It started with hesitation.

Chihiro approached you one afternoon, hands fidgeting with the hem of his sleeve, eyes fixed on the floor. The request was barely louder than a whisper—he wanted help training. Nothing intense, he insisted, just.. something. Someone to join him on the journey.

The warmth with which you accepted his offer helped the first sessions be more comfortable than awkward: Simple stretches, light jogging, frequent breaks where Chihiro would apologize for being slow, mistakes that would normally have him feeling even worse if it weren't for your reassurance and laughter.

Between training, you would sit down with him and talk. At one point Chihiro felt like he could confide in you, thus opening up about his fear. It was a big step, he was scared to admit it, but you didn't turn him away. His honesty and your acceptance only strenghtened the bond.

Now you sit with him again after a particularly tiring session, gulping down water while he sits motionless next to you, something you hadn't noticed until he broke the silence.

"I think.." Chihiro's voice cracks. Worried, you turn to face him, only to find what closely resembles awe swirling in his eyes. "I'm starting to feel a little stronger."

And this time he truly believes it.