Chapter 44 It's Not Over Yet, You Know?
It’s Not Over Yet, You Know?
After the nap, Kanade and I wandered through the memorial park.
We admired the scenery, played on the playground equipment like kids again, and simply enjoyed ourselves.
Then, after soaking in all that nature had to offer,
“Shall we head back now… Shintaro?”
Kanade said that to me, her voice tinged with hesitation.
She’s probably still not used to calling me by name.
Her cheeks flushed as she spoke, her embarrassed smile so endearing.
Normally, she’s so energetic that her shy demeanor felt unexpectedly fresh, tugging at my heartstrings.
Knowing how standoffish she used to be made it even more striking—and my heart raced.
…She’s really changed, hasn’t she?
Smiling softly at the thought, I responded with a question.
“Isn’t it a bit early? It’s only 5 PM.”
“Really? I think it’s just about right. The sun’s starting to set, after all.”
“Well, you’re not wrong, but still…”
For elementary school kids, heading home at this time makes sense.
There are valid reasons, like avoiding the dangers of walking in the dark or getting home in time for dinner.
But we’re adults now.
Even back when her family was stricter, Kanade never had a curfew.
And knowing her, I thought she’d find an excuse to stay out longer…
Hmm.
I don’t see why we’d need to leave so soon.
“Huh? You look like you’re wondering about something.”
“Well, yeah. Aren’t dates for adults supposed to really begin in the evening?”
“Ehh~? Saying ‘really begin in the evening’ sounds kinda… naughty, don’t you think?”
“That’s not what I meant―”
“Okay, okay. I get it~. Ariga-cchi, you were imagining something like a fancy dinner date, right?”
She poked my cheek and grinned mischievously, her smile utterly adorable.
And yet, she nailed it. All I could do was offer a wry smile.
Seriously, she’s always teasing me.
“But hey, Kanade… you were looking forward to this date, weren’t you?”
“Yeah! It’s been a dream date for me. I couldn’t even sleep the night before—I was too excited!”
“And yet, you still managed to wake up fine. Aren’t you tired?”
“Haha! When excitement fuels you, sleepiness doesn’t even exist. That’s what I call vitality!”
“Vitality, huh.”
“What? Not convinced? Think about it—when you’re excited about a trip, even if you stay up late the night before, you still manage to wake up for the first train, right? But waking up early to study? That’s impossible, isn’t it?”
“Now that you mention it, I guess you’re right.”
“Exactly! It all comes down to motivation!”
So, if you’re motivated enough, you won’t even feel sleepy.
She’s always had so much energy, hasn’t she?
Still, even if she says that, there’s a chance she’s just putting up a front.
Kanade tends to hide it when she’s pushing herself too hard.
That… makes me a little worried.
Thinking about how much Kanade was looking forward to today only strengthens the feeling that “I can’t let it end like this.”
“Hey, Kanade. If that’s the case, wouldn’t it be better to enjoy the date a bit more?”
“I’ve already enjoyed it plenty, though?”
“Really…?”
“I’m saying it, so it’s true! You don’t have to doubt it, Shi—Shintaro…”
“Don’t stumble over my name.”
“I-I didn’t stumble! Anyway, I’m just happy because I got to know more about Ariga-cchi!”
“What exactly did you learn about me…?”
“Fufufu~. That’s a secret!”
She giggled, sticking her tongue out playfully.
What on earth did she learn about me…?
But deciding it wasn’t anything bad, I sighed lightly and shrugged my shoulders.
“So… the date’s coming to an end.”
We hadn’t done anything particularly special today.
Aside from some fun on the playground equipment, we mostly strolled around leisurely.
Surrounded by nature, admiring the beautiful flowers…
We simply enjoyed the calming, refreshing ambiance.
We didn’t indulge in upscale sushi or fancy French cuisine, nor did we drive to see the night view or exchange gifts.
None of that happened.
Honestly, it was my first time having such a quiet, uneventful date.
Yet, somehow…
Why does my heart feel so at ease and fulfilled?
Warm, content…
—I realized I really like dates like this.
As the thought crossed my mind, a natural smile spread across my lips.
“…It’s sad for it to end.”
I murmured those words without thinking.
Hearing me, Kanade gave me a bright, carefree smile.
Then, as if asking for a handshake, she extended her hand.
“What are you talking about? Sure, we’re heading back, but the date isn’t over yet!”
“Huh?”
“That’s why, Shintarou, let’s go!”
Her dazzling smile was so captivating, I couldn’t look away.
Before I even realized it, I had taken her outstretched hand in mine.