That day, Yuzuru and Shiori embarked on their date. They walked through the city park, the cool air adding a sense of tranquility to the atmosphere. Yuzuru was attentive, always walking beside Shiori, ensuring she felt comfortable.
Shiori looked genuinely happy, her smile more natural than usual. Yuzuru, while calm, seemed to be making a conscious effort to make Shiori feel special.
Yuzuru's voice was soft as he spoke. "You know, Shiori... I feel lucky today. Being able to spend time like this with you, without work or anything else distracting us."
Shiori blushed slightly, looking away to hide the happiness bubbling inside her. Yuzuru continued, his gaze gentle as he watched her.
"You may not realize it, but I always feel like there's something different when you smile. It makes my day better."
Shiori let out a small laugh, her eyes sparkling. Hearing such sweet words from Yuzuru was something she hadn't expected, and it made her heart flutter.
Shiori smiled shyly. "You could say that, Yuzuru. I never imagined you'd say something like that."
Yuzuru chuckled softly, shaking his head. Then, with a tender gesture, he gently took Shiori's hand.
"Maybe I've just been slow to realize... how important you are to me. I want us to share more moments like this."
Shiori was touched, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. That day, Yuzuru continued to treat Shiori with such care, offering her sweet words that made her feel valued and loved. Throughout the day, they laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed each other's company as if they were a couple who had just fallen in love.
It was a special day for Shiori, a reminder that perhaps there was still hope in their relationship, even though it had started without love.
Shiori and Yuzuru sat on the bench, watching the sunset. The orange sky darkened, casting a peaceful yet slightly melancholic atmosphere around them.
Shiori gazed at the setting sun, taking a deep breath before she began to speak. Yuzuru turned to her, listening attentively.
Shiori smiled faintly, her eyes distant as if lost in thought. "When I was younger, I used to dream of having a little sibling... I always hoped for one. But my mom couldn't have another child. Since then, I've always wanted to have my own children someday."
Yuzuru was silent, a little taken aback by Shiori's rare honesty. She continued, her voice soft but carrying a deeper meaning.
"I've always loved children. They remind me of hope and pure happiness. And... maybe, if we part ways later, I hope I can find someone like my father-someone kind and loving, who might... build a family of our own."
Yuzuru was silent, his heart touched but also aching. He lowered his gaze, realizing that Shiori might never see him as the partner who could fulfill her dream.
The air hung quietly between them for a moment. Yuzuru felt something shift within him, an emotion he hadn't anticipated. Hearing Shiori's desire for a family and happiness made him feel a sense of loss, even though they were still together.
Yuzuru's voice was soft, barely above a whisper. "Shiori... I never knew how important that was to you."
Shiori gave a small smile, then turned her gaze back to the sunset.
"Yeah... I just... hope I can experience that someday."
Yuzuru looked at her, trying to hide the disappointment and sadness that had stirred within him. Inside, he began to question what he truly felt for Shiori and whether he could give her the happiness she longed for.
---
A flashback to a quiet hospital room five years ago. Akane lay weakly on the bed, her face pale, but her eyes filled with love as she gazed at Yuzuru sitting beside her, gently holding her hand.
Akane's voice was soft, her smile faint. "Yuzuru... maybe... our time isn't as long as we hoped."
Yuzuru shook his head, holding back tears, trying to remain strong.
"Don't say that, Akane. We... we still have time."
Akane smiled softly, aware of the painful reality Yuzuru was struggling to accept.
"I'm sorry... for not being able to fulfill our dream of building a family. I know it's something you've always wanted."
Yuzuru fell silent, lowering his head, trying to hide his sorrow.
Akane's voice was filled with hope as she continued, "But... one day, I want you to find someone who can complete your life. Someone who will make you happy and have the family we dreamed of."
Yuzuru lifted his head, his eyes welling up with tears.
Akane continued, her voice steady despite her weakness, "If you're happy there... I'll be at peace here. That's my only wish, Yuzuru... to see you happy."
Yuzuru held Akane's hand tightly, feeling the warmth that was slowly fading. He nodded slowly, choking back the sobs.
"I'll try, Akane. I promise."
Akane smiled gently, closing her eyes, feeling at peace after sharing her hopes for Yuzuru.
The room fell silent, with only the faint beeping of the monitor in the background. The memory lingered in Yuzuru's heart, a promise that remained within him, even now.