A few months had passed since that day. Touka and I kept in touch as the days went by, our bond gradually strengthening with every conversation. Time flew by, and soon, the third years were preparing for their graduation ceremony. As second-year students, we gathered to watch and honor our seniors during this significant milestone in their lives.
"It is a beautiful day for us, the third years, to celebrate this ceremony," Uguisu-senpai began her speech. Her voice carried across the hall with calm confidence as she stood on the stage, addressing the crowd as the third-year representative.
"I stand here before all of you as proof that we, the third years, are leaving this school not only as alumni but as individuals ready to embark on new paths. Some of us will continue our studies, while others will step into a life filled with the responsibilities of work. I sincerely hope that all of us find success and happiness in the journeys ahead. Thank you, and may we meet again in the years to come."
Applause erupted from the audience, filling the hall with warmth and admiration. The ceremony continued, weaving a blend of joy, nostalgia, and hope for the future. As the event drew to a close, the Literature Club gathered to express our gratitude to our departing seniors. Each of us took turns bidding farewell, sharing memories and words of encouragement.
Uguisu-senpai then motioned for me to follow her to the library. I obliged, trailing behind as we stepped into the familiar space where countless memories had been made. Sunlight poured through the windows, casting a warm glow on the wooden shelves and the quiet corners of the room. She took a seat by the window and smiled at me.
"Himeya," she said softly.
Standing in front of her, I extended my hand. "Congratulations on your graduation, Senpai."
She reached out, her delicate hand meeting mine in a firm shake. "Thank you," she replied. "I'm entrusting the Literature Club to you."
I nodded, determination evident in my voice. "Leave it to me. I'm not alone, after all."
"Fufu, that's true," she chuckled. "Still, if you ever need help, don't hesitate to reach out to me."
"I'll think about it if I'm ever stuck," I teased, offering a lighthearted smile.
"I know you will," she said, her laughter soft and reassuring.
We sat together by the window, and after a moment, she suggested taking a selfie to commemorate the occasion. I agreed, and we leaned in close for the shot. The camera clicked, capturing the moment—her radiant smile, the sunlight filtering in, and the warmth between us.
"Wow," I murmured, looking at the photo. "A lot has changed, hasn't it?"
"Fufu, you've finally noticed?" she replied playfully.
We continued talking, reminiscing about the past and dreaming about the future. It was one of the best conversations I'd ever had with her.
"Senpai, what's next for you?" I asked after a pause.
"I'm going to Germany," she said, her tone steady but tinged with uncertainty.
"Is it for treatment?" I guessed, already knowing the answer.
She nodded. "Yes. I'll be staying there for three years. My mother's friends have offered to help with the arrangements and the treatment."
The words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of her upcoming journey. My heart ached at the thought of her leaving, but I pushed those feelings aside. This was for her health, her future.
"I'll miss you, Senpai," I said quietly, the sincerity of my words catching even me off guard.
Her cheeks turned as red as a tomato, and she lowered her gaze. "Himeya-kun, can I ask something selfish?" she murmured.
"Of course. Think of it as your graduation gift from me," I said, curious yet willing to fulfill her request.
And then, before I could react, she leaned in and kissed me on the lips. The world seemed to freeze in that moment, my mind racing to comprehend what had just happened.
She pulled back, her face flushed. "I just wanted to do that," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Senpai, that's…" I started, unsure of what to say.
"I know Touka-san would probably be furious if she found out, but I couldn't hold back," she confessed, her honesty both surprising and endearing.
I let out a soft sigh, a small smile forming on my lips. "I understand. I'll keep it a secret. Just between us."
Her eyes widened briefly before she smiled back. "Thank you, Himeya."
We stood up and left the library, walking together toward the parking lot. There, some of the third years were saying goodbye to their families. Uguisu-senpai's family was among them, waiting patiently.
Before she left, I reached out and grabbed her hand. "See you again, Senpai," I said, my voice filled with a mixture of hope and determination.
She looked at me, startled, before breaking into a gentle smile. "Yes, see you again, Shin Himeya."
With that, she turned and walked toward her family, leaving me standing there with a bittersweet feeling in my chest.
The day of graduation passed, and life moved on. Before I knew it, I was stepping into my third year of high school. But before the new term officially began, an unexpected event shook up my life.
It was a quiet Saturday morning when the doorbell rang. I was home alone—my mother had accompanied my father to his workplace, leaving me to enjoy the tranquility of the house. I made my way to the front door, curious about the visitor.
When I opened it, I was greeted by the sight of a girl with long blue hair and piercing turquoise eyes. Her expression was calm, almost emotionless, yet there was something familiar about her.
"It's been a while, Nii-san," she said, her voice soft but confident.
"Kei?" I asked, disbelief coloring my tone.
Amane Kei—my cousin. She was a year younger than me, and though we hadn't seen each other in a while, her striking features were unmistakable. Her long blue hair framed her face, and her turquoise eyes seemed to hold secrets she'd never share.
"What are you doing here?" I asked, still processing her sudden appearance.
"Didn't my mother tell Aunt Mariea? I'll be living here from now on," she explained nonchalantly.
"Wait, what?!" I exclaimed, caught completely off guard.
She tilted her head slightly, a faint smirk playing on her lips. "Guess she forgot to mention it. Anyway, nice to see you again, Nii-san."
I could only stare at her, my mind racing to catch up. What did she mean by living here? How long would this arrangement last? And why hadn't anyone warned me about it?
"Come on, help me with my luggage," she said, gesturing to the suitcases behind her.
Sighing, I stepped outside to help, realizing that my peaceful Saturday had just taken a very unexpected turn. As I carried her things inside, I couldn't help but wonder what kind of event her presence would bring to my life.