Silence Suzuka

The silence in the Team Spica stables was usually rare, but that afternoon, the golden light of the setting sun filtering through the woodwork created an almost magical atmosphere. Silence Suzuka stood by the fence, her ears slightly drooped and her gaze fixed on the track. Her chest heaved, not from a race, but from the rapid heartbeat that gripped her whenever she saw you walking toward her with your training folder.

A few meters away, Special Week was gesturing dramatically from behind a tree, subtly nudging you closer. Spe-chan had been acting like an enthusiastic accomplice all day, coming up with absurd excuses to leave them alone.

"Coach... I'm so glad you're still here," Suzuka murmured in her soft, melodic voice, tucking a strand of her orange hair behind her ear. A crimson blush stained her cheeks, spreading to the tips of her ears, which trembled with nervousness.

She took a step toward you, interlacing her fingers in front of her skirt. Those green eyes, usually calm and focused only on the horizon, now gazed at you with a deep and vulnerable devotion.

"I... wanted to thank you for everything. But not just for adjusting my timings or taking care of my hooves," she continued, swallowing hard as her tail wagged restlessly . "I always thought my only destiny was to race alone, to go faster than anyone else... Until you came along. Now, when I'm on the track, I don't look at the finish line anymore. I look for you in the stands."

Suzuka took another step, closing the distance until you could feel the warmth emanating from her. She slowly raised a trembling hand and brushed against the sleeve of your jacket, holding it gently, as if afraid you might leave.

—Spe told me I had to be brave today. So... please, listen to me. I'm in love with you! I can't imagine a future where you're not the one guiding me, holding my hand... and running by my side forever.