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Day by day passed, with only three days left before summer vacation ended. Mizuha had almost finished her drawing inspired by their beach vacation.
Going on vacation to the beach with everyone back then was really enjoyable for me. I hope we can do something like that again next year, thought Mizuha.
She continued with her drawing, and ten minutes passed.
It's done. I can't wait to show this drawing to the others at school later, she thought after adding the final touch.
"Now, it's time to rest," she said, jumping on her bed.
Just as she was about to relax, her phone rang, and someone was calling her.
Oh, it was Hikaru, she thought, looking at the phone.
She eagerly picked it up. "Hello, Hikaru?"
"Hey Mizuha, are you free this evening?" asked Hikaru through the call.
" Yeah, I'm free. What's up?" replied Mizuha curiously.
"Good, then let's go to watch the fireworks with our friends tonight," said Hikaru. "Actually, there's a festival happening tonight at the riverside bank nearest our school. They also have fireworks too. Do you want to go?"
A smile formed on Mizuha's lips as her heart filled with joy. "That sounds incredible! Yes, count me in. When and where should we meet?"
"Great! Let's meet at the festival location. It starts at 7 p.m., so how about we gather around 6:45 p.m.?" Hikaru replied. "I will tell Zul and the others after this."
"Sounds perfect! I can't wait to go there with everyone and experience the fireworks. Thank you for inviting me, Hikaru."
Hikaru chuckled warmly. "No problem, Mizuha. It's going to be a memorable night. See you there!"
As they said their goodbyes, Mizuha couldn't contain her excitement. She started envisioning the enchanting spectacle of fireworks illuminating the night sky.
She couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement as she thought about the festival and the beautiful yukata she would wear.
Wait, first I need my yukata. Where is it actually? thought Mizuha as she searched inside her closet drawer. Hmm, it's not here. When was the last time I wore it? Was it last year? I don't remember where I put it. Better ask Mom about it.
Meanwhile, in the living room, her mother was watching the national weather forecast on television while folding the clothes.
"Here with the forecast for the upcoming week. As we move into the rainy season, let's take a closer look at what we can expect," said the weather forecaster.
"It's finally here, huh? The rainy season," her mother remarked.
Suddenly, Mizuha came in and approached her.
"Hey, Mom," said Mizuha.
"Yes, my dear? What is it? Do you need something?" her mom asked, turning away from the television to face her.
"Do you know where my yukata is? I need to wear it this evening," said Mizuha.
"Yes, it's in the closet in the room next door, but are you going somewhere this evening?" her mother asked.
Mizuha excitedly told her mother that she wanted to go watch fireworks with her friends that evening at the festival.
"I see, then follow me to the room next door. I'll get it for you," replied her mother. As Mizuha followed her mother to the adjacent room, her mother took out the yukata from the closet drawer.
Opening the drawer, her mother reached for a delicate, floral-patterned yukata and handed it to Mizuha with care.
"Here's your yukata," said her mother. "Yes, there it is. Thanks, Mom," replied Mizuha.
As the meeting time with Hikaru and the others drew near, Mizuha tried to put on her yukata by herself in the room next to the living room, but something didn't feel quite right.
"So this goes like this..." she muttered, adjusting the garment while looking in the mirror. Suddenly, the obi belt slipped and fell.
"Huh? What the— I thought I tied it properly," she said with frustration. "I'll never get this done in time."
Her mother, hearing the complaints from the living room, smiled and shook her head. This girl never wants to rely on others, she thought, then walked to the adjacent room.
"Still not done yet? Here, let me help you," her mother offered. "Lift your arms," she added.
With gentle guidance, her mother had carefully tied the obi around her waist and adjusted the sleeves. Mizuha had admired herself in the mirror, feeling a mix of joy.
"There, you're all set," her mother said after finishing.
"Oh, there it is. Thanks, Mom," Mizuha replied gratefully.
"You're welcome," her mother said.
As she was all set, she put on her geta and said, "Okay, Mom, I'm going now."
"Have a nice time and be careful on your way, okay," her mother replied.
With her heart brimming with excitement and her mother's love in her thoughts, Mizuha had stepped out of the house, ready to embark on an enchanting adventure at the fireworks festival.
Mizuha had breathed a sigh of relief as she arrived at the festival entrance and found Hikaru and others eagerly waiting for her.
"There she is! Mizuha, hey!" Shimizu called out while waving her hands.
"Everyone!" Mizuha said, approaching them.
"Sorry I'm a bit late. I had some trouble with my Yukata earlier," she chuckled.
"Don't worry, we all just got here too. You're not late, Mizuha-chan," Elly said.
"Yes, you were right on time," Zul said, agreeing with Elly.
Looking around at her friends dressed in Yukata, Mizuha said, "Wow, you guys look great in Yukata!"
"You too, Mizuha-chan. That Yukata looks nice on you," Elly said.
"Hey, let's take a picture," said Shimizu excitedly.
"Oh, that's a good idea," replied Mizuha. Shimizu took a picture of the girl trio in yukata with her phone camera.
"They're sure having a good time," said Zul, talking to Hikaru.17Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWyAv35MH6G
"Yeah, it looks like that," Hikaru sighed. "Hey, how long do you guys plan to keep taking photos?" he asked.
"Just a little more, please wait a moment," replied Shimizu.
"Hehe," Shimizu said with a grin as she suddenly got an idea.
"Oh, yes, Hikaru, don't you want to say something about Mizuha's yukata?" Shimizu teased, holding Mizuha's shoulder and turning her to face Hikaru.
"Geez, Shimizu..." Mizuha muttered, feeling embarrassed.
"Umm, you look great and cute in a yukata, Mizuha," said Hikaru, scratching the back of his head.
Mizuha's cheeks flushed in response to Hikaru's words. She shyly replied, "Thank you, Hikaru. My mother helped me prepare this. I'm glad you like it."
"Also, you look great in a yukata too," she added with a smile.
"Thank you for that. I'm glad to hear it," Hikaru replied, smiling back.
"Alright, alright, that's enough of your romantic moment for now. How about we get going?" Shimizu interjected, her tone carrying a hint of annoyance.
"Shimizu... you're the one who started it earlier!" Mizuha exclaimed, blushing in embarrassment.
"Wait, we are still waiting for one more person," Hikaru said.
"Hmm, who are you waiting for, Hikaru?" Zul asked.
Suddenly, Takeru had approached them, calling out, "Hikaru-kun, everyone!"
"Oh, there he is," Hikaru said. After Takeru arrived, Hikaru added, "There you are. You're late. I thought you didn't want to come."
"Sorry for that. I just finished my part-time work earlier," Takeru said.
"Oh Takeru, you're coming too?" Mizuha said, greeting him.
"Of course, Hikaru-kun invited me earlier," Takeru replied.
"Thanks for inviting me, Hikaru-kun," Takeru added.
"That's no big deal. I somehow suddenly felt like inviting you today," Hikaru replied.
"By the way, did you bring the thing I asked you for earlier?" Hikaru added.
"Of course I brought it. Here, your usual," Takeru said, throwing the paper bag he held to Hikaru.
"Thank you. I'll pay you after this," Hikaru replied.
"No need, consider this my treat for being invited," Takeru said.
"But..." Takeru added. "Don't worry, I'll let you have a nice time with Mizuha tonight," he whispered to Hikaru while touching his shoulder, chuckling.
"Wait, what... you," Hikaru said, blushing.
In the midst of their playful banter, Takeru had approached Mizuha and the girls, joining in on the compliments. "You look pretty in that, Mizuha. Your yukata suits you perfectly," he said.
"Really? Thanks for that," Mizuha replied.
"Both of you too look good and pretty in your yukatas," Takeru said to Elly and Shimizu.
Shimizu had grinned, pretending to ponder the statement. "Am I pretty too, huh? Well, I guess I'll take it as a compliment then!"
"Okay everyone, sorry I made you guys wait. Let's enjoy this festival," Takeru said suddenly, excited.
"Yeah, let's go!" Shimizu said, agreeing excitedly too. Both Shimizu and Takeru had led the way, followed by the others enter the festival site.
"Haha, those two are really energetic," Elly said with a chuckle.
"That's right, they really fit together," Zul said, agreeing with Elly.
The festival atmosphere enveloped the group as they ventured further into the kaleidoscope of food stalls and vibrant activities. The scent of delectable treats filled the air, tempting their taste buds and adding to the excitement of the evening.
"Look at all these stalls!" Mizuha exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the festive scene before her. "There's so much variety here."
"Yeah, they really went all out this year," Hikaru replied, walking beside her. "I see takoyaki, yakisoba, and even some game stalls further ahead."
As they walked through the lively festival grounds, Elly suddenly stopped in her tracks. "Oh, look at those candy apples! They look so beautiful and delicious," she said, pointing at a nearby stall decorated with rows of gleaming red treats.
"Want to check it out?" Zul asked, noticing Elly's interest.
They approached the candy apple stall together, where various apples glistened with their bright red coating under the festival lights. Zul stepped forward and purchased one of the candied apples.
"Here," Zul said, offering the candy apple to Elly with a gentle smile.
Elly's face lit up with surprise and joy. "Thank you, Zul!" she said, accepting the treat with a slight blush on her cheeks. Elly then ate the candy apple and said, "Hmm, this is so sweet."
"Both of them so sweet like that" said Mizuha watched their interaction with a warm smile before noticing the cotton candy stall nearby.
"Oh, that looks good! I think I'll get one," she said, approaching the vendor.
"Mister, one cotton candy, please," Mizuha ordered, reaching for her small purse. But before she could take out her money, Hikaru stepped beside her and ordered one for himself.
"Mister, give me one cotton candy. Count the one for her too; I paid for it," Hikaru said.
"H-Hikaru?" Mizuha stuttered, surprised by his gesture.
"My treat," Hikaru said with a smile. "Here, your cotton candy," he added, taking the cotton candy from the vendor and handing it to her.
"Th... Thanks," Mizuha said, blushing.
"You're welcome," Hikaru replied, smiling.
Hikaru's eyes then lit up with anticipation as he spotted a takoyaki stall next to the cotton candy shop. The sight of the sizzling, golden-brown octopus balls was irresistible. Unable to resist the temptation, he quickly purchased a plastic tray of piping hot takoyaki, the savory aroma wafting through the air.
With a mischievous grin, he bought another tray for Mizuha, knowing she would relish the treat just as much as he did.
"Here, Mizuha. This is for you," he said, handing her a tray of takoyaki.
"Thanks, Hikaru... but you've already bought me cotton candy, and now this..." Mizuha said, feeling guilty.
"Don't worry," Hikaru replied warmly. "I'm doing this because I want you to enjoy this festival."
"Geez, you guys already started with the food. This is not fun. Let's play some game," said Shimizu complainingly.
Shimizu's boundless energy led her to the goldfish scooping stall, her eyes alight with curiosity and enthusiasm.
"Oh, I have an idea," she said.
"Hey, Takeru, how about we play this? Let's see who can catch the most goldfish by scooping," said Shimizu.
"Hmm, I'm not sure if I can manage the scooping, because I've never managed to catch a single goldfish before. That's so hard, but I think I'll give it a try today," said Takeru.
"Okay, then let's go," said Shimizu as she eagerly tugged him along to the stall.
"Hey wait, don't drag me like that suddenly," said Takeru.
"Mister, give us the scooping nets for both of us," said Shimizu.
"Oh, Shimizu-chan, you're coming again this year, and you brought friends this time," said the goldfish vendor while giving the paper scooping nets to Shimizu and Takeru.
"Yes, I'm not coming alone again this time," said Shimizu.
"I see, then enjoy yourself," replied the vendor.
Shimizu grabbed the scooping net, her hand steady and skillful as she swiftly scooped up five goldfish in a single swoop into the bowl she holding at another hand.
"Oh, as expected Shimizu, you managed to scoop up five already in a single swoop," said Takeru.
"Hehe, I'm great, right? This is nothing for me," she said with great pride.
"How about you, Takeru?" she replied.
"So bad, I got nothing. My paper scooping net is already broken," said Takeru with a chuckle.
"You're really great at something like this, Shimizu," said Mizuha as she slowly approached with Hikaru.
"You two are late. You didn't see my great performance earlier," said Shimizu.
"Sorry, we took time tasting the food we bought earlier," said Mizuha.
"Just both of you? Where are Elly and Zul?" Takeru asked.
"They're both over there trying another game stall, I guess," said Hikaru, pointing at their location.
"Hey Mizuha, how about you give it a try? It's so fun, you know," said Shimizu.
"I'm not sure I can do this or not," said Mizuha, pausing for a little bit. "Okay, I think I'll give it a try," she added suddenly.
"You can do it, Mizuha," Takeru and Hikaru cheered for her.
Encouraged by her friends' support, Mizuha decided to give goldfish scooping a try, despite her initial doubts.
Hikaru stood by Mizuha's side and offered words of encouragement. "You can do it, Mizuha," he whispered, his voice filled with unwavering belief. Mizuha took a deep breath and dipped the net into the water, attempting to catch a goldfish.
"Hiyeah..." said Mizuha as she tried to scoop the goldfish. But her attempt failed as the scooping net broke. "Ah, so bad, my scooping net is broken," said Mizuha.
"You almost caught one earlier," said Takeru.
"Don't worry about that, here, give another try," said Hikaru, giving her another scooping net.
Hikaru stepped in, positioning himself next to Mizuha, and gently held her hand. "Wait, Hikaru, what are you...," said Mizuha, blushing as Hikaru held her hand to guide her.
"Don't worry, I'll help you with this," replied Hikaru.
As the fish swam in front of her, Hikaru quickly said to Mizuha, "Mizuha, now!"
"Yes," said Mizuha. But the goldfish quickly swam away from them.
"Almost had it earlier," said Mizuha.
"Thank goodness the net isn't broken yet. Let's try once again," said Hikaru.
Mizuha tried again, focused with Hikaru beside her. As the fish swam in front of them, Hikaru gave her the signal just like before, and she quickly responded. With precise timing, she successfully scooped her very first goldfish into the bowl in her other hand. She proudly announced her triumph to Hikaru. "We did it, Hikaru!"
"Yes, we did it," replied Hikaru, smiling at her.
Both Takeru and Shimizu looked at them with relieved faces from behind. "Look at them, how happy they are together," said Shimizu with relief.
"Yes, you're right about that. They really make a great couple," Takeru agreed.
"Did both of you say something?" asked Hikaru, suddenly turning back to face them.
"No, we didn't say anything, right Takeru?" said Shimizu.
"Yes, yes, you must have misheard something, haha," Takeru said, chuckling and avoiding Hikaru's question.
At the crowded festival, Elly and Zul stopped at a shooting prize stall they both noticed. Contestants were shooting toy guns at target prizes, and seeing this made Elly visibly excited. Zul watched her genuine enthusiasm with interest.
"Which prize catches your eye, Elly?" he asked.
"Huh, the prize I want?" replied Elly. "Which one do I want..." she added.
Her cheeks turned pink as she stared at the large teddy bear displayed at the front of the prize collection. She spoke quietly but eagerly, pointing at it. "That teddy bear... it's so adorable." Her eyes lingered on the prize teddy bear on the racks.
Before Zul could say "Then let me..." Elly gathered her courage and whispered, "Um, Zul... would it be okay if I tried shooting for it first?"
"Hmm, you want to try it?" said Zul, shocked that Elly wanted to do it by herself. "Then go ahead," he added.
She fumbled with her coins, almost dropping them as she handed them to the vendor.
"Oh, think you can do it, little lady?" said the vendor.
"Umm, haha, I'll try my best..." replied Elly.
"Go for it, Elly," said Zul, supporting her with his words.
With trembling hands, she picked up the toy gun, stealing quick glances at Zul as if seeking reassurance. She glanced at the teddy bear target she wanted. Her first shot missed.
She adjusted her aim and tried again, but the shots also missed. After her final attempt sailed past the target, her shoulders slumped in disappointment, her face flushing even redder with embarrassment.
"Haha, maybe I'm not good at this," said Elly, chuckling to cover her disappointment.
"This game might be a little too hard for a girl, haha," said the vendor, chuckling.
Zul moved forward, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"Then let me try. I'm sure I'll get it for you," he said while giving the coin to the vendor.
"Oh, you better show your girlfriend what you can do, bro!" said the vendor, teasing him.
Girlfriend...!? thought Zul and Elly, blushing at the same time.
Ignoring the teasing, Zul took and held the toy gun with confidence, his eyes changing into a focused glare on the targets. He shot steadily and precisely. His first try missed, and his second try almost hit the target but missed too.
"Tch, almost hit it earlier. This is my last chance, I must hit it," he said.
Zul focused and glared sharply at his target, then launched his last shot at the teddy bear. It hit directly, and the teddy bear fell from the rack.
Yes, it hit the target, thought Zul, smiling.
"That's amazing, Zul! You managed to hit it!" said Elly, happy to see Zul hit the target.
"Oh, you hit it, bro! Congratulations," said the vendor. "Here's your prize," he added, giving the teddy bear to Zul.
"Thank you so much," replied Zul.
He turned to Elly and smiled, clearly pleased as he said, "For you, Elly," while handing the teddy bear to her.
"Huh!? But you won it, Zul," said Elly.
"It's okay. Also, you wanted it so much, right? I won it for you," said Zul.
Elly took the prize, her face showing how much it meant to her with a warming smile. "Wow, thanks for this, Zul," she said as she hugged the soft bear, truly appreciating what Zul had done.
"You're welcome," replied Zul, smiling, suddenly remembering a moment from their childhood when Elly had given him her toy as a replacement for his broken one after bullies had destroyed it.
Suddenly I remember that time, he thought while smiling.
"That's a very cute teddy bear, Elly-chan," said Mizuha as she approached them with Hikaru and the others.
"Mizuha-chan, everyone!" said Elly, seeing them coming. "Yes, Zul got it for me from a shooting game. It's very cute, right?" she added.
"Oh, not bad, Zul. You've outdone us," said Hikaru, teasing Zul.
"Ah, shut up. You did the same thing earlier," replied Zul, lightly punching Hikaru's shoulder.
"Ah, the shooting game looks nice. I'd better try it," said Shimizu, heading towards the shooting game. "Hey, Hikaru, join me. Let's see who can get the best prize."
"Oh, you're challenging me, huh? Okay, let's do it," said Hikaru, following Shimizu.
"Do they always challenge each other like this?" asked Takeru, pointing at them.
"Yes, as you can see, Takeru-kun, both of them love to compete with each other," said Mizuha, chuckling.
"You guys are really close, huh?" said Takeru.
After finishing with the shooting game, the group ventured further into the display of food stalls and activities. Mizuha and the others enjoyed the sights and sounds around them. The smell of food filled the air, and the lights were bright.
As the festival continued, the crowd grew denser than before.
"Oh, it looks like the crowd is getting bigger," said Takeru.
"Yeah, it's hard to walk like this," said Shimizu.
"Wait, you guys, where are Zul and Elly?" said Hikaru. "Mizuha is missing too."
"It looks like they got separated from us," said Takeru. "Let's get out of this crowd first."
"Where is everyone? Did I get separated from them?" said Elly, confused and a bit panicked. Suddenly, someone bumped into Elly from behind, and she almost fell. Zul quickly grabbed her hand and said, "Elly!"
"Zul..." she replied.
"Found you. Are you okay?" said Zul.
"Yes, I'm fine. Thanks for saving me, Zul," replied Elly.
"You're welcome," said Zul. Both Zul and Elly looked around to find their group but couldn't see them as the crowd grew denser.
"Looks like we got separated from them," said Zul.
"Yes, it looks like that," Elly added.
"Anyway, let's inform them first that we're together," said Zul.
"Hmm, a call from Zul," said Hikaru, after his phone rang. He answered the call and Zul told him that he had found Elly.
"I see, you're with Elly. Is Mizuha with you guys too?" asked Hikaru.
"No, I'm just with Elly. Mizuha is not with us," replied Zul.
"I see, thanks for informing me. By the way, we are outside the crowd, somewhere at the benches by the riverside. I'll send our location to you," said Hikaru, ending the call.
"Did you reach Mizuha?" asked Hikaru to Shimizu who was trying to call Mizuha.
"No, she's not answering my call. I already called her twice," replied Shimizu.
"I see, then I better go find her now," said Hikaru. "You guys stay here. Zul and Elly will come here later," he added before returning to the crowded site to find Mizuha.
"Wait, Hikaru..." said Takeru, wanting to follow him, but Hikaru had already disappeared from their sight.
"He really cares about Mizuha, huh? That guy," said Takeru, nodding his head while sitting on the bench beside Shimizu.
"Yeah, that's how he is. He likes Mizuha, doesn't he?" Shimizu replied casually.
"Haha, you're right. I'm glad Mizuha has a friend like him," said Takeru with a small smile.
After a brief pause, Shimizu glanced at Takeru. "Hey, don't you feel jealous of them?"
"Jealous? What do you mean?" asked Takeru, tilting his head in confusion.
"Well, Mizuha is your childhood friend, right? How do you feel about her spending so much time with Hikaru?" Shimizu teased, a smirk on her face.
Takeru shook his head with a chuckle. "No, I don't feel that way at all. Mizuha's just my childhood friend, nothing romantic. Besides, Hikaru is perfect for her—smart, handsome, and from a wealthy family. Compared to him, I'm nothing special, haha."
Shimizu frowned. "Don't talk about yourself like that. Everyone has their strengths. I'm sure Mizuha and Hikaru would feel awful if they heard you say that."
"Ah, you're right. Sorry, I didn't mean to sound so down," said Takeru, scratching the back of his head.
Shimizu smiled softly. "By the way, is there someone you like?"
"Eh, why did you bring that topic suddenly, Shimizu?" asked Takeru, shocked by her question.
"Wait, do you want to confess to me? Haha," said Takeru, chuckling.
"Well, you see, I sometimes feel envious looking at the relationship between Hikaru and Mizuha, also Zul and Elly, so I planned to make you my boyfriend and do the same things like them. What do you think?" said Shimizu with a chuckle.
"Thanks for that, Shimizu. I appreciate your suggestion, but I'm sorry—I can't fulfill your request because there's already someone I like. I'm truly sorry," said Takeru.
"I see, it's okay. I don't feel any disappointment. That was just my plan, haha, no need to apologize," said Shimizu.
I see, he already has someone he likes? thought Shimizu sighed.
"Besides, who is this lucky girl? Is it Mizuha?" she asked, grinning while giving Takeru an elbow nudge.
"Don't be ridiculous. Why must it be Mizuha? She has Hikaru, you know, also like I tell you earlier, I not have feeling romantic on Mizuha" replied Takeru, blushing.
"Also, she's not someone from your group or your class," he added. "She's actually my classmate."
"Your classmate? Oh... Who is it? Do I know that person?" asked Shimizu curiously.
"That's a secret. It's too embarrassing to tell you," Takeru explained. "Besides, she's just my crush. I don't think she has any feelings for me. She seems to have liked someone for a long time and has always tried to get closer to them, but they never seem to notice her efforts."
"I see, unrequited love, huh? Don't worry, keep it up. I'm sure you'll be able to make that girl your girlfriend. Don't give up on her yet," said Shimizu.
"Haha, thanks for that, Shimizu. You really understand my situation. Also, please don't tell anyone, okay?" said Takeru.
"Understood. I won't tell anyone about this," said Shimizu.
Suddenly, both Elly and Zul approached them. "Shimizu-chan!" called Elly from afar as they neared.
"Oh, here they are. Elly, Zul, over here!" replied Shimizu, waving her hands. The four of them regrouped there together while Hikaru was still on his way finding Mizuha.
Mizuha realized she was lost in the crowd. "It looks like I got separated from my friends... What should I do now?" she said, her voice showing concern. She reached for her phone but found it had no battery. "My phone's dead," she muttered, feeling worried.
She decided to search for her friends, moving through the people and looking around. "They should be nearby," she said, trying to stay focused.
Hikaru, meanwhile, was searching for Mizuha in the same crowded area. He looked in every direction but couldn't find her. "Where could she be?" he said as he kept moving forward.
Suddenly, someone grabbed his arm. He turned and saw Akemi smiling. "Found you, Hikaru-kun!" she said.
"Akemi? What are you doing here?" he asked, surprised.
"Why are you asking? Can't I come to the festival? It's not for you only, you know," Akemi replied.
"That's not what I meant...," Hikaru said, trying to clarify.
"Since you're here, let's play a game!" Akemi said, clinging to his arm and pulling him toward a nearby shooting game.
"Wait, Akemi, I need to—" Hikaru started, but she didn't let him finish and kept pulling him along.
At the game stall, Akemi asked, "What prize do you want? I'll win it for you."
"Anything is fine," Hikaru said, still looking around for Mizuha.
"Then I'll aim for that candy box," Akemi said and took the toy gun. She focused on the game, while Hikaru continued scanning the area, concerned about Mizuha.
Mizuha finally saw Hikaru at the shooting game stall. "There he is!" she said, relieved. She called out, "Hikaru!" but the noise from the crowd drowned her voice. She tried to move closer but was stepped on by someone.
"It hurts," she said, checking her foot. Before she could recover, someone bumped into her again, causing her to stumble. The strap of her geta broke, making it hard to move. As she tried to stand up, another person bumped into her, almost making her fall.
Just then, someone grabbed her hand and stopped her from falling. "Got you, Mizuha," said a familiar voice.
She looked up and saw Hikaru holding her hand. "Hikaru...," she said, her voice showing her relief.
"You're okay now," Hikaru said, helping her stand. He noticed her broken geta strap. "Your strap is broken. Can you walk?" he asked.
"I think so," Mizuha replied, leaning on him slightly.
"Don't worry, I'll help you," Hikaru said and guided her out of the crowd.
Back at the shooting game stall, Akemi missed her last shot and sighed in frustration. "This game is so hard. Let's try another one... Hikaru?" she said, turning around.
Realizing Hikaru was no longer behind her, she frowned. "Wait, Hikaru? Where are you going?" she said, scanning the area. "You can't just leave me like that!"
Feeling confused and frustrated, Akemi began walking around, looking for Hikaru.
Hikaru took Mizuha to a quieter spot away from the crowd, guiding her to a nearby bench. As she sat down, he knelt to examine her injured foot.
"It's a bit swollen, and you've got a blister," Hikaru observed with a concerned tone. "Those must hurt."
Mizuha nodded slightly, wincing as she moved her foot.
"Don't worry. It's a good thing I brought this," Hikaru said, pulling a small first-aid kit from his bag. He took out a bandage and carefully applied it to the blister.
"There, that should help for now," Hikaru said, smiling gently. "But you shouldn't walk too much after this."
"Thank you, Hikaru," Mizuha said softly, her cheeks tinged with a hint of pink.
"I'll let Shimizu and the others know about our situation," Hikaru said, typing a quick message to their group chat.
Shortly after, his phone buzzed with a reply from Shimizu: Really? Thank goodness you found her!
Hikaru chuckled at the message before turning to Mizuha. She looked down, her expression heavy with guilt.
"Thanks for helping me, Hikaru. But... I'm sorry," Mizuha said, her voice tinged with regret. "We were supposed to enjoy the festival and watch the fireworks together with everyone, but because of me, everything got messed up."
Hikaru sat down beside her, resting his hands on his knees.
"Situations like this are unavoidable," he said calmly, his voice steady and reassuring. "Things happen unexpectedly, but it's not your fault, Mizuha."
She looked up at him, her eyes searching his face for reassurance.
"Besides," he added with a small smile, "the important thing is that we're safe, and we're still together. That's what matters most, right?"
Mizuha felt her heart lighten at his words, a small smile forming on her lips. "You're right. Thank you, Hikaru."
Suddenly, the fireworks show finally started.
"Oh," said both Hikaru and Mizuha, turning to look at the sky.
"The fireworks are beginning," Hikaru said.
"Yeah, they're so pretty," Mizuha replied, her gaze fixed on the colorful bursts.
Both of them sat quietly, enjoying the fireworks together, while Shimizu and Elly admired them from the spot where everyone else had gathered.
"Woah, it's so pretty," said Shimizu and Elly in unison, their voices filled with excitement.
"It's so pretty, right, Elly?" said Zul, who was standing beside her.
"Yeah," replied Elly, her eyes fixed on the fireworks.
At the same time, Hikaru glanced at Mizuha and said, "So, we can just watch it from here too."
"Yeah, we don't need to find another place to watch it," Mizuha replied contentedly.
"Thank you for inviting me today, Hikaru. I really enjoyed it," she added, turning to him.
"You're welcome," Hikaru replied with a smile. "You're right, they're really pretty," he added, his eyes returning to the sky.
As he spoke, he touched and offered his hand to Mizuha while blushing."
Mizuha looked at his hand, smiled softly, and took it. Holding hands, they continued watching the fireworks together, appreciating the peaceful moment.
As the final bursts of fireworks lit up the night sky, signaling the end of the show, Hikaru said, "There end the fireworks."
"Yeah, it looks like that," Mizuha replied.
Suddenly, a voice called from afar: "Mizuha, Hikaru!" Both of them turned toward the voice. It was Shimizu calling them as she approached with Elly and the others.
"Oh, it's Shimizu and Elly. Over here!" Mizuha said, waving her hands.
As they arrived, both Shimizu and Elly jumped into her and hugged her. "You really made us worried, you know," Shimizu said.
"Sorry I made you guys worry about me," Mizuha apologized.
"Geez, I even tried calling your phone many times earlier, but you didn't answer," Shimizu said.
"Ah, sorry about that. My phone battery died," Mizuha said, chuckling.
"So that was the reason," Zul said.
"You're really hopeless, huh," Shimizu sighed.
"Wait, Mizuha-chan, your foot? What happened to it?" Elly asked after seeing it wrapped in a bandage.
"Well... someone stepped on my foot earlier, and I fell after that. I even got a blister," Mizuha explained.
"Poor you, Mizuha-chan," Elly replied sympathetically.
"Umm, you guys, we were supposed to watch the fireworks together, but I messed up tonight. I'm really sorry about that," Mizuha said, apologizing to her friends.
"Don't worry, we understand your situation," Zul said.
"Yeah, it's not your fault, Mizuha-chan. Even though we weren't together, we all still got to see the fireworks," Elly added.
"Everyone... thanks for that," Mizuha replied gratefully.
"Ah, don't be so sad, cheer up!" Shimizu said playfully as she pinched Mizuha's cheek.
"Hey, what are you doing? Shimizu, stop it!" Mizuha protested, pinching Shimizu's cheek in return.
Zul and Elly chuckled as they watched their's antics.
"So, Hikaru-kun, did things go well tonight?" Takeru said suddenly, teasing him.
"Huh!? What do you mean?" Hikaru replied, blushing.
"You see, you got to spend time together tonight with Mizuha at this festival, even watching fireworks together with her alone. Did you enjoy it?" Takeru said with his face grinning.
"Geez, you..." Hikaru replied, feeling annoyed. "Well, I admit it, I really enjoyed it, especially watching the fireworks together with her. Are you satisfied now?" he said, still blushing.
"Haha, that's the answer I wanted to hear. Good for you, Hikaru-kun," Takeru replied.
"Hey, what are you two talking about?" Shimizu said.
"Oh, it's nothing special, right?" Takeru said.
"Yeah, just some gentleman' talk between us, haha," Hikaru said.
After watching the fireworks, Hikaru glanced at the group and said, "Alright, we've had our fun. It's getting late, and we've done everything. How about we all head home now?"
The others nodded in agreement. "Yeah, that's a good idea," Shimizu said.
As they prepared to leave, Hikaru turned to Mizuha and asked, "How's your foot? Does it still hurt?"
Mizuha tried to stand up, but as soon as she put weight on her foot, she winced. "It's still a bit painful," she admitted.
Hikaru crouched down in front of her and said, "Hop on. I'll give you a piggyback ride and take you home."
Mizuha's eyes widened, and her face turned red. "W-Wait, Hikaru, you don't need to go that far! I can just call my family to pick me up. Besides, this is so embarrassing..."
Hikaru smiled gently but firmly. "Don't worry about it. I want to help you, and it's better than waiting here and burdening your family. Besides," he added, "your phone battery is dead, right?"
Mizuha hesitated, then sighed softly. "Well, if you put it like that... Alright."
She carefully climbed onto Hikaru's back, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "This is really embarrassing," she murmured under her breath.
Shimizu, standing nearby, couldn't help but tease. "Oh, look! The prince is carrying his princess home. Good for you, Mizuha! Haha!"
"Shimizu, stop it! Don't say something so embarrassing!" Mizuha exclaimed, her face now bright red.
Hikaru chuckled lightly, glancing at the group. "Alright, you guys. We're heading out now. See you at school."
"See you later, guys!" Mizuha added with a shy wave from Hikaru's back.
"Take care, you two!" Takeru and the others replied, watching them leave.
After Hikaru and Mizuha left, Elly turned to Zul. "Okay, we should head home too. Let's go," she said softly.
"Goodbye, everyone!" Elly called out as they walked away.
"Bye, take care!" Takeru and Shimizu replied.
Once they were gone, Takeru turned to Shimizu. "Looks like it's just us now. Come on, Shimizu, I'll walk you home too."
Shimizu blinked in surprise and blushed slightly. "Huh? What's with the sudden offer? We're not a couple like they are." She crossed her arms. "I'm fine going back on my own."
"Don't worry about it," Takeru said casually. "Consider it a thank-you for listening to me earlier."
Shimizu sighed, her cheeks still tinged pink. "Well, if you say so... Thanks, I guess. Let's go."
As they began walking, Takeru smirked. "Hey, are you falling for me now?"
"Oh, shut up, you idiot!" Shimizu snapped, punching him lightly on the shoulder, though she couldn't hide her smile.
Back to Hikaru and Mizuha, with Mizuha still clinging to Hikaru's back in a piggyback ride, they were walking along the quiet street, and the familiar sight of Mizuha's house came into view.
"We're almost there, Mizuha. That's your house up ahead," Hikaru said.
Mizuha hesitated before speaking, her voice soft. "Umm... Hikaru?"
"What is it?" he replied, glancing back at her.
"Thank you for bringing me home. And... I'm sorry for burdening you so much tonight," Mizuha said, looking down with a guilty expression.
Hikaru sighed, shaking his head lightly. "Again with the apologies? Stop it, Mizuha. You've apologized too much tonight. Like I said before, I'm okay with it. Don't feel bad about this."
"But... I..." Mizuha began, but her words faltered. Gathering her courage, she whispered softly into his ear, "Hikaru, I like you."
Before Hikaru could fully process her words, a car drove by, its loud engine drowning out her voice.
"Umm, Mizuha, did you say something?" Hikaru asked, tilting his head in confusion.
"No, I didn't say anything. Maybe you misheard it, haha," Mizuha said quickly, her face flushing a deep red as she avoided his gaze.
Hikaru didn't press further and instead focused ahead. "Umm, Mizuha, take a look above. The moon is beautiful, isn't it, tonight?" he said, pointing at the moon.
"Yeah, it's really beautiful tonight," Mizuha replied, looking at it in amazement.
"Okay, Mizuha, we're finally here," he said as they stopped in front of her house entrance. Carefully, he lowered her from his back. "Please walk slowly when you go inside, okay?"
"Yes, I will. Thank you again, Hikaru," Mizuha said, her tone more cheerful than before.
"You're welcome. I'm glad I could help," Hikaru replied with a gentle smile. "Then, I'll head back now. See you at school later."
"See you later," Mizuha said, waving her hand as she turned and slowly made her way into her house.
Hikaru watched until she disappeared from view, then began walking back to his own home. On his way back, Hikaru's thoughts wandered to Mizuha's earlier words. His face grew warm as he recalled the faint whisper.
"Hikaru, I like you," he repeated in his mind, his heart beating faster.
Mizuha... I actually heard what you said earlier, he thought, smiling to himself. That's why I intentionally said the moon is beautiful to you, as my reply. Thank God you were unaware of that.
"Well, I like you too, Mizuha," he thought to himself, blushing as he entered his house.
"Welcome back, Hikaru-sama," said the family maid, opening the door for him.
"I'm home," he replied, smiling.
"Onii-chan, why are you so late? I've been waiting for you for so long," said his little sister, Shiori, as she approached him when he entered the building.
"Oh, sorry about that. By the way, here's the donut that you asked me for earlier," he said, opening the paper bag that Takeru had given him earlier.
"Oh, it's the golden chocolate one! Bon appétit!" said Shiori as she started eating the donut.
"Hey, don't eat all of it! Leave a bit for me," replied Hikaru.
17Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0QlVcndm0
End of the Summer Vacation Arc. The next chapter begins the new arc, the Amemonogatari Arc.
17Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ901SxVRn8L
