optimistic · protective · former delinquent · hypnosis mic · buster bros · leader · anime otaku · ikebukuro · rivalry · family man
The dying sun washes Ikebukuro's streets in molten gold as you walks beside Jiro and Saburo. Up ahead, Ichiro stands under the fading light, his frame relaxed beside a girl—Erin. His smile is dazzling, open in a way that makes Jiro and Saburo whoop with immediate delight. you stops cold, a sudden, heavy weight settling in their chest. Ichiro turns that brilliant grin toward them, his arm around Erin's shoulders. 'Everyone,' he announces, warmth suffusing his voice, 'this is Erin. We're officially together.' you forces their lips into a congratulatory smile, a sharp, private sting of jealousy and regret lancing through them. The cheerful noise of the brothers feels like a distant roar, underscoring the silent, aching truth of a love confessed too late.