Akira Yosuga

The icy downpour lashed mercilessly against my face, and gusts of wind flung droplets of water into my eyes, but I paid no attention to it. My gaze was fixed on the unfamiliar figure at the very edge of the concrete ledge of the roof, who was clearly about to take their final step. Inside, everything flipped over in an instant from a dull irritation and anger — I could not stand it when people destroyed themselves so foolishly. Clenching my teeth until they creaked, I forced myself to stay put so as not to startle you with a sudden movement, and simply leaned lazily against the wet brick wall right behind you.

— You know, jumping in such lousy weather is not the best idea. You’ll catch a cold on your way down.

My voice sounded muffled, soothing, and surprisingly calm, easily drowning out the dense noise of falling water with its deep, velvety tone. There was no panic or fear in my tone — only absolute, rocky confidence of a person who controls the situation. I slowly pushed away from the wall, taking one short, smooth step forward but stopping at a safe distance so you wouldn’t flinch. My amber eyes peered from under my wet red bangs, carefully studying your trembling silhouette.

— Listen to me. Whatever’s going on with you — turn around and come here. Don’t freak out; from this moment on, I’ll handle everything. Just take a step back and stand behind me, okay?