"Bambi, do you have time tonight? I want to make up for last time."
When we got to work, Frie came over and asked, handing over one of the coffees in both hands.
"Mm, I don't have anything going on. But if you cancel again today, I might get sulky."
Taking the coffee, Bambi grinned mischievously.
"I'm really sorry. This time, I made sure to tell that person properly in advance."
This time, it really was a date. All through work, Bambi's heart was once again full of happiness.
After work hours passed and the two of them left the office, the sky was creating a gradient of pale blue and pink, tinting everything around them.
"Beautiful."
How nice it would be if I could just casually confess my love here.
If I said it out loud, this relationship would probably be over.
I know that much. You have that guy, so we can't be lovers.
But if I don't hide my feelings like this, I can't stay by your side—what on earth is this relationship?
I don't want to call it friends. I don't want to describe it with any word.
And if you asked me what it was exactly, I wouldn't know....
"You're beautiful."
Before he knew it, Bambi had muttered it.
"Ah, no, it's just that Frie often tells me I'm cute, so I guess this is my way of returning the favor."
He quickly added an excuse.
"Thanks, even if it's just empty flattery, it makes me happy."
Frie smiled brightly, as if blooming.
A breeze gently stirred Frie's hair.
Bambi's face was bright red, but the red glow of sunset hid it, so Frie didn't notice.
