Chapter 34: A Confession of Worries

Despite how happy we were, I noticed Mahiru growing more thoughtful as the days passed. One evening, as we walked home, she finally spoke.

"Amane… what if we have to part ways after graduation?"

I stopped in my tracks, stunned. "Why would you think that?"

She sighed, playing with the hem of her coat. "Life changes, and sometimes people drift apart."

I gently took her hands in mine. "Mahiru, that won't happen. No matter where life takes us, I'll always choose to stay by your side."

Her eyes shimmered with emotion as she nodded, a small smile forming. "Then… I'll do the same."

And in that moment, we promised to fight for our future together.