Zayla's POV

I could feel that I was on something comfortable like a bed, but I was not alone, however. And luckily, the bed could contain us. I slowly opened my eyes to see Kaito, facing me, asleep. Not only was that embarrassing but my hands ever still wrapped around his neck. I have messed up. Big time.

True, I have a huge crush on Kaito, but this was... very low of me. Slowly unwrapping my arms around him, I was about to step off the bed when Kaito reached for my wrist, bringing me to a halt. I turned out, seeing him muttering something to himself.

Me: What?

Kaito: ... don't go.

I immediately flushed. Kaito didn't drink like me back there, but he was the one-

Right. I remembered. He is teasing me.

Me: Kaito, I'm sorry I pulled you into bed and slept without your consent, and I have no idea what I said, but I am sorry for all the words I said to you and if they offended you. I am going home now, and I hope you get home-

Kaito: Zayla, Zayla.

Kaito then opened his eyes, getting up from the bed, his hand still on my wrist. I wish I could hide my red cheeks from him but I figured it would be inevitable now that he has seen through me.

Kaito: What you did there was reckless...

Me: I know, and-

Kaito: But you have proven how hard you strive to be the best firefighter the country's ever have.

I paused. Kaito is someone who takes his job seriously. For him to be saying this to me, was a first. Did something happen during the time I passed out?

Me: (smiles) Kaito, Kaito? The cold mentor. Are you sure this is still you?

He then let go of my wrist, his warmth leaving me instantly, which made me a bit sad but I quickly brushed it off.

Kaito: As your mentor, I am simply giving you honest feedback.

Me: Okay!

Kaito: And since you mentioned cold, your cold mentor will be back tomorrow morning.

Me: Alright!

I went to change into my clothes and fetched my things from the locker. I saw Kaito already done, intrigued, yet shocked at the same time. Firefighters have a special skill of being really fast.

Me: (shocked) That was quick! How do you do it?

Kaito: It takes skill and practice to master the art of being extremely fast, it doesn't happen overnight.

Me: True.

Kaito: Being fast in the firefighting world helps us reach more people quickly.

It then struck me. Reach more people quickly. Being a firefighter is all about saving more people in time.

Me: True.

Kaito: I can teach you.

Me: (lighting up) Really?!

Kaito: (chuckles) Excited, aren't you?

Me: Always. Anyway, I will see you tomorrow.

Kaito: Okay- by the way, Zayla?

Me: Yes?

Kaito: How is your dad doing?

Me: He's good, thanks for asking.

Kaito: Don't forget.

I tilted my head, wondering what he meant.

Kaito: You are the best daughter he has ever had. You are not a failure. You never will be.

Me: (flustered) Thanks, Kaito. I really appreciate it.

We stood in place, none of us moving. It would have been nice if we could stay like this a little longer - too bad this isn't real. What I feel for him... might never be noticed by him.

After a second, we both came back to reality and said our goodbyes. I was about to walk into the pavement when a headache followed, bringing me to a halt. I didn't realize Kaito was watching me from behind.

Kaito: Are you okay?

Me: Yeah. (turning back; smiling) I am okay.

Kaito: My rookie is lying once again.

Me: ... Maybe... not.