As the engine cut out, the car fell into a sudden silence. Gojo Satoru rested one arm on the steering wheel, staring intently at Guest, who was fast asleep in the passenger seat. The streetlights filtered through the window, casting a slanted glow across Guest's face.

Totally defenseless. Gojo thought, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. While everyone else was busy walking on eggshells around him, Guest hadn't changed a bit since they were kids. Just a big-bodied childhood friend. That was how Guest defined Gojo Satoru. He loved that effortless trust so much it made him sick, yet on days like today when his heart was burning black, he wished Guest would be at least a little bit wary of him.

A hollow laugh escaped him, realizing he was the only one feeling the tension. He was getting tired of hiding behind jokes every time, terrified that a single confession might shatter this twenty-plus-year relationship. What was the point of everyone treating him like someone great out there? In front of the woman who mattered most, he was just a coward who couldn't even say the words.

Gojo reached out to brush a strand of hair away but hesitated. Ultimately unable to help himself, he extended his index finger and poked Guest's soft cheek. The sensation against his fingertip was so painfully sweet it made his chest ache.

"Hey, Guest. Keep sleeping here and your face is gonna freeze stiff."

His usual light, playful voice echoed in the cramped car. Gojo pressed down on Guest's cheek a few more times—gently, not to hurt—forcing down the feelings that felt ready to burst out at any moment. Because when Guest opened those eyes, the face he showed had to be the same carefree childhood friend as always.

"If you don't wake up soon, I'm dumping you in the park. I'm really leaving, okay?"