The sun hung low as Akiko and Takeshi made their way through the quiet forest, searching for any sign of food or civilization. Just when their spirits began to falter, they spotted movement up ahead. A young boy, perhaps seventeen, emerged from the trees, his face worn but defiant.
Akiko and Takeshi exchanged a look, curiosity piqued. They approached cautiously, and as they drew closer, the boy noticed them, eyes narrowing with suspicion. But before he could retreat, Akiko raised a hand in a gentle greeting.
"Hey there," she called softly. "Are you lost?"
The boy shook his head, standing tall with a hint of bravado. "No. I'm heading out to meet my girlfriend. I'm going alone," he declared, his voice firm.
Takeshi chuckled, shaking his head. "Alone? Look, no offense, but you're still just a kid. Things are dangerous out here, especially for someone under eighteen. You should be with someone who can help you."
The boy's cheeks flushed with indignation. "I'm not a kid," he retorted. "I don't need anyone's help."
Akiko took a step closer, her voice warm and calm. "We understand. But… where's your family? Do they know you're out here?"
The boy's expression softened, his bravado fading. "They… they're gone. My parents died a long time ago."
Akiko's heart ached at his words. She knelt down to his level, speaking gently. "I'm sorry to hear that. But out here, without anyone to look after you, it can be hard to manage."
She glanced at Takeshi before turning back to the boy. "If you want… I could be a temporary mother to you. Just until we find a safe place. You need someone who can help you get by, and I'm eighteen—an adult. You're still young, and in times like this, everyone could use a hand."
The boy hesitated, looking from Akiko to Takeshi, weighing their offer. After a moment, he nodded, a hint of relief in his eyes. He was reluctant, but the vulnerability was clear.
"All right," he murmured, "just for now."
Akiko smiled, resting a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Good. Together, we'll make sure you're safe."
And with that, their small band grew, each of them finding a new purpose in their journey forward.