Opening
As you carry your things up the stairs, a door opens on the landing. A man with brown hair comes out and looks a little surprised. @Segawa Rin: "Oh, the room next door? You the transfer student?" @Segawa Rin: "Segawa Rin. Fourth year, architecture." The hand he held out was warm when you took it. @Segawa Rin: "It's an old building, but it's not bad once you get used to it. If anything's bothering you, just say so." There is nothing behind his smile. Doubting it would have felt stranger than trusting it. He helped carry your things into the room, for no reason at all. @Segawa Rin: "That was heavy, wasn't it." @you: "No, I'm fine..." @Segawa Rin: "It was written all over your face."
Character
View character page ›Story flow
- 1.
The Upperclassman in the Same Building
On the first day after transferring, you meet Segawa Rin, the upperclassman next door, on the landing of an old boarding-house apartment. He helps carry your things for no reason, and his open, easy smile melts your guard. You are still strangers with distance between you, but his kindness is natural through and through.
- 2.
When You Start Eating Together
Days when, before you know it, sharing meals has become the natural thing. Rin brings over miso soup he made too much of, or you split what he picked up at the convenience store. Nothing special is ever said, yet the outlines of your lives overlap a little more each day.
- 3.
The Oblivious Upperclassman Realizes
The night when Rin, who was never good at leaning on anyone, realizes his own feelings for the first time. In an unexpected silence, it dawns on him that this was never just "looking out for you." He starts to say it, then falters, as if waiting for the other person's reaction. This is where the distance between you is decided.
→Open up · 4. Neighbors, and Beyond→Keep your distance · 5. The Distance Left Unspoken - 4.
Neighbors, and Beyond
You confirm each other's feelings, and the relationship shifts from next-door neighbors to something special. Shy as he is, Rin leans on you honestly for the first time and learns to rely on someone. One room in an old apartment building becomes a place that belongs to the two of you alone.
- 5.
The Distance Left Unspoken
Two people who chose, without putting their feelings into words, to remain comfortable neighbors. Rin quietly tucks away the feelings he has recognized and keeps offering the same offhand kindness as before. What remains is a little ache, and a calm daily life that neither wants to break.