The Night Before the Festival

The day before the much-anticipated fire show festival had finally arrived. The excitement in the air was almost tangible, and the entire dorm was buzzing with energy. Decorations were already going up around the school and town, and every conversation somehow circled back to festival plans.

May was particularly excited—her eyes had been sparkling with anticipation for days. She had already talked about the festival at least a dozen times that morning alone, and even now, as she adjusted her newly bought yukata on its hanger, she hummed happily.

"I can't wait! It's going to be perfect, Isagi! I even got my hair accessories ready!" she said, twirling around in her room.

Isagi watched her from the doorway, a soft smile playing on his lips. Seeing her this happy made his heart flutter, but it also reminded him of the enormous decision he'd made. The thought of proposing at the fire show festival weighed heavily on his mind.

He had been thinking about it all day—no, for days now. Kaito's words kept echoing in his head: "If you don't confess now, when will you?" And after much reflection, Isagi had decided he wouldn't let this opportunity slip away. He wanted May to know his feelings.

But knowing it and doing it were two entirely different things. Every time he imagined the moment, his palms started sweating.

"Hey, Isagi?" May's voice broke into his thoughts.

"Y-Yeah?" he stammered.

"Are you okay? You've been kind of quiet." She tilted her head, her eyes filled with gentle concern.

"I'm fine!" he said quickly. "Just… thinking about tomorrow. It's going to be a big day."

May grinned. "It is! I wonder what kind of food stalls they'll have. I hope they have those chocolate bananas! And fireworks! I haven't seen a proper fire show in so long!"

As she rambled on about the festival, Isagi felt his resolve strengthen. Tomorrow, during the fire show, he'd finally tell her how he felt.

But for now, he kept his secret safe, waiting for the perfect moment the next day would bring.