Festival Preparations and Unexpected Moments

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the bustling shopping district. The air was filled with the chatter of excited students and the scent of street food drifting through the breeze. The fire show festival was just around the corner, and the entire town was alive with anticipation.

May practically bounced on her feet as she walked ahead of the group, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Come on, slowpokes! We need to find the perfect festival outfits!"

Isagi watched her with a fond smile. Seeing her so happy warmed his heart in a way he wasn't quite ready to admit. Akari giggled beside him. "Looks like someone's more excited than the rest of us."

"That's an understatement," Kaito added with a smirk.

They entered a clothing store filled with colorful yukatas and accessories. May immediately started sifting through the racks, holding up different outfits against herself and turning to the group for opinions.

"What about this one? Or this one? Or—oh, this one's so cute!"

"May, if you keep this up, we'll be here all day," Akari teased.

Isagi chuckled, watching May's indecisiveness with amusement. Eventually, she settled on a light blue yukata adorned with delicate pink sakura petals.

"You're going to look stunning," Isagi blurted before he could stop himself.

May's cheeks flushed, and she looked away, flustered. "T-Thanks..."

Kaito elbowed Isagi playfully. "Smooth."

As they finished picking out their outfits, the group moved to a nearby café for a break. They chatted about the festival plans, their upcoming exams, and the various stalls they wanted to visit.

At one point, Akari nudged May with a sly grin. "So, are you hoping for any... romantic moments at the festival?"

May's face turned bright red. "W-What are you talking about?!"

"Oh, come on," Kaito teased. "Fireworks, a beautiful yukata, a certain someone walking beside you... sounds pretty romantic to me."

Isagi nearly choked on his drink, and May shot them both a glare. "You guys are the worst."

Despite her protests, a tiny smile played at her lips.

As they headed back to the dormitory, Isagi couldn't help but feel a growing sense of excitement. The festival was shaping up to be more than just fireworks—it felt like the beginning of something new.

And he couldn't wait.