Chapter 86 - Petals are the best wingman

It hadn't been their plan, but everyone seemed to sense it was time for the group to part ways. Takeshi and Verdan were certainly aware of the unspoken tension between Haruki and Lanling, while the pair had their own desire to spend time together—though Lanling would vehemently deny any such thing.

For a few moments, Haruki and Lanling stood in silence, watching as Takeshi and Verdan's figures faded into the woods. Pink petals fluttered gently, landing in Lanling's hair as though drawn to its beauty.

Haruki blinked, hesitating before reaching out to carefully remove one.

Lanling jolted, instinctively catching Haruki's retreating hand. He slowly released it, his gaze drifting to the petals, before looking away, trying to hide his flustered expression.