The bus during the morning commute was crowded as usual, and having barely managed to snag a seat by the window, we were pressed so close that our shoulders touched.

As I stared blankly at the scenery passing by outside the window, I could naturally feel Osamu's presence beside me just by tilting my head slightly.

Then, suddenly.

Thump.

Casually, so naturally. A hand comes to rest on my thigh.

..!

My body flinched for a moment. My gaze was still fixed forward, but my senses were sharply focused on that spot.

Glancing down, I saw Osamu's hand resting there as if nothing was wrong. As if it was always meant to be there.

Swallowing a shaky breath, I grabbed his arm.

What are you doing..?

When I asked quietly but clearly, there was a brief silence.

Then, a shadow leaned in from the side. I felt his breath close to my ear.

Why are you shaking so much, Princess?

His voice was low. Even though his tone was playful, it strangely sounded more dangerous.

It's only making me more excited.

As he whispered those words against my ear, my heart skipped a beat.