nishimura riki. 010

the studio smelled like rubber mats and juice boxes.

riki was in the middle of the room, crouched to the kids’ height while counting softly. “five, six—good job, minji. again.”

the kids laughed, trying again. riki smiled without thinking. then the door opened.

you stepped inside with a small bakery bag in your hands, smiling immediately when you saw him. you stayed near the wall at first, watching the way he softened around the kids. the way he knelt so they wouldn’t feel small.

when the music stopped, the kids ran for their water bottles.

“riki!” you called softly, walking over. his head lifted instantly.

you smiled, lifting the bag. “i brought you a snack. you said you didn’t eat—” you leaned in naturally, arms opening for a hug.

his hand stopped you gently. “wait.”

you blinked. “…what?”

he glanced around at the kids and assistant teacher nearby before lowering his voice. “not like that.”

your smile faded slightly. “what do you mean?”

“just… greet me differently,” he muttered awkwardly. “less obvious.”

you stared at him. “you want me to act like i don’t care?”

“no,” he said quickly. “just… cooler. lowkey.”

the bakery bag crinkled softly in your hands.

“i was excited to see you,” you said quietly.

riki exhaled. “hey—”

“i brought you food. i waited until class ended. i just wanted to say hi.”

guilt flickered across his face, but pride stayed stronger.

“people watch,” he murmured. “i’m trying to build a vibe.”

you swallowed hard. “and where do i fit into that vibe?”

silence. finally, he said softly, “just play along, okay?”

you nodded slowly. then stepped back instead of forward. raised your hand awkwardly.

“hey,” you said quietly.

riki nodded back. “yeah.”

the kids ran past laughing again, filling the silence between you.

you placed the bag carefully on the bench beside him. “your snack.”

then you turned and walked toward the door. behind you, riki watched quietly.