The ceiling. It looks as pale and white as other ceilings I've seen. The fan is spinning at one side. Honestly, who thought it would be a good idea to put the fan not over the bed? It's a hot summer day. I really wish the fan was over me. Other than this one misallignment there's not really anything to complain about this room. Sure the coloring and the paintings doesn't go together but it looks unique in a way. Should I....? What am I thinking?! No way I'm gonna accept her proposal. What would Aiko think of me?!
"Aiko is not coming back anyway.", something says in my head.
"No! She is.... Alive!!!"
"You don't know that.", the same voice.
That is true. I don't know how she is. I don't know if she is alive. I mean I hope she is. But...
"You shouldn't run after her."
"Why?", I ask.
"You'll only end up hurting yourself in the process."
"I don't care about me!!"
"She might get hurt too."
"I'll protect her!!"
"Could you protect her last night?"
I don't answer.
"Yes or no?"
"No.... But..."
"There's no buts and ifs in life. Only deeds and consequences."
"I didn't mean to get her hurt!!"
"But you did anyway. Didn't you?"
"So, what do you wish me to do now?!!! Huh!!"
"Leave her alone. Let her be with dad. Just spend your life somewhere safe for both of you."
Maybe I should... Maybe it'll be better not to search for her. Maybe...
"You can't rely on 'maybe'. It's rather do or don't. There's no middle way."
"I'm back honey!", Himari's back.
I know I can't love this girl. "Hey Himari?",
"Yes?"
But if it means keeping her safe... "Let's get married, properly this time.", I'll just deal with what I have.
"Huh?", She says.
That day, I learnt something. Love might be prerequisite of a relation, but it ain't the important part. Duty and care is more in play here.