The First Date (101)

The air was crisp with the lingering coolness of early spring, yet the sun shone brightly, casting a warm golden hue over the town. The gentle rustling of cherry blossom petals in the breeze created a picturesque setting—a perfect day for a first date.

Haruto stood outside the small café near their school, shifting on his feet. He had arrived ten minutes early, partly out of nervousness and partly because he didn't want Aiko to wait. His hands were tucked into his pockets, his heart hammering a little faster than usual.

This wasn't like the countless times they had hung out before. This was different. This was a date.

A soft voice broke him from his thoughts. "Haruto!"

He turned and saw Aiko hurrying toward him, her dark hair bouncing slightly with each step. She wore a simple yet elegant blue dress, a slight contrast to her usual casual attire. Haruto found himself momentarily breathless—he had always thought she was beautiful, but today, she looked even more radiant.

"Hey," he greeted with a small smile, trying to suppress the warmth creeping up his neck.

"Sorry if I kept you waiting," Aiko said, stopping beside him.

He shook his head. "I got here early."

Aiko tilted her head, eyes twinkling. "Nervous?"

Haruto scoffed, but the slight redness dusting his ears gave him away. "Maybe a little."

She giggled, looping her arm through his as they walked into the café together.

The café was quaint and cozy, with wooden furniture and soft jazz playing in the background. The scent of fresh coffee and pastries filled the air, making the atmosphere even more inviting.

They found a small table by the window, where sunlight streamed in gently. Haruto pulled out a chair for Aiko before sitting down himself.

"So," Aiko began, stirring her iced coffee with a straw, "how does it feel? Our first official date?"

Haruto leaned back, pretending to think. "Well, so far, no disasters. No awkward silence. I'd say we're doing pretty well."

Aiko laughed. "Oh, so you were expecting disasters?"

"Not with you," he admitted, resting his chin on his hand. "I just didn't want to mess this up."

Aiko's teasing expression softened. "You could never mess this up, Haruto."

A comfortable silence settled between them as they enjoyed their drinks. The moment felt surreal—years of friendship, countless shared memories, and now, they were here.

Aiko took a bite of her strawberry shortcake, her eyes lighting up instantly. "This is amazing! You have to try it."

Without thinking, she scooped a small piece with her fork and held it out to Haruto.

Haruto blinked, glancing between the cake and Aiko's expectant face. "You—uh—want me to…?"

"Come on," Aiko urged. "It's a date, isn't it?"

Haruto hesitated for only a second before leaning forward and taking the bite. The sweetness of the cake melted on his tongue, but it was nothing compared to the fluttering sensation in his chest.

"Well?" she asked.

He swallowed, then smirked. "Not bad. But I think you made it taste better."

Aiko rolled her eyes, but her pink cheeks betrayed her amusement. "Smooth."

Haruto chuckled, feeling lighter than he had in days.

As they continued talking, the café became a world of its own—just the two of them, caught up in conversations that flowed as effortlessly as they always had. They reminisced about their childhood, shared silly stories, and talked about everything and nothing at all.

At one point, Aiko glanced outside, watching as a gust of wind sent cherry blossoms fluttering across the street. "It's beautiful, isn't it?"

Haruto didn't look outside. Instead, he looked at her. "Yeah. It really is."

Aiko turned back, catching the way his gaze lingered on her. Her heart skipped a beat.

Time passed too quickly, and soon, they were stepping out of the café, back into the bustling world. The sun had begun its descent, casting a warm orange glow over the town.

As they walked, Aiko reached for Haruto's hand, intertwining her fingers with his. He looked down in surprise, but the soft smile on her face erased any hesitation he had.

"So, was this a good first date?" she asked.

Haruto squeezed her hand gently. "Perfect."

And as they walked home, hand in hand, both of them knew—this was only the beginning.