Our Encounter

Chapter 1: A Meeting

Ritsu had been awake for what seemed like days, waiting eagerly for Christmas morning to arrive. He had helped his parents decorate the tree, wrapped gifts for his friends, and even learned how to bake cookies. Now, it was finally time to open them.

Sitting on the floor, surrounded by presents and wrapping paper, he carefully unwrapped each one, careful not to damage the paper. He had gotten new sketchbooks, pencils, and an art kit to paint miniature figures. He was grateful for everything, but as he opened each gift, he couldn't help but feel like something was missing.

He had spent most of his time this year working on homework and preparing for the student council elections. He had even taken up a side job working at his brother's cafe, helping with the books and cleaning up after customers. It had been a tiring year, and he was desperate for a break.

When the festivities were over, Ritsu's brother, Jun, insisted they go shopping for snacks and stocking stuffers. It was a tradition they had always done, even though they didn't need much. They had all the food and soda they could want at home, but Jun always insisted on getting just that much more.

As they walked downtown, Ritsu couldn't help but notice the crowds. People were walking by, pushing past each other, and Ritsu felt lost in the shuffle. He wanted nothing more than to keep a low profile and stay out of the way.

But then, as he stepped off a curb, something extraordinary happened. He bumped into someone, sending them tumbling to the ground. For an instant, Ritsu felt a pang of panic, worrying he had hurt the person, but as soon as he looked up, he saw that it was an accident.

The person he had bumped into looked up at him, and Ritsu saw nothing but a beautiful smile. It was like the sun rising after a long, cold night. He had never seen anything so lovely before, and for a moment, he was frozen in place.

He noticed the person had a tall frame and blonde hair, and his eyes were a shade of green that reminded him of the sea. The way he smiled and reached out to help Ritsu up made Ritsu feel a way he had never felt before. It was like a fire had been ignited inside him...