cherry blossoms

As March arrived, the first buds of cherry blossoms began to bloom, painting the trees with delicate hints of pink. The air carried a subtle change, a whisper of spring gently replacing winter's cold embrace. It was a quiet Sunday morning, yet excitement filled the atmosphere—today was the long-awaited picnic under the cherry blossoms.

At Manjiro's house, Emma and Ji-chan were busy packing snacks and lunch, ensuring everything was ready for the outing. Meanwhile, Manjiro helped Shinichiro load supplies into the car.

Emma glanced at the clock on the wall. "Isn't it time to leave?" she asked, her voice laced with anticipation.

Manjiro followed her gaze and shrugged. "Yeah, it is," he replied nonchalantly. Then, with a small smirk, he added, "They'll be here soon. Don't worry."

Just as he finished speaking, a sudden knock echoed through the house. His eyes lit up with excitement, and without hesitation, he dashed toward the door.

Emma watched him with mild amusement. He acts so different around his friends.

As Manjiro flung the door open, Sanju and Senju stood there, smiling warmly.

"Oh, it's you both," Manjiro said, his excitement dimming just a little as he peeked outside, clearly expecting more people.

"Are we that disappointing?" Senju teased, stepping inside.

Manjiro chuckled, stepping aside to let them in. "Come in. The others should be here soon."

"Where are they?" Senju asked, glancing at him curiously.

"I don't know," Manjiro admitted, his eyes still fixed on the door. "I'm waiting for them too."

Two minutes later, another knock came, and once again, Manjiro rushed to open the door.

This time, his face broke into a wide grin. "Thank God you guys came! I thought you weren't coming," he said, looking at the two figures standing before him—Keisuke and Asuka Baji.

Keisuke grinned and casually threw an arm around Manjiro's shoulder. "Like hell I'd miss this. You really think I'd pass up a chance to hang out with you guys?"

Manjiro's eyes flickered toward Asuka, who stood slightly behind her brother. She was dressed differently today—a soft pastel-colored dress with a delicate floral pattern, short puffed sleeves, and a long, flowing skirt with a ruffled hem.

"You look different today," Manjiro remarked, his tone neutral yet observant.

Asuka frowned, tugging at the fabric. "I know. This dumb dress."

Manjiro shook his head. "No, I mean… it looks nice." He glanced at Keisuke for a moment as if seeking agreement.

Before Asuka could respond, Ji-chan called out, urging them to hurry up—it was getting late.

Time Skip – At the Park

They arrived at the picnic spot, greeted by a breathtaking view. Beneath the delicate pink canopy of cherry blossoms, the park buzzed with life. Soft petals drifted lazily through the air, carried by a gentle spring breeze, landing on picnic mats spread across the lush green grass. Families and friends gathered in small groups, their laughter and conversations blending harmoniously with the rustling leaves.

The kids closed their eyes for a brief moment, letting the warmth of the sun and the scent of blossoms wash over them. This fleeting beauty—this perfect moment—would soon pass, just like the cherry blossoms themselves. But for now, under the soft pink sky, everything felt timeless.

After finding the perfect spot, everyone pitched in to set up the picnic. Once everything was settled, Shinichiro and Ji-chan drifted into their own conversations, while the kids ran off to play, their laughter echoing through the park.

The day was filled with fun and laughter, and before they knew it, the sun had started to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Even as they packed up and prepared to leave, the energy among them remained high.

On the Way Home

As they walked back toward the car, Asuka glanced around at everyone before turning to Shinichiro.

"Shin-ni," she called softly.

Shinichiro turned to her, his expression curious. "What is it?"

She hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Will you help me with something?"

Shinichiro raised an eyebrow. "That depends. What is it?"

She took a deep breath. "I want to go to a concert."

"A concert?" he repeated, a bit surprised.

"Yes," she nodded. "Britney Spears. She's coming to Japan in April."

Shinichiro chuckled, shaking his head. "Britney, huh? I'm not really a fan, but… if you're asking, I guess I can take you. But—" He smirked. "You have to give me something in exchange."

Asuka narrowed her eyes. "What do you want?"

Shinichiro's smirk widened. "Nothing much. I heard from your old man that you know a lot about investing. Teach me about it, and we have a deal."

Asuka blinked, caught off guard, but then a small smile formed on her lips. "That's it? Fine. I don't mind."

Shinichiro nodded in satisfaction. "Deal?"

"Deal," she confirmed.

Manjiro, who had been quietly observing their conversation, finally spoke up. "Is she really that good, Shinichiro?"

Shinichiro nodded without hesitation. "Yeah. Honestly, even I'm impressed. Most kids her age don't even know the basics of trading or financial markets."

Manjiro nodded thoughtfully.

Keisuke grinned and playfully nudged Manjiro. "See? I told you she's smart."

Manjiro didn't argue, simply offering a small nod of acknowledgment.

Keisuke watched them with a sense of pride. Yeah, that's my sister.

Back Home

When they finally arrived at the Sano residence, everyone bid their goodbyes, lingering for a moment before heading home.

Takeomi was already standing outside, waiting for Senju and Sanju. His sharp eyes landed on Shinichiro as he approached.

"Yo," Takeomi greeted casually.

Shinichiro smirked. "Yo."

And just like that, another beautiful day came to an end—one that would soon become a cherished memory.