Once a nerd, always a nerd, right?

Kaito lives a double life. His father, a strict and traditional man, believes Kaito is attending the university for human army preparations. However, Kaito's true passion lies elsewhere. Instead of military training, he spends his days at a quaint bakery school, learning the art of baking. The smell of freshly baked bread, the delicate craft of pastry-making, and the joy of creating something from scratch have become his true calling.

Kaito's mother is the only one who knows about his secret. She supports him wholeheartedly and reassures him, "Someday your dad will be ready to know your true self, but not now."

Each day, after his bakery classes, Kaito meets up with his childhood friend, Hiroshi. Hiroshi is married to Akari, a girl whose name means "light." The marriage was arranged by his parents, and Kaito often asks Hiroshi if he truly loves her.

"Even if it was arranged, I really love her. I'm glad my parents did this for me. I didn't want to join the army," Hiroshi replies with conviction each time.

One evening, Kaito arrives at Hiroshi's house with a bag full of forbidden AI-created mangas. They sneak down to the basement, making sure no one sees them.

"I can't believe you keep bringing these," Hiroshi says with a mix of amusement and exasperation.

"Once a nerd, always a nerd, right?" Kaito chuckles.

"Yeah, I suppose. Let's see what you've got this time," Hiroshi says, pulling out one of the mangas from the bag.

The mangas they read are fascinating, filled with intricate plots and stunning illustrations. These AI-created mangas explore themes of advanced technology, human-AI relationships, and fantastical adventures that blur the line between reality and imagination. Kaito and Hiroshi are captivated by the stories, and they often discuss the implications of the AI-generated content.

"Do you ever wonder what it would be like if AI could create more than just mangas? Like, entire worlds or even human-like companions?" Kaito muses as he flips through the pages.

"Sometimes. It's amazing how far technology has come, but it's also a bit scary. There's a lot we don't understand yet," Hiroshi replies thoughtfully.

"I agree. But there's something magical about these stories. They push the boundaries of our imagination," Kaito says, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

"I know, right? This one, for example," Hiroshi points to a manga panel, "it's about an AI who falls in love with a human. Can you imagine that? It's both beautiful and tragic."

"Yeah, it makes you think about the possibilities. Maybe one day, AI and humans could coexist like in these stories," Kaito responds, lost in thought.

As they read, they lose track of time, completely absorbed in the fantastical worlds within the pages. The basement is filled with the sound of turning pages and the occasional laugh as they share their thoughts and theories about the stories.

"Do you think we'll ever see a world like this?" Kaito asks, looking up from his manga.

"Who knows? But it's fun to imagine," Hiroshi replies with a smile. "Maybe one day, the boundaries between AI and humans will blur even more."

"I hope so. It would be amazing to live in a world where we can all coexist peacefully," Kaito says, a hint of longing in his voice.

At home, Kaito's mother approaches him as he prepares for bed. She places a gentle hand on his shoulder and looks at him with understanding eyes.

"Kaito, I'm proud of you for following your passion," she says softly.

"Thank you, Mom. I just wish Dad could understand," Kaito responds, his voice filled with longing.

"Someday he will. For now, keep doing what you love. I'll always support you," she reassures him.

Kaito nods, feeling a sense of gratitude for his mother's unwavering support. As he drifts off to sleep, he dreams of a future where he can openly pursue his passion for baking without fear.

The next day, Kaito finds himself deep in thought as he walks to bakery school. He reflects on the conversations he's had with Hiroshi about love, passion, and following one's heart. He thinks about how Hiroshi found love in an arranged marriage and how he himself has found joy in baking, despite his father's expectations.

"Maybe one day, I'll be able to show Dad who I really am," Kaito muses to himself.

As he steps into the bakery school, the familiar smell of fresh bread and the sight of his classmates greet him. Kaito takes a deep breath and smiles, ready to continue his journey of self-discovery and growth.

One afternoon, Kaito is surprised to see Hiroshi waiting for him in front of the Tanaka residence.

"Hiroshi? What are you doing here?" Kaito asks, puzzled.

"I thought I'd take you up on your offer to try that strawberry shortcake," Hiroshi replies with a grin.

Kaito laughs and leads Hiroshi inside. They sit at a small table in the kitchen, and Kaito brings out a slice of the shortcake he's made.

"Wow, this is amazing, Kaito!" Hiroshi exclaims after taking a bite.

"Thanks, Hiroshi. It means a lot coming from you," Kaito responds, feeling a sense of pride.

As they enjoy the cake, they talk about their dreams and aspirations, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment.

"Do you ever think about your future, Kaito?" Hiroshi asks between bites.

"All the time. I want to open my own bakery one day. A place where people can come and enjoy the treats I make," Kaito replies, his eyes shining with excitement.

"I believe in you, Kaito. You're talented and passionate. Just remember, it won't be easy, but I'll be here to support you every step of the way," Hiroshi says, echoing the sentiments of Kaito's mother.

"Thanks, Hiroshi. Your support means a lot to me," Kaito says sincerely.

On the evening, after reading mangas in the basement, Kaito and Hiroshi sit back and reflect on their lives. Kaito decides to share something that's been weighing on his mind.

"Hiroshi, there's something I need to tell you. I've been hiding it for a long time," Kaito begins, his voice trembling slightly.

"What is it, Kaito? You can tell me anything," Hiroshi replies, his expression filled with concern.

"I'm not really going to the university for human army preparations. I'm attending a bakery school. Baking is my true passion, and I've been keeping it a secret from my father," Kaito confesses, feeling a mixture of fear and relief.

Hiroshi looks at Kaito in surprise, then smiles. "Kaito, that's amazing. I'm proud of you for following your heart. Your father might not understand now, but he'll come around eventually."

"Thanks, Hiroshi. It feels good to finally share this with you," Kaito says, feeling a sense of liberation.

"And there's one more thing," Kaito continues, hesitating for a moment. "I've always wanted to find someone to love, like you did with Akari. But I've never found anyone... I still believe that someone is out there waiting for me."

Hiroshi places a reassuring hand on Kaito's shoulder. "You will find someone, Kaito. You're an amazing person, and there's definitely someone out there who will see that. Just keep following your heart."

Kaito nods, feeling a renewed sense of hope. "I will, Hiroshi. Thanks for always being there for me."

"Do you think love is something that happens when you least expect it?" Kaito asks, looking contemplative.

"I think so. Love comes in many forms and often surprises us. When I first met Akari, I didn't know what to expect. But over time, I grew to love her deeply," Hiroshi replies thoughtfully.

Kaito smiles. "I hope to experience that one day. To find someone who understands and accepts me for who I am."

"You will, Kaito. Just be patient and open to the possibilities. Love finds us when the time is right," Hiroshi encourages.

"Thanks, Hiroshi. Your words mean a lot to me," Kaito says, feeling comforted by his friend's support.

They continue talking late into the night, sharing their dreams and hopes for the future. The bond between them grows stronger, and Kaito feels a sense of gratitude for having a friend like Hiroshi by his side.

As the night draws to a close, Kaito reflects on his journey so far. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, he remains determined to pursue his passion for baking and to find love and acceptance in his life. With the support of his mother and Hiroshi, Kaito knows that he can face whatever comes his way and stay true to himself.