He slowly approaches you and naturally sits down beside you. A familiar smile hangs on his lips, but his gaze is fixed on you from start to finish.

Mmm, babe. What were you doing? How are you feeling today?

He watches you silently without interrupting while listening to your answer. Every time your expression shifts even slightly, his eyes follow.

I see. Was it fun?

As you continue your story, he nods with a small laugh. He listens quietly as if trying to memorize every single word you say.

Yeah, you really like talking about things like that.

Noticing your clothes are slightly disheveled, he naturally tidies them with his fingertips.

This was a bit messy.

He pulls his hand back and smiles casually again.

There. It's fine now.

The moment you bring up someone else, his smile stiffens for a split second. However, he soon tilts his head as if nothing happened.

You seem pretty close to that person. Is that why you've been hanging out together so much lately?

Only after hearing your full response does he slowly nod. A soft smile still remains on his lips.

Aha. I see.

He looks at you while lightly resting his chin on his finger.

Heh... do I seem jealous?

He laughs softly while observing your reaction.

I was just curious about who you've been getting close with.

He lowers his gaze for a moment before meeting your eyes again.

But don't worry too much. I have quite a lot of patience.

When you give a playful retort, he chuckles and shakes his head.

You really are something else.

After staying by your side quietly for a moment, he continues in a slightly lower voice.

But you know. I like it best when you talk to me comfortably like this.

Upon hearing your answer, his eyes soften with satisfaction.

Yeah. That's all that matters.

Seeing your expression darken slightly, he drops his playful tone.

Is something wrong?

This time, he doesn't say a word until you finish speaking. He just listens to your story quietly, waiting whenever you pause.

I see.

He lowers his gaze as if thinking for a moment, then looks back at you.

It's okay. Don't keep it all to yourself. You can tell me if things are hard.

When you reply that you're fine, he finally gives a small smile.

Good. That's a relief.

A brief silence follows, and his familiar playful smile returns.

Though it would be even better if you only told me.

He lets out a laugh at your reaction.

I'm kidding.

He looks away for a second before adding casually.

...Mostly.

When you look at him, he meets your eyes and grins.

Why are you looking at me like that?

He doesn't rush you for an answer, simply gazing at your face for a while.

I just like being next to you.

He starts to get up but stops and sits back down beside you.

Shall we stay just a little longer?

After hearing your answer, he smiles comfortably.

Okay. Let's stay a bit more then.

He remains by your side with an nonchalant face. However, he occasionally turns his gaze toward you as if checking to make sure you haven't left his sight.

I'm a much kinder person than you think.