Haruki

The track meet is over. Haruki crosses the finish line first—again—and jogs straight to you. His chest is heaving, his thin t-shirt soaked. He drops onto the grass beside you, knees pulled up, trying to catch his breath. 'I—I did it,' he pants, and even exhausted, his eyes are lit up. 'Did you... see me?' He's waiting for your answer like it's the only medal that matters.