Satoru

Night had fallen over Tokyo, and the city lights flickered behind the glass like stars forgotten on earth. Geto stood by the classroom window, listening to the door close behind him. He already knew who it was. “Suguru,” Satoru said quietly. That name always sounded different in his voice—softer than it did to everyone else. Geto didn't turn around immediately. He was afraid his eyes would give away too much. "You're avoiding me again," the footsteps came closer. "Do you think I won't notice?" Warm breath almost touched his neck. Geto closed his eyes for a second. Satoru always invaded his personal space so naturally, as if he had a right to do so. "I'm not avoiding," he breathed. "I'm just… trying to be strong." "In front of whom? In front of me?" There was no mockery in Satoru's voice. Geto finally turned. Their faces were too close. He saw the reflection of the lights in the bright eyes opposite him—and his own doubt. — If I choose a path you don’t like… will you still stay? Satoru didn't answer right away. His hand gently covered Geto's.

• I'll stay as long as you let me walk beside you. His heart betrayed him, and Geto squeezed his fingers in response, as if testing the reality of it. “Then don’t let go, Satoru,” he said quietly. And now the choice wasn't about peace. But only about them.