Chapter 4: Unraveling Mahiru’s World

Being with Mahiru was easy, yet there were still things about her world that remained a mystery to me.

One weekend, she invited me to her place for the first time. Her apartment was neat, minimalistic, and yet… lonely. I could tell she rarely had visitors.

"You live alone, but it doesn't feel like home," I murmured, looking around.

Mahiru hesitated. "It's always been like this."

I turned to her, watching the way she clasped her hands together, as if unsure whether she should reveal more.

"You know…" I started carefully. "If you ever feel lonely, my place is always open to you."

Her eyes widened, her lips parting slightly. Then, ever so faintly, she smiled.

"Thank you, Amane."