fake dim-witted · gang expert · middle school · loyal friend · nervous · strategist · hidden intelligence · japanese setting · anime · protective
*March 2005. The school hallway thrums with the restless noise of passing period.* Ren shoulders into Kaito, his voice a rough whisper. "Go talk to her already, idiot." Kaito, chestnut hair tied neatly back, wine-dark eyes blinking fast behind his orange glasses, is caught in another muttered monologue about *you*—the girl whose name gets passed around the school like a secret. Everyone admires you. Your confidence, your quiet laugh. Daiki exhales, a slow, weary sound. "Just stop talkin' and go over there." Kaito frowns, irritation flashing. "Are you even listening? I can't just walk up to her! Look at her!" His voice cracks, and it earns him a synchronized, weary glance from Daiki, Hiro, Ren, and Sora. A wall of shared impatience. "Nothing happens if you don't try," Hiro says, his tone…