The memory of their last outing still lingered in Sam's mind. He had spent the past few days replaying every little detail in his head—the way Mahiru laughed when they joked around, how her hand fit so perfectly in his, the warmth of her resting her head on his shoulder.
And the part he definitely couldn't forget?
The fact that he had cried.
Sam still cringed at the thought. It wasn't like he had sobbed uncontrollably, but the few tears of happiness that had slipped out were enough for Mahiru to tease him endlessly.
"You're such a softie," she had giggled the day after, nudging his arm.
"Am not," Sam grumbled, avoiding eye contact.
"You totally are. I mean, you literally cried because I said yes," she teased, a smug grin on her face.
"That was just—shut up," Sam muttered, his face burning.
Mahiru had only laughed harder.
But despite the embarrassment, he couldn't deny it—she had made him the happiest he had ever been.
And now, he was about to take another step forward.
Asking Her Out
Sam tapped his fingers against the table, glancing at Mahiru, who was focused on her book. They were at their usual café, the place where everything had started. The soft hum of background music filled the air, and the scent of coffee lingered around them.
This should be easy. He had already confessed his feelings. She had already said yes.
So why was he so nervous?
Clearing his throat, he tried to sound casual. "Hey, Mahiru?"
She hummed without looking up. "Hmm?"
"I was thinking… do you wanna go out this weekend?"
Mahiru finally looked up, tilting her head. "A date?"
Sam nodded, trying not to look too eager. "Yeah, I was thinking we could catch a movie. Maybe something romantic?"
A slow, teasing smirk spread across Mahiru's face. "Romantic, huh? Who are you and what have you done to Sam?"
Sam groaned. "It was just a suggestion! We can watch something else if you want."
Mahiru leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. "No, no. I like this version of you. Watching a romantic movie with my softie boyfriend? Sounds perfect."
Sam sighed. "I walked right into that one, didn't I?"
Mahiru winked. "Absolutely."
Despite her teasing, she was clearly excited. And that made Sam feel like he had made the right choice.
"Alright then," he said, pulling out his phone. "I'll book the tickets."
Mahiru nodded, sipping her coffee. "I can't wait. Just don't cry at the emotional parts, okay?"
Sam groaned again, but deep down, he couldn't help but smile.
This was really happening.
Their first official date.
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