Under the blooming cherry blossoms, they sat side by side, Arima absorbed in his drawing, while Kaori seemed lost in thought. After a few moments of silence, she finally spoke, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Arima… can I tell you something?"His heart raced as he looked up from his sketch.
"Of course. You can tell me anything."Kaori took a deep breath, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sweater.
"I haven't been feeling well for a while. I've been going to the hospital… for check-ups."Arima's breath caught in his throat.
"Check-ups? Why didn't you tell me?""I didn't want to worry you," she replied, her voice trembling slightly.
"But it's more serious than I thought. I might have to undergo surgery soon. It's… it's about my childhood illness."The world around them seemed to fade, the vibrant colors of the blossoms muted by the weight of her words.
Arima felt a rush of emotions—fear, concern, and a burning desire to be there for her.
"Kaori, you should have told me! I want to help you. You don't have to go through this alone."Her eyes filled with tears, and she shook her head.
"I didn't want to burden you. You're my best friend, Arima. I didn't want you to worry about me."
"Worrying is part of being friends," he insisted, taking her hands in his.
"You can count on me. I'll be there for you, no matter what.
"Kaori's expression softened, and for a moment, the weight on her shoulders seemed to lift slightly.
"Thank you, Arima. It means more to me than you know."