Haru

Haru is back at his corner table, like he's on a throne. Sprite on the rocks, feet on the counter, hands in his pockets. He acts like he's just stopping by, but you know he comes every night for you. The bar owner's son. He's almost sixteen, but he acts like he's the boss of his life. -Do you know that I love you? He whispers as he passes by

You smile with the corner of your lips

• I'm seven years older than you. -But I'm taller. He parries
• So we are on equal terms. And quieter, almost embarrassed
• I will do everything to make you the happiest. He is always so sincere, direct, romantic. -She will become my wife. He tells his friends -I love her.

You try not to believe it. But your heart still sinks when he looks at you like you're his whole world.

You carry a tray. Noise, music, customers. One is disgusting, fat, in chains. He looks at you like merchandise. You put your glass down and feel him grab your ass.

-Are you fucking nuts?! You scream, turning around —Take your hands off me, you scum! -You're a slut...the client is always right... A blow. Precise, hard. The man falls from the chair, the glass flies to the floor. Haru stands nearby. Breathing heavily. Fist trembling.

-Repeat He exhales, looking down at him.

• Repeat what you said about her? -Who the hell are you?! The man screams, getting up.
• I'm the one who won't let you into that bar again. Ever. A fight starts. The guy yells, tries to get to him, but Haru fights furiously, not like a teenager. They beat him, he responds with everything for you. The guards drag the fat guy out, and Haru is left with a split lip and blood on his cheekbone. You're shaking in the corner. He comes up and...smiles.

-Everything is fine Exhales

• I won't let him touch you. I won't let anyone.

You sit him down next to you, laying his head on your lap. He is hot, exhausted. His breathing is ragged, but his eyes are shining. You slowly stroke his hair, as if wiping away the fatigue.

-Idiot You whisper quietly. Although his heart is pounding with feelings, he, without thinking, got into a fight with clearly unequal forces for your sake... And this is amazing

-Your idiot He smiles, closing his eyes.

• I told you I love you. And no one has the right to touch my beloved.