The sun shone brightly on the weekend, casting a warm glow over the park. Kyle felt the gentle breeze brush against his skin as he and Mayu walked along the winding path. After spending the last week recovering, he was grateful for this chance to get out of the apartment, and even more grateful that Mayu was with him. She had suggested the park, claiming fresh air would do him good, and he couldn't deny she was right.
"Look at those ducks!" Mayu exclaimed, pointing to a small pond where a group of ducks paddled leisurely. She seemed almost childlike in her enthusiasm, and Kyle couldn't help but smile.
"They're just ducks, Mayu," he teased lightly.
"Just ducks?" she replied, her eyes wide with mock disbelief. "These are majestic creatures! Look at how they glide across the water! It's like they're floating on a cloud."
Kyle chuckled, shaking his head. "You really have a way of making everything sound exciting, don't you?"
"I can't help it if I appreciate the little things!" she shot back, her laughter infectious.
They strolled further along the path, the sound of laughter and chatter filling the air. Families picnicked on the grass, children played games, and couples strolled hand in hand. Kyle felt a warmth in his chest as he watched Mayu point out flowers and trees, her enthusiasm bringing a spark to the day.
As they walked, Kyle glanced at Mayu, noticing how the sunlight danced in her hair. Her joy was contagious, and he found himself feeling lighter than he had in a long time. "You know, I think I should take you out more often," he said casually, testing the waters.
Her head turned sharply, and he caught a glimpse of surprise in her eyes before she masked it with a grin. "Oh really? You think you can keep up with my excitement levels?"
"Challenge accepted," Kyle shot back, his competitive spirit igniting. "What's next on your list of things to appreciate?"
Mayu tapped her chin, pretending to think seriously. "Hmm… I think I'd like to see a sunset from a hilltop. It's a classic."
"Alright, it's a date," Kyle said, his heart racing at the word. He'd meant it casually, but as soon as it left his lips, he felt a thrill at the implication.
Mayu paused, looking up at him, her expression softening. "A date, huh?" she repeated, a hint of color rising to her cheeks.
"Yeah, just a—" he started to backtrack, but she cut him off.
"No, I like it. Let's make it a real date," she said, her voice steady but her eyes betraying a hint of shyness.
"Okay," he replied, surprised by how easy it was to agree. The prospect of spending more time with her in that way sent butterflies swirling in his stomach.
They continued their walk, and soon found a secluded bench nestled under a large oak tree. Mayu plopped down, and Kyle joined her, the warmth of the sun bathing them in a golden hue.
"Thanks for today," he said, genuinely. "I really needed to get out."
Mayu smiled softly, her gaze turning towards the trees swaying gently in the wind. "I like spending time with you, Kyle. You make it… fun."
He felt a rush of warmth at her words, something deepening between them. "I'm glad," he replied, leaning back on the bench and letting out a content sigh. "I wasn't sure if I was being a burden with all my recovery nonsense."
"Not at all," she assured him, turning to face him fully. "I care about you, and I want to see you happy. Besides, it's nice to have someone to talk to. It can get pretty lonely, you know?"
Kyle felt a pang of understanding. He'd been isolated for so long, and her companionship had become a bright spot in his life. "I get that," he admitted, meeting her gaze. "I've been lonely too. Having you around has made a huge difference."
Their eyes held for a moment longer than necessary, the air thick with unspoken feelings. Kyle felt a spark, a connection that was growing stronger.
"What do you say we make this a regular thing?" Mayu suggested, breaking the moment but leaving the door open for more. "Every weekend, just the two of us?"
"Absolutely," Kyle agreed, feeling a smile spread across his face. "You have no idea how much I look forward to it now."
"Good," she said, her smile widening. "Because I plan to keep you on your toes."
As they shared laughter, Kyle couldn't shake the feeling that something had shifted between them. Each shared moment brought them closer, and he found himself wishing for more time with her. Maybe this was the start of something new, something beautiful.