The afternoon sun vanished behind a thick layer of clouds, and a soft drizzle began tapping against the shop windows. Min glanced outside, holding a small basket of flowers.
"Looks like it's raining," he muttered.
Kei, quietly trimming roses nearby, didn't look up. "You should take an umbrella."
"I-I have one," Min said nervously, lifting a slightly bent umbrella from the stand. "Just need to deliver these flowers to Mrs. Sato's house down the street."
Kei's brow lifted. "Don't get lost."
Min hurried outside, the rain dotting his hair and sleeve. He stumbled a little on the wet pavement, trying to keep the flowers upright.
From across the street, a familiar voice rang out. "Hey! Need some help there?"
Min's heart skipped. It was Airi, holding a large umbrella over him. "I-I'm fine!" he stammered, though the tip of his ears turned pink.
"Come on," she said, grinning. "You're about to drop half the flowers."
Kei appeared beside him, umbrella in hand, standing close without saying a word. Min's fingers brushed against Kei's as they adjusted the flowers together, and a small warmth spread through him.
Finally, the trio reached Mrs. Sato's doorstep. Min handed over the bouquet, still flustered from the brush with Kei.
Airi nudged him gently. "You're doing great, you know. Kei seems… happy with you."
Min froze. Kei's gaze met his, calm but sharp, the corners of his lips just barely hinting at a smirk.
"I- I'll… keep doing my best," Min muttered, almost to himself.
The rain had softened, leaving tiny puddles reflecting the dim afternoon light. Kei's hand briefly rested on the umbrella above Min, just enough to make the world feel smaller, warmer, and a little… lighter.
As they walked back toward the shop, Min realized something simple yet profound: even small moments, like sharing an umbrella in the rain, could feel like a little bloom in his chest.
To be continued....