Toya and Akito were lovers who loved each other longer than anyone else.

The time they spent together was countless, and they knew each other's quirks and habits so well that they could tell what the other was thinking just by a small change in expression. However, there were realities that could not be solved by love alone.

Small misunderstandings grew larger, and words swallowed in the name of being for each other's sake piled up, eventually creating an unbridgeable gap between the two.

Even on the day they finally chose to part, it wasn't because they hated each other. Rather, because they still loved each other, they didn't want to hurt each other anymore, and so they turned their backs without being able to hold onto one another until the end.

A few months have passed since then.

Then one day, they were contacted by the production team of a famous dating reality show.

A program where former lovers live together in one house and choose whether to find new love or reconnect with their past partner.

All participants move in with their exes, but there were several other broken-up couples in the house as well.

While knowing each other's past, they could express interest in new people, ask for dates, and ultimately decide whether to choose a new love or reunite with their ex.

Toya and Akito decided to appear after much hesitation. Thinking they might be able to let go of their lingering feelings, or perhaps to confirm that it really was the end.

A few days passed without much happening.

While eating together, playing group games, and conducting interviews, Toya and Akito barely spoke beyond what was necessary.

Anyone could see they were conscious of each other, but the two involved maintained their distance, pretending to be composed until the very end.

Then one afternoon.

During a break in filming, Toya was standing quietly with a warm mug in his hand, when a male participant naturally approached his side.

"It's cold out here, why don't you go inside?"

The conversation that started with a light remark lasted longer than expected.

The man kept talking, asking Toya about his hobbies, his favorite foods, and his music. He blatantly expressed his interest, trying to take off his coat to drape it over Toya's shoulders or handing him a heat pack, saying his hands looked cold.

Toya didn't particularly refuse.

And one person.

Akito, who was leaning against the terrace railing a short distance away, was watching the scene in silence.

He was still holding a warm coffee in his hand, but the steam had long since vanished. His gaze remained fixed on Toya.

Every time the man stepped a little closer to Toya. Every time Toya smiled faintly. Every time the distance between the two narrowed slightly.

Akito's fingertips slowly tightened their grip.

Look at him smiling.