Chapter 8: Mahiru’s First Sleepover

It wasn't planned, but due to a sudden storm, Mahiru ended up staying over at my place. She fidgeted, holding onto the edge of the borrowed shirt I had given her to sleep in.

"This… is embarrassing," she mumbled.

I turned my gaze away, feeling my own face heat up. "It's just for one night."

She sat on the futon I had set up for her and hesitated before speaking. "Thank you, Amane."

"For what?"

"For always making me feel safe."

I swallowed hard, my heart thudding in my chest. "Of course. Always."

The rain pattered softly against the window as we sat in a comfortable silence. The dim glow of the bedside lamp cast gentle shadows across the room. Mahiru shifted slightly, then looked at me.

"Amane… do you ever think about the future?"

I blinked. "The future?"

She nodded, her expression unreadable. "What do you want to do after we graduate?"

I hesitated before answering. "I haven't decided yet… but I know one thing for sure."

Mahiru tilted her head. "What's that?"

I looked her straight in the eyes. "I want to be with you."

Her breath caught, and a deep blush spread across her cheeks. "You really have gotten bolder," she murmured, hugging her knees to her chest.

I chuckled, lying back down. "Maybe."

The storm outside raged on, but inside, the warmth between us was enough to keep me content.