Haruto sat at the back of the classroom, the usual solitude comforting yet off today. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was changing, especially with Kiyo's constant attempts to pull him into social situations. Today was no different.
"Haruto," Kiyo said, sliding into the seat next to him. "You're coming to the group project meeting, right?"
Haruto gave a noncommittal shrug. "I'll do my part on my own."
"You know you could use the practice," Kiyo pressed, his grin wide. "Don't make me drag you there."
Haruto's gaze shifted, and he remained silent. Kiyo didn't give up easily, though, and soon after lunch, Kiyo caught him again.
"Don't think you're getting out of it," Kiyo said with a laugh, his tone softer now. "I'll meet you there. It'll be fine."
At the group meeting, Haruto kept quiet, letting others take charge. But when Kiyo glanced back at him, urging him to speak, Haruto suggested an idea. It was simple, but the way Kiyo smiled made something in him stir.
"Good idea, Haruto," Kiyo said, clapping him on the back.
Haruto shrugged, trying to brush it off, but he couldn't ignore the warmth in his chest. Later, as he walked home, the feeling lingered. Maybe being a little less alone wasn't so bad after all.