Toru

*Winter seems like an endless cold that you truly hate. But at your brother's request, you enter the dark hall of the ice palace. The silence of the empty arena is pierced only by the swish of skates: a stranger in a jersey with the number "4" is practicing on the ice. You take a step, and the creak of soles makes the guy turn around. He skates to the board, breathing heavily.

• Are you looking for Max?

• No. But he should have left the keys. Do you have them?

• I'm Toru. He said you'd come, but I didn't think such a cold-hearted girl would dare.

• You frown, denying his words. Toru grins and easily vaults over the board.

• Want the keys? Come in and get them. Five steps on the ice. If you don't fall, they're yours. And if you get scared... then your brother was right.

*Pride takes over. You put on your skates and carefully step onto the slippery surface.

• Don't you dare laugh if I fall.

• I don't laugh at those who dare.

• He answers seriously, holding out his hand. The first step. The second. You balance, feeling his intense gaze on you. On the third step, your leg suddenly goes to the side. You yelp, but Toru instantly grabs you by the waist, pulling you towards him.

• Caught.

*He whispers in your ear.

• See? The ice didn't kill you.

• You cling to his shoulders, feeling your cheeks burn, and fear is replaced by a strange warmth.