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Only three days remained before summer vacation ended. Mizuha had almost finished her drawing inspired by their beach vacation.
Going to the beach with everyone back then was really enjoyable for me. I hope we can do something like that again next year, thought Mizuha.
She continued with her drawing until ten minutes had passed.
It's done. I can't wait to show this drawing to the others at school later, she thought after adding the final touch.
"Now, it's time to rest," she said, jumping on her bed.
Just as she was about to relax, her phone rang, and someone was calling her.
Oh, it was Hikaru, she thought, looking at the phone.
She eagerly picked it up. "Hello, Hikaru?"
"Hey Mizuha, are you free this evening?" asked Hikaru.
"Yes, I'm free. What's up?" Mizuha replied curiously.
"Good, then let's go watch the fireworks with our friends tonight," said Hikaru.
"There's actually a festival happening tonight at the riverside bank nearest our school. They also have fireworks too. Do you want to go?"
A joyful smile formed on Mizuha's lips. "That sounds incredible! Yes, count me in. When and where should we meet?"
"Great! Let's meet at the festival location. It starts at 7 p.m., so how about we gather around 6:45 p.m.?" Hikaru replied. "I will tell Zul and the others after this."
"Sounds perfect! I can't wait to go there with everyone and experience the fireworks. Thank you for inviting me, Hikaru."
Hikaru chuckled warmly. "No problem. It’s going to be a memorable night. See you there!"
As they said their goodbyes, Mizuha couldn't contain her excitement. She started envisioning the spectacle of fireworks illuminating the night sky.
She felt a rush of excitement thinking about the festival and the beautiful yukata she would wear.
Wait, first I need my yukata. Where is it actually? thought Mizuha as she searched inside her closet drawer. Hmm, it's not here. When was the last time I wore it? Was it last year? I don't remember where I put it. Better ask Mom about it.
Meanwhile, in the living room, her mother was watching the national weather forecast on television while folding the clothes.
"Here with the forecast for the upcoming week. As we move into the rainy season, let's take a closer look at what we can expect," said the weather forecaster.
"It's finally here, huh? The rainy season," her mother remarked.
Mizuha came in and approached her. "Hey, Mom," said Mizuha.
"Yes, my dear? What is it? Do you need something?" her mom asked, turning away from the television to face her.
"Do you know where my yukata is? I need to wear it this evening," said Mizuha.
"Yes, it’s in the closet in the room next door. Are you going somewhere this evening?" her mother asked.
Mizuha excitedly told her mother that she wanted to go watch fireworks with her friends that evening at the festival.
"I see, then follow me to the room next door. I'll get it for you," replied her mother.
Mizuha followed her mother to the adjacent room. Her mother took out the yukata from the closet drawer.
Opening the drawer, her mother reached for a delicate, floral-patterned yukata and handed it to Mizuha.
"Here's your yukata," said her mother. "Yes, there it is. Thanks, Mom," Mizuha said.
As the meeting time drew near, Mizuha tried to put on her yukata by herself in the room next to the living room, but something felt off.
"So this goes like this..." she muttered, adjusting the garment while looking in the mirror. Suddenly, the obi belt slipped and fell.
"Huh? What the— I thought I tied it properly," she said with frustration. "I'll never get this done in time."
Her mother, hearing the complaints from the living room, smiled and shook her head. This girl never wants to rely on others, she thought, and walked to the adjacent room.
"Still not done yet? Here, let me help you," her mother offered. "Lift your arms," she added.
With gentle guidance, her mother carefully tied the obi around her waist and adjusted the sleeves. Mizuha admired herself in the mirror, joyful.
"There, you're all set," her mother said.
"Oh, there it is. Thanks, Mom," Mizuha replied gratefully.
"You're welcome," her mother said.
As she was all set, she put on her geta and said, "Okay, Mom, I'm going now."
"Have a nice time and be careful on your way, okay," her mother replied.
Mizuha left the house excitedly, heading to the fireworks festival.
As she arrived at the festival entrance, Mizuha breathed a sigh of relief. She found Hikaru and the others eagerly waiting for her.
"There she is! Mizuha, hey!" Shimizu called out while waving her hands.
"Everyone!" Mizuha said, approaching them.
"Sorry I’m a bit late. I had some trouble with my yukata earlier," she said, chuckling.
“Don't worry, we all just got here too. You're not late, Mizuha-chan," Eri said.
"Yes, right on time," Zul agreed.
Mizuha looked at her friends. "Wow, you guys look great in yukata!"
"You too, Mizuha-chan. That Yukata looks nice on you," Eri said.
"Hey, let's take a picture," said Shimizu excitedly.
"Oh, that's a good idea," replied Mizuha. Shimizu took a picture of the trio in yukata with her phone.
"They’re sure having a good time," Zul said to Hikaru.
"Yeah, it looks like that," Hikaru sighed. "Hey, how long do you guys plan to keep taking photos?" he asked.
"Just a little more, please wait a moment," replied Shimizu.
"Hehe," Shimizu said with a grin as she suddenly got an idea.
"Oh, yes, Hikaru, don't you want to say something about Mizuha's yukata?" Shimizu teased, holding Mizuha's shoulder and turning her to face Hikaru.
"Geez, Shimizu..." Mizuha muttered, feeling embarrassed.
"You look great and cute in a yukata, Mizuha," said Hikaru, scratching the back of his head.
Mizuha's cheeks flushed. She shyly replied, "Thank you, Hikaru. My mother helped me put it on. I'm glad you like it."
"You look great in a yukata too," she added with a smile.
"Thank you for that. I'm glad to hear it," Hikaru replied, smiling back.
"Alright, alright, that's enough of your romantic moment for now. How about we get going?" Shimizu interjected, her tone carrying a hint of annoyance.
"Shimizu... you're the one who started it earlier!" Mizuha exclaimed, blushing in embarrassment.
"Wait, we are still waiting for one more person," Hikaru said.
"Hmm, who are you waiting for, Hikaru?" Zul asked.
Suddenly, Takeru approached them, calling out, "Hikaru-kun, everyone!"
"Oh, there he is," Hikaru said. After Takeru arrived, Hikaru added, "There you are. You're late. I thought you didn't want to come."
"Sorry for that. I just finished my part-time work earlier," Takeru said.
"Oh, Takeru, you’re coming too?" Mizuha greeted him.
"Of course, Hikaru-kun invited me earlier," Takeru replied.
"Thanks for inviting me, Hikaru-kun," Takeru added.
"That’s no big deal. I suddenly felt like inviting you today," Hikaru replied.
"By the way, did you bring the thing I asked you for earlier?" Hikaru added.
"Of course I brought it. Here, your usual," Takeru said, throwing the paper bag he held to Hikaru.
"Thank you. I'll pay you after this," Hikaru replied.
"No need, consider this my treat for being invited," Takeru said.
Takeru touched Hikaru's shoulder, whispering and chuckling, "Don’t worry, I’ll let you have a nice time with Mizuha tonight."
"Wait, what... you," Hikaru said, blushing.
In the midst of their playful banter, Takeru had approached Mizuha and the girls, joining in on the compliments. "You look pretty in that, Mizuha. Your yukata suits you perfectly," he said.
"Really? Thanks," Mizuha replied.
"You both look good and pretty in your yukatas," Takeru said to Eri and Shimizu.
Shimizu grinned, pretending to ponder. "Am I pretty too, huh? Well, I guess I’ll take it as a compliment then!"
"Okay everyone, sorry I made you guys wait. Let's enjoy this festival," Takeru said suddenly, excited.
"Yeah, let's go!" Shimizu said, agreeing excitedly too. Both Shimizu and Takeru led the way, followed by the others as they entered the festival site.
"Haha, those two are really energetic," Eri chuckled.
"That's right, they really fit together," Zul said, agreeing with Eri.
The festival atmosphere enveloped the group as they ventured further into the array of food stalls and vibrant activities. The scent of delicious treats filled the air, making them hungry and adding to their excitement.
"Look at all these stalls!" Mizuha exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the festive scene before her. "There's so much variety here."
"Yeah, they really went all out this year," Hikaru replied, walking beside her. "Look, takoyaki, yakisoba, and even some game stalls further ahead."
As they walked through the lively festival grounds, Eri suddenly stopped in her tracks. "Oh, look at those candy apples! They look so beautiful and delicious," she said, pointing at a nearby stall decorated with rows of gleaming red treats.
"Want to check it out?" Zul asked, noticing Eri's interest.
They approached the candy apple stall together, where various apples glistened with their bright red coating under the festival lights. Zul stepped forward and bought one.
"Here," Zul said, offering it to Eri with a gentle smile.
Eri’s face showed surprise and joy. "Thank you, Zul!" she said, accepting the treat with a slight blush. Eri ate the candy apple and said, "Hmm, this is so sweet."
"Both of them are so sweet," said Mizuha, watching their interaction with a warm smile before noticing the cotton candy stall nearby.
"Oh, that looks good! I think I'll get one," she said, approaching the vendor.
"Mister, one cotton candy, please," Mizuha ordered, reaching for her small purse. But before she could take out her money, Hikaru stepped beside her and ordered one for himself.
"Mister, give me one cotton candy. Count the one for her too; I paid for it," Hikaru said.
"H-Hikaru?" Mizuha stuttered, surprised by his gesture.
"My treat," Hikaru said with a smile. "Here, your cotton candy," he added, taking the cotton candy from the vendor and handing it to her.
"Th... Thanks," Mizuha said, blushing.
"You're welcome," Hikaru replied, smiling.
Hikaru spotted a takoyaki stall next to the cotton candy shop, his eyes lighting up with anticipation
The sizzling, golden-brown takoyaki looked delicious, and he quickly purchased a plastic tray of piping hot takoyaki.
With a grin, he bought another tray for Mizuha, knowing she would enjoy it too.
"Here, Mizuha. This is for you," he said, handing her a tray of takoyaki.
"Thanks, Hikaru... but you've already bought me cotton candy, and now this..." Mizuha said, feeling guilty.
"Don't worry," Hikaru replied warmly. "I'm doing this because I want you to enjoy this festival."
"Geez, you guys already started with the food. This is not fun. Let’s play some game," Shimizu complained.
Shimizu headed straight for the goldfish scooping stall, her eyes full of curiosity and enthusiasm.
"Oh, I have an idea," she said.
"Hey, Takeru, how about we play this? Let's see who can catch the most goldfish by scooping," said Shimizu.
"Hmm, I'm not sure if I can manage the scooping, because I've never managed to catch a single goldfish before. That's so hard, but I think I'll give it a try today," said Takeru.
"Okay, then let's go," said Shimizu as she eagerly tugged him along to the stall.
"Hey wait, don't drag me like that suddenly," said Takeru.
"Mister, give us the scooping nets for both of us," said Shimizu.
"Oh, Shimizu-chan, you’re back this year, and you brought friends," said the goldfish vendor, handing the paper scooping nets to Shimizu and Takeru.
"Yes, I'm not coming alone again this time," said Shimizu.
"I see, then enjoy yourself," replied the vendor.
Shimizu grabbed the scooping net, her hand steady and skillful as she swiftly scooped up five goldfish in a single swoop into the bowl she held in her other hand.
"Oh, as expected Shimizu, you managed to scoop up five already in a single swoop," said Takeru.
"Hehe, I’m great, right? This is nothing for me," she said proudly.
"How about you, Takeru?" she replied.
"So bad, I got nothing. My paper scooping net is already broken," Takeru said with a chuckle.
"You're really great at something like this, Shimizu," said Mizuha as she slowly approached with Hikaru.
"You two are late. You didn’t see my great performance," said Shimizu.
"Sorry, we took time tasting the food we bought," said Mizuha.
"Just both of you? Where are Eri and Zul?" Takeru asked.
"They’re both over there trying another game stall, I guess," said Hikaru, pointing.
"Hey Mizuha, how about you give it a try? It's so fun, you know," said Shimizu.
"I’m not sure I can do this," said Mizuha, pausing. "Okay, I’ll give it a try."
"You can do it, Mizuha," Takeru and Hikaru cheered for her.
Encouraged by her friends' support, Mizuha decided to give goldfish scooping a try, despite her initial doubts.
"You can do it, Mizuha," Hikaru whispered, his voice filled with unwavering belief.
"Hiyeah..." said Mizuha as she tried to scoop the goldfish. But her attempt failed as the scooping net broke. "Ah, so bad, my scooping net is broken," Mizuha said.
"You almost caught one," said Takeru.
"Don’t worry, here, try again," said Hikaru, giving her another scooping net.
Hikaru stepped in, positioning himself next to Mizuha, and gently held her hand. "Wait, Hikaru, what are you…?" said Mizuha, blushing as Hikaru held her hand to guide her.
"Don't worry, I'll help you with this," replied Hikaru.
"Mizuha, now!" Hikaru said as the fish swam in front of her.
"Yes," said Mizuha. But the goldfish quickly swam away from them.
"Almost had it," said Mizuha.
"Thank goodness the net isn’t broken. Let’s try again," said Hikaru.
Mizuha tried again, focused, with Hikaru beside her. As a fish swam in front of them, Hikaru gave the signal, and she quickly responded.
With precise timing, she successfully scooped her very first goldfish into the bowl in her other hand. "We did it, Hikaru!" she announced proudly.
"Yes, we did it," replied Hikaru, smiling at her.
Takeru and Shimizu looked at them with relieved faces. "Look at them, how happy they are together," Shimizu said with relief.
"Yes, you’re right. They really make a great couple," Takeru agreed.
"Did both of you say something?" asked Hikaru, suddenly turning back to face them.
"No, we didn’t say anything, right Takeru?" Shimizu said.
"Yes, you must have misheard, haha," Takeru said, chuckling and avoiding Hikaru’s gaze.
At the crowded festival, Eri and Zul stopped at a shooting prize stall they noticed.
Contestants were shooting toy guns at target prizes, making Eri visibly excited. Zul watched her genuine enthusiasm with interest.
"Which prize catches your eye, Eri?" he asked.
"Huh, the prize I want?" replied Eri. "Which one do I want..." she added.
Her cheeks pink, she stared at the large teddy bear.
She pointed at it, speaking quietly, "That teddy bear... it's so adorable."
Before Zul could say "Then let me—" Eri whispered "Um, Zul... would it be okay if I tried shooting for it first?"
"Hmm, you want to try it?" said Zul, surprised. "Then go ahead."
She struggled to handle her coins, almost dropping them as she handed them to the vendor.
"Oh, think you can do it, little lady?" said the vendor.
"Umm, I'll try my best..." replied Eri.
"Go for it, Eri," said Zul.
With trembling hands, she picked up the toy gun, stealing quick glances at Zul. She aimed at the teddy bear target. Her first shot missed.
She adjusted her aim and tried again, but missed. After her final attempt missed, her shoulders slumped in disappointment, her face flushing redder with embarrassment.
"Haha, maybe I’m not good at this," Eri said, chuckling to cover her disappointment.
"This game might be a little too hard for a girl, haha," the vendor said, chuckling.
Zul stepped forward and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Then let me try. I’ll get it for you," he said, giving the coin to the vendor.
"Oh, you better show your girlfriend what you can do, bro!" the vendor teased.
Girlfriend…!? Zul and Eri thought simultaneously, blushing.
Ignoring the teasing, Zul took the toy gun with confidence, focusing intently on the targets.
He shot steadily. His first try missed, and his second almost hit but missed too.
"Tch, almost hit it. This is my last chance, I must hit it," he said.
Zul focused intently on his target and launched his last shot at the teddy bear. It hit directly, and the teddy bear fell from the rack.
Yes, it hit, Zul thought, smiling.
"That’s amazing, Zul! You hit it!" Eri exclaimed happily.
"Oh, you hit it, bro! Congratulations," said the vendor. "Here’s your prize," he added, giving the teddy bear to Zul.
"Thank you," Zul replied.
He turned to Eri, smiling, and handed her the teddy bear. "For you, Eri."
"Huh!? But you won it, Zul," Eri said.
"It’s okay. You wanted it, right? I won it for you," said Zul.
Eri took the prize with a warm smile, hugging the soft bear. "Wow, thanks, Zul."
"You’re welcome," Zul replied, smiling. He suddenly remembered a moment from their childhood when bullies destroyed his toy and Eri gave him hers.
Suddenly I remember that time, he thought smiling.
"That’s a very cute teddy bear, Eri-chan," said Mizuha as she approached with Hikaru and the others.
"Mizuha-chan, everyone!" Eri said as they approached. "Yes, Zul got it for me from the shooting game. It’s very cute, right?"
"Oh, not bad, Zul. You’ve outdone us," Hikaru teased.
"Ah, shut up. You did the same thing," Zul replied, lightly punching Hikaru’s shoulder.
"Ah, the shooting game looks nice. I’d better try it," Shimizu said, heading towards it.
"Hey, Hikaru, join me. Let's see who can get the best prize."
"Oh, you’re challenging me, huh? Okay, let’s do it," Hikaru said, following her.
"Do they always challenge each other like this?" Takeru asked, pointing.
"Yes, as you can see, Takeru-kun, they love to compete," Mizuha said, chuckling.
"You guys are really close, huh? I envy you guys" Takeru said.
After finishing the shooting game, the group ventured further among the food stalls and activities. Mizuha and the others enjoyed the sights and sounds. The smell of food filled the air, and lights were bright.
As the festival continued, the crowd grew denser.
"Oh, it looks like the crowd is getting bigger," said Takeru.
"Yeah, it’s hard to walk," Shimizu said.
"Wait, where are Zul and Eri?" Hikaru said. "Mizuha is missing too."
"Looks like they got separated," Takeru said. "Let’s get out of this crowd first."
"Where is everyone? Did I get separated?" Eri said, confused and a bit panicked.
Someone bumped into Eri from behind, and she almost fell. Zul quickly grabbed her hand and said, "Eri!"
"Zul..." she murmured.
"Found you. Are you okay?" Zul said.
"Yes, I’m fine. Thanks for saving me, Zul," Eri replied.
"You’re welcome," Zul said. They looked around but couldn’t see their group in the denser crowd.
"Looks like we got separated," Zul said.
"Yes," Eri added.
"Anyway, let’s tell them we’re together," said Zul.
Hikaru's phone rang. "Hmm, Zul calling," he said, answering. Zul told him he had found Eri.
"I see, you’re with Eri. Is Mizuha with you too?" Hikaru asked.
"No, just Eri. Mizuha isn’t with us," Zul replied.
"I see, thanks. We’re outside the crowd, by the riverside benches. I’ll send our location," Hikaru said, ending the call.
"Did you reach Mizuha?" Hikaru asked Shimizu, who was calling her.
"No, she’s not answering. I called twice," Shimizu replied.
"I see. I’ll go find her," Hikaru said. "You guys stay here. Zul and Eri will come later." He headed back into the crowd.
"Wait, Hikaru…" said Takeru, wanting to follow him, but Hikaru had already disappeared from their sight.
"He really cares about Mizuha, huh? That guy," Takeru said, nodding as he sat on the bench beside Shimizu.
"Yeah, that’s him. He likes Mizuha, doesn’t he?" Shimizu replied casually.
"Haha, you’re right. I’m glad Mizuha has a friend like him," Takeru said with a small smile.
After a pause, Shimizu glanced at Takeru. "Hey, don’t you feel jealous of them?"
"Jealous? What do you mean?" Takeru asked, tilting his head.
"Well, Mizuha is your childhood friend, right? How do you feel about her spending so much time with Hikaru?" Shimizu teased, smirking.
Takeru shook his head with a chuckle. "No, I don’t feel that way. Mizuha’s just my childhood friend, nothing romantic. Besides, Hikaru is perfect for her---smart, handsome, and wealthy. Compared to him, I’m nothing special, haha."
Shimizu frowned. "Don’t talk like that. Everyone has strengths. I’m sure Mizuha and Hikaru would feel awful if they heard you."
"Ah, you’re right. Sorry, I didn’t mean to sound down," Takeru said, scratching the back of his head.
Shimizu smiled softly. "By the way, is there someone you like?"
""Eh, why bring that up suddenly, Shimizu?" Takeru asked, surprised.
"Wait, do you want to confess to me? Haha," Takeru said, chuckling.
"Well, I sometimes feel envious looking at Hikaru and Mizuha, and Zul and Eri, so I planned to make you my boyfriend and do things like them. What do you think?" Shimizu said with a chuckle.
"Thanks, Shimizu. I appreciate it, but I’m sorry---I can’t because there’s already someone I like. Truly sorry," Takeru said.
"I see, it’s okay. I’m not disappointed. That was just my plan, haha, no need to apologize," Shimizu said.
I see, he already has someone he likes? Shimizu thought, sighing.
"Besides, who is she? Is it Mizuha?" she asked, grinning and nudging Takeru with her elbow.
"Don’t be ridiculous. Why must it be Mizuha? She has Hikaru, you know. Like I told you earlier, I don’t have romantic feelings for her," Takeru replied, blushing.
"Besides, she’s not from your group or class," he added. "She’s my classmate."
"Your classmate? Oh… Who? Do I know her?" Shimizu asked curiously.
"That’s a secret. Too embarrassing," Takeru explained. "Besides, she’s just my crush. I don’t think she likes me back. She seems to have liked someone else for a long time, always trying to get closer, but they never notice."
"I see, unrequited love, huh? Don’t worry, keep it up. I’m sure you’ll make that girl your girlfriend. Don’t give up yet," Shimizu said.
"Haha, thanks, Shimizu. You understand. Also, please don’t tell anyone, okay?" Takeru said.
"Understood. I won’t tell anyone," Shimizu said.
Eri and Zul approached. "Shimizu-chan!" Eri called out as they neared.
"Oh, here they are! Eri, Zul, over here!" Shimizu called, waving. The four regrouped while Hikaru was still searching for Mizuha.
"I got separated from my friends… What should I do?" Mizuha said, lost in the crowd.
She reached for her phone but found the battery dead. "My phone’s dead," she muttered worriedly.
She decided to search for her friends, moving through the crowd. "They should be nearby," she said, trying to stay focused.
Hikaru, meanwhile, searched for Mizuha in the same area. He looked around but couldn’t find her. "Where could she be?" he muttered, moving forward.
Someone grabbed his arm. He turned to see Akemi smiling. "Found you, Hikaru-kun!" she said.
"Akemi? What are you doing here?" he asked, surprised.
"Why ask? Can’t I come to the festival? It’s not just for you, you know," Akemi replied.
"That’s not what I meant…" Hikaru said.
"Since you’re here, let’s play a game!" Akemi said, clinging to his arm and pulling him toward a nearby shooting stall.
"Wait, Akemi, I need to---" Hikaru started, but she didn’t let him finish, pulling him along.
At the stall, Akemi asked, "What prize do you want? I’ll win it for you."
"Anything is fine," Hikaru said, still looking around for Mizuha.
"Then I’ll aim for that candy box," Akemi said, taking the toy gun. She focused while Hikaru scanned the area, concerned.
Mizuha finally spotted Hikaru at the shooting stall. "There he is!" she said, relieved. She called out, "Hikaru!" but the crowd noise drowned her voice. She tried to move closer but someone stepped on her foot.
"It hurts," she said, looking at her foot. Before she could recover, someone bumped into her, causing her to stumble. The strap of her geta broke, making it hard to walk. As she tried to stand, another person bumped into her, almost making her fall.
Just then, someone grabbed her hand, stopping her fall. "Got you, Mizuha," said a familiar voice.
She looked up to see Hikaru holding her hand. "Hikaru…," she murmured, relieved.
"You’re okay," Hikaru said, helping her stand. He noticed the broken geta strap. "Your strap is broken. Can you walk?" he asked.
"I think so," Mizuha replied, leaning on him.
"Don’t worry, I’ll help you," Hikaru said, guiding her out of the crowd.
Back at the shooting stall, Akemi missed her last shot and sighed in frustration. " "This game is hard. Let’s try another one… Hikaru?" she said, turning around.
Realizing Hikaru was gone, she frowned. "Wait, Hikaru? Where are you?" she said, scanning the area. "You can’t just leave me like that!"
Confused and frustrated, Akemi began looking for Hikaru.
Hikaru guided Mizuha to a quieter spot, helping her to a nearby bench. As she sat, he knelt to examine her injured foot.
"It’s a bit swollen, and you’ve got a blister," Hikaru observed with concern. "That must hurt."
Mizuha nodded, wincing.
"Don’t worry. Good thing I brought this," Hikaru said, pulling a small first-aid kit from his bag.
He took out a bandage and carefully applied it to the blister.
"There, that should help," Hikaru said gently. "But don’t walk too much."
"Thank you, Hikaru," Mizuha said softly, her cheeks tinged pink.
"I’ll let Shimizu and the others know," Hikaru said, typing a message to their group chat.
Shortly after, his phone buzzed with Shimizu's reply: Really? Thank goodness you found her!
Hikaru chuckled at the message before turning to Mizuha. She looked down, her expression heavy with guilt.
"Thanks for helping me, Hikaru. But… I’m sorry," Mizuha said, voice tinged with regret. "We were supposed to enjoy the festival and watch the fireworks with everyone, but because of me, everything got messed up."
Hikaru sat beside her, resting his hands on his knees.
"Situations like this are unavoidable," he said calmly, his voice steady. "Things happen unexpectedly, but it’s not your fault, Mizuha."
She looked up at him, eyes searching his face.
"Besides," he added with a small smile, "the important thing is we're safe and together. That's what matters most, right?"
Mizuha felt her heart lighten, a small smile forming on her lips. "You’re right. Thank you, Hikaru."
Suddenly, the fireworks started.
"Oh," Hikaru and Mizuha said in unison, turning to the sky.
"The fireworks are starting," Hikaru said.
"Yeah, they’re so pretty," Mizuha replied, gazing at the colorful bursts.
They sat quietly, enjoying the fireworks, while Shimizu and Eri admired them from where the others had gathered.
"Woah, it’s so pretty!" Shimizu and Eri said in unison, voices filled with excitement.
"It's so pretty, right, Eri?" said Zul, standing beside her.
"Yeah," Eri replied, eyes fixed on the fireworks.
Hikaru glanced at Mizuha. "So, we can just watch from here too."
"Yeah, we don’t need to find another place," Mizuha replied contentedly.
"Thank you for inviting me today, Hikaru. I really enjoyed it," she said, turning to him.
"You’re welcome," Hikaru replied with a smile. "You’re right, they’re really pretty," he added, eyes returning to the sky.
Blushing, he offered his hand to Mizuha. Mizuha looked at his hand, smiled softly, and took it. Holding hands, they continued watching the fireworks, appreciating the peaceful moment.
As the final bursts lit up the sky, signaling the end, Hikaru said, "There end the fireworks."
"Yeah," Mizuha replied.
A voice called from afar: "Mizuha, Hikaru!" They turned to see Shimizu approaching with Eri and the others.
"Oh, Shimizu! Eri-chan! Over here!" Mizuha called, waving.
As they arrived, Shimizu and Eri hugged her. "You really worried us," Shimizu said.
"Sorry I worried you," Mizuha apologized.
"Geez, I called your phone so many times! You didn't answer," Shimizu said.
"Ah, sorry. My phone battery died," Mizuha said, chuckling.
"So that’s why," Zul said.
"You’re hopeless, huh," Shimizu sighed.
"Mizuha-chan, your foot? What happened?" Eri asked, noticing the bandage.
"Well… someone stepped on my foot, and I fell. I got a blister," Mizuha explained.
"Poor you, Mizuha-chan," Eri said sympathetically.
"Umm, you guys... we were supposed to watch the fireworks together, but I messed up. I'm really sorry," Mizuha apologized.
"Don’t worry, we understand," Zul said.
"Yeah, it’s not your fault, Mizuha-chan. Even though we weren’t together, we still saw the fireworks," Eri added.
"Everyone... thanks," Mizuha said gratefully.
"Ah, don’t be sad, cheer up!" Shimizu said playfully, pinching Mizuha’s cheek.
"Hey, what are you doing? Shimizu, stop!" Mizuha protested, pinching Shimizu’s cheek in return.
Zul and Eri chuckled at their antics.
"So, Hikaru-kun, did things go well tonight?" Takeru teased suddenly.
"Huh!? What do you mean?" Hikaru asked, blushing.
"You got to spend time with Mizuha tonight, even watching fireworks alone with her. Did you enjoy it?" Takeru said, grinning.
"Geez, you..." Hikaru retorted, annoyed.
"Well, I admit it, I really enjoyed it, especially watching the fireworks with her. Satisfied now?" he said, still blushing.
"Haha, that’s the answer I wanted. Good for you, Hikaru-kun," Takeru replied.
"Hey, what are you two talking about?" Shimizu asked.
"Oh, nothing special, right?" Takeru said.
"Yeah, just some guy talk, haha," Hikaru said.
After the fireworks, Hikaru glanced at the group. "Alright, we’ve had our fun. It’s getting late. How about we head home now?"
The others nodded. "Yeah, good idea," Shimizu agreed.
As they prepared to leave, Hikaru turned to Mizuha. "How’s your foot? Does it still hurt?"
Mizuha tried to stand but winced as she put weight on her foot. "It's still painful," she admitted.
"Hikaru crouched in front of her. "Hop on. I’ll give you a piggyback ride home."
Mizuha’s eyes widened, face turning red. "W-Wait, Hikaru, you don’t need to! I can call my family. Besides, this is embarrassing..."
Hikaru smiled gently but firmly. "Don’t worry. I want to help, and it’s better than waiting and burdening your family. Besides," he added, "your phone is dead, right?"
Mizuha hesitated, then sighed softly. "Well… alright."
She carefully climbed onto Hikaru’s back, cheeks flushed. "This is embarrassing," she murmured.
Shimizu, standing nearby, teased, "Oh, look! The prince carrying his princess home. Good for you, Mizuha! Haha!"
"Shimizu, stop! Don’t say something so embarrassing!" Mizuha exclaimed, face bright red.
Hikaru chuckled. "Alright, you guys. We’re heading out. See you at school."
"See you later, guys!" Mizuha added with a shy wave.
"Take care!" Takeru and the others called back.
After they left, Eri turned to Zul. "Okay, we should head home. Let’s go," she said softly.
"Goodbye!" Eri called as they walked away.
"Bye!" Takeru and Shimizu replied.
Once they were gone, Takeru turned to Shimizu. "Just us now. Come on, Shimizu, I’ll walk you home."
Shimizu blinked in surprise, blushing slightly. "Huh? What’s with the sudden offer? We’re not a couple like them." She crossed her arms. "I’m fine on my own."
"Don’t worry," Takeru said casually. "Consider it as thanks for listening earlier."
Shimizu sighed, her cheeks still pink. "Well, if you say so… Thanks, I guess. Let’s go."
As they walked, Takeru smirked. "Hey, are you falling for me now?"
"Oh, shut up, idiot!" Shimizu snapped, punching his shoulder lightly though she couldn't hide her smile.
Hikaru carried Mizuha piggyback along the quiet street. "The familiar sight of her house came into view.
"We’re almost there, Mizuha. Your house is up ahead," Hikaru said.
Mizuha hesitated, her voice soft. "Umm… Hikaru?"
"What is it?" he asked, glancing back.
"Thank you for bringing me home. And… sorry for burdening you so much tonight," Mizuha said, looking down guiltily.
Hikaru sighed, shaking his head. "Again with apologies? Stop, Mizuha. You’ve apologized enough tonight. Like I said, I’m okay. Don’t feel bad."
"But... I..." Mizuha began, words faltering. Gathering courage, she whispered into his ear, "Hikaru, I like you."
Before Hikaru could process her words, a car drove by, its engine drowning out her voice.
"Umm, Mizuha, did you say something?" Hikaru asked, tilting his head.
"No, nothing. Maybe you misheard, haha," Mizuha said quickly, face flushing deep red as she avoided his gaze.
Hikaru didn't press further. "Mizuha, look," he said, pointing at the moon. "The moon is beautiful tonight, isn't it?"
"Yeah, it’s really beautiful," Mizuha replied, looking at it in amazement.
"Okay, Mizuha, we’re here," he said as they stopped at her house entrance. Carefully, he lowered her. "Walk slowly inside, okay?"
"Yes. Thank you again, Hikaru," Mizuha said cheerfully.
"You’re welcome. I’m glad I could help," Hikaru replied with a gentle smile. "I’ll head back. See you at school."
"See you," Mizuha said, waving as she turned and slowly went inside.
Hikaru watched until she disappeared inside, then walked home.
"Hikaru, I like you," he repeated in his mind, his heart beating faster.
Mizuha... I heard you, he thought, smiling. That's why I said the moon is beautiful, as my reply.
Well, I like you too, Mizuha, he thought, blushing as he entered his house.
"Welcome back, Hikaru-sama," the family maid said, opening the door.
"I’m home," he replied, smiling.
His little sister, Shiori, approached as he entered. "Onii-chan, why are you so late? I’ve been waiting forever!"
"Oh, sorry. Here’s the donut you asked for," he said, opening the paper bag Takeru had given him.
"Oh, the golden chocolate one!" Shiori exclaimed, immediately starting to eat.
"Hey, leave some for me!" Hikaru replied.
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End of the Summer Vacation Arc. Next chapter begins the Amemonogatari Arc.
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