Later, as the bell rang, Mizuki slowly opened her eyes and noticed Nozomi's hand gently touching her hair. She saw that Nozomi had fallen asleep under the tree, her white hair shining in the sunlight, her face serene and beautiful. With a smile, Mizuki observed Nozomi sleeping like an angel and couldn't resist running her fingers through Nozomi's hair. Startled awake, Nozomi grabbed Mizuki's hand, causing a moment of embarrassment as they both tried to stand up. However, Nozomi, with a pleading look and a cute voice, asked Mizuki to stay a little longer, capturing Mizuki's heart with her irresistible charm.
They shared stories, laughter, and jokes, losing themselves in each other's company as the pain that haunted Mizuki seemed to fade away in Nozomi's presence. Nozomi's jokes never failed to make Mizuki smile sweetly, each smile captivating Nozomi's attention, making her realize the beauty that resided in Mizuki's eyes. Their gazes locked, creating an intense connection that made them forget the world around them until the bell signaled the end of their blissful moment.
As they reluctantly parted ways, Mizuki thanked Nozomi for the delightful company and expressed her happiness in a heartfelt manner. Nozomi, mesmerized by Mizuki's habits and smiles, felt a deepening fondness for Mizuki, deciding to make her own. Nozomi proposed a plan for them to meet regularly, cementing their developing bond.
Their routine meetings during break times became a cherished tradition, strengthening their friendship with each passing day. One day, caught in a dilemma without a calculator, Mizuki hesitated to ask for help, but with a gentle nudge from Nozomi, she approached Chika, who reluctantly handed over the calculator, their brief touch fueling a moment of awkwardness that soon dissolved into laughter.
The classroom dynamics shifted when feelings of jealousy and unexpected romance began to surface. Mizuki found herself caught in a bittersweet moment as she witnessed Chika and Sakura's intimate exchange, feeling a pang of heartache. Nozomi, understanding the unspoken yearning in Mizuki's eyes, led her to the rooftop, where they found solace in the vast blue sky and a gentle breeze that carried a sweet fragrance from Mizuki's hair.
Touched by Nozomi's affection, Mizuki's facade crumbled, tears flowing freely as she confronted past wounds. Seeking solace in the rain, Mizuki's vulnerability drew Nozomi in closer, the rainbow symbolizing hope amidst the emotional storm. Nozomi's unwavering support and understanding provided a sense of comfort that Mizuki deeply appreciated.
In a moment of raw honesty, Nozomi confessed her feelings for Mizuki, adding a layer of complexity to their evolving relationship. Although taken aback by the unexpected proposal, Mizuki grappled with her emotions, unsure of how to respond to Nozomi's heartfelt request. The air thickened with tension as Chika's unexpected appearance injected a new wave of turmoil into the situation, leaving both Mizuki and Nozomi reeling from the encounter.
Despite the challenges they faced, their bond continued to grow stronger, guided by mutual respect and unwavering support. As they navigated the complexities of their intertwined lives, Mizuki and Nozomi found solace in each other's presence, forging a connection that transcended mere friendship.