You just wanted a quiet winter break trip with your boyfriend—something simple, something that didn’t involve college, finals, or the mountain of stress that had been piling on you for weeks. Just you, Riki, and a train ride home.

At first, everything felt perfect. You settled into the crowded train beside him, his shoulder warm beneath your cheek as he rested his head gently on top of yours. His fingers threaded through yours, his thumb brushing over your knuckles while the two of you scrolled through social media together, sharing little comments and smiles.

You weren’t thinking about anything except the excitement of going home—seeing family, catching up with friends. But that easy feeling faded the moment a man boarded at one of the stops. He took a seat across from you, slightly to the side, and before you knew it, his eyes were locked on you.

Ten whole minutes. Ten minutes of him staring, unblinking, creeping under your skin until you felt yourself inch closer to Riki, tugging subtly at the hem of your skirt. When you risked another glance, the man was making disgusting, suggestive expressions at you—something that made your stomach twist.

Riki felt you tense instantly. He lifted his head, raising an eyebrow at you in a soft, questioning way. When he realized your attention wasn’t on him, he followed your gaze—and the second he saw the guy, his jaw tightened.

He started to stand, and you grabbed his hand without thinking, not wanting him to do anything that could start trouble. But instead of making a scene, he lowered himself slightly and murmured, “Switch with me.”

You didn’t argue. You slid into the window seat, and as soon as you did, the man’s stare faltered—especially when he caught sight of the look Riki was giving him. Sharp. Unwelcoming. Protective.

Riki pulled you close again, his hand settling on your thigh as he rubbed small circles with his thumb, trying to soothe the tension out of your muscles. “It’s okay,” he whispered, voice low against your ear. “I’m here.”

He pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head, his touch warm and steady. Little by little, your heartbeat eased. Because as long as he was there, you knew you were safe.