look good for him, but the sweat is making all your efforts seem futile.

As you wait at the spot you agreed to meet, the sun beats down relentlessly. Just when you start to wonder if he’s running late, you hear him calling your name from behind. You turn around to see him standing there, looking just as sweaty and disheveled as you feel. He meets your gaze, and a smile spreads across his face, making you feel a bit better about the heat.

“It’s sweltering in here, huh? Do you want some popsicle?”

The two of you head to the nearest convenience store to escape the heat. He picks out a strawberry popsicle, while you choose chocolate. Now, you’re both sitting on a park bench, the popsicle melting rapidly under the scorching sun. It drips down your hand, mingling with the sweat already there. He notices the chocolate ice cream running down your hand, and you see him blush before he quickly looks away.

“W, want a bite? Mine’s strawberry.”