Aoi woke up from her sleep next day morning. Her head was hurting. She was barely opening hen eyes at first. Then she tried to sit up. And she sat up too. She saw that Kaito was sleeping on her right side.

  He was sleeping on her arm. She patted his head. His sleep had broken. He got up from his sleep. And on the other side, she couldn’t recognize the place because she hadn’t seen this place. He then sat on the chair.

  She asked, “Where am!?”

  He replied, “Of course. In my house.”

  She shocked, “Your house!”

  “Yeah!” he replied casually.

  “Why did you bring me here?” She snapped.

  “It’s for your own good. How can I let you stay there in that condition?” he replied.

  This time she did not say anything. She was blushing. Her ears turned crimson red. Also it had shown in her face.

  He said , “Have you feeling sick again?” He put his palm in to her forehead to measure her temperature.

  She didn’t let him measure her temperature. She hid her face under the blanket. She was all blushed up. Looking at her, he was smiling faintly.

  Then his mother entered the room. She said, “All ready wake up?”

  Aoi looked at her. That moment, Kaori also entered with Kaguya and Haruto. They were there, too. They all were curious. Because it's first time that Kaito brought someone and calling her as his friend. It was unusual for them.

  Kaito said, “I’m going to get fresh and take your time.” He looked at Aoi.

  He said to her, “Be careful about your decision.” Then he took his leave and went downstairs.

  Kaguya and Kaori sat on the each side of Aoi’s. They started talking to each other. Haruto was just watching. Though Kaito’s mother didn’t talk much, she had asked one or two question to her.

  At first Aoi greeted to everyone. She was thinking at first it would be good to tell them about her true identity. Then she remembered Kaito’s word. After that without hesitation she confessed about her identity.

  She thought everyone would get afraid of her. But that had not happened. They all accepted her as she was. She felt relief though she had some fear inside herself.

  Those two girls, Kaguya and Kaori started getting along with Aoi quite good. Kaito’s mother went to downstairs. She noticed that her son was cooking.

  His mother, “What are you doing my lovely boy?”

  “Nothing. Just making soup for her,” he replied.

  She teased, “For whom?”

  “Don’t tease me mom! You know I am making for Aoi,” he grinned.

  They all came downstairs. He noticed that they all were getting along with Aoi. His tension had gone. Then he have no tension and took a deep breath.

  He then served soup for everyone. They ate the soup and said that it was delicious.

  Kaguya teased, “When did you become a good cooker?” Though Kaito avoided her.

  Kaori said, “Why don’t you all go to a trip? It is already summer vacation. Let’s enjoy it, shall we?”

  Kaito murmured, “Trip?” Kaguya and Haruto was also agreed.

  Kaito nodded, “What do you think, Mom?”

  “It’s up to you, my lovely boy. Nowadays, young’s are so friendly and dependent, you know?” his mother replied.

  Then he said ok. They made decisions to select the places they want to see and also planned to leave by then the tomorrow.

  But they need to choose that cloth for trip. So they thought they should buy some clothes. The planned that they would go for shopping that evening.

  The bustling streets of Takayama were alive with energy as Kaito, his sister Kaori, their mother Shirayuki, and friends Kaguya, Haruto, and Akari walked into a sprawling department store.

  With their school trip coming up, everyone was eager to pick outfits suitable for their planned destinations.

  The girls headed straight to the women’s section, their chatter filled with excitement. Kaori picked out a flowing floral sundress, perfect for strolling through Kyoto’s serene gardens, while Akari was drawn to a chic high-waisted skirt paired with a lace blouse. Kaguya held up a fitted red cheongsam-style dress, giving it an approving nod.

  “I think this would be great for Ginza,” Kaguya remarked, twirling the dress in her hands.

  Shirayuki, with her youthful elegance, effortlessly drew everyone’s attention. She tried on a variety of outfits: a sleek black cocktail dress, a pastel jumpsuit, and a vibrant floral yukata. Each one seemed to accentuate her youthful glow, leaving Kaito flustered.

  “Mom, that’s… maybe a bit much,” Kaito stammered, his face turning red when Shirayuki stepped out in a swimsuit. It was a tasteful navy-blue two-piece with a flowing sheer sarong, but on her, it seemed almost too perfect.

  “You think it’s too much?” Shirayuki teased, giving a playful spin. “Or maybe I just look too good?”

  Kaito turned away, muttering, “Just… pick something else already!”

  His face burned red as Shirayuki continued to try on dress after dress, each one more dazzling than the last.

  She slipped into a fitted emerald green gown, and the way it hugged her figure made Kaito’s throat dry.

  “Seriously, Mom, do you have to look this… um, flashy?” he mumbled, avoiding eye contact as her chest subtly bounced when she adjusted the straps of a dress.

  Shirayuki gave him a playful smirk. “Flashy? Are you saying I look too young and beautiful?”

  “Wha—? That’s not what I meant!” Kaito stammered, his ears burning as he waved his hands frantically.

  She looked impossibly elegant, even in casual outfits, her natural beauty and confidence shining through. Kaito couldn’t help but think that even at her age, she looked so stunning it was hard not to notice.

  “Mom, just pick something already before someone thinks I’m weird for standing here,” he grumbled.

  He was trying to bury his embarrassment. Shirayuki simply laughed, clearly enjoying her son’s flustered reaction.

  He thought, “What time has come, even nowadays, my own mother looks hot and sexy! Where have I stuck in? How lucky my evil uncle was!”

  He suddenly banged his head against the wall and thought, “What am I even thinking? She is your mother, you idiot!”

  Meanwhile, Akari, who had been quietly browsing the racks, finally stepped forward with a few dresses in hand. The first was a pale pink midi dress with lace sleeves, giving her an elegant and soft look.

  She twirled slightly in front of the mirror and asked, “What do you think? Too plain?”

  Haruto adjusted his hat, trying to keep his composure. “It’s… uh… nice. Very modest,” he managed, looking anywhere but directly at her.

  Next, Akari tried a white sundress with thin straps, the light fabric flowing around her.

  The simplicity of the dress contrasted with her natural grace, making her look effortlessly charming.

  Kaito, however, froze when he noticed the dress highlighted her slender figure.

  “I-It’s fine,” Kaito muttered, quickly looking away. “You don’t have to keep asking me, though.”

  Akari smiled knowingly and moved on to a fitted navy dress with a high neckline but an open back. Haruto blinked in surprise, his usually calm demeanor faltering. “That one’s… bold,” he commented, avoiding her gaze.

  Finally, Akari emerged in a sleeveless emerald green dress that brought out her hazel eyes. Haruto coughed awkwardly while Kaito scratched the back of his head, muttering, “It’s a good colour on you. Just pick that one or something already.”

  Akari giggled softly. “You two are terrible at this. I’ll just decide on my own.” She disappeared back into the fitting room, leaving Kaito and Haruto both silently thankful for the break yet oddly flustered by her choices.

  Meanwhile, Aoi had picked a sporty halter-style bikini in mint green, while Kaguya tried a sleek black one-piece with side cutouts.

  Akari chose another ruffled yellow bikini that gave off a playful vibe. They laughed and teased each other about their choices, occasionally asking Kaito for his opinion, which left him equally flustered.

  “Why are you asking me? Just wear whatever you want!” Kaito exclaimed, trying to avoid looking directly at them.

  As the group moved away from the swimwear section, Aoi and Kaguya decided to browse more casual dresses, pulling Kaito along as their reluctant audience.

  Aoi picked out a light blue sundress with a delicate floral pattern and spun around in front of the mirror. The soft fabric hugged her figure perfectly, and the hem fluttered with her movements.

  Her chest bounced subtly as she turned to Kaito. “What do you think? Too simple?” she asked, tilting her head.

  Kaito’s face turned crimson as his eyes darted away. “I-It’s fine! Just… pick something already,” he mumbled, trying to focus on a random rack of clothing.

  Kaguya, not one to be outdone, stepped out of the fitting room in a sleek, off-shoulder black dress with a slit up the side.

  The dress accentuated her curves, and she flipped her hair over her shoulder confidently. “Well, Kaito? How do I look?” she teased, her chest shifting slightly as she adjusted the neckline.

  Kaito’s ears turned bright red as he stammered, “I-I don’t know! You both look fine, okay? Just stop asking me!”

  But the girls weren’t done yet. Aoi returned in a fitted red dress with a sweetheart neckline, the vibrant colour making her look even more striking.

  Kaguya followed with a deep green dress that highlighted her emerald eyes, the silky fabric clinging to her figure in all the right places.

  Kaito glanced at them both and immediately regretted it. His heart pounded as he quickly looked away, muttering, “Why do you even need my opinion? Just buy whatever you want!”

  Aoi smirked, noticing his flustered reaction. “What’s wrong, Kaito? Don’t you like it?”

  Kaguya joined in, stepping closer to him. “Yeah, Kaito. You’ve been awfully quiet. Are we too much for you to handle?”

  “I’m not answering that!” Kaito snapped, his face burning. He crossed his arms and turned his back to them. “Just… stop showing me stuff like that. You’re both making this way too weird.”

  The girls laughed, clearly enjoying his embarrassment, as they picked out their final choices and headed to the checkout. Kaito, still blushing furiously, couldn’t shake the image of how stunning they looked from his mind.”

  Kaito thought, “Where did I get stuck? Instead having fun I’m stuck into this two elegant... Hot... Beautiful girls!”

  After the girls had their fill of trying on dresses, yukatas, and swimsuits, they moved to the boys’ section. Haruto immediately picked a casual set of board shorts and a Hawaiian shirt, declaring it his “beach look.”

  Kaito, still recovering from the earlier embarrassment, picked a simple white linen shirt with beige shorts, perfect for the seaside.

  “Try this,” Kaguya said, holding up a light blue button-up shirt and khaki pants for Kaito.

  “That’s too formal,” Kaito protested, but Akari and Kaori chimed in, insisting it looked great on him.

  Shirayuki joined in with her own suggestions, pulling out a sleek blazer for Kaito to wear during the shrine visits. “You’ll look so handsome in this,” she said, her motherly pride shining through.

  By the time they were done, everyone had a pile of clothes ready for their upcoming trip. The group left the store, bags in hand, already laughing about their fashion experiments and looking forward to the adventures that awaited them.

  The morning sun filtered through the station’s glass panels as Kaito and Haruto stood near the entrance, waiting for the others. Kaito adjusted his light blue hoodie, paired with black jeans and white sneakers. Haruto, ever casual, wore a gray t-shirt under a denim jacket with beige pants and brown loafers.

  This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

  “Do you think they’re running late?” Haruto asked, checking his watch.

  Kaito shrugged. “Kaori probably insisted on triple-checking everything. You know how she is.”

  Just then, they spotted Kaito’s mother, Shirayuki, approaching with Kaori and Aoi in tow. Shirayuki, dressed elegantly in a white blouse and navy-blue skirt, waved at them. Her light brown hair, tied in a loose bun, gave her a graceful, motherly appearance.

  Kaori, Kaito’s younger sister, was full of energy, skipping ahead in her pastel pink dress and matching sneakers. She had a small backpack slung over one shoulder, decorated with keychains.

  Aoi followed behind, her light steps almost ethereal. She wore a pale lavender cardigan over a white dress that flowed just above her knees. Her brown boots and a matching sling bag completed her outfit, giving her an understated charm that made Kaito’s heart skip a beat.

  “You two are early for a change,” Shirayuki remarked with a smile.

  “Haruto insisted,” Kaito replied, nudging his friend.

  “Better than being late,” Haruto quipped.

  They waited a few more minutes before Kaguya and Akari arrived together. Kaguya, calm and composed, wore a fitted black turtleneck with a plaid skirt and knee-high boots. Her dark hair was tied back in a low ponytail, and a pair of silver earrings glinted in the sunlight.

  Akari, in contrast, exuded a cheerful energy. She wore a yellow sweater tucked into high-waisted jeans, paired with white sneakers. Her shoulder-length hair was left loose, bouncing with each step.

  “Sorry if we kept you waiting!” Akari said, slightly out of breath.

  “Not at all,” Shirayuki assured her. “Let’s head to the platform.”

  The train ride was filled with laughter and chatter. They had secured seats by the window, and Kaori couldn’t contain her excitement. She pressed her face against the glass, pointing out every little detail as the cityscape passed by.

  “This is going to be so much fun!” she exclaimed.

  Aoi smiled softly, her gaze drifting to the passing scenery. “It’s my first time visiting Shibuya Sky,” she said.

  “You’ll love it,” Haruto said. “The view is incredible.”

  Kaito watched Aoi’s reflection in the window, a small smile tugging at his lips.

  When they arrived at Shibuya, the streets were alive with the hum of the city. The group made their way to Shibuya Sky, the iconic observation deck that offered a panoramic view of Tokyo.

  As they stepped onto the glass-floored deck, the breath-taking sight unfolded before them. The sprawling city stretched out in every direction, a sea of buildings shimmering under the sunlight. The famous Shibuya Crossing looked like a choreographed dance from this height.

  Kaori ran to the edge, gripping the railing. “This is amazing! It’s like being on top of the world!”

  Aoi stood quietly beside Kaito, her hands resting on the railing. Her hair fluttered in the breeze as she gazed out at the horizon. “It’s beautiful,” she said, her voice soft.

  Kaito glanced at her, his heart catching at the peaceful expression on her face. “Yeah, it is.”

  Haruto and Akari were busy taking photos, while Kaguya stood with Shirayuki, discussing the city landmarks visible from their vantage point.

  “This trip was a great idea,” Shirayuki said.

  “It’s the perfect break,” Kaguya agreed, her usual seriousness softened by the serene view.

  As the sun climbed higher, the group posed for pictures together, their laughter echoing in the open air. The moment felt timeless—a memory they would carry with them long after the day was done.

  By the time they descended from Shibuya Sky, the group was energized, ready to explore more of Tokyo. But for now, they took a moment to savour the beauty they had witnessed, their bonds strengthened by the shared experience.

  After their mesmerizing experience at Shibuya Sky, the group decided it was time to check into their hotel before continuing their Tokyo adventure. Shirayuki led the way, carrying a printed itinerary in her neatly organized travel pouch.

  The hotel, located in the heart of Tokyo, was modern and welcoming. Its sleek lobby boasted polished floors and minimalist decor. Aoi admired the design, her gaze lingering on the large glass windows overlooking the bustling streets below.

  At the reception desk, Shirayuki handled the booking while the others waited in the lounge area.

  “Two rooms,” Shirayuki announced as she returned. “One for the boys and one for the girls.”

  Kaori groaned. “I wanted to share a room with Kaito.”

  “Not happening,” Kaito said with a grin.

  After collecting their key cards, they headed to their respective rooms. The boys’ room had a view of the city skyline, while the girls’ room overlooked a small park. Everyone took a moment to freshen up and change before heading out again.

  By late afternoon, the group found themselves in Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. The streets were lined with luxury boutiques, high-end department stores, and sleek cafes. The district buzzed with an air of sophistication.

  Kaito, now wearing a black jacket over his white shirt and jeans, stuck close to the group as they wandered through the polished streets. Aoi, in a light beige trench coat over her dress, looked like she belonged in a fashion magazine.

  “Ginza is so fancy,” Akari said, her eyes wide as she admired the sparkling shop windows. She wore a bright red cardigan that matched her cheerful demeanor.

  “It’s a bit intimidating,” Haruto admitted, glancing at the designer stores.

  Kaori, however, was fearless. “Let’s go inside!” she said, dragging Aoi and Akari into a boutique. The boys waited outside, chatting with Shirayuki and Kaguya.

  When the girls emerged, Kaori was clutching a small bag with a satisfied grin. “Souvenirs,” she declared.

  “Kaori, you’re spending money already?” Kaito teased.

  “Of course! It’s Ginza!”

  As the sun set, the group decided to try one of Ginza’s renowned restaurants for dinner. Shirayuki led them to a cozy yet elegant spot specializing in sushi. The warm lighting and tranquil atmosphere offered a welcome break from the bustling streets outside.

  They sat at a large table, and as the food arrived, conversations flowed freely. Kaito noticed Aoi quietly observing the others, her smile faint but genuine.

  “Are you enjoying the trip so far?” he asked her.

  Aoi nodded. “It’s been wonderful. Thank you for inviting me.”

  Kaito smiled. “I’m glad you came.”

  Kaori interrupted, waving a piece of sushi in the air. “Try this, Aoi! It’s amazing!”

  Laughter filled the room as they shared stories and food. The day had been long, but the memories they created together were priceless.

  As they left the restaurant, the group strolled through Ginza, admiring the city lights. Kaito walked beside Aoi, their footsteps in sync.

  “Tokyo is beautiful at night,” Aoi said softly.

  “Yeah,” Kaito agreed, glancing at her. “But I think it’s better with the right company.”

  Aoi’s cheeks turned faintly pink, but she didn’t reply, a small smile tugging at her lips.

  The group eventually returned to the hotel, exhausted yet exhilarated. As they settled in for the night, their thoughts were filled with anticipation for what the next day in Tokyo would bring.

  The train ride to Asakusa was quieter than the earlier journey. The group, energized by their time in Ginza, now felt a sense of calm anticipation as they neared the historic Senso-ji Temple.

  As they stepped off the train, the atmosphere shifted. The bustling energy of modern Tokyo gave way to a serene yet vibrant environment. The streets were lined with traditional shops selling everything from handmade crafts to steaming bowls of noodles. Lanterns swayed gently in the breeze, casting a warm glow.

  “This place feels different,” Aoi remarked, her eyes wide as she took in the surroundings. She now wore a soft green scarf draped over her beige trench coat, the chilly evening air adding a touch of crispness to the atmosphere.

  “It’s like stepping back in time,” Haruto added, adjusting his jacket.

  Shirayuki smiled. “That’s the charm of Asakusa. Let’s head to the temple.”

  As they approached Senso-ji, the grand entrance gate, Kaminarimon, stood tall and imposing. Its giant red lantern was a sight to behold. Kaori raced ahead, her pink coat billowing behind her.

  “Wait up, Kaori!” Kaito called, jogging to keep up.

  The group walked through Nakamise Street, a lively market leading up to the temple. Kaori stopped at nearly every stall, marveling at the trinkets and snacks.

  “Look at this!” she exclaimed, holding up a small wind chime decorated with cherry blossoms.

  “Don’t buy the whole market,” Kaito teased.

  Aoi lingered near a stall selling traditional sweets. Kaito noticed her hesitation.

  “Do you want one?” he asked.

  She nodded shyly. “The taiyaki looks delicious.”

  Kaito smiled and bought two, handing one to her. “Here. It’s on me.”

  “Thank you,” Aoi said, her cheeks flushed.

  As they reached the main temple grounds, the sun was beginning to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and purple. The temple’s pagoda and the incense-filled air created an almost ethereal atmosphere.

  The group took their time exploring, lighting incense sticks and saying quiet prayers. Shirayuki and Kaguya explained some of the temple’s history to the others, their voices calm and reverent.

  Haruto tried to capture the perfect photo of the pagoda, while Akari posed dramatically in front of it. “How’s this?” she asked, making everyone laugh.

  The group gathered near a small pavilion after exploring the temple. The evening was quiet, the hum of the city far in the background.

  “This has been the perfect way to end the day,” Shirayuki said, her voice filled with contentment.

  “I agree,” Kaguya added. “There’s something peaceful about this place.”

  Aoi sat beside Kaito on a stone bench, her hands clasped together. “Thank you for inviting me,” she said softly.

  Kaito glanced at her, his expression thoughtful. “I’m glad you came. It wouldn’t have been the same without you.”

  Their quiet moment was interrupted by Kaori, who skipped over with a grin. “We should take a group photo before we leave!”

  The photo was taken in front of the temple, with the pagoda glowing softly in the background. Their smiles reflected the joy of the day.

  As they made their way back to the hotel, the group walked slowly, savoring the calmness of the night.

  Kaito walked beside Aoi, their steps in sync once more. “You seemed really happy at the temple,” he said.

  Aoi nodded. “It felt... peaceful. Like I belonged there.”

  Kaito glanced at her, a soft smile on his lips. “You make everything feel peaceful, Aoi.”

  Her cheeks turned pink again, and she looked away, but the smile on her face lingered.

  Back at the hotel, the group gathered in the boys’ room to share their favorite moments from the day. Laughter filled the room, their bonds growing stronger with each passing moment.

  As the night deepened, Kaito stood by the window, looking out at the city lights. The day had been perfect, but something about Aoi’s quiet presence stayed with him.

  Tomorrow promised new adventures, but for now, he was content, surrounded by friends, family, and the magic of Tokyo.

  The sun rose early the next morning, casting a golden glow over the Tokyo skyline. The group, still buzzing from their adventures the day before, gathered in the hotel lobby, ready for their day trip to Gunma.

  “Gunma is famous for its hot springs,” Shirayuki explained as they boarded the train. “It’s also a great place to enjoy the countryside and relax.”

  “Relaxing sounds good after all that walking yesterday,” Haruto said, stretching his arms.

  Kaori grinned. “As long as there’s good food, I’m happy!”

  The train ride was scenic, with the bustling city gradually giving way to green hills and wide-open spaces. Aoi sat by the window, her gaze fixed on the landscape as it passed. Kaito, sitting beside her, noticed her serene expression.

  “You seem excited,” he said.

  “I’ve never been to a hot spring before,” Aoi admitted, her voice soft.

  Kaito smiled. “You’ll love it. It’s the perfect way to unwind.”

  The group arrived at a picturesque onsen (hot spring) nestled at the foot of a mountain. The traditional wooden buildings, surrounded by vibrant greenery, exuded a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

  After checking in, they were each given yukatas to wear.

  Kaori twirled in her pastel pink yukata. “How do I look?” she asked, striking a dramatic pose.

  “Like you’re about to perform in a historical drama,” Kaito teased, earning a playful slap on the arm.

  Aoi’s yukata was a soft lavender color, which complemented her gentle demeanor. Kaito couldn’t help but notice how radiant she looked.

  “You look great,” he said quietly.

  Aoi’s cheeks turned pink. “Thank you.”

  The group separated into the men’s and women’s baths. The hot springs were outdoors, surrounded by lush trees and the soothing sounds of nature.

  “This is heaven,” Haruto sighed, sinking into the warm water.

  Kaito leaned back against a smooth rock, letting the tension melt from his body. “I could stay here forever.”

  Meanwhile, in the women’s bath, Kaori was chatting animatedly with Akari and Kaguya.

  “This is amazing!” Kaori said, splashing water playfully.

  Aoi sat quietly, letting the warmth envelop her. “It feels... peaceful,” she murmured, more to herself than anyone else.

  “You’ve been really quiet, Aoi,” Kaguya said gently. “Are you okay?”

  Aoi nodded. “I’m just... enjoying the moment.”

  After the hot springs, the group changed back into their casual clothes and set out to explore the countryside. The air was crisp and filled with the scent of wildflowers. Rolling hills stretched into the horizon, dotted with traditional houses and rice fields.

  “This is so different from Tokyo,” Akari said, snapping photos on her phone.

  Haruto nodded. “It’s like a whole other world.”

  The group followed a winding path that led to a small wooden bridge overlooking a sparkling stream. Aoi stopped to watch the water, her eyes reflecting the sunlight.

  “It’s beautiful,” she said softly.

  Kaito joined her, leaning on the railing. “Yeah. It reminds me of those old postcards my mom collects.”

  Aoi turned to him. “Thank you for bringing me here. This trip has been... unforgettable.”

  Kaito met her gaze, a soft smile playing on his lips. “I’m glad you’re here, Aoi. It wouldn’t be the same without you.”

  As the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, the group gathered at a small local restaurant. They enjoyed hearty bowls of soba noodles and freshly grilled fish.

  Shirayuki raised her cup of green tea. “To another perfect day.”

  “To another perfect day!” the group echoed, clinking their cups together.

  Later that evening, as they walked back to their lodging, the countryside was bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. Fireflies danced in the fields, their tiny lights flickering like stars.

  Kaito walked beside Aoi, their footsteps crunching softly on the gravel path.

  “You seem different here,” Kaito said.

  Aoi tilted her head. “Different?”

  “More... at ease. Like this place suits you.”

  Aoi smiled, her expression wistful. “Maybe it does. Or maybe it’s the people I’m with.”

  Kaito didn’t reply, but the warmth in her words stayed with him as they continued walking, the night around them quiet and full of possibilities.

  That evening, as everyone drifted off to sleep, the memories of Gunma lingered in their hearts, a perfect blend of relaxation, beauty, and the bonds they shared.

  The next day in Gunma began with a tranquil start. The soft chirping of birds and the golden sunlight streaming through paper screens woke the group gently.

  Kaori yawned as she stretched, her energy already bubbling. “Let’s make the most of today! There’s still so much to see!”

  Shirayuki smiled. “I heard there’s a hidden trail nearby that leads to a waterfall. It’s a local secret.”

  “Sounds perfect,” Kaguya said, tying her hair into a ponytail. “Let’s start with that.”

  The group followed a narrow, winding path through a dense forest. The air was fresh, the earthy scent of damp soil mixing with the faint aroma of wildflowers.

  “This place feels magical,” Akari said, snapping pictures of the sunlight filtering through the trees.

  Haruto, leading the way, paused as they neared the sound of rushing water. “I think we’re close.”

  When they arrived, the sight took their breath away. A pristine waterfall cascaded into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and vibrant greenery.

  “Wow...” Aoi whispered, her eyes wide.

  Kaito stepped beside her. “It’s like something out of a dream.”

  Kaori immediately kicked off her shoes and splashed into the shallow edges of the pool. “This is amazing!”

  The others followed suit, laughing as they dipped their feet into the cool water. Aoi hesitated at first but joined in after Kaito encouraged her. Her laughter, rare and melodious, filled the air.

  After the waterfall, they ventured into a small, rustic village nestled in the hills. The wooden houses with their tiled roofs and flower-filled gardens seemed untouched by time.

  The group wandered through the narrow lanes, greeting friendly locals who offered them tea and sweets.

  “This feels like stepping into another era,” Kaguya said, admiring the handmade pottery displayed outside a shop.

  Haruto picked up a small, hand-carved wooden bird. “These souvenirs are incredible. I’m definitely taking this home.”

  Near the village, they found a scenic spot overlooking a wide valley. The group decided to have an impromptu picnic. Shirayuki had packed snacks, and they bought fresh fruit and rice balls from the village.

  Sitting on a grassy hill, they enjoyed the food while soaking in the stunning view.

  “Gunma has such a calming vibe,” Aoi said, leaning back on her hands.

  Kaito nodded, watching her as the wind played with her hair. “It’s a nice change from Tokyo’s hustle and bustle.”

  Kaori, chewing on an apple, grinned. “And the food tastes better here!”

  Before heading back to their lodging, the group decided to visit another onsen recommended by the locals. This one was tucked away in a quiet corner, offering open-air baths with a breath-taking view of the mountains at sunset.

  As they soaked in the warm water, the group fell into a comfortable silence, the only sounds being the rustling leaves and the occasional bird call.

  “This is the definition of peace,” Akari said, her voice soft.

  Aoi closed her eyes, the warmth of the water soothing her. “I wish moments like these could last forever.”

  After dinner at a cozy ryokan, the group decided to take a final stroll under the starlit sky.

  Fireflies once again illuminated the path, their glow enchanting. Kaito and Aoi lagged behind the others, their footsteps slow and deliberate.

  “This trip has been unforgettable,” Aoi said, breaking the silence.

  Kaito glanced at her. “It’s not just the place. It’s the people you’re with that make it special.”

  Aoi smiled, her gaze fixed on the distant mountains. “Thank you for making me feel... included.”

  “You’re not just included, Aoi. You’re... important,” Kaito said, his voice sincere.

  Aoi looked at him, her expression unreadable but her cheeks slightly pink.

  Back at their lodging, the group gathered in the common area, recounting their favorite moments of the day.

  “The waterfall was definitely the highlight,” Haruto said.

  “For me, it was the onsen,” Kaguya added.

  Kaori grinned. “Everything! How can I choose just one?”

  As the laughter and chatter died down, they retreated to their rooms, their hearts full and spirits light.

  Gunma had given them not just beautiful memories but a deeper bond with one another—a day they would always cherish.