The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Mahiru's hometown. After a long day of exploring childhood spots (and Mahiru relentlessly teasing Sam about the haunted shrine incident), the evening had finally arrived.
Sam stretched his arms as he leaned against the doorway of Mahiru's house. "So, what's the plan for tonight?"
Mahiru turned to him with a bright smile. "The summer festival! I was thinking we could go together."
Sam smirked. "You just wanted an excuse to see me in a yukata, didn't you?"
Mahiru crossed her arms. "Hah, as if! I knew you wouldn't wear one, so I didn't even bother suggesting it."
Sam chuckled. "Good call."
Mahiru grinned. "But I am wearing one, so you better prepare yourself."
With that, she disappeared into her room to get ready.
By the time Mahiru stepped out, Sam was casually scrolling through his phone, but the second he glanced up, all thoughts left his mind.
Mahiru stood before him in a soft pastel-colored yukata, decorated with delicate floral patterns. Her long brown hair was swept into an elegant updo, with a small ornamental pin securing it in place. The warm glow of the lanterns outside illuminated her face, making her look almost unreal.
Sam blinked, momentarily forgetting how to breathe.
"You… wow."
Mahiru blushed, fidgeting slightly. "W-What?"
"You look… stunning," he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck.
Mahiru smiled shyly, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Thank you. You don't look too bad yourself."
Sam chuckled. "Yeah, but now I feel underdressed standing next to you."
Mahiru giggled. "That's your fault for refusing a yukata."
Sam rolled his eyes playfully. "Alright, alright. Can we go before your dad changes his mind about letting me go with you."
Mahiru laughed and took his hand. "Okay, okay, let's go."
The festival was alive with vibrant colors, glowing paper lanterns, and the scent of delicious street food filling the air. Laughter and cheerful chatter echoed around them as they walked through the lively streets.
"This brings back memories," Mahiru said, glancing around. "I used to come here every year with my parents."
Sam glanced at her. "And here you are, bringing your boyfriend this time."
Mahiru blushed. "D-Don't say it like that."
Sam smirked. "What? It's the truth."
She nudged him playfully but didn't deny it.
They wandered through the festival stalls, stopping to play games and try different foods.
Sam attempted the goldfish scooping game, only for his paper scoop to immediately break.
Mahiru laughed. "You're terrible at this!"
"Excuse me, I wasn't prepared for fragile equipment," Sam defended.
"Here, let me show you how it's done."
Mahiru gracefully scooped up a small goldfish with ease, grinning triumphantly.
Sam pouted. "Yeah, yeah. Show-off."
"Don't be jealous just because I have superior skills."
"Superior luck, you mean."
She giggled and handed the bowl with the fish to him.
"Fine, you can be its dad now."
Sam sighed. "Great, now I have a child."
Mahiru laughed, linking her arm with his as they continued exploring.
As the night deepened, they made their way to the riverbank, where festival-goers had gathered for the grand fireworks display.
Mahiru sat down on the grassy hill, and Sam sat beside her, their shoulders touching.
The first firework shot into the sky, exploding into a brilliant burst of color. Mahiru's eyes sparkled as she watched, the warm glow of the lights reflecting in them.
"It's beautiful," she murmured.
Sam, however, wasn't looking at the fireworks. He was looking at her.
"Yeah… it really is," he said softly.
Mahiru noticed his gaze and blushed. "D-Don't stare at me like that!"
Sam chuckled. "Can't help it."
Mahiru huffed, but instead of pulling away, she leaned her head against his shoulder.
"You know, there's a saying that if you make a wish during the fireworks, it'll come true," she said.
"Oh? Did you make one?"
Mahiru hesitated before nodding. "Yeah."
Sam smiled. "What did you wish for?"
Mahiru turned to him, her golden-brown eyes filled with warmth.
"That we'll always be together."
Sam felt his heart swell.
He gently took her hand, intertwining their fingers.
"Then I guess we had the same wish."
As the fireworks continued to light up the sky, Sam leaned in and placed a soft kiss on Mahiru's forehead.
"No matter where we go, no matter what happens… I'll always be by your side."
Mahiru squeezed his hand, her eyes shining.
"Me too."
And with that, they sat together under the starry sky, hearts beating in sync, as the festival lights danced around them.
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