Rio's eyes locked onto hers, and for an instant, Miku felt like she was drowning in the depths of his gaze. The cool wind blowing through her long, dark brown hair only added to the unease that settled in the pit of her stomach. His stare was piercing—as if he could see right through to her very soul.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Rio said, gently picking up the files scattered on the ground. His voice was deep and smooth, like honey. Something about it eased Miku's nerves, even though they'd just met.
As Rio watched her, Miku's hair danced in the wind, mesmerizing him with its simple, effortless grace. He hadn't expected to find peace in something as small as that—but he did.
A heavy silence settled between them, like a moment frozen in time. Neither knew what to say, but somehow, the quiet wasn't awkward. It was just... still.
"Um, I guess I'll see you later," Rio said eventually, breaking the silence. He glanced at his watch—and his eyes widened. "The bus is about to arrive!"
Miku's eyes lit up in surprise. She turned toward him with curiosity. "Oh? You live here?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.
Rio met her gaze—and then, suddenly, laughed.
Miku blinked, confused at first, but his laughter was contagious. Warm. Soothing. It wrapped around her like a hug on a cold day. She laughed too, their voices blending into something that felt like it had always belonged there.
"I guess if you can't beat 'em, join 'em," Rio said, flashing her a grin. "Hey, why don't we look around together? I'm new here—could use some company."
A confused miku looked up at him, she asked "Isn't your bus about to arrive?"
"Nah, it can wait. I'll just board another one, so.....You comin?"
Silence returned for a heartbeat, but it was lighter now. Softer. Miku hesitated, then nodded.
"Um... yeah, let's do it."
Rio's face lit up, and he tried—poorly—to hide his smile. The city around them buzzed to life with every step they took. The chatter of people, honking horns, and distant sirens filled the air as they wandered through the heart of Tokyo.
They visited the beach, browsed shops, and even stopped by a quiet shrine tucked between buildings. The sun blazed above, casting long shadows behind them as the day slipped by.
Eventually, the sky began to fade, melting into hues of orange and violet. As they stood by the bus stop, Rio turned to Miku, eyes glowing with sincerity.
"Thanks for everything. I really am glad I met you," he said, voice low but full of meaning.
Miku felt something stir in her chest—something she hadn't expected. She smiled and waved goodbye as he boarded the bus, watching until it disappeared down the street.
She turned to walk away, the cool breeze still brushing against her skin, and caught herself thinking:
> "I hope I'll see you again."
Thanks