---
*
The morning air in the Ren household was unusually light. A formal letter lay neatly on the table—an invitation to a grand wedding hosted by one of Julia's oldest friends. It was a high-society event, and the entire family was expected to attend.
Ren didn't care.
He tossed the envelope aside with a shrug.
But Julia had other plans.
Later that day, she entered Aoi's room, her hands behind her back and a soft smile on her lips.
"I have something for you," she said gently.
Aoi looked up from his quiet corner, surprised.
Julia stepped forward and revealed a *beautiful traditional outfit*—a soft white and rose-toned formal kimono with gentle embroidery that shimmered subtly in the light.
"I want you to wear this to the wedding," she added. "Let me help you get ready."
Aoi hesitated. "I… I'm not good at these things."
She smiled. "You don't have to be. You just have to be you."
—
*Later that evening…*
As the guests gathered near the entrance of the lavish venue, Ren stood silently, his phone in hand, half-listening to Riku's chatter.
And then the crowd shifted.Absolutely! Here's the continuation of *Chapter 5* with your new scene:
---
*Chapter 5 (Continued): The First Touch*
The grand entrance doors creaked open as Julia stepped in, gracefully holding Aoi's hand.
The room buzzed with quiet awe—Aoi's appearance was nothing short of breathtaking.
His short pink hair shimmered gently under the chandeliers. The soft white and rose colors of his outfit made him look like a delicate bloom among thorns.
And waiting near the front was *Ren*, arms crossed, trying to look bored—but the second his eyes landed on Aoi…
*He froze.*
His expression faltered, and a faint pink crept across his cheeks.
His heart stuttered.
Why did Aoi look like that?
So… soft. So radiant. So—
*beautiful.*
Julia noticed instantly.
"Oh? Is my son blushing?" she teased with a knowing smirk.
Ren's eyes darted away. "I'm not."
Julia chuckled. "Then why are your ears red, dear?"
Before Ren could protest, Julia gently nudged him forward—placing *Aoi's hand into Ren's*.
He stiffened… but didn't let go.
In fact, he held it tighter than expected.
Aoi's eyes widened in shock.
He looked up.
Ren wasn't looking at him—but the blush on his face was real, undeniable.
And then…
*Aoi smiled.*A small, stunned, fragile smile—like a flower blooming through snow.
It was the first time Ren had *touched him gently.*
The first time Aoi felt warmth from him.
In that moment—hand in hand—*everything between them quietly shifted.*
--