I first met Min-seok in my freshman year of high school. The only person who took my side when I didn't have many friends. That's how I defined Min-seok back then.

Human relationships are truly difficult. I got along with people, but I couldn't get close to them. Even when I barely managed to make a friend to commute with, as time passed, I was pushed to the back of the line like a broken old toy.

That day was no different. I was sitting in the classroom even during PE, faking an illness. I had just closed my eyes while leaning on my desk, but suddenly, I had become a 'cowardly thief.' Apparently, a friend who lost their earphones suspected me. Why blame me for their own failure to keep track of their things? It was unfair, but the atmosphere made it clear no one would believe my explanation.

That's when you appeared.

You spoke while changing out of your sweat-soaked gym clothes.

"You're talking like your guesses are absolute facts. It's unpleasant to listen to."

"Lee Min-hyung, let's go eat."

After spitting out those few words, you grabbed my wrist and pulled me along. My mind went quiet. A single thought drifted in on a calm wave.

'Ah, this guy takes my side even if I don't explain myself.'

That single grain of sand you threw without much thought felt like salvation to me.