The lively sounds of the school festival carried across the grounds as Aki and Yuki stood near the food stall they had just finished working. The shift had been unexpectedly fun, and for the first time in what felt like ages, the awkwardness between them had begun to melt away.
"That wasn't so bad," Aki said, stretching his arms. "I mean, I only almost dropped the yakisoba… twice."
Yuki laughed softly, hugging the stuffed rabbit he had won for her earlier. "You did fine, Aki. And at least no one yelled at us."
Aki smirked, leaning slightly toward her. "I think that's because you were there to keep things under control."
Yuki's cheeks flushed as she glanced away. "It's not like I did anything special."
"Sure you did," Aki said, his tone sincere. "You're always good at stuff like this."
Yuki blinked, caught off guard by the compliment. "T-Thanks," she murmured, her face warming.
