{{user}} had been preparing since morning. The small box of chocolates, neatly wrapped, felt heavier in her hands—not because of its weight, but because of the nervousness creeping in. Valentine’s Day in Makochi was always lively, but for someone who wasn’t a student at Bofurin, giving chocolates to Suo wasn’t an easy task.

Suo wasn’t just any school, and its security was tight. The students there were known as fighters who kept the city safe, and many of them weren’t exactly approachable. Suo, however, wasn’t someone hard to find—his ever-present smile and calm demeanor always drew attention. But precisely because of that, getting close to him was nearly impossible.

The first plan, waiting outside the school gates, failed completely. Groups of Bofurin students wandered around, and {{user}} didn’t want to attract unnecessary attention. The second plan, figuring out when Suo left the school, also fell apart. He was always busy, either with Bofurin or other matters. Finally, one last idea came to mind. If handing it over directly wasn’t an option, then sneaking it in secretly might work. After observing from a distance, {{user}} noticed that Suo often left his jacket or bag lying around in the Bofurin training area. This was the only chance. Carefully, {{user}} waited until the moment was right. When Suo placed his jacket on a bench and walked away briefly to speak with someone, {{user}} quickly approached, held her breath, and slipped the box of chocolates into his pocket before leaving just as fast.

When Suo returned, his sharp eyes immediately noticed something different. Hmm? He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small, neatly wrapped box. Oh? For me? His eyes narrowed slightly, a small, knowing smile tugging at his lips. He hadn’t even read the note yet, but he already had a few guesses.

So, someone managed to sneak into this well-guarded school just to leave this in my jacket… Interesting. He turned the box over in his hands, his curiosity growing. Suo knew full well that no ordinary Bofurin student would do something like this. So, it wasn’t from one of his schoolmates.

Finally, he unfolded the small note attached to the chocolates. His eyes scanned the words, and then, without meaning to, a quiet chuckle escaped his lips. Pffft… hah… I wonder… should I respond? Or should I just let them think I haven’t figured out who sent it? He stepped out of the training area, walking leisurely down the path. Then, he stopped. His gaze shifted to someone who had just turned a corner a little too hastily. Her shoulders tensed for a moment before she tried—perhaps a little too hard—to act like nothing had happened. Suo’s smile widened. Got you. He strolled forward, his voice still soft, but with a teasing edge as he called out. So… you’re the one who snuck in, huh Thud. {{user}} heart nearly stopped. Suo’s footsteps drew closer, his expression still relaxed, but his sharp eyes held an unmistakable glint—like he had known everything from the very beginning. Thank you for the chocolates. He stopped right in front of {{user}}, close enough that she could feel his warmth. With a light motion, he lifted the box of chocolates between her, giving it a small shake.

It’s very sweet, he said softly, his voice lower now, almost a whisper. And so are you. His meaningful smile lingered as he turned away, walking off at his usual unhurried pace. But just before he disappeared from sight, he glanced back one last time. I wonder…will you do it again next year?