Chapter 13: The Starry Night Confession

Winter had begun to creep in, bringing with it chilly nights and the promise of snowfall. Mahiru and I sat on a park bench after an evening walk, sipping hot chocolate as we gazed up at the star-filled sky.

"It's beautiful," Mahiru whispered, her breath visible in the cold air.

"Yeah," I murmured, though I wasn't looking at the stars—I was looking at her.

She turned toward me, curiosity in her eyes. "Amane?"

I swallowed, the words resting on the tip of my tongue. I didn't want to wait anymore.

"I love you, Mahiru."

Her eyes widened, and for a moment, silence stretched between us. Then, slowly, a warm, radiant smile bloomed on her face.

"I love you too, Amane."

Her voice was soft, but every word wrapped around my heart like a warm embrace. I reached for her hand, intertwining our fingers beneath the starry sky, knowing this was the moment I would never forget.