Archive of Our Own

Summary:

When spring arrives in the magical town of Shizume, seventeen-year-old Yata Misaki expects nothing more than the usual errands and small magic lessons that normally fill his days. But everything changes the moment he sees newcomer Katsuto Endo riding down the hill behind the Homra tavern, stopping beneath an apple tree on his way.

Curiosity turns into a secret ritual, and Yata, drawn to the stranger, begins to leave small offerings of red apples along the trail, hoping to be noticed. In his efforts, he begins to neglect his practice. The lack of focus makes his magic unsteady, so he eventually decides to take action, drinking something meant to turn a glance into something more.