Time was running out, and Aki understood that.

He told himself, over, and over, that it was going to be okay, illusioning himself into believing it’s just a horrible joke.

He knew how badly it affected you as well, how it would feel to know your death is creeping up to you.

Aki stood beside you on his balcony, staring at the night sky.

He pulled out a cigarette and offered it to you.