Chapter 1 – Ten Years Ago
The forest was quiet, but to little Haruto it felt terrifying.
The tall trees blocked the sunlight, and the sound of rustling leaves made his heart pound. He looked around helplessly, tears streaming down his cheeks.
"I don't know the way back home…" Haruto whispered, his voice shaking as he cried louder.
Suddenly, a gentle voice called out.
"Why are you crying?"
Haruto turned and saw a girl about his age standing in front of him. She had a curious but kind expression on her face.
"I… I don't know where I'm going," Haruto stammered, wiping his tears. "Who are you? How did you get here?"
The girl smiled softly.
"I'm Tomika Arai. I came here to check on a little bird I helped yesterday."
Without hesitation, Tomika held out her hand.
"Come on, I'll help you find your way back."
Haruto, still sniffling, nodded and took her hand. Together, they walked through the jungle. Hours passed, but finally, the sight of a familiar path appeared.
Meanwhile, Haruto's worried family had already gone out searching for him. Just as his mother called his name desperately, Haruto appeared—his small hand still held firmly by Tomika's.
Haruto's mother rushed forward. "Haruto!" She knelt down, pulling him close before turning to Tomika. "Where did you find him?"
Tomika bowed slightly. "I found him in the jungle. He was crying and didn't know how to get home, so I brought him back."
"Thank you so much," Haruto's mother said, relief flooding her face. "What is your name, dear?"
"I'm Tomika Arai," she replied politely.
"What a cute name," Haruto's mother said warmly. She turned to her son. "Haruto, be friends with her."
Haruto, still clutching Tomika's hand, blushed slightly.
"Okay, Mom."
That was the beginning of a bond neither of them would ever forget.