In the small town of Kaerimichi, known for its tranquil gardens and quiet streets, Seiryo and Misa first crossed paths in high school. It was early spring, and cherry blossoms covered the town in a soft pink blanket. Seiryo was a quiet and introspective boy, often seen reading by himself in the school library or wandering the town's less-traveled paths. He was content with solitude, finding comfort in the company of books and the beauty of nature.
One afternoon, Seiryo's life took an unexpected turn. He was sitting alone in the literature club, reading a collection of poetry, when Misa walked through the door. She was a new student, introduced by the teacher with a shy smile on her face. There was something about her—perhaps the way her hair framed her face or the warmth in her voice—that caught Seiryo's attention. She was invited to join the literature club, and over the following weeks, the two found themselves slowly becoming friends.
Misa was different from anyone Seiryo had ever known. She was full of life, a lover of simple joys—pressed flowers, sunsets, and songs hummed under her breath. They spent afternoons discussing their favorite books, taking long walks through the town's narrow alleys, and occasionally meeting under the cherry blossom trees that lined the riverbank. With Misa, everything seemed a little brighter, a little more alive. For the first time, Seiryo felt understood, seen, and valued.
But Seiryo's feelings for Misa soon deepened beyond friendship. He was captivated by the way her eyes sparkled when she laughed, the kindness in her words, and the gentle way she appreciated every moment. He found himself wanting to be near her more often, to share more of himself with her. Yet, his shyness held him back, keeping his love hidden.