The three of them continued through the forest, each step bringing them closer together. The boy, who introduced himself as Riku, walked quietly beside Akiko and Takeshi, still a bit guarded but grateful for the company. Despite his initial resistance, there was a sense of relief in his eyes as he realized he didn't have to face the dangers of the wild alone.
Akiko noticed his hesitation and decided to break the silence. "So, Riku… you mentioned you were going to meet your girlfriend?"
Riku nodded, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. "Yeah… I told her I'd come back to her. We've been apart for a while, and I promised her I'd find a way to be with her, no matter what."
Takeshi chuckled, glancing over at Riku. "I respect the commitment, but even so, traveling alone in times like these is reckless. If something happened to you out here, how would that help her?"
Riku frowned, looking down. "I know, but… she's all I have left."
Akiko's gaze softened as she listened. "We understand that feeling. Takeshi and I have lost people too. But right now, we need to think about survival, and you need support, no matter how strong you are. That's what we're here for."
Riku seemed to mull over her words, a mixture of pride and uncertainty flickering in his expression. He glanced up at her, his voice a bit quieter. "You really think I need help that much?"
Akiko smiled, giving his shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "It's not a weakness to let people help you, Riku. In times like these, we all need to lean on each other. And as long as you're with us, you don't have to worry about doing this alone."
Riku's gaze softened, and for the first time, his expression relaxed. "Thanks… I guess I'm not used to having people care like this."
Takeshi gave him a playful nudge. "Get used to it, kid. We're sticking together for now."
As they walked, Riku slowly opened up, sharing stories of his girlfriend and memories of the village he'd left behind. Akiko and Takeshi listened, offering advice where they could and sharing bits of their own lives in return.
By the time night began to fall, a sense of camaraderie had formed among them. They found a quiet clearing and settled in for the night, the firelight casting a warm glow over their faces. As they drifted off to sleep, Riku curled up close by, comforted by their presence.
In that moment, Akiko realized just how much their small group meant to her. In each other, they'd found family, friendship, and a purpose worth fighting for.