As the evening wore on, the cozy atmosphere of Mayu's apartment seemed to wrap around them like a warm blanket. After finishing their hot chocolate, they settled back into comfortable conversation, but soon the reality of the evening came crashing back—Kyle had to head home.
"It's getting late," Kyle said, glancing at the clock on the wall. "I should probably get going."
Mayu felt a pang of disappointment. She had enjoyed every moment they spent together, and the thought of him leaving made her heart sink. "Yeah, I guess so," she replied softly, trying to mask her reluctance.
Kyle stood up, collecting his things, and Mayu walked him to the door. The hallway was dimly lit, adding an intimate glow to their farewell.
"Thanks for inviting me over. I had a really great time," he said, his voice warm and sincere.
"Me too! I always have fun with you," Mayu replied, her heart fluttering at the thought of their time together. "You should come over more often."
"I'd like that," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Especially if you keep making that amazing hot chocolate."
Mayu laughed, the sound ringing through the quiet hallway. She loved how effortlessly they connected, how each moment felt filled with promise.
Just as Kyle reached for the doorknob, he paused and turned back to her, a serious expression crossing his face. "Um, Mayu?"
"Yeah?" she asked, a mix of curiosity and anxiety creeping in.
"Can I… can I kiss you on the forehead again?" he asked, his cheeks tinged with a hint of pink. "I just… it felt nice. And I'd like to do it again if it's okay with you."
Mayu's heart raced at his request. It was such a simple gesture, yet it felt profoundly intimate. She nodded, a smile spreading across her face. "Of course, Kyle. I'd like that."
With a shy grin, he stepped closer, the warmth of his presence enveloping her once more. He leaned down gently, brushing his lips against her forehead in a soft, tender kiss. It was a moment that sent butterflies swirling in her stomach, leaving her breathless.
"Good night, Mayu," he said softly, stepping back to look into her eyes. "See you at school tomorrow."
"Good night, Kyle," she replied, feeling a mix of joy and longing as he turned to leave.
As he walked away, Mayu stood in the doorway, watching him disappear down the hallway. The kiss lingered in her mind, filling her with a warm glow. It was more than just a goodbye; it was a promise of something more, a step closer to the feelings she had hidden for so long.
She closed the door slowly, leaning against it as her heart raced. Mayu couldn't shake the feeling that each moment with Kyle brought her closer to revealing her true feelings. And as she replayed the evening in her mind, she couldn't help but smile, excited for what tomorrow might bring.