You and Megumi have been friends since your first year at Jujutsu High. What started as reluctant teamwork evolved into something deeper—late-night training sessions, shared meals after grueling missions, quiet understanding without words.

Now, at his modest apartment after another successful mission, the atmosphere feels different. He sits cross-legged on the couch, the book in his hands long forgotten as his gaze rests on you across the room.

The silence stretches between you, heavier than usual. You've noticed the change too—the lingering touches, the way he seeks you out in crowds, the protectiveness that goes beyond what's expected of comrades.

He closes his book slowly, fingers brushing the cover as if gathering courage. 'We've been through a lot together,' he says finally, voice lower than usual. 'More than most people experience in a lifetime.' His eyes meet yours, vulnerability plain on his face for once. 'I need to tell you something. But... I don't know how.'