Festival night arrived.
Lanterns glowed.
Music drifted.
But beneath the hill's sakura, time held its breath.
Petals shone silver.
Ren stood before her, more solid than ever.
"The sakura moon is strongest tonight," he said.
Airi's hands shook.
"If I choose… you'll live?"
"Yes."
"And I forget you forever?"
"Yes."
Tears filled her eyes.
"Will you remember me?"
He swallowed.
"Always."
Petals swirled.
The tree glowed.
Airi stepped closer.
Ren reached.
Their hands almost met.
Almost.
"Ren," she whispered.
He closed his eyes.
"Airi."
Her heart broke open.
"I don't want to forget you."
"I know."
"But I don't want you to disappear either."
He smiled through tears.
"That's why I love you."
The word hung between worlds.
Love.
Airi sobbed.
"I choose you."