The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the campus park, where Ethan and Claire sat on a bench after their group study session. The soft murmur of students passing by and distant laughter created a comfortable backdrop—one that felt almost like a safe haven.
Claire nudged him gently. "You've been different lately. More confident. But I can tell it's not all easy."
Ethan shrugged, trying to keep his usual nonchalant expression. "Yeah, it's been... a lot."
She smiled, eyes softening. "You don't have to carry it all alone, you know. You've got people who care."
For the first time, Ethan really looked at her. Not just as the childhood friend who always had his back, but as someone who cared deeply in ways he hadn't fully appreciated before.
Her small gestures—the way she tucked a stray hair behind her ear, the quiet encouragement in her voice—started to stand out. A warmth bloomed inside him that wasn't just friendship.
Before he could second-guess himself, the system chimed softly:
[Milestone Event: Recognized New Emotional Depth with S-Rank Heroine (Claire Monroe)!]
[Skill Draw Available. Choose one:]
[Skill 1] Empathy Boost (Common)Increase your ability to understand others' feelings and respond appropriately.
[Skill 2] Emotional Intuition (Uncommon)Gain sharper instincts about the true emotions behind words and actions.
[Skill 3] Trust Builder (Uncommon)Strengthen bonds quickly, making others more likely to open up and rely on you.
Ethan smiled, a little nervous but eager. He chose [Skill 2] Emotional Intuition (Uncommon), wanting to read the people important to him better.
[Skill Acquired: Emotional Intuition (Uncommon) — Gain sharper instincts about the true emotions behind words and actions.]
Claire laughed softly, her eyes sparkling with teasing warmth. "Look at you, all grown up and thoughtful."
An accidental brush of their hands sent a tiny shock through Ethan. He caught her gaze, and they both froze for a heartbeat before Claire grinned and looked away, cheeks slightly flushed.
Maybe this new light was exactly what he needed.