SS 10 A Valentine's Day Three Years in the Making

A Valentine’s Day Three Years in the Making

Endo’s PoV

I was called to the park where we used to play as kids—a place filled with memories.

Yumi was already there, sitting on the swing we always played on.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

As soon as I said that, her face lit up. Since it was exam season and attendance was flexible, she was in casual clothes—a stylish trench coat wrapped around her.

“You got here fast.”

Yumi waved at me with a bright smile.

“You must’ve been cold, Yumi. Damn, I should’ve grabbed some warm drinks from the convenience store. Hold on, I’ll go get some.”

Just as I was about to run off, she grasped my arm, stopping me in my tracks.

“Yumi?”

She shook her head.

“If you’re going somewhere, I want to go too. So, just wait a little.”

She murmured softly, her voice sweet. My heart pounded like a drum.

Something about her felt different today.

I nodded and sat on the swing beside her.

“It’s been a while since we spent Valentine’s Day together, huh?”

She smiled nostalgically.

“Yeah… not since our third year of middle school.”

Back then, I was completely withdrawn, and she still went out of her way to bring me chocolates.

“That day… I lied and said it was just obligatory chocolate. I’ve regretted it ever since. I was embarrassed, scared… It was the worst possible timing to say what I really felt. And after everything that happened, I thought I’d never get the chance to give you chocolates again. I was starting to give up.”

The swing swayed slowly as she gazed at the distant sunset.

“Yumi…”

Just as I was about to drown in guilt, she turned to me with a smile.

“That’s why… today, please let me make my dream come true.”

With a small “Hup!” she hopped off the swing, landing gracefully. The golden sunset framed her figure as she faced me.

“Thank you.”

“It’s too soon for that. Here, take this. I made it with three years’ worth of feelings I couldn’t give you before. This time, it’s real—it’s my heartfelt chocolate.”

I took the chocolate and gently wrapped her in my arms. (To be continued?)