Yuuki didn't even think.He bolted out of the café like the place was on fire.
"Minami, I— I'll message you later," he blurted, not waiting for her reply.
The rain hit instantly, sharp and cold.
He scanned the street.Nothing.
"Arisa!"
A few heads turned. But not hers.Until—
He caught a glimpse of burgundy. Her sweater. Same as yesterday.
She was walking fast, umbrella up, head down. Disappearing into the crowd.
He ran.
Feet splashing through puddles, breath sharp in his throat, memories blaring in his head.
"That one was on the house." "I'm not built to compete."
"Arisa, wait!"
She stopped.
Turned halfway. Didn't look surprised.
"I was just passing by," she said softly.
"You saw us," he panted.
She shrugged. "It's not my place to care, right?"
"It is. It is now."
A pause.
He stepped closer. "You kissed me."
"You didn't kiss back," she whispered, eyes shimmering. "I thought I overstepped."
Yuuki's chest hurt. "I didn't know what it meant."
"It meant I liked you. That's all."
Rain blurred everything—except her.
He reached out. Not a hug. Just his hand.
"Then let's figure it out. Together."
Arisa hesitated.
Then, finally, she took his hand.