The sky was gray, and soft rain tapped against the windows as Aiko curled up on her couch with a blanket. She had intended to spend the day studying, but the cozy atmosphere made her feel sleepy.
Her phone buzzed. It was Ren.
Ren: "Rainy day study session… want to come over?"
Aiko smiled, quickly replying, "Yes! I'll bring snacks."
A few minutes later, she arrived at Ren's home. He greeted her with a small smile and opened an umbrella for her as she stepped inside. "Come on in, it's warm," he said.
Inside, the room was cozy, filled with soft light and the faint aroma of tea. They spread their books on the table, but the quiet comfort of the rain outside and the closeness between them made studying more playful than serious.
At one point, Aiko accidentally knocked over her pencil case. Ren bent down to help her pick it up, and their hands brushed. A gentle warmth spread through Aiko's chest.
"You're always so careful," she murmured, cheeks pink.
Ren smiled softly. "I just don't want you to get hurt… or stressed."
They paused their studying for a snack break, sharing cookies and hot chocolate. Aiko offered him a cookie, and he leaned closer, taking it from her fingers, making their hands touch.
"You know," Aiko whispered, "I like these quiet days with you… just being close."
Ren looked at her, eyes soft. "Me too. It's… nice. Peaceful."
The rain continued outside, gentle and soothing, as they quietly shared this simple, perfect moment. Aiko rested her head slightly on her hand, watching Ren sip his tea, feeling a flutter in her chest she couldn't hide.
By the time she left, the sky had cleared, leaving the air fresh and sparkling. Walking home, Aiko realized that some of the happiest moments with Ren weren't dramatic or flashy—they were these small, intimate times filled with laughter, warmth, and quiet affection.