The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow across the city. Izuna woke up feeling refreshed, the morning breeze filtering through his window. Today was a special day, although he wasn’t entirely sure why it felt that way. He got up, stretched, and headed to the kitchen to make himself some coffee. As he sipped on the warm drink, his phone buzzed.

  It was a message from Airi.

  Airi wrote, “Good morning, Izuna! Are you free today? I wanted to talk about something.”

  Izuna’s heart skipped a beat. Airi rarely initiated plans, so this piqued his curiosity. He quickly typed back.

  Izuna replied, “Good morning! Yeah, I’m free. What’s up?”

  Airi’s reply came almost instantly.

  Airi asked, “Can we meet at the park near our apartment in an hour?”

  Izuna smiled, wondering what she wanted to discuss. He quickly got ready, choosing a casual outfit: a navy blue shirt, black jeans, and white sneakers. Before leaving, he glanced in the mirror, running a hand through his hair to make sure he looked presentable.

  Meanwhile, Airi was already at the park, sitting on a bench under a large oak tree. She wore a light pink dress that fluttered slightly in the breeze, paired with white sandals. Her hair was neatly tied into a low ponytail, and she nervously played with the hem of her dress as she waited.

  When Izuna arrived, he spotted her immediately. The sight of her sitting there, bathed in sunlight, made his heart race. He walked up to her with a warm smile.

  “Hey, Airi,” he said, taking a seat beside her. “What’s going on?”

  Airi glanced at him, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Thanks for coming, Izuna. I just... needed someone to talk to.”

  Izuna tilted his head, concern evident in his expression. “Of course. You can always talk to me. What’s on your mind?”

  Airi hesitated for a moment before speaking. “I’ve been thinking a lot about... us.”

  Izuna’s eyes widened slightly, but he remained silent, letting her continue.

  “We’ve been spending so much time together lately, and it’s been wonderful,” Airi said, her voice soft. “But I’ve also been wondering... where is this going? Are we just friends, or... is there something more?”

  Izuna’s heart thudded in his chest. He hadn’t expected Airi to bring this up so directly, but he admired her honesty. Taking a deep breath, he looked into her eyes.

  “Airi,” he began, his voice steady, “I’ve been wondering the same thing. Being with you feels natural, like it’s the most effortless thing in the world. And honestly, I think... I like you. More than just a friend.”

  Airi’s eyes widened, her cheeks turning a deeper shade of pink. “You... you do?”

  Izuna nodded. “I’ve liked you for a while now, but I wasn’t sure if I should say anything. I didn’t want to risk ruining what we already have.”

  Airi looked down at her hands, her mind racing. After a moment, she smiled softly. “I like you too, Izuna. I was just too scared to admit it.”

  Relief washed over Izuna, and he couldn’t help but grin. “Well, I’m glad we finally cleared that up.”

  They both laughed, the tension dissipating as a sense of warmth filled the air between them. For a while, they simply sat there, enjoying the moment.

  As the day went on, the two decided to take a walk around the park. They talked about everything and nothing, their conversations flowing easily. At one point, they passed a small ice cream stand, and Izuna insisted on buying them both a cone.

  As they sat by a fountain, enjoying their ice cream, Izuna couldn’t help but feel grateful for this moment. Airi had become such an important part of his life, and now that their feelings were out in the open, he felt a sense of clarity he hadn’t experienced in a long time.

  “Izuna,” Airi said, breaking the comfortable silence. “Thank you for being so patient with me. I’m not always the easiest person to understand, but you’ve never given up on me.”

  Izuna smiled, reaching out to gently take her hand. “That’s because you’re worth it, Airi. You always have been.”

  Airi’s heart swelled at his words, and for the first time in a long time, she felt completely at ease. The future might still be uncertain, but for now, she was happy—and that was enough.

  The next morning, Izuna woke up feeling lighter than he had in weeks. The confession he and Airi had shared was still fresh in his mind, and the memory brought a faint smile to his face. As he got ready for work, his phone buzzed again—this time, it was a group chat with Tamaki, Ren, and Hikaru.

  Tamaki wrote, “Morning, lovebirds. What’s the plan today?”

  Izuna frowned, confused by the message. Before he could reply, Hikaru chimed in.

  Hikaru said, “They finally confessed to each other, and now they think they’re the main characters in a rom-com.”

  Ren typed, “Leave them alone, guys. Let them have their moment.”

  Izuna sighed, typing quickly.

  Izuna typed, “I’m blocking all of you.”

  The chat erupted in laughing emojis, and Izuna couldn’t help but chuckle. Despite their teasing, he knew his friends were happy for him.

  At work, Airi walked into the office with a noticeable spring in her step. Athena, who was already at her desk, raised an eyebrow when she saw her.

  “You look... unusually cheerful today,” Athena remarked, leaning back in her chair.

  Airi’s face flushed. “Is it that obvious?”

  Athena smirked. “Let me guess—something happened with Izuna?”

  Airi hesitated before nodding. “We talked... about our feelings. And, well, we’re kind of... together now.”

  Athena’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Finally! I’ve been waiting for this to happen forever. Congratulations, Airi!”

  Airi smiled shyly. “Thanks, Athena. I wasn’t sure if it was the right time, but it just felt... natural.”

  Before their conversation could continue, Tamaki popped his head into the room. “Did someone say ‘together’? Are we gossiping about Izuna and Airi already?”

  Athena rolled her eyes. “Tamaki, do you ever knock?”

  “Nope,” Tamaki replied with a grin, walking in and plopping down on a nearby chair. “So, Airi, what’s it like being in a relationship with our favorite awkward boy?”

  Airi gave him a playful glare. “It’s been one day, Tamaki. Give us a break.”

  Tamaki laughed. “Fair enough. But seriously, congrats. You two make a great couple.”

  Meanwhile, in another part of the office, Izuna was trying—and failing—to focus on his work. Ren sat across from him, watching him with an amused expression.

  “You’re distracted,” Ren pointed out.

  Izuna sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Is it that obvious?”

  “Very,” Ren replied. “Let me guess—it’s Airi?”

  Izuna nodded. “We talked yesterday, and we’re officially... dating now.”

  Ren’s lips curled into a small smile. “Good for you, man. You’ve been pining after her for ages. It’s about time you made a move.”

  Izuna chuckled. “Yeah, I guess it is. But now I’m overthinking everything. What if I mess this up?”

  Ren leaned forward, his tone serious. “You won’t. Just be yourself, Izuna. Airi likes you for who you are, not for who you think you should be.”

  Izuna nodded, feeling a bit more reassured. “Thanks, Ren. That actually helps.”

  Later that day, during lunch, the whole group gathered in the cafeteria. Tamaki and Hikaru were already teasing Izuna and Airi mercilessly, while Athena and Ren tried to keep things civil.

  “You guys are acting like high schoolers,” Athena said, exasperated.

  “It’s more fun this way,” Hikaru replied with a grin. “Besides, it’s not every day we get to see Izuna blush like that.”

  Airi laughed, her cheeks turning pink. “Alright, alright. That’s enough teasing for one day.”

  As the group continued chatting and laughing, Izuna couldn’t help but feel grateful. Despite their quirks and relentless teasing, these people were his closest friends—and he wouldn’t trade them for anything.

  The next weekend, the group decided to hang out at their usual spot—a cozy café tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. Izuna arrived first, taking a seat by the window. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as he stared outside, lost in thought. His relationship with Airi was still new, and he was trying to find the balance between excitement and nervousness.

  Soon, Airi walked in, her warm smile instantly lighting up the room. She wore a casual yet elegant outfit: a soft lavender blouse paired with a denim skirt and ankle boots. Izuna greeted her with a grin, pulling out the chair beside him.

  “You’re early,” Airi said, taking a seat.

  “I guess I couldn’t wait to see you,” Izuna replied, his tone playful but sincere.

  Before Airi could respond, the door swung open, and Tamaki, Athena, and Hikaru entered, laughing about something. Ren followed behind them, carrying a bag of snacks he had picked up on the way.

  “Looks like we’re not the only ones who wanted to be here early,” Tamaki teased, glancing between Izuna and Airi.

  “Don’t start,” Airi said, rolling her eyes, though her smile betrayed her amusement.

  As everyone settled in, the café buzzed with their lively conversation. Topics ranged from work updates to random jokes, but eventually, the conversation shifted back to Izuna and Airi.

  “So, how’s the new couple doing?” Athena asked, resting her chin on her hand.

  Izuna hesitated, unsure how to answer, but Airi stepped in with a smile. “We’re doing well. It’s been nice to spend more time together.”

  “Nice, huh?” Hikaru said with a smirk. “That’s a pretty vague answer.”

  “Maybe because it’s none of your business,” Izuna shot back, earning a laugh from the group.

  As the conversation continued, Sakura and Takumi joined the group, adding to the lively atmosphere. Seeing them together reminded Izuna of how their love story had blossomed recently. It was heartwarming to see the shy Sakura slowly opening up, her confidence growing with Takumi’s gentle encouragement.

  “By the way,” Takumi said, turning to Izuna, “are you guys planning anything special for your next date?”

  Izuna blinked, caught off guard by the question. “Uh, not yet. We’re still figuring things out.”

  Airi chuckled. “We’re taking things one step at a time. No need to rush.”

  “That’s a good approach,” Sakura said with a smile. “Sometimes the best moments are the spontaneous ones.”

  After spending a couple of hours at the café, the group decided to take a walk in the nearby park. The cool breeze and golden light of the setting sun created the perfect atmosphere. Izuna and Airi walked slightly behind the group, enjoying the quiet moments together.

  “Today’s been fun,” Airi said, glancing at Izuna.

  “Yeah, it has,” Izuna replied. “It’s nice to see everyone so relaxed.”

  Airi nodded, her expression thoughtful. “I’m glad we’re part of this group. They’re like a second family.”

  “They are,” Izuna agreed. “And I’m glad you’re a part of it too.”

  Airi smiled, her heart warming at his words. She reached out and gently took his hand, their fingers intertwining.

  As they walked hand in hand, the others noticed but chose not to comment, respecting the quiet moment between them. Instead, they continued laughing and chatting, their voices blending with the rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds.

  For Izuna and Airi, this simple walk felt like another step forward in their journey together—a journey filled with laughter, challenges, and countless moments of joy.

  The following day at work, Izuna found himself in the middle of a chaotic morning. Reports were piling up, emails were flooding in, and his coffee had gone cold before he even took a sip. Despite the hectic atmosphere, his mind kept drifting to the previous evening. The image of Airi’s smile as they walked hand in hand was enough to keep him motivated.

  Across the office, Airi was having a similar experience. She was seated at her desk, trying to focus on her tasks, but her thoughts kept circling back to Izuna. Every time she thought of their conversation, she couldn’t help but smile.

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  Tamaki, who sat a few desks away, noticed Airi’s distracted state. He rolled his chair over to her with a knowing smirk. “You seem unusually cheerful today,” he remarked.

  Airi glanced at him, her cheeks slightly pink. “Just having a good day, that’s all.”

  “Uh-huh,” Tamaki said, raising an eyebrow. “Does this ‘good day’ have anything to do with a certain someone?”

  Before Airi could respond, Athena appeared behind Tamaki, leaning against his desk. “Don’t tease her too much, Tamaki. Besides, we all know Izuna’s probably just as distracted as she is.”

  Airi groaned, hiding her face in her hands. “You guys are the worst.”

  Meanwhile, in the break room, Hikaru found Izuna standing by the coffee machine, staring blankly at the wall. “Thinking about Airi again?” Hikaru asked, grabbing a cup.

  Izuna blinked, snapping out of his thoughts. “What? No, I was just... zoning out.”

  “Sure you were,” Hikaru said with a grin. “You’ve got that lovesick look written all over your face.”

  Izuna sighed, pouring himself another cup of coffee. “Is it that obvious?”

  “Painfully,” Hikaru replied. “But don’t worry, it’s kind of endearing. Just don’t let it affect your work too much.”

  “Noted,” Izuna said dryly, though he couldn’t help but smile.

  During lunch, the group gathered at their usual table in the office cafeteria. The conversations were lighthearted, with occasional jabs at Izuna and Airi, who tried their best to brush off the teasing.

  “By the way,” Athena said, turning to Airi, “are you two planning anything for the weekend?”

  Airi hesitated, glancing at Izuna. “We haven’t really talked about it yet.”

  “Well, you should,” Tamaki chimed in. “Weekends are prime couple time. Don’t waste it!”

  Airi laughed. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

  Izuna, on the other hand, was quietly taking mental notes. He wanted their next date to be special, but he also wanted it to feel natural, like their previous outings.

  As the workday came to an end, Izuna and Airi found themselves walking to the train station together. The evening air was crisp, and the city lights sparkled in the distance.

  “Today was... eventful,” Airi said, breaking the silence.

  “Yeah,” Izuna replied with a chuckle. “Our friends really like to get involved, don’t they?”

  “They mean well,” Airi said with a smile. “Even if they can be a bit much sometimes.”

  Izuna nodded, his expression softening. “I’m glad they’re supportive, though. It makes everything feel... easier.”

  Airi looked at him, her heart warming at his words. “Me too.”

  As they reached the station, Airi turned to Izuna. “Thanks for walking me here. I’ll see you tomorrow?”

  “Of course,” Izuna said. “Good night, Airi.”

  “Good night,” she replied, stepping onto the platform.

  As the train pulled away, Izuna stood there for a moment, his thoughts filled with Airi. He knew their journey was just beginning, but he was ready for whatever came next.

  The next morning, Izuna arrived at the office with a fresh determination. He’d spent the night brainstorming ideas for their next outing, eager to make the weekend special. However, the moment he stepped into the office, Tamaki intercepted him with a wide grin.

  “Well, look who’s early today,” Tamaki teased. “What’s the occasion? Planning something romantic for the weekend already?”

  Izuna rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide the small smile tugging at his lips. “Maybe. What’s it to you?”

  “Oh, nothing,” Tamaki replied, leaning casually against Izuna’s desk. “Just don’t forget to keep us updated. We’re living vicariously through you, after all.”

  “Speak for yourself,” Athena said as she walked past, a stack of files in her hands. “Not everyone here needs a play-by-play of Izuna’s love life.”

  Tamaki smirked. “Sure, Athena. You’re not curious at all.”

  Athena ignored him, setting the files down with a sharp thud. “Just don’t let it distract you from work, Izuna. We have a deadline to meet.”

  Izuna gave her a mock salute. “Yes, ma’am.”

  Across the office, Airi was dealing with her own share of teasing. Hikaru had pulled up a chair next to her desk, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

  “So,” Hikaru began, resting his chin on his hand. “Any exciting plans for the weekend?”

  Airi sighed, already bracing herself for the onslaught. “Why does everyone keep asking me that?”

  “Because it’s obvious,” Hikaru said with a laugh. “You and Izuna are practically the office’s favorite couple at this point.”

  Airi’s cheeks turned pink. “We’re not a couple. Not officially, anyway.”

  “Not yet,” Hikaru corrected. “But you’re getting there. And honestly, it’s kind of sweet to watch.”

  Airi groaned, covering her face with her hands. “You’re impossible.”

  As lunchtime rolled around, the usual group gathered in the cafeteria. The conversations were lively, bouncing from work topics to weekend plans.

  “Alright, spill,” Tamaki said, pointing his fork at Izuna. “What are you planning for Airi this weekend?”

  Izuna hesitated, glancing at Airi, who was sitting across from him. “I was thinking of maybe going to a park or something. Keep it simple.”

  “A park?” Athena said, raising an eyebrow. “That’s... surprisingly low-key for you.”

  Izuna shrugged. “Sometimes simple is better. Besides, it’s about spending time together, not the location.”

  Airi smiled softly at his words, though she quickly looked down at her plate to hide her expression.

  “Well, whatever you do,” Tamaki said, “just make sure it’s memorable. And don’t forget to take pictures. We’ll need proof that you’re not just making this up.”

  The group burst into laughter, the lighthearted atmosphere making the rest of the day fly by.

  As the workday came to an end, Izuna and Airi found themselves walking to the train station together again. The city was bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, and the air was filled with the sounds of bustling streets.

  “About the weekend,” Izuna began, glancing at Airi. “Is there anywhere you’d like to go?”

  Airi thought for a moment before shaking her head. “I don’t have any specific preferences. As long as we’re together, I’m sure it’ll be fun.”

  Her words made Izuna’s heart skip a beat, and he nodded, a small smile on his lips. “Alright. I’ll take care of the details, then.”

  “Looking forward to it,” Airi said, her voice soft but sincere.

  As they parted ways at the station, both of them couldn’t help but feel a growing anticipation for the weekend. It wasn’t just about the date—it was about the connection they were building, one step at a time.

  Saturday morning arrived with a crisp breeze and clear skies. Izuna stood in front of his closet, debating what to wear for the day. He wanted something casual but presentable, something that would show Airi he had put thought into their outing.

  After much deliberation, he chose a navy blue button-down shirt paired with dark jeans and white sneakers. A quick glance in the mirror confirmed he looked sharp but not overly dressed.

  “Alright, this should work,” he muttered to himself.

  Meanwhile, across town, Airi was facing her own wardrobe crisis. Her bed was covered in clothes as she struggled to pick the perfect outfit.

  “What about this one?” she asked, holding up a pastel pink dress.

  Sakura, who had come over to help, shook her head. “Too formal. You’re going to the park, right? Go for something comfortable but cute.”

  Airi sighed, rummaging through her options. “I want to look nice, though. It’s our first real date.”

  Sakura smiled knowingly. “Trust me, he already thinks you’re amazing. Just be yourself.”

  In the end, Airi settled on a light yellow cardigan over a white blouse, paired with a denim skirt and ankle boots. She added a touch of makeup and styled her hair into loose waves, giving her a soft, natural look.

  The two met at the park entrance, both a little nervous but excited. The sight of Airi in her outfit made Izuna pause for a moment.

  “You look... really nice,” he said, scratching the back of his neck.

  Airi blushed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Thanks. You look great too.”

  The park was lively, filled with families, couples, and joggers. The two strolled along the paths, taking in the vibrant scenery. The trees were lush, and the sound of birds chirping added to the peaceful atmosphere.

  As they walked, they found themselves drawn to a small pond where ducks were swimming. Airi leaned over the railing, watching the ducks with a soft smile.

  “They’re so cute,” she said.

  Izuna nodded, though his gaze wasn’t on the ducks. Instead, he found himself captivated by Airi’s expression.

  “You know,” he began, “I’m really glad we’re doing this.”

  Airi turned to him, her cheeks tinged with pink. “Me too. It’s nice to just... spend time together.”

  Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of children laughing as they fed the ducks. The moment wasn’t romantic in the traditional sense, but it was comfortable—natural.

  After exploring the park, they stopped by a small café for a break. Sitting across from each other with steaming cups of coffee, they continued their easy conversation.

  “So,” Izuna asked, “did Sakura give you any advice for today?”

  Airi laughed, stirring her coffee. “She told me to just be myself. What about you? Did Tamaki try to ‘help’ again?”

  Izuna groaned. “Of course he did. His idea of advice is telling me not to trip over my own feet.”

  Airi giggled, and Izuna couldn’t help but smile at the sound.

  As they finished their coffee and prepared to leave, both of them felt a sense of contentment. The date wasn’t grand or extravagant, but it didn’t need to be. It was perfect in its simplicity.

  The date continued as Izuna and Airi wandered through the park, drawn to a small open area where street performers had gathered. A musician was playing a soothing tune on an acoustic guitar, while a crowd watched a juggler nearby.

  “This place feels alive,” Airi remarked, her eyes sparkling as she observed the lively atmosphere.

  Izuna smiled. “It’s nice, isn’t it? There’s something about street performances that’s just... genuine.”

  Airi nodded, her attention drawn to a painter setting up a canvas. The artist was offering quick sketches for passer-by. Airi tugged on Izuna’s sleeve, pointing toward the painter.

  “Should we get one?” she asked excitedly.

  Izuna chuckled. “You really want a sketch of us?”

  “Why not? It’ll be a fun memory,” Airi said, her enthusiasm contagious.

  Before he could protest, Airi had already approached the painter, who welcomed them with a friendly smile. They sat down on a small bench, the painter instructing them to hold still.

  As the painter worked, Izuna glanced at Airi out of the corner of his eye. She seemed completely absorbed in the process, her cheeks faintly pink from the cool breeze.

  “You’re staring,” Airi said suddenly, not looking at him but clearly aware of his gaze.

  Izuna blinked, caught off guard. “What? No, I’m not.”

  Airi turned to him with a teasing smile. “Sure, you’re not.”

  He rubbed the back of his neck, muttering, “You’re imagining things.”

  The painter cleared their throat, drawing their attention. “Done!”

  The sketch was simple yet charming, capturing their expressions perfectly. Airi clapped her hands in delight.

  “This is amazing!” she said, holding the sketch carefully. “Thank you so much.”

  Izuna handed over the payment, smiling at Airi’s happiness. “You really like it?”

  “I love it,” Airi said. “It’s something we can keep forever.”

  The sun was beginning to set as they continued their walk. The park was bathed in warm hues of orange and gold, and the air grew cooler. Airi hugged the sketch to her chest, a soft smile on her lips.

  “This has been such a wonderful day,” she said.

  Izuna glanced at her, feeling a warmth in his chest. “Yeah, it has. I’m glad we did this.”

  They found a quiet spot near the lake, the water reflecting the fiery colors of the sky. Sitting on a bench, they watched as the sun dipped below the horizon.

  “Thank you for today,” Airi said softly. “It means a lot to me.”

  Izuna looked at her, his expression gentle. “You don’t have to thank me. I’m just happy to see you smile.”

  Airi’s cheeks turned pink, and she looked away, fiddling with the edges of the sketch.

  As the first stars appeared in the sky, they sat in comfortable silence, simply enjoying each other’s presence. It wasn’t just a date—it was a moment that deepened their bond, one they’d remember for a long time.

  The next day at work, the usual buzz of activity filled the office. Tamaki was the first to approach Izuna as soon as he entered.

  “So, how did it go?” Tamaki asked with a sly grin, leaning on Izuna’s desk. “You had that big date yesterday, right?”

  Izuna sighed, setting his bag down. “Why do you always have to pry?”

  Tamaki chuckled. “Come on, man, we’re friends. Spill the details. Did anything romantic happen? Did you hold hands, maybe kiss under the stars?”

  Izuna’s face flushed at the mention of kissing. “It was just a normal day. We went to the park, saw some street performances, and watched the sunset. That’s it.”

  Tamaki raised an eyebrow. “That’s it? You’re terrible at giving juicy details.”

  Before Izuna could respond, Ren joined the conversation. “Tamaki, leave him alone. Not everyone wants to share their private life with you.”

  Tamaki shrugged. “Fine, fine. But I’ll find out eventually,” he said before wandering off.

  Ren gave Izuna a knowing look. “Sounds like you had a good time.”

  Izuna smiled slightly. “Yeah, I did. It was... nice. Peaceful, even.”

  Meanwhile, in another corner of the office, Airi was recounting her own version of the day to Sakura.

  “And then, we got this sketch done by a street artist. It was so cute,” Airi said, showing Sakura the sketch.

  Sakura studied it, a smile forming on her lips. “You two look adorable. He really paid for this?”

  Airi nodded, her cheeks warming. “He didn’t even hesitate. It was sweet.”

  Sakura leaned closer, lowering her voice. “So, how do you feel about him now? Do you think it’s... more than just roommates?”

  Airi hesitated, her fingers brushing the edge of the sketch. “I don’t know. He’s kind, thoughtful, and easy to be around. But it’s hard to tell if it’s just friendship or something more.”

  Sakura smirked. “Sounds like you’re leaning toward ‘something more.’”

  Airi waved her hand dismissively, though her blush deepened. “You’re impossible.”

  Later in the day, their paths crossed in the office break room. Izuna was pouring himself a cup of coffee when Airi walked in.

  “Oh, hey,” he said, glancing up.

  “Hey,” Airi replied, grabbing a tea bag from the shelf. “How’s your day going?”

  “Not bad,” Izuna said, leaning against the counter. “Tamaki’s been pestering me about yesterday, though.”

  Airi chuckled. “Sakura’s been doing the same. I guess they’re both curious.”

  Izuna smiled, looking at her. “Well, let them be curious. It was our day, not theirs.”

  Airi blinked, surprised by his words. A soft smile spread across her lips. “You’re right.”

  For a moment, they stood there, the hum of the break room filling the silence. It was a small moment, but it carried the same warmth as their day at the park—a quiet understanding between them that needed no words.

  Later that evening, Izuna and Airi found themselves back at the apartment, settling into their usual routines. After dinner, Airi was curled up on the couch with her laptop, and Izuna was busy organizing some papers at the dining table.

  The atmosphere was calm, but there was a subtle tension in the air, one neither of them could quite pinpoint.

  “Hey, Izuna,” Airi called out, breaking the silence.

  “Yeah?” he replied without looking up.

  “I was thinking... maybe we should go out somewhere again this weekend. You know, just to unwind after the work week,” Airi suggested, her tone casual but tinged with a hint of nervousness.

  Izuna glanced up, surprised. “You mean, like another... date?”

  Airi’s face turned red, and she immediately waved her hands in denial. “No, no! I mean, just as roommates or friends or... whatever we are!”

  Izuna chuckled, setting down his papers. “Relax, Airi. I didn’t mean anything by it. It sounds like a good idea. Where were you thinking of going?”

  Airi let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. “Well, I heard about this new museum exhibit opening downtown. It’s supposed to be really cool.”

  “A museum, huh?” Izuna leaned back in his chair, considering. “That could be fun. Let’s do it.”

  Airi smiled, feeling relieved. “Great! I’ll check for tickets tomorrow.”

  As the evening wore on, they both gradually retreated to their respective rooms. But as Airi lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, she couldn’t help but replay the events of the past few weeks in her mind.

  Her feelings for Izuna were growing stronger, but she still wasn’t sure if he felt the same way. The uncertainty was both exciting and terrifying.

  Meanwhile, in his room, Izuna was thinking about Airi as well. He had never expected to grow so close to her, especially after their chaotic first meeting. But now, he couldn’t imagine his days without her presence.

  The next morning, as they got ready for work, their usual banter resumed.

  “Don’t forget to wear your tie properly today,” Airi teased as Izuna struggled to adjust it.

  “Don’t start with me,” Izuna shot back, though a small smile tugged at his lips.

  As they left the apartment together, walking side by side, the growing bond between them was undeniable—even if neither of them was ready to admit it out loud just yet.

  By the time the weekend arrived, both Izuna and Airi were ready for a break from their busy work schedules. The museum trip they had planned was a welcome change of pace, and they were both excited, though neither openly admitted it.

  Airi waited in the living room, adjusting her scarf as she glanced at the clock. Izuna emerged from his room, dressed in a casual yet stylish outfit—a navy-blue jacket over a plain white shirt and dark jeans.

  “You’re actually on time for once,” Airi teased, pretending to check her watch.

  “Ha-ha, very funny,” Izuna replied, rolling his eyes. “Let’s go before you change your mind about inviting me.”

  The museum was bustling with visitors, the air filled with a mix of excitement and quiet awe. As they walked through the exhibits, Airi’s enthusiasm was contagious. She eagerly read the descriptions and pointed out fascinating details, while Izuna listened attentively, occasionally cracking a joke to lighten the mood.

  At one point, they stumbled upon an interactive art installation. Airi, curious as always, decided to try it out, dragging Izuna along.

  “Come on, don’t be such a spoilsport!” Airi said, pulling him by the sleeve.

  “I’m not! I just don’t see how this is supposed to be fun,” Izuna grumbled, but he followed her anyway.

  The installation involved standing in a dark room illuminated by shifting lights that reacted to movement. As Airi twirled around, laughing, Izuna couldn’t help but smile. Her joy was infectious.

  “You look ridiculous,” he teased.

  “Shut up and join me!” she shot back, grabbing his hand.

  For a brief moment, as the lights danced around them, Izuna found himself caught in the moment. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only Airi’s laughter and the warmth of her hand in his.

  After the museum visit, they stopped by a small café nearby. Over coffee and cake, their conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on everything from their favorite childhood memories to their dreams for the future.

  “You know,” Airi said, stirring her coffee, “I wasn’t sure about living with a stranger at first. But... I’m glad it turned out to be you.”

  Izuna paused, caught off guard by her sincerity. “Same here. You’re not so bad, Airi.”

  Airi smirked. “Don’t get too sentimental on me now.”

  Izuna chuckled. “I’ll save it for when you actually deserve it.”

  As they walked home under the soft glow of streetlights, there was a comfortable silence between them. Both were lost in their thoughts, reflecting on how much their relationship had grown since they first met.

  When they reached their apartment, Airi turned to Izuna. “Thanks for today. It was... nice.”

  “Yeah, it was,” Izuna replied, his voice unusually soft.

  They exchanged a small smile before heading inside, both feeling a quiet warmth in their hearts.