Aiko groaned as she stared at the stack of math problems on her desk. Numbers blurred before her eyes, and she bit her lip, frustrated.
Why does algebra hate me so much? she thought, tapping her pencil nervously.
Her phone buzzed. A message from Ren:
Ren: "Need help with math? I'm free now."
Aiko blinked. He… actually offered? Her fingers flew across the screen.
Aiko: "Yes! Can you come over? I'm drowning over here."
Within fifteen minutes, Ren was at her door, carrying his notebook and a small bottle of water. He entered quietly, giving her a soft smile. "Ready to tackle this?"
Aiko nodded, pushing her messy notes toward him. "I don't even know where to start."
Ren chuckled softly. "Let's begin with question one."
For the next two hours, they worked side by side. Ren patiently explained each problem, while Aiko tried to follow, occasionally bursting into frustrated giggles.
"I swear math is out to get me," she muttered, rubbing her temples.
Ren laughed quietly. "Maybe… but you're not giving up. That counts for something."
During a short break, Aiko offered him one of the leftover cupcakes she had baked earlier that day. "Here… you helped me survive math. You deserve it."
Ren took it, smiling faintly. "Thanks… it's good." He bit into it, and Aiko watched, heart fluttering. Somehow, the way he enjoyed it made her feel proud, happy, and nervous all at once.
As the night grew darker, the room felt cozy—two friends sharing homework, laughter, and small bites of sugar. Occasionally, their hands brushed as they passed notes or pencils, sending tiny sparks through Aiko. She caught herself staring at him more than necessary, and every time, Ren seemed to notice just enough to smile softly.
Finally, the homework was done. Aiko leaned back, exhausted but satisfied. "Thanks… I think I actually understand algebra now."
Ren shrugged modestly. "You just needed a little guidance… and maybe some moral support."
Aiko grinned. "You make studying… kind of fun."
Ren's gaze softened. "Anytime, Aiko."
As he packed up to leave, Aiko felt a quiet warmth in her chest. It wasn't dramatic, it wasn't grand—but it was perfect. Their friendship—and maybe something more—was slowly growing, one quiet, fluffy, heart-fluttering moment at a time.