Chapter 5

A week had passed since Yuu moved in.

At first, even though we called each other "best friends," I wasn’t sure if living together would actually work—but that worry turned out to be pointless.

Every day brought good meals and a spotless home. It was so comfortable that I couldn’t imagine life without Yuu anymore.

I could never thank them enough. If I had the choice, I’d want this to last forever.

Life with my precious best friend felt complete. I had nothing to complain about.

But maybe that was the problem.

"...Hmm."

I looked away from the online shopping site on my screen. Yuu was in front of the window, carefully wiping it clean.

It was a lazy afternoon on our day off. Sunlight streamed in, catching Yuu’s hair and making it shine. I caught myself thinking how pretty it looked.

"...What should I do?"

The question had been nagging me all morning.

How do you properly thank someone like Yuu?

If this were a professional cleaner or housekeeper, it’d be simple—just pay them. Time, effort, money. Done.

But Yuu was my best friend. Handing over cash felt... wrong.

"...Though, maybe it’s not that weird? I’ve seen movies where friends give each other money for helping with a move or something..."

Still, what do people usually give friends to show thanks?

I didn’t know. I didn’t have much experience with friendship. I’d been scrolling through gift ideas online, but the thought of giving something useless or unwanted made me hesitate.

...Maybe I should just ask directly. That way, I’d know exactly what they wanted—even if it turned out to be money.

"Yuu, got a sec?"

"Hm? What’s up?"

Yuu paused mid-wipe and turned to me with a smile. I had to stop myself from staring.

"Is there anything you want right now?"

"Huh? Want?"

Their eyes widened, a little startled. I guess I’d been too vague.

"I mean, it's been a week since you moved in. Just wondering if you need anything."

"Need? Hmm... not really?"

Nothing? Yuu was seriously low-maintenance.

Still—what about small annoyances?

"Anything that bothers you, then?"

"Bothers me? Nope."

They laughed softly behind their hand. Another dead end. What else could I even ask?

"Ugh..."

"Hey, I’m really happy with how things are, okay?"

Yuu smiled again as I hesitated.

No needs. No complaints. Or maybe they were just being polite?

I frowned slightly, thinking back.

The room Yuu was using used to be for visiting relatives. It had only the basics—bed, dresser, a few chairs. The furniture was decent, but plain. A little too plain. It had a masculine feel to it, all dark wood and square edges.

...Right. Yuu used to be male. Maybe the room suited them after all?

Still, it was hard to remember that when Yuu looked like this. So gentle, so graceful.

...No, I was sure they were just holding back.

I wished they’d be more open, but I couldn’t force it either.

"...Alright. If you're really fine, I won't push. But if anything comes up, promise you’ll tell me."

"Okay... I will."

With nothing else to do, I let it go. Yuu tilted their head, a little confused, then nodded and went back to cleaning.

So, for now, there was nothing I could do.

But someday, Yuu would want something.

And when that time came, I’d be ready.

I switched tabs to my stock trading site.

Time to sell a few shares and free up some cash.

Whatever it is, I’ll get them the best.