Another rainy day, another walk under the umbrella. But this time, the silence felt heavier.
"I heard a rumor today," Miyu said quietly. "That we're only dating because our moms are close."
I stopped walking.
"What? That's not true at all."
"I know," she said, voice soft. "But… I needed to hear it from you."
I turned to her. "I like you, Miyu. Not because of our moms. Not because people expect it. But because you make me want to be better. Happier."
She nodded slowly. Then smiled.
"That's enough for me."