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financing-solutions-in-dubai · 4 months

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What is Finance Invoice Factoring in Dubai? and What is Instant Settlement?

Why Dubai is a Hub for Financial Management and How Instant Payout Helps Small SMEs in 2024

In the amazing financial area of Dubai, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to manage cash flow and fuel growth. One such solution gaining traction is finance invoice factoring coupled with instant settlement. This article delves into what invoice factoring is, how instant settlement works, and why Dubai has emerged as a premier hub for financial management. We'll also explore how these financial tools are proving to be game-changers for SMEs in 2024.

Understanding Invoice Factoring

Invoice factoring is a financial transaction where a business sells its accounts receivable (invoices) to a third party (a factor) at a discount. This process allows the business to obtain immediate cash, which can be vital for maintaining operations and investing in growth.

How Invoice Factoring Works

Invoice Creation: A business provides goods or services to its customers and issues invoices.

Selling Invoices: The business sells these unpaid invoices to a factoring company.

Immediate Cash Advance: The factoring company advances a significant portion of the invoice value to the business.

Collection: The factor collects the payment from the customer.

Settlement: Once the customer pays the invoice, the factor releases the remaining balance to the business, minus a fee.

Key Players in the Invoice Factoring Process

The Business (Client): Sells the invoices.

The Customer: Owes payment for the received goods or services.

The Factor (Factoring Company): Purchases the invoices and manages collections.

Types of Invoice Factoring

Invoice factoring comes in several forms, tailored to different business needs:

Recourse Factoring

In recourse factoring, the business retains the risk if the customer fails to pay the invoice. This type generally has lower fees due to the reduced risk for the factor.

Non-Recourse Factoring

Non-recourse factoring shifts the risk of non-payment to the factor. While more expensive, it provides greater security to the business.

Spot Factoring

Spot factoring allows businesses to sell individual invoices as needed, offering flexibility without long-term commitments.

Whole Turnover Factoring

This approach involves factoring all invoices over a period, providing consistent cash flow but requiring a long-term relationship with the factoring company.

Benefits of Invoice Factoring

Invoice factoring offers numerous advantages that can significantly benefit businesses:

Improved Cash Flow

By converting invoices into immediate cash, businesses can maintain smooth operations and seize new opportunities without waiting for customer payments.

Flexibility and Scalability

Factoring solutions can be tailored to the business's needs, making it easier to manage varying cash flow requirements as the business grows.

Mitigation of Credit Risk

Factors typically conduct credit checks on customers, helping businesses avoid high-risk clients and reducing the likelihood of bad debt.

No Collateral Required

Unlike traditional loans, invoice factoring doesn’t require collateral, making it accessible to businesses without substantial assets.

Challenges of Invoice Factoring

Despite its benefits, invoice factoring comes with challenges that businesses must navigate:

Costs Associated with Factoring

Factoring fees can add up, potentially eating into profits. Businesses need to weigh these costs against the benefits of improved cash flow.

Potential Impact on Customer Relationships

Customers may perceive factoring as a sign of financial instability. Transparent communication is crucial to maintaining trust.

Risks of Dependence on Factoring

Relying heavily on factoring can make businesses vulnerable if the factor changes terms or the market conditions shift.

Instant Settlement in Invoice Factoring

Instant settlement refers to the rapid transfer of funds following the sale of invoices to the factoring company. This quick turnaround is particularly beneficial for SMEs needing immediate liquidity.

Process of Instant Settlement

Invoice Submission: Businesses submit invoices to the factor.

Verification: The factor verifies the invoices.

Funds Transfer: Upon verification, funds are transferred instantly to the business’s account.

Advantages of Instant Settlement

Enhanced Liquidity: Immediate access to cash helps cover expenses and invest in growth opportunities.

Reduced Financial Stress: Quick settlements alleviate the pressure of waiting for customer payments.

Improved Financial Planning: Predictable cash flow aids in accurate budgeting and financial planning.

Why Dubai is a Hub for Financial Management

Dubai’s status as a global financial center stems from several key factors:

Strategic Geographical Location

Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Dubai offers unparalleled access to major markets, making it an ideal base for financial operations.

Robust Regulatory Framework

Dubai boasts a well-developed legal and regulatory environment that promotes transparency, security, and investor confidence.

Advanced Technological Infrastructure

The city’s state-of-the-art technological infrastructure supports sophisticated financial services and fintech innovations, fostering a dynamic financial ecosystem.

Presence of Global Financial Institutions

Many leading financial institutions have established a presence in Dubai, enhancing the city’s reputation as a financial hub and providing businesses with a wide range of services and expertise.

The Growth of SMEs in Dubai

SMEs play a crucial role in Dubai’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP.

Economic Contributions of SMEs

SMEs account for a large portion of Dubai’s private sector employment and economic output, driving innovation and competition.

Government Support and Initiatives

The Dubai government has launched various initiatives to support SME growth, including funding programs, business incubators, and regulatory reforms.

Financial Challenges Faced by SMEs

Despite their importance, SMEs often struggle with cash flow issues, limited access to financing, and the need for efficient financial management solutions.

How Instant Payout Helps SMEs

Instant payout mechanisms can be transformative for SMEs:

Enhancement of Liquidity

Immediate access to cash enables SMEs to meet operational expenses, pay suppliers, and invest in new opportunities without delay.

Reduction of Financial Stress

Knowing that funds will be available instantly helps SMEs manage their finances more effectively and reduces the anxiety associated with cash flow uncertainties.

Facilitation of Business Growth

With improved cash flow, SMEs can focus on expanding their operations, hiring new staff, and entering new markets, fostering overall growth.

Competitive Advantage

SMEs that can manage their finances efficiently and maintain steady cash flow are better positioned to compete in the market, offering better services and prices to their customers.

Case Studies of Successful Invoice Factoring in Dubai

SME Success Stories

Several SMEs in Dubai have leveraged invoice factoring to overcome financial hurdles and achieve growth. For instance, a local manufacturing company used factoring to stabilize cash flow and expand its product line, while a tech startup utilized instant settlement to fund rapid scaling and innovation.

Impact on Business Operations

These businesses reported improved liquidity, better supplier relationships, and enhanced capacity to take on larger projects, demonstrating the practical benefits of invoice factoring.

Lessons Learned

Key takeaways from these success stories include the importance of choosing the right factoring partner, understanding the terms and fees, and maintaining transparent communication with customers and stakeholders.

Comparing Invoice Factoring with Traditional Financing

Invoice factoring offers distinct advantages over traditional financing options:

Speed and Accessibility

Factoring provides quicker access to funds compared to traditional loans, which often involve lengthy approval processes and stringent requirements.

Cost-Effectiveness

While factoring fees can be high, they are often offset by the benefits of improved cash flow and the avoidance of loan interest rates and collateral requirements.

Risk Assessment

Factoring companies conduct credit checks on customers, helping businesses make informed decisions and reducing the risk of bad debt.

How to Choose an Invoice Factoring Company in Dubai

Selecting the right factoring partner is crucial for maximizing the benefits of invoice factoring:

Factors to Consider

Reputation and Experience: Look for a company with a solid track record and positive client reviews.

Terms and Fees: Understand the cost structure, including any hidden fees.

Customer Service: Ensure the company offers responsive and helpful support.

Evaluating Reputation and Reliability

Research the factoring company’s reputation within the industry, seek recommendations, and check for any regulatory compliance issues.

Understanding Terms and Fees

Carefully review the contract terms, including advance rates, discount rates, and any additional charges, to avoid unexpected costs.

Future Trends in Invoice Factoring and Financial Management

The financial landscape is constantly evolving, and several trends are shaping the future of invoice factoring:

Technological Advancements

Advancements in fintech are making factoring processes faster and more efficient, with innovations like blockchain and AI enhancing transparency and reducing costs.

Evolving Regulatory Landscape

Regulatory changes aimed at protecting businesses and consumers are likely to impact factoring practices, making it essential for businesses to stay informed.

Growing Importance of Sustainability

As sustainability becomes a priority, factoring companies are increasingly focusing on environmentally friendly practices and supporting green businesses.

Invoice factoring, particularly with the added benefit of instant settlement, is proving to be a valuable financial tool for SMEs in Dubai. The city’s strategic advantages, coupled with supportive government initiatives, create an ideal environment for SMEs to thrive. By leveraging these financial solutions, SMEs can enhance their liquidity, reduce financial stress, and drive growth in a competitive market. As we move forward into 2024, the continued evolution of financial technologies and practices will further empower SMEs, solidifying Dubai’s position as a global hub for financial management.

FAQs

What is the difference between invoice factoring and invoice discounting? Invoice factoring involves selling invoices to a third party for immediate cash, while invoice discounting uses invoices as collateral for a loan, with the business retaining control over collections.

How does invoice factoring affect credit scores? Invoice factoring does not directly impact a business's credit score, but it can improve financial stability and cash flow, indirectly supporting credit health.

Can startups use invoice factoring? Yes, startups can use invoice factoring, especially if they have issued invoices to creditworthy customers, providing an immediate cash flow solution without the need for collateral.

What industries benefit most from invoice factoring? Industries with long payment cycles, such as manufacturing, transportation, and construction, benefit significantly from invoice factoring by improving cash flow and sustaining operations.

Is invoice factoring regulated in Dubai? Yes, invoice factoring is regulated in Dubai under the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) framework, ensuring transparency and security for businesses and factors.

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hxnbi · 4 months

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⸻ ꗃ a whole new side

₊˚Ꮺ synopsis: you, for the first time, see a whole new side of him he never wanted to you see… ₊˚Ꮺ pairings: haruka sakura, hajime umemiya, hayato suo x gn. reader (separate)

HARUKA SAKURA | 桜遥 ─ ♬. ⁺ ♡

SAKURA had been through a lot in his life. Anyone with eyes could tell from the moment when one truly got to know him. But for better or for worse, he kept his ugly truth under wraps. All Sakura knew was to use the same, bruised, calloused, bloody, ugly fists he was born with. Any problem that he came across would be met with brute force. So to have someone like you in his life who was so far removed from that was a bewildering contrast.

He did what he could. Sakura kept what he did—what he was—far, far away from you, to the point where you had no inkling of what his true nature was. The thought of losing you, of having you torn away by the cruel hands of fate that he had no control over, was something he couldn't bear. And that terrified him. Thus, he kept his lips sealed and told you nothing.

Sakura would do anything to keep you safe, even if it meant never showing you the truth of who he really was. He was willing to risk everything, even if that cost him his happiness. But all that would eventually play out, just as he feared.

Perhaps it was fate playing games on him to reveal his true nature at the worst possible moment when you least expected it. But until then, Sakura would remain ignorant.

And that ignorance would come back to haunt him.

That day, you were in the café with Kotoha, waiting for Sakura to arrive so that you two could go on a date together. But the minutes would tick by, and you checked your phone for the time to see how much time had passed. It certainly did feel longer in your head. Sakura was never late to a meeting like this. It was uncharacteristic of him.

Kotoha, who was cleaning a glass, glanced at you and then at the clock. "He's late. Should you call him?"

You shook your head. "No, it's fine. I'll go find him. I’m sure he’s probably on his way here anyway."

Kotoha's face would turn into a grimace as you left. You really still had no idea, didn't you…

Leaving the warmth of the cafe, you walked all the way down the street, letting the evening air cool against your skin and the back of your neck. But as you approached the corner, a shortcut that you and Sakura would typically take, you heard raised voices, one of them unmistakably being Sakura's.

"That's him," you muttered, following the sound and quickening your pace.

Turning into the alleyway, the scene before you made your heart stop.

Right in the thick of it was Sakura, in the middle of a fight, fists flying while being surrounded by a group of unfamiliar men you had never seen. They were all wearing a particular type of uniform, perhaps a gang or some sort. And nearby, a kid with orange hair and the same school uniform as Sakura watched in horror.

'What even was this? Did Sakura do this? Your sweet boyfriend?'

"W-What… I- Haru?" Your voice quivered as you stepped closer when your instincts told you to step back. But you didn’t listen, and nor did Sakura.

He didn't seem to hear you at all, lost in his rage.

"Stop it, Haru!" you yelled, running towards them.

Again, came no answer. All the heterochromic male saw was red, and not just from the blood staining his hands. Sakura landed another punch, and then another, sending one of the gang members sprawling to the ground, groaning in pain. Just as you reached him, one of the beaten-up guys coughed, a harsh, grating sound that cut through the air in an instant. You froze.

"You didn't tell them, did you?" the man scoffed, wiping blood from his mouth. "Didn't tell them you're affiliated with a gang. And Furin, of all gangs. Hah..."

Sakura froze, his fist still clenched and poised to strike.

Your eyes went wide. Was it true? Was that half-beaten piece of garbage right?

Tense and wary, Sakura turned slowly, his eyes meeting yours. Everything that Sakura had persisted in upholding, even if that meant hiding it away from the one person he truly loved, was heavy, physically pressing down on you.

You stared at him, shock and betrayal written across your face. "Is it true, Haru?" Your voice trembled. "Are you really part of a gang?"

Some of the men, taking advantage of this chance, scattered, groaning and clutching their wounds as they stumbled away. Sakura stood there, panting, his knuckles bloodied. He instantaneously dropped his hand, stepping back as if your words had physically wounded him. "I... I wanted to tell you," he stammered, eyes pleading for you to look into them and understand. "But I didn't know how. I was trying to protect you."

You held your tongue, unable to find even words to properly rebuke him, or even comfort yourself, for that matter. But before you could even say a word, the one Sakura had just been punching, on the ground, laughed bitterly, spitting blood. "Protect? From what? The truth?"

Sakura's eyes flickered with anger, but he didn't respond, nor did he appear to deny what the beat-up guy was saying. Though you all but understood the implications of what he meant.

With his heart on his sleeve and his face covered in scratches, bruises, and cuts, Sakura took a step toward you, his hands reaching out, but you immediately backed away, the gap between you widening with each step.

"...How could you keep this from me?" you whispered, tears welling in your eyes. "How could you lie?"

"I'm sorry," he muttered from under his heavy breath, his voice cracking, clenching his teeth, having to relive those memories. "I never wanted to hurt you. I thought if you didn't know, you'd be safe."

"Safe from what?" you demand, wiping away the tears angrily. "From you?"

He flinched as if struck, his face contorting with pain. You knew you shouldn't have said that, but your mind was so muddled, even beyond that. You were so desperate for the answers that you didn't even know yourself if you wanted to hear. It hurt…

"No, never from me. From them. From this life."

The beaten man laughed again, a cruel sound. "Looks like you did a great job there."

You glare at the man before turning back to Sakura. Your shoulders fell, tears stinging your eyes. "Sakura… you don't have to fight on my behalf. Not… not like this."

He finally looked at you, the fight leaving his body. Sakura's expression softened as he heard your words. You were right. You hated blood. And it was all his fault.

"But that's why I didn't—"

"Want to tell me?" you finished for him, your voice breaking, swallowing the lump in your throat. "There has to be another way… a way that doesn't involve more pain and violence."

Sakura's eyes softened, rage melting away into guilt. For once, he didn't even know what to say. Not even the lump in his throat could be swallowed. His face softened, and for a moment, you saw the boy you fell in love with, not the fighter standing before you. But still… you knew from then on that things had changed.

The tense silence was cut short as another pair of footsteps echoed. Kotoha stepped out, her eyes widening as she took in the scene. "Oh, Sakura…" she murmured, disappointment and concern etched into her features.

This was precisely what she was afraid of happening.

She sighed heavily before turning to you. "Come on," she said gently, taking your hand. Her grip was firm but kind, guiding you away. "Let's get out of here."

You followed her in a daze, your mind still reeling back. The weight of just about everything made each step feel heavier than the last.

"Nirei," Kotoha called over her shoulder, "can you look after Sakura?"

The said boy nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation without needing further explanation.

And just like that, you both part ways. Regret stung in your heart. A thought had whispered to you and Sakura that day. That love alone might not be enough to save you two.

HAJIME UMEMIYA | 梅宮一 ─ ♬. ⁺ ♡

UMEMIYA was a natural-born leader. That was absolute. He treated everyone like family, and you were no exception. In fact, it was the complete opposite. You were the only person for whom he would ever break those morals. But even as he would mutter the sweet promises of affection and commitment to you, he never once mentioned to you that he, your sweet, nonthreatening boyfriend, was the leader of Furin. A gang.

He wanted to keep you far from that. A selfish request on his part. He tried to protect you from his dangerous world. But that didn't mean he could always shield you from it. What tormented him the most was the thought of his family ever getting hurt under his watch, and when it came to you—his sweet, gentle, innocent, significant other—he was horrified by that fear ever coming to fruition.

Time and time again, Umemiya would all but monopolize your time to go on dates with you when he had free time away from the fistfights he and Furin would find themselves in. It was sweet, really. The way Umemiya would treat you like his most prized possession—his most cherished person in the world. But at times, you would see your boyfriend mingling around seemingly unsavoury individuals, but you merely brushed it off your shoulder and went along the rest of your day. After all, you knew Umemiya and trusted him to make his own decisions. What would a relationship be like if there wasn't trust?

"Huh, Ume? I thought you had a shopping bag with you earlier?"

The white-haired man, who was once standing by your side, froze in his steps. He blinked before breaking into a cartoonish expression of disbelief. "Oh right! I'll get that real quick! Wait for me right here, alright?! Don't move until I get back!"

You smiled. "Alright. I'll be waiting right here."

"Okay!"

As he dashed off to quickly grab something, you were left to browse the colourful stalls, looking forward to a quiet evening all with your boyfriend. Lately, you've noticed Umemiya appeared to be more distant than usual, so today was supposed to “reconnect” you two by having some time together. But as you passed through an alley, a group of men loitering nearby caught your eye. One of them, a tall guy with a smug grin, stepped forward. Your face stilled. He didn't exactly look friendly, his eyes gleaming with a predatory intent.

"Hey there," he called out, his voice dripping with mock sweetness. "Why don't you come over here and keep us company?"

You tried to ignore him and kept walking, but he shifted to block your path, his eyes raking over you in a way that made your skin crawl.

"Don't be like that," he said, his grin widening. "I can show you a good time."

"Please just let me through," you said firmly, trying to keep your voice steady.

"Oh, feisty. I like that," he sneered, all of a sudden reaching out to grab your arm.

Just then, you heard footsteps approaching rapidly from behind, and standing before you was Umemiya, putting some distance between you and the guy. Umemiya’s presence radiated a sense of authority, but not in the ways that would bring out the best in people, nor was it even similar to past looks that would never make you comfortable. It was much different from how he usually acted in front of you.

The gang leader scoffed, looking Umemiya up and down with contempt in his eyes. Something told you that this was not going to end well.

"And who the hell are you?"

"Someone you don't want to mess with," Umemiya replied coldly. "Not after what you just did."

"Oh yeah?" he scoffed. "Well then, do you think you can take this—!?"

Umemiya caught the man's fists, and while holding it with the strength of a vice, he glanced back at you, his eyes softening for a moment. "Close your eyes," he commanded with a calm yet firm tone.

Confused but obedient, you complied, and closed both your eyes tightly. You kept both your lips and eyes sealed for what felt like minutes. Though curiosity got the better of you, and you peeked through your lashes. What you saw stole your breath away, and not for the better. It made you utterly sick.

Your boyfriend stood amidst a scene of utter chaos, surrounded by unconscious, bloodied bodies whom you had previously just seen with cocky grins. But not like this…

The ground was slick with crimson and broken glass, and the air was thick with the metallic scent of blood that made you want to throw up. Bodies and limbs lay at unnatural angles, and faces were bruised and swollen beyond recognition. It was grotesque, and it made your stomach churn.

The groceries slipped from your hands, falling to the ground with a dull thud, splitting open and their contents spilling across the bloodstained ground. That noise notified Umemiya, who immediately turned to face your bewildered self.

You took an involuntary step back to the wall, your mind and your shaking body struggling to process the brutality of what exactly you just saw. You felt sick. And Umemiya, your boyfriend, stood in the middle of it all, his fists still clenched and smeared with blood. His chest heaved up and down, his eyes wild with a fire you had never seen from him before. It was as if he were a different person, a stranger inhabiting the body of the man you loved.

Your mind was all but overwhelmed that you hardly even noticed the other figures standing comfortably next to Umemiya over the beaten-up guys who were previously harassing you. Since when did others come? Were they also involved with Umeymia in some way? Was this some sort of gang…?

Everything must've attracted some attention, you wanted to think. It was a small town, after all.

On the other side, Hiragi appeared at Umemiya's side, whispering something urgently into his ear. The white-haired man's eyes widened in response, and he quickly barked orders at Kaji and two others, who immediately began to clean up the horrific mess like a well-oiled machine.

Then, Umemiya turned towards you, finding you still rooted to the spot, his expression shifting from rage to concern. He took a step forward, but you instinctively recoiled, unable to reconcile the image of the caring boyfriend you knew with the blood-soaked fighter before you.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice gentle but strained.

You nodded slowly, still in shock. How could you be so stupid… how could you have not caught on… The thoughts raced through your mind, guilt and confusion warring within you.

You knew he did this, all of this, to protect you, but a selfish, biting thought crept in. You had no idea he was this strong, this capable of such violence. It left you feeling a mix of awe but also just as much betrayal that made your stomach turn, your world shifting on its axis.

His gaze softened, regret flickering in his eyes. "I did this to protect you. You know that I would do anything to keep you safe."

You swallowed hard, the acrid taste of fear and betrayal mingling on your tongue. You almost wanted to laugh. Of course, you knew that… in there, as far as it was, was still the man you fell in love with. No, the man you were still in love with.

"I know," you whispered, your voice trembling. "But seeing you like this... it's like I don't even know you."

His entire being collapsed, his teeth clenching into one of pure distaste. But it wasn't directed at you, but himself. You didn't mean that, right…?

Umemiya wanted to try again. Though he knew that the distance between you two wasn't going to disappear with a simple touch. But even so, he reached out, gently cupping your face. Your expression, however, twitched into one he had never seen before.

Hah… that was it. He knew. You were scared of him.

"...Can I, have some space?"

He froze, but his eyes remained soft. "O-Of course." He wasn't about to risk it for a second time… breaking your remaining trust for him—as little as it was.

He took a step back, something he dreaded to do. One step away from you would mean another step back in your relationship, and you leave him, and he was horrified by that.

"I may not have told you everything… but I still love you. So much," he choked.

…..

"I know, Haji."

Umemiya had to watch you go, his heart clenching and drowning in regret. All he had hoped for was to protect you, but in doing so, he had inadvertently pushed you away. As you disappeared from view, Umemiya stood there, alone amidst the unconscious bodies, surrounded by the silent yet shocked expressions of Hiragi and the others from Furin who had witnessed the entire scene.

This wasn’t just a simple misunderstanding, but a devastating revelation.

What remedy could ever mend this fractured relationship?

HAYATO SUO | 蘇枋隼飛 ─ ♬. ⁺ ♡

SUO hid a lot of things. That, you know. And not just from you, but practically everybody he knew. There would be times when Suo would change the subject you were just talking about, purposely evade your questions, and shift his gaze away, leaving you with more questions than answers. Suo was a mischievous guy who liked to get on people's nerves, but not without a reason. What reason is still a mystery to you. But what you do know is that Suo was and is a wonderful boyfriend, always attentive, caring, and vehemently protective.

Yet, time and time again, Suo would make excuses, disappear without explanation, or offer vague answers that left you unsatisfied. You first ignored it. After all, everyone deserves privacy. But soon, the inconsistencies in his stories and the shadows that sometimes clouded a single visible eye were hard to ignore. You may have been naive, but you certainly weren't stupid.

But all that would go to hell that late evening on a date with Suo. Everything that Suo kept away from you would all be revealed in a timeless, gut-wrenching event.

Even down to the evenings when you and Suo would be walking through the park, enjoying the twilight's calm, there would be times when his entire demeanour would shift, and a sense of unease settled between you. But this time, it wouldn't be just between you two.

"You and your dumbass eyepatch, thinking that you're looking down on me…"

Your eyes widened as you began to grasp, at least on a basic level, basic understanding of this tense situation.

A man with a black undercut tied in a ponytail, flanked by a few goons behind him, had suddenly fixated on you and Suo during your date. It was clear that they all seemed to harbour a grudge against your boyfriend.

"Oh?" Suo retorted with his typical demeanour. His lips stretched into a sardonic grin, but his eyes remained cold, devoid of the genuine warmth or mirth you would see from him. It was a smile that didn't reach his eye—a facade of amusement masking a deeper disdain. "I didn't know the cutie still thought of me to this day!"

Presumably the leader, stepped forward, his eyes blazing with hatred. "You little… this time, I'm going to end you."

"S-Suo, do you know them?" You turned to face his eyes, but silently, he gave you that trademark smirk of his. It made you even more anxious.

But before you knew it, Suo's grip on your hand tightened, just as he whispered in your ear, "We gotta run."

"H-Huh?" you stammered, confusion flooding your mind. Without another word, Suo took your hand and bolted, dragging you along. You ran together through the labyrinth of trees and paths, hearts pounding, breaths ragged. Finally, you collapsed against a bench, entirely out of breath, your chest heaving with exhaustion.

But even as you frantically tried to catch your breath, your mind raced with questions. "Suo, what was that? Who were those guys? What do they want with you?" you demanded in a frantic panic, looking at Suo for answers, desperate for some kind of clarity here.

Until you saw the expression on his face.

Ah, right…

Those were answers you knew you were never going to get. Not when you saw that look in his eye. Suo's expression, usually so warm and kind, was now dark and distant. It was a look you had seen before, one that made you shrink back in fear.

You swiped your hand away from his, the distance between you growing. But Suo didn't seem to notice. Or rather, he didn't seem to care.

"I'll be back," he said quietly. "Please stay here. There are people around. You'll be safe."

Again. It was always the same. Always avoiding the truth that you needed to hear.

"Suo, w-wait—!" you pleaded, but he was already turning away, his shoulders squared. He wasn't going to listen.

He took a step back, his eyes softening for a moment as he looked at you. "I promise," he said, a hint of the Suo you knew returning to his voice. "I'll explain everything later. Just stay here."

You nodded reluctantly, watching him disappear into the shadows. As you sat there on the curb with your hands huddled around your legs, surrounded by strangers, the weight of everything that had happened finally settled on your shoulders.

Minutes felt like hours, and when Suo finally returned, questions swirled in your mind—who were those people, and what did they want from Suo? These unanswered questions left but an empty, gnawing void within you.

You were so tired—tired of the secrets, tired of feeling useless, tired of feeling like Suo couldn't trust you with what was really behind that faint smile of his.

Suo approached, concern etched on his face. "What's wrong?" he asked gently, reaching out to touch and lock your hand with his own like he always did.

"...H-Huh?"

That was the first time you caught that look in Suo's eyes—a flicker of genuine fear, a vulnerability he rarely revealed—something he never thought he had, and definitely a fear he couldn't conceal behind his usual facade of confidence.

It was a gaze that betrayed an unmistakable dread of losing you.

…Perhaps it was the first time for a lot of things that day.

Out of reflex, you lightly swatted his hand away and took a step back, the frustration of just wanting answers boiling over.

"I'm sorry, Suo… can I just have some space?"

He stood there, his hand still outstretched, his eyes with a mixture of hurt and confusion. But he didn't pursuit it any further, in fear of making things worse. "Ahem… right. I'll see you then."

You knew it was wrong to leave it at that, but you needed a moment to gather your thoughts more than ever. But, like the man you always knew him to be, Suo respected your wishes. He agreed, and no longer did follow you, leaving you alone in your peace and tears.

this took so much longer than i thought, but i think it was all worth it in the end :) funny enough, it was actually the first thing I wanted to write for wind breaker until i realized how long i ended up writing this to be, and that's only for three characters out of MANY i wanted to do. i do have ideas for a fluffy pt2, and im more than happy to write it if it gets asked enough :)

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