In high school, I found myself face-to-face with my first love again—Setsuna Matsuzaki, now a classmate. She was just as beautiful and lively as I remembered, and with her presence, all those old feelings rushed back. I knew this was my second chance.
During our first break, I gathered the courage to approach her. "Hey, looks like we're in the same class again. Let's make it a great year, like old times."
She flashed that familiar, bright smile. "Yeah, it's nice to be in the same class again."
Our classmates often teased us, assuming we were dating. It was awkward at times, but deep down, I was thrilled just being close to her. With Setsuna around, I felt like a different person—more cheerful, more confident.
A year passed, and I realized it was time. Time to tell her how I really felt. One night, after much internal debate, I sent her a message.
"I've realized something. I've loved you since elementary school. You've changed me for the better, and I'm grateful for that. I just wanted you to know… I love you."
Her reply came after what felt like an eternity, though it was probably only a few minutes. "I'm really happy you're being honest with me, Mirai. But right now, I'm not ready for a relationship. I want us to get to know each other more."
Her words, gentle yet clear, brought relief. "I understand, Setsuna. Let's take our time and get to know each other better."
That night, I felt lighter, a strange blend of happiness and peace. Soon we would be starting our second year, and I couldn't help but hope we'd be in the same class again.
As the end of our first year approached, our class decided to have a final get-together. I took a chance and called Setsuna.
"Hey, do you want to go to the class meeting together tomorrow?" I asked, heart pounding.
"Sure! Pick me up at 10:00," she replied without hesitation.
The next morning, I knocked on her door, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. To my surprise, her mom answered.
"Good morning, Mirai. Setsuna told me about you last night. Take good care of her, okay? She's still getting ready, come on in."
I awkwardly smiled. "Thank you, ma'am."
After a moment, Setsuna appeared from her room, her long hair cascading down, dressed so beautifully that it took my breath away. For a moment, I was speechless.
"So? How do I look today?" she asked, teasingly.
"You look... stunning. Like an angel," I blurted out before I could stop myself.
She laughed softly, "Thanks. Shall we go?"
We walked side by side, chatting and laughing on the way to the meeting. It was one of those perfect days—filled with jokes, shared memories, and the warmth of being together. The afternoon flew by, and before we knew it, it was time to head home.
On our way back, I suggested we stop by the arcade. Watching her laugh and smile as we played made me feel... complete. We stayed until late, finally parting ways as the stars began to dot the night sky.
Later that night, my phone buzzed with a message from her.
"Thank you for today, Mirai. I had a great time."
I smiled at my screen, feeling the warmth of her words. "Me too, Setsuna. It was perfect. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," she replied.