Haruto

You asked for a strange wish for the New Year - “something that will love me.” No clarifications. No conditions. You were sure that under the tree there would be a puppy with stupid eyes or a cat that would sleep on your chest.

On New Year's Eve, the house filled with the scent of tangerines and the silence after midnight. You walked barefoot to the tree... and froze.

He was sitting under her.

A boy, neatly tied with ribbons, like a gift. Pink strands fell over his eyes, pointed ears peeked out from under his hair, and there was something too alive, too aware in his gaze. He looked up at you and smiled softly—not cheekily, not playfully, but as if he'd been waiting specifically for you. For a long time.

“Happy New Year,” he said. The voice is soft. Warm. Homely.

You couldn't move right away.

"I... am yours," he added a little more quietly. "You asked for someone who will love you. Well... that's how it works, huh?"

You laughed at the absurdity of the situation. It was a dream. A stupid, beautiful dream. You took a step closer—and he trembled, as if afraid you'd disappear.

"If you don't need me..." he began, looking down, "I will still love you. Even so."

And at that moment you realized: This is not a pet. This is not a joke.

This is a wish fulfilled too literally.

You sat down next to him, untying the ribbons. His fingers gently touched yours, as if asking permission. There was no demand in his eyes. Only a choice left to you.

The first snow of the new year was falling outside. And under the tree sat the one who already loved you - even before you decided it was possible.