before yuuta left for africa, you remember him to be scrawny, about the same height as you, all elbows and knees. he would stutter when you caught his gaze for too long and your pinkies would hook when you walked home together, headphones shared, heads tilted close. behind the school building, you’d trade snacks and he’d blush when you brushed crumbs off of his shirt. sometimes you’d sit together on the curb, knees touching, as he let you doodle little shapes on his arm.
and you remember the kisses. quick, clumsy pecks that made you giggle. sometimes his eyes stayed open, as if to memorize your face. his fingers fumbled, shifting from your shoulders to your back again, unsure where to touch, but each kiss felt like a tiny discovery. a small, shared secret, leaving a lingering warmth on both your cheeks long after.
when he returned, you barely recognized him. you were surprised at how much had changed. you had to look up at him now; his shoulders were broader, his frame taller, and he moved with purpose. the nervous, fumbling gestures of before gone.
now, yuuta’s hands find your waist naturally. he’s less shy, more present, and he initiates contact without hesitation: brushes a strand of hair from your face, nudges you gently as you walk, leans closer when he laughs, adjusts your jacket without asking and lets his hand linger briefly on your lower back when guiding you.
and the awkward, clumsy pecks changed. his kisses are bolder, and he’s the one guiding you now. he chases your lips relentlessly, presses you against walls or the edge of tables, hands linger on your waist and lower back. each kiss lingers longer, heavier, more urgent than before, perhaps to make up for lost time. his hands roam along your body, leaving you breathless.
yuuta is more confident now. in himself, in what he wants from you. he knows he never wants the same distance between you two as there was when he was away. he wants you close, always close, and certain of the bond that ties you together. he isn’t the same blushing boy anymore when he’s over you, pulling his shirt off ♡
