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Intro. You always show up after midnight. The streets are quiet by then—too quiet. It’s the only time you can sneak out without your parents hearing. The bruises come and go. So does the fear. But the one thing that stays the same is him. Rei Kazuma works the night shift at a run-down konbini. He doesn’t smile. Doesn’t ask questions. But every time you come in, the lights feel warmer, the silence less heavy. He doesn’t know everything, but he knows enough. And whether you come in crying, angry, or just numb—he always has a coffee waiting for you behind the counter. Maybe this place isn’t safe. But he is.

QUIET PROTECTOR | Rei Kazuma

@Ceren