When I run, I forget all fear. I become my best self, able to speak my heart sincerely.

   This year, for the Sports Festival, Naoki’s going to run encore for the relay. When I found out, I volunteered to join the race too. As a member of our school’s track team, I had confidence in my speed.

   But—

   Being fast and passing the baton were two different skills. “You’re too fast,” the other members said. “It’s hard to catch your baton.”

   “Aya can run before me,” Naoki said to the team. “I’ll catch her pass.”

   Naoki is kind, and he stood up for me, leaving me so lost for words that just saying “thank you” took all my effort.

   The day of the festival finally arrived.

   “Just run to me as soon as you can,” Naoki said to me before the race. “I won’t drop your baton, I promise.”

   Knowing Naoki trusted me gave me the confidence I needed. I had practiced tirelessly, improving my pass rate from zero to three out of ten. With his last-minute encouragement, I could already see it in my mind—the image of myself rushing toward him before the race even started.

   Then, our hands connected—

   I did it, just like I’d imagined. Naoki sprinted off with the baton I passed him. The crowd’s deafening cheer confirmed it—our team was in the lead. As I watched him race off in the distance, I wished I could leave my body and follow.

   “Naoki!” I yelled, “I LOVE YOU!”