In the end, no words were needed. Which suited him just fine.

In the beginning, she had just been a strange boy. Then, an even stranger girl.

At first, they had hardly acknowledged each other. Barely even crossed paths.

Then, something happened. A glance, perhaps a casual touch.

Suddenly, it began to broaden and broaden. Secret brushes, lingering stares, soft kisses.

Afterwards, a hidden smile. A silent word of love.

Soon, even that was not enough. She begged him for more, more, more.

Time and time again, he had to stop himself from going too far. Taking them too deep.

Always, she would lead him on, taking him into new places. New feelings.

One night, everything became too much. They gave in.

Yet, it didn't tear them apart. It just brought them closer.

Once it came to light, he didn't say anything. How could he?

Frequently now, he just let Haruhi do the talking. She was good at that.

As always, he was good at one thing. Being silent.

Forever, it seemed, until they ran out of questions and accusations. With nothing more to say, they left.

Finally, even Mitsukuni left. Would he ever forget those eyes?

Later, when everyone had gone, she looked him in the eye. She asked him.

"When can we be together, Takashi?"

At last, he responded. He opened his arms, and she ran to embrace him.

In the end, no words were needed. All he needed…was her.