119Please respect copyright.PENANAEWVwyY0AbL
On the following day, Mizuha arrived at the designated meeting spot, immediately spotting Takeru eagerly awaiting her presence.
"Hi, Takeru," she greeted, drawing nearer. "Did I keep you waiting?"
A gentle smile adorned Takeru's face as he reassured her, "Not at all. I arrived just five minutes ago."
Mizuha's curiosity piqued, and she gazed at him expectantly. "So, what did you want to tell me?" she inquired.
Takeru's smile widened, radiating anticipation. "I'll share it with you later," he teased. "But for now, let's revel in this day."
With that shared understanding, Takeru and Mizuha embarked on their joint exploration of the town. The sun beamed brightly, casting a golden aura upon the idyllic streets. Anticipation danced within their hearts, for they yearned to relish the moments they would spend together.
"I'm thrilled about today," Takeru exclaimed with genuine excitement. "Spending the day with you is going to be incredible."
Mizuha's smile mirrored his enthusiasm. "Likewise," she replied, brimming with joy. "I'm truly looking forward to it."
Takeru and Mizuha embarked on their adventure, beginning with a visit to the local park. Holding hands, they strolled along the winding paths, relishing the vibrant green surroundings and the cheerful symphony of children's laughter.
"This park is truly beautiful," Takeru remarked, his smile radiating warmth. "I adore the joyful sound of children playing."
"Me too," Mizuha responded, her hand gently squeezing his. "It's incredibly serene here."
They found a serene spot beneath a shady tree and spread out a blanket, settling down for a delightful picnic.
"Here's your sandwich," Takeru offered, extending it to her. "I made your favorite."
"Mmm, it's delicious," Mizuha savored each bite, expressing her gratitude. "Thank you."
As they indulged in conversation and laughter, their connection deepened with every passing moment.
"What do you think about visiting the museum next?" Mizuha inquired, glancing around the park.
"That sounds like a fantastic idea," Takeru agreed, nodding. "I've always been eager to explore the art and history exhibits."
They tidied up their picnic essentials and embarked on their way to the museum. Lost in awe, they meandered through the exhibits, marveling at the diverse expressions of art and the captivating tales of history.
"Look at this painting," Takeru exclaimed, pointing at a display. "It's truly remarkable."
"I couldn't agree more," Mizuha concurred. "Would you believe that the artist was only 21 when he painted it?"
"Really?" Takeru expressed his astonishment. "That's utterly incredible."
They exchanged intriguing facts and immersed themselves in profound discussions about their favorite pieces. The museum visit proved to be both tranquil and enlightening.
Feeling a touch of weariness, they sought refuge in a cozy café to rejuvenate.
"This coffee is just what I needed," Takeru savored the flavor with a contented sigh.
"Absolutely," Mizuha concurred, her smile beaming. "So, tell me more about your dreams and aspirations."
Their conversation delved into deeper realms, as they candidly shared their hopes, dreams, and treasured memories.
"Hey, look across the street, there's a bookstore," Mizuha pointed out, gazing through the café window. "Shall we explore it?"
"Yes!" Takeru's eyes lit up with excitement. "Bookstores hold a special place in my heart."
They ventured towards the bookstore, losing themselves amidst the shelves for hours on end.
"Have you read this book?" Takeru asked, holding up a captivating title. "It's one of my favorites."
"No, but it seems intriguing," Mizuha replied, shaking her head. "I'll definitely add it to my reading list."
Their shared passion for literature beckoned them, and they joyously immersed themselves in the enchanting world of books. Recommending titles and swapping literary gems, Takeru and Mizuha experienced pure bliss within the realm of storytelling.
As the day drew to a close, they made their way to the picturesque waterfront. They walked along the promenade, enjoying the breathtaking view of the setting sun over the water. They shared laughter, whispered sweet nothings, and cherished the tranquility of the moment.
But as they stood on a bridge, Takeru suddenly took hold of Mizuha’s hand. “Mizuha,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion. “I have something to tell you.”
Mizuha looked at him in shock. “Takeru, what are you doing?”
“I’ve loved you since we were children,” Takeru confessed. “Can we…”
But before he could finish his sentence, Hikaru appeared out of nowhere. He saw them holding hands and his face fell.
Mizuha quickly tried to explain. “Hikaru, wait! This is not what you think. I…”
But Hikaru didn’t give her a chance to finish. Tears welled up in his eyes as he remembered past experiences with cheating girlfriends. Without another word, he turned and ran away.
Mizuha called out to him desperately. “Hikaru, wait!” She started running after him, leaving Takeru standing on the bridge, confused and heartbroken.
Takeru wanted to chase after her and explain everything, but his words were drowned out by her running footsteps.
Mizuha kept running after Hikaru until she stumbled over her own feet and fell to the ground with a cry of pain. Her leg was wounded and she cried out in agony.
Hikaru heard her cry and turned back to see her lying on the ground in tears. He realized what he had done and ran back to her side.
“Mizuha, are you okay?” he asked anxiously.
Mizuha stopped crying long enough to slap him across the face. “Hikaru, you’re so stupid!” she exclaimed angrily. “Why did you run away without letting me explain?”
Hikaru hung his head in shame. “I’m sorry,” he said softly. “It’s my fault.”
He helped Mizuha up and led her over to a nearby bench where he could treat her wound.
As he tended to her injury, Mizuha told him what had happened between her and Takeru earlier that day.
“Oh,” said Hikaru when she had finished her story. “So, what did you say to Takeru?”
“I didn’t get a chance to reply,” Mizuha said with a sigh. “You interrupted us before I could say anything.”
She pinched Hikaru’s cheek playfully as she spoke.
“If you hadn’t interrupted us earlier, I would have rejected his confession,” Mizuha said, hugging Hikaru’s head as he sat on the ground treating her leg. “I told you before that I wouldn’t betray you, and I meant it.”
Hikaru felt a wave of relief wash over him as Mizuha’s words sunk in. She wasn’t cheating on him after all. He looked up at her, his eyes shining with gratitude.
“Thank you, Mizuha,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “Thank you for keeping your promise and choosing to stay with me instead of Takeru.”
Mizuha smiled down at him, her hand squeezing his in reassurance. “Of course, Hikaru,” she said softly. “I meant what I said. You’re the one I want to be with.”
“When I have the time, I want to take you on a date like you had with Takeru today,” he said, smiling up at her.
Mizuha smiled back. “I’m looking forward to it,” she said.
Meanwhile, Takeru was watching them from behind a tree, his heart heavy with sadness. As he listened to their conversation, he finally understood what had happened.
“So that’s what happened,” he thought to himself. “Now I understand why Mizuha chose Hikaru over me. He’s better than me. I guess I lost.”
With a heavy heart, he turned and walked away, leaving Mizuha and Hikaru behind. He knew that it was time for him to move on and let go of his feelings for Mizuha. She had made her choice, and he had to respect it.
After Hikaru finished treating Mizuha’s leg, he offered to carry her home on his back. Mizuha blushed as she remembered the last time, he had done this at the summer festival. She climbed onto his back and he carried her home, both of them feeling happy and content in each other’s company.
119Please respect copyright.PENANA5o2GHNiYpA