Sorry for the late updates, everyone!
I forgot to informed you all on the last chapter that I would be away on a family trip to Japan for a week.
But now I am back! So here's the latest chapter for you all!
Hope you enjoy it! ^.^
In a world of darkness. Where no shred of light can penetrate it. A grim and bleak place that devoid of anything positives. It's a place that looks like it can stretch on for all eternity. Like an abyss.
A single individual can be seen in this world. He's running. Running from this place. Escaping the abyss if it was a grim past memory he doesn't want to experience again. But, he couldn't escape it. Because he ran for what felt like an eternity and the darkness still hasn't disappear. No light has penetrated through this world to save the individual, no matter how long and far he ran.
The world is so dark that it creates a gray shade effect on the individual. Making it impossible to know who he is. It was if he has already surrendered into this world's darkness. But, the sign of him running shows that deep in him. He wants to escape from this abyss. Even though something deep in him doesn't want that. Wants him just to accept this fate and surrender.
Suddenly, the individual collapses to his knees from fatigue. His deep pants clearly heard around the world. "Aaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!" he lets out a cry of anguish and frustration. Slamming his hands on the surface with booming thuds. He leans down and rests his head on top of the fists. Weeping in misery.
Then, there is a shimmer of light appear in front of the individuals. A slender hand emerge from the light and rest on the man's head. The bleak grayness surrounding the individual's entire body suddenly disperse away to reveal Nawin Makasha. The hand rested on his head start softly stroking his hair in a manner filled with affection.
Slowly, with tears still in his eyes. Nawin looks up to see, standing in front of the door of light is Sayomi. Wearing that beautiful and sincere smile. Looking at him with immeasurable love and care. Without a word said, Nawin reaches his right arm up to grab the girl's arm, giving a weak tuck.
Knowing what he wants. Sayomi drops to her knees and wraps her right arm around the Makasha's back. Her other hand that's placed on his head falls to wrap behind the neck. With her beautiful and shining smile widens ever slightly, Sayomi pulls Nawin into a warm embrace.
No hesitation showed. Nawin wraps his arms around the Dracul and bury his face on the side of her neck. The once cold feeling that coursing through his entire body disappears and replace with warmness from Sayomi. She is the single light in this world right now.
Pulling away. The two stare at one another. A sincere smile form on Nawin's face. "Thank you..." he whispers out and closes his eyes to enjoy the warmth surrounding them. Sayomi's smile grows, and she too closes her eyes. The two leans ahead to have their forehead rest against each other.
At once a world devoid of any light now shines a new one. Created by Sayomi Dracul. Nawin didn't want to let go of her. Not wanting to let go of this warmth she emits. Just like that, the pair stayed there, embracing each other in a world of darkness.
"Guh!" Nawin promptly sits up on his bed and start panting hoarsely, his right hand gripping the chest. "H-Hon?!" Akeno immediately raises up from her sleep and grab's her lover by his shoulder, holding it firmly. "What's wrong?" she asks, wide awake when seeing the distress expression on the Makasha's face.
This has become a reassurance for the couple now. Ever since coming back from Vamhaven. At random nights, Nawin would wake up suddenly with cold sweats and deep pants. It was clear he was having nightmares. But, every time Akeno asked him what it was about. He always answers it vaguely. Saying he is trapped in a world of darkness and that's where he would stop. At times he truly couldn't remember anything from the nightmares.
Nawin takes a deep breath and exhales. Calming his beating heart. "What time is it?" he asks, glancing at Akeno to see her check the digital clock stand by the side of the bed "It's 4:30," "Alright." Akeno is surprised when Nawin gets off the bed "You're not going back to sleep?" "No," Nawin heads to the closet to put on a sweatpant over his boxer and throws in a long sleeve hoodie.
Nawin keeps the hood down and turns around to look at Akeno, giving her a warm smile "You head back to sleep, Akeno. I'll head out to start my morning exercises." Nawin makes way to the side of the bed to stop next to Akeno. He leans down to give a kiss on her head before pulling out and head for the door "Sorry to wake you up" "I-It's ok..." Akeno replies, watching Nawin opens the door and leaves, quietly shutting it on his way out.
Akeno lays back on the bed and shifts her body to the left side where Nawin would sleep. "Nawin-kun..." she whispers with sadness. Akeno wants to do something to help her lover, but, when it comes to nightmares, there's not much anyone can do. No matter the nights of fun the two would have by going on a date that lasted pass dinner time. Or their time cuddling together and watch some movie. Or their time spends talking all night long about the books they would read over the month. Or even times when the two just sit in front of the television and play some games. All those moments, Nawin always held that sincere smile on his face. But, still, those nightmares would at times rear its ugly head and haunts Nawin.
Slowly, sleepness returns and cause Akeno's eyelids to become heavy. Before she knows it, she returns to the world of slumber.
After spending a good ten minutes doing his stretches in the backyard. Nawin gets back up to his feet to stand straight. In the blink of an eye, the entire neighborhood is engulfed in flames. Standing across of him is none other than Sayomi Dracul. She looks at him with that menacing smirk she would wear in the past. The past where when the two saw each other, it would lead to an inevitable battle. Now, it has changed.
Nawin shakes his head and once again open his eyes to see everything is back to normal. Without a world utter, Nawin drops into a position to begin doing pushups. Even though he hasn't done magical training in the outer world for over a month now. He still does his routine exercises to keep his body in shape and slowly pushing his stamina to the next level. After done with these tough and grueling workouts, Nawin would finish it with a full jog around Kuoh.
Time Skip
When done with her shower and gotten dressed in Kuoh Academy's uniform. Akeno descends the stairs and when reaching the end, she is surprised by the front door opening all of a sudden and stepping into the house is Nawin. He is completely drenched in sweat to the point it looked like he dropped into the swimming pool then jumped out of it.
"Bah!" Lucy steps out of the kitchen to look at who was at the door "Big bro! You stink! Go take a shower, quickly" she says with a teasing grin "Breakfast is almost ready, sweetheart" Yao informs. Nawin looks at AKeno and gives her a faint smile "Morning," he says which cause her to giggle and smile lovingly at him "Good morning, Nawin-kun" "Do I stink that much?" "To the point where I would not hug you at this moment." Nawin chuckles and nod "Got it, well I'll be back," he says and heads up the stairs after Akeno moves out of the way.
Akeno looks at her lover's back for the moment before turning to the left to head to the kitchen. Most of the family are already present. Jonathan sat at the table reading his morning newspaper as usual. Lucy and Asia are also at the table, chatting at one another about a variety of topic. Yao is cooking for the entire family and as always, even with the large number of mouths to feed. She never shows signs of having difficulty. Sliding around the variety of tasks with ease.
"Do you need any help?" Akeno asks, offering her assistance to the mother of three, "No," Yao looks back and give a grin "I'm fine here, dear. Lucy already set the drinks so just sit down and wait a minute" "Ok."
Getting comfortable on the chair, Akeno looks around and stop at the clock on the wall that also displays the date. 'September 23...' she utters in mind, staring at the date for a moment before shifting down to her fingers. Akeno faintly smiles when seeing the bracelet on her right arm.
"Onee-chan you train too hard at times," Asia speaks, a frown form on her face "Every time you come home after training I always heal you and noticed just how injured you'd get" "I don't get that injured," Lucy replies "When I heal I can feel the wounds, Onee-chan. The scratches, cuts, and burns you would sustain is evident in my mind" "Alright," Lucy sighs, looking a bit tired "I do train a lot" "Serafall-sama doesn't push you too much?" "No, no," Lucy shakes her head and smile, giving a comfort ruffle on Asia's head "I'm just the kind of person who leaves the gym last, Asia. Plus... I enjoy training" "Really?" Asia says, tilting her head to the side, a bit surprised by this new information "Yep. I find it quite fun. So, to me, it is never a chore. I am having fun while getting stronger."
"All of us should be careful then," Akeno joins in, smiling brightly "If you continue to train that hard than you might surpass us all very soon." Lucy grins and nods "Ahaha, yeah! You better watch out!" she exclaims, pointing. Akeno just giggles in response at the girl's enthusiasm.
Not long after Nawin joins the rest, just in time when his mother finished platting the foods. He takes a seat between Akeno and Yao. "Thanks for the food!" everyone says to Yao before digging into their plates.
While eating, Lucy notices her brother's tired eyes. THose brown orbs don't show much concentration as usual. Visible stress shows in them. Yao saw this too and was about to question, but her daughter beat her to the punch. "Big bro," Lucy calls out "Hmm?" Nawin revert his eyes up from the plate to look at his sister "Are you ok? You don't look like you've been sleeping well" "Ah," Nawin drops the fork and brings his right hand up to rub the area between his eyes while releasing a sigh.
Now the whole family as their attention to him. "He's been having trouble sleepy lately," Akeno speaks up "Why is that?" Jonathan asks, concern showing in his expression "Is it something serious?" Asia adds in. "It's nothing serious... Asia," Nawin speaks up, removing his hands from his face to give a reassuring smile to all of his family "Then what is it?" Yao pushes "He's been having nightmares lately," Akeno answers.
"Nightmares?" Yao repeats, turning to her son with a look fo great concern "Are they bad? What's it about?" "It's honestly... Hard to explain," Nawin replies, staring down at his plate with a blank look "It's one of those nightmares where you are trapped in a dark place. An abyss. Running around aimlessly... Trying to find a way out."
The entire family concern grows when seeing Nawin drift off, his eyes indicating he is in deep thought. "O-Onii-chan?" Asia calls out and is able to snap Nawin back to reality. He looks up and smiles at the blonde across the table "Don't worry, Asia. It's just nightmares," he says then picks the fork back to return eating "Sooner or later it'll pass."
"Alright," Jonathan gives a warm smile to his son "But, if it continues then, please talk to us alright, Nawin?" "Of course, Dad" "Good, we'll figure it out together and fix it if need be." Satisfied with the matter solved, everyone returns to eating their breakfast.
Akeno smile in relief when seeing Nawin's shoulder has become less tense. It seems his father's word and tone are able to calm him. Jonathan always holds this warm and comforting tone that says everything will be fine. 'I hope the nightmares will soon be a thing from the past.'
Time Skip: Kuoh Academy
"I am... Entering the classroom like a normal person!" Rias burst through the opened window like a crazy person and lands perfectly at the front of the classroom. Fortunately, the only people present is Nawin, Akeno, and Sona.
Akeno giggles at her friend's entranced while Sona shakes her head and sigh in distaste. Nawin, who is sited at his desk, roll his eyes at the reference. "I hope the scenario of none of our classmates are currently present was in your mind before you decided to do that stunt, Rias" Sona comments "Of course," Rias giggles and waves her hand dismissively "I scanned before taking action."
"You are awfully cheery today," Akeno remarks "You do realize we have a test today?" "I am confident with my chance," Rias says in honest "I've studied for it" "You never scored low or average, so I doubt it's going to start now" Akeno state with a nod.
Rias turns to the Makasha and grins "Are you ready to beat Sona-chan again, Nawin-kun?" she asks "Oui," Sona speaks up, glaring at the Gremory "Don't throw that question around so loosely" "Oooh," Rias shift to her childhood friend with a mischievous grin "Someone's nervous?" she teasingly ask and merely receive a cold glare from the Sitri.
"Nawin-kun has studied quite dutifully, Sona-chan" Akeno informs "Then," Sona push her glass up then shift to the Makasha and points "I shall defeat you this time, Nawin-san!" she announces. Rias and Akeno giggles at their usually stoic and calm friend's energetic comment. "Bring it on," Nawin replies merely, his eyes stare at Sona's with a small smirk dancing on his lip.
"She totally has a small, cute crush on him," Rias whispers to Akeno, who giggles and nod in agreement "Unquestionably." Sona snaps toward the two with a faint blush plastered on her cheeks "I do not!" she shouts which have the two girls giggles playfully. Nawin just watches the scene with the three childhood friends with a small smile. Content with the normal day today looks to turn out to be.
Time Skip: Lunch Time
"Ah-ha!" Issei lets out a happy shout, a big grin spread across his face. An expression created by the scoresheet that's held in front of him. A large number 'Ninety' is written on top of the paper with a red marker, indicating the score of the test that the Hyoudou received.
"All those late-night studying paid off! This is my highest score in these tests!" he boasts, thrusting the paper to Kokoro's direction, who's finished packing her bag then gaze at her King's scoresheet with a blank expression. "Issei..." she starts, slinging the bag over her right shoulder "That test was one of the easier ones," she remarks and to bring it further to the point, Kokoro grabs her scoresheet that was laid on the table and brings it up to show a perfect score written on it.
"Nothing to be proud off, Issei," Xenovia stops by the side of the Hyoudou's desk and shows her sheet. The number Ninety-five is demonstrated clearly on top of the page. "So sad for you, Hyoudou" a taunting voice of Riser comes from the other end and his scoresheet slams down on the Hyoudou's desk. The bright red number of Ninety-one written there on top of the paper.
Issei gives a long stare at every single one of his friends "I hate all of you," he says in a gloomy tone "Can't you all for once be nice to me?" "We tease because we care, Issei" Xenovia replies with a smirk, tapping the Hyoudou on the shoulder. "Also, we tease to give you more motivation," Kokoro state with a small smile "Next time try a perfect score, aye?" she says, and Issei look at her with a surprised expression before a grin breaks out on his face "Alright!"
"Nah," Riser inserts, shrugging "I tease to torment him," "Of course you do..." Yuuto comments, giving a dull look at the Phenex "You are mighty rude, Riser" Elise states and gets a smirk in return "Am I?" "Yes... Yes, you are" "Good of you to notice and don't expect it to change."
Issei finished packing his stuff and swung the bag on his right shoulder. He turns to his Knight "Don't bother with him, Elise. Phenex here is a jerk around the clock. Not a single day in the year is he nice" "Psh," Kokoro give a snort "That is for certain" "Suck it up!" Riser shouts, annoyed at all the ganging up on him.
"Now, now," Yuuto steps in, wearing the ever-charming smile "Let's not set off an argument. It's lunch break so let's go meet up with the others and enjoy lunch together" "You heard my man," Xenovia stops beside the blonde and grasp his right hand, smiling broadly. Issei and the rest secretly at the new couple "Alright!" he exclaims and starts heading to the door "I'm starved" "Better listen to the new couple" Kokoro state with a smirk which causes the faint blush to appear from both Xenovia and Yuuto.
Without further talk. The group of second years exits the now quiet classroom to head to the cafeteria.
Time Skip: Cafeteria
As always. The large cafeteria room is packed with students. All of the different group of friends are sat together at the circle tables to eat their lunches. Even with all the chattering from numerous tables. All of the students were respectable enough to keep their volume at a minimum and not just yell out to cause difficulties for the other tables.
Also, everyone is better to behave currently considering Sona, and her group decided to have lunch today at the cafeteria. None wanted to receive a harsh lecture from the President of the Student Council.
"Congratulations, Issei" Rias starts, giving a bright smile at her blushing lover "I'm so proud of you scoring such a score in your test," "Hehehe, it's all thanks to you, Rias! If it weren't for your pushing, then I would have scored below average" "Don't be so hard on yourself. You worked hard on your own too. I saw it" "Thanks," Issei says, blushing brightly and grinning goofily.
"How was your test?" Xenovia ask their seniors "You guys had one today, right?" "Yes," Akeno answers, taking a piece of salmon to her mouth with a chopstick "It was quite challenging, but I am confident that I'll receive a good score" "Same," Rias nods "Our tests keep getting harder and harder, but I was able to finish that one without much sweat."
Issei looks at the seat next to Akeno that's now occupied by Xenovia. The seat where Nawin would have taken. But he learned that the Makasha decided to have lunch with Akame and the other girls on the roof. To get away from the crowd of the Cafeteria.
"How did the test go for Nawin?" Issei asks, shifting sight to Akeno "A breeze," she replies with a smile "I glanced at him a couple of time during the session, and he was cool as always. Answering all the questions without hesitation" "And he finished it before Sona" Rias insert.
"That guy is good at everything," Riser state, rolling his eyes "It's a bit annoying now" "He studies and work hard to be good, Riser" Akeno replies "Perhaps you should follow that example" "Oh shut up! Like I'll work hard for these stupid tests!" "Language, Riser" Sona comments from the other table not far from the group's one. "Mind your own business!" Riser retorts. The Sitri shakes her head and gives an exasperated sigh.
"Ignoring Riser's angry bursts," Akeno speaks, placing the chopsticks down on the empty plate while disregarding the heating glare she is receiving from the Phenex "There's something important I wanted to bring up." The last comment quickly catches everyone's attention. "What is it?" Koneko asks, tilting her head in curiosity while munching on some chocolate-chip cookies.
"As you all know today is September 23," Akeno starts, smiling warmly "This week, September 27 will be Nawin-kun's birthday" "Waaah!" Asia gasps in realization and flails her arms up in the air "That's right! Onii-chan's birthday is on Friday!" "I knew his birthday was coming up since he mentioned it was in September," Rias utters, thinking.
"I'm assuming you have a plan?" Yuuto asks "Surprise party?" Issei question "No," Akeno shakes her head "You all done that for me, so it's kind of obscure to do another one again. I was thinking of just doing our best to prepare a nice and peaceful birthday party for him. Nothing crazy. Nawin-kun tends to prefer things simple. No need to go overblown in unnecessary stuff."
"Onii-chan would like that," Asia nods in agreement "A delicious cake. Some decorations. A large meal. That's all he would want" "If that's what would make him happy," Issei speaks "Then we should do our best to make it perfect! The guy deserves it". Everyone nods in agreement with the Hyoudou "N-Nii-chan worked hard," Gasper speaks, smiling cutely "He deserves a wonderful birthday celebration" "Indeed," Rias agrees, grinning in excitement.
Akeno claps her hands together and smiles brightly "So everyone is onboard then?" "Of course!" Xenovia exclaims, grinning broadly "None of us shall slack off" "You said it!" Issei joins, pumping his fist in the air "Let's make that stoic member of ours have the biggest smile possible at his birthday!" "Yeah!" everyone shouts in approval.
Seated at Sona's table. Lucy glance back at Rias's table with a look of concern in her sky-blue eyes. Hearing their conversation about her brother's birthday got her immediate attention. Lucy's expression shifts to a glimpse of confliction before she returns to eating.
Roof
"Senna... Would you put that thing down and eat" Momo comment, sighing at the sight of her younger sister playing the Nintendo switch in a handheld mode. Her amber color eyes glued at the screen. "I am almost done with this match," Senna replies "Didn't know she was this much of a gamer!" Misako speaks in surprise "She's crazy for them," Momo states, chuckling sheepishly.
Currently, the group is seated on a large black blanket that Akame brought for them to sit on and have lunch at the roof. The single table on the roof was too small for all of them.
Seated between Akame and Misako is Nawin, who is enjoying his lunch quietly. Eyes closed and a small peaceful smile wore on his face. Showing his enjoyment by the company he has and the quietness that the roof has to offer.
"Did Senna study for the test?" Misako asks Momo "Like the day before the test," "Whaoo! And she was able to score Ninety-Five?!" "I'm not dumb, Misako!" Senna comments then cheer in success "Yesh! I beat you, Samus!"
Senna places the handheld back inside her backpack then grabs the chopstick to dig into her bento. "I guess it also helps that the test was relatively easy," Misako muses, thinking back at all the questions "If Issei and Riser were able to score above Ninety, then it was easy," Akame inserts, taking a sip of a bottle of cold green tea.
"Fortunately, there are no tests for us First-year," Wendy comments, releasing a sigh of relief by the fact. "T-Though we got a pop quiz out o-of nowhere this morning" "Ouch," Senna wince "I hate those! Especially when the teachers would bring it up without any notice" "Y-yeah, it's not a good surprise at all."
Chewing on a teriyaki dipped salmon steak, Senna swallows it then shifts to look at the only male in their group. "Nawin-kun," she calls, and the boy opens his eyes to look at her "Yes?" "You secretly have a sweet tooth, right?" "... Maybe..." Misako leans close to the Hinamori's ears "He does," she whispers in confirmation. Senna grins while Nawin sends a soft glare at the giggling Ichiru.
Senna turns to the side to dig into her bag then quickly pulls out a plastic box containing a variety of colorful cupcakes. "Tada!" she exclaims with a wide grin "I baked these bad boys this morning! Try one!" Nawin blinks when the box of cupcakes is thrust right into his face.
Akame silently chews on a piece of fillet steak. She rolls her eyes when seeing the kind of dessert, it is in the box. 'Not the right choice, Senna.' "... I'm not really a big fan of cupcakes" Nawin regretfully states and a look of shock appears on Senna's face. "What?!" she exclaims in disbelief "How can you not like these colorful and tasty treats! Blasphemy!" "He finds it cumbersome to eat and the flavor weak" Akame answers.
Senna slowly turns to the Knight with a blank gaze "You sure know a lot about him, Akame-chan" she states. In response, Akame gives a shrug. Senna flips the lid open and places it down beside her. Turning to Nawin "Have one, please?" she requests, giving the poppy eyes "That doesn't work on me," Nawin replies, rolling his eyes.
Nawin looks back to see Senna not letting up. He gazes down at the cupcakes and can see all of them do look good. Well enough to be sold in stores. Hard work clearly went to them. "... Fine," Nawin gives in and offers his right hand out "Pass me the chocolate one" "Hehe!" Senna's face breaks into a grin, and she more than happily picks up the chocolate cupcake then sets it on the Makasha's palm.
"Here's a tissue, Nawin-kun" Misako offers "Thanks," Nawin replies with a grateful smile and takes the tissue with his other hand. Senna watches intently as the Makasah brings the treat close to his mouth and takes a bite. On the side, Momo giggles a bit at her sister's eager expression on such a casual event.
Nawin chews and tastes the strong chocolate icing flavor and the soft cake. He raises an eyebrow in impress while staring at the cupcake in hand. Senna's smile widens when seeing the Makasha going for the second bite then the third bite he finishes it completely.
"You like it?!" Senna asks "It was... Actually, the best cupcake I ever had," Nawin answers with a soft smile "Yeeeaahh!" Senna cheers, pumping her arms in the air "Chef Senna is a thing!" "Only on the sweet department, Little sis" Momo quickly inserts. "She's n-not good at other meals?" Wendy question "Oh no... Senna can't even cook spaghetti without burning it" "That was one time!" Senna interject, getting flustered "Right, so what about that other time you tried to cook teriyaki chicken and instead of putting teriyaki sauce you put Winchester sauce... Effectively ruining the dish... Which was already ruined by the raw chicken" Momo state.
Everyone is looking at Senna, whose face is entirely red from embarrassment. "I am a good cook, alright!" Senna replies, and points at Nawin "He likes it!" "Sweets and desserts, yes. Others... Nope" "Hmh!" Senna crosses her arms and pouts childishly.
The others chuckle at the sister's funny banters, while Nawin just wears a warm smile. "Can I have some?" Misako asks, looking at the box of cupcakes. Senna turns and grins brightly "Of course! I baked it for everyone!" she says and brings the box up for the rest to take their preferred cupcakes.
Just like that, Nawin and the girls continue their lunch on the roof peacefully. Enjoying each other's company and the quietness.
Time Skip: Makasha's Household
Night has set on Kuoh. The starless sky shows nothing but darkness with the only ray of light up there is the full moon shining down at the city. Like most nights. During the time after dinner, the neighborhood where the Makasha's resides is very quiet.
Liad on the bed, Akeno flips through the page on the book she's currently reading. Her eyes move through the sentence with surprising speed. Showing that she's a fast reader and has been reading plenty of books in her life to be able to read so effectively.
The bathroom doors slowly open and out walks Nawin. Fresh out from the shower and has a towel firmly tied around his waist. He walks to the closet and opens the door that's set in an angle that doesn't allow anyone that is sited on the bed to see him change. Akeno mentally pouts a bit at this and returns to her book.
Closing the closet, Nawin steps back to show he's properly dressed in a black t-shirt with gray vertical strips as its design and gray sweatpants. Seeing that her lover is finished with his shower, Akeno sets the book down on the bed and sits up to look at him.
"Nawin-kun," Akeno calls out, wearing a loving smile "Hmm?" Nawin hums in response and turns around to look at her. "Well, today at lunch I was discussing with the group about your birthday. We decided to have a nice and normal celebration party after school. There will be a big meal set for dinner, and after that, you can have your delicious cake that Rias and I will personally pick!" she says with excitement "Everyone is very excited! Ahaha, I think you'll be getting a lot of nice presents!"
"... No," Akeno's smile instantly falter when that word was uttered from the Makasha. "H-huh?" she replies in confusion, seeing Nawin's brown eyes turning cold and his head shift to the side to stare through the window displaying the starless night.
Nawin's eyes did not leave the window "Don't bother... Akeno. It's not worth it" he says in a low and empty tone that continues to confuse and shock the Himejima. "But," Akeno gets out of the bed to stand up "It's your birthday, Nawin-kun! A special day for you" "Akeno..." Nawin sighs and finally looks at her "Please drop it... My birthday is something I don't look forward to... Not anymore."
"B-But," Akeno refuse to drop it, her eyes show concern but also determination "Nawin-kun... You worked so hard to give me such a perfect birthday! I just want to do the same for you" "..." Nawin stays silent and just stare at Akeno with stoic eyes "If you want to return the favor for what I had done for your birthday. Then here's the favor... Drop this subject and forget about it. My birthday... is long dead."
Akeno can only stand there in stun as she watches Nawin heads to the door and grabs the handle, twisting it to open. "I'm sorry, Akeno" he whispers, head hung low causing the front bangs to cover the eyes "But forget about my birthday... Please." With that said, Nawin exits the room and shuts the door on the way.
After the tense conversation. Nawin decided he needed a breath of fresh air and took a coat before venturing out into the chilling night. Walking around aimlessly with his thoughts up in the air. Nawin abruptly stops when seeing a red light appear, signaling him to halt for the incoming cars to drive to the main road.
Nawin drops his hands into the coat's pockets and takes a deep breath before exhaling. He looks up at the night sky "... Four days, huh?" When the light turns green, Nawin resumes his casual walk through the night. Half of his attention is focused on the road to look out for any incoming transportation.
Before long, Nawin finds himself climbing up the stairs to walk on the walking bridge built over the main road that leads to the central city. Many cars can be heard beneath, driving either into the city or out of it. The bridge was much deserted with the only source of lights emitting from the tall lamp posts.
As the Makasha is halfway through the bridge, a shadowy figure can be seen walking from the other end. Nawin notices this and glances up for a moment to see it is a moment judging by their slender figure. He didn't pay much mind to her and just continues on his way. His eyes firmly set on the ground.
As the woman steps into the light and reveals a bit of her appearance. She is a fairly tall individual. Dressed in a clean gray sundress with a long-sleeve pearl colored jacket that's worn over the dress to keep her warm. Glossy black high heels can be seen and clanking on the asphalt. The unknown woman also wears a black summer hat that shields a portion of her face.
Both individuals soon pass by each other without sparing a single glance. Nawin takes a few more steps before a feeling, a feeling of warmth he hasn't felt for so long comes flooding through his body like an unrelenting current. He comes to a halt and his breath hitch for a moment. From behind, the woman too comes to a stop.
For a moment, the two didn't move. Nawin presses his right hand to his chest, feeling that aching pain. He grimaces and shakes his head 'Stop it... Stop hurting yourself... S-She's... She's gone.' Nawin takes a deep breath and exhales before dropping his arm to the side. Without a word, Nawin resumes walking to the other end of the bridge.
The woman stays in place for a few more seconds, listening to the Makasha's footsteps before she continues her way through the chilling night.
Elsewhere
"... There" Lucy wears a soft smile as she finishes tucking her young sister into bed. But, instead of getting that always bright smile, Lucy notices the troubled expression on her sister's face. "What's wrong, Asia?" she asks and proceeds to place a hand on the blonde's forehead "You aren't sick, are you?" "No... It is not that" Asia replies, gently shaking her head.
Retracting her hand, Lucy stare at the blonde face with concern expression "Then what's wrong?" "... Onee-chan... Why does Onii-chan hate his birthday?" Asia asks. The sudden question has taken Lucy by complete surprise, her eyes widen from the shock before it lowers. A hint of sadness begins showing in those sky-blue eyes.
When feeling the tenseness emitting from her sister's body, Asia immediately knows that the subject is a very sour one, but a one she knows. Lucy shift her eyes up to look at Asia "May I know how you found this fact?" "Well... Earlier I was walking out of the bathroom and heard some commotion in Onii-chan's room... I-I heard him and Akeno arguing about his birthday. He didn't want her to plan the celebration... Told her to forget about it. I was so shocked when hearing that" Asia utters out, her expression shows incredible sadness. Clearly, she wants her brother to have his birthday so he can have a fun day with everyone.
Lucy pulls a lock of her shining golden hair back to her ear. At night she would have her long hair loose. "Our brother's birthday is a special one for him, Asia..." "Then why doesn't he want to celebrate it?" Asia asks, shifting to face Lucy "Please tell me, Onee-chan" she urges.
Staring at her sister's face, Lucy contemplates hard if she should talk about this subject. One of the many subjects that the family keeps a tight lip for Nawin's sake. "... Ok," Lucy gives in "I'll tell you parts of our brother's past."
Lucy feels Asia grasping her right hand as if to comfort her. She smiles down at the blonde in gratitude. "Asia... You know of the tragedy that happened to our Brother's best friend, yes?" "I remember... His name was Tomo, and he was killed in the middle of a gang war that happened near the school where Onii-chan attended" "... Losing Tomo was a big blow to my Brother... Because Tomo helped lift him back to his feet once again... After Brother lost another person in his life. A person that he absolutely cherished."
"W-what?" Asia stutters out, never hearing this before "W-who is this person?" "She... She was someone who has stuck by my Brother's side ever since I could remember. She was pretty much a part of our family" "What's her relationship with Onii-chan like?" "They were close, very close. They would eat together, play together, laugh together, sleep together. The two were inseparable. Honestly," Lucy lets out a weak chuckle "It annoyed me a bit how she monopolized Brother, and her teasing got on my nerve since I was a hothead back then... More so than now," "You didn't like her?" "I can't say that. Looking back now in a more mature manner, she and I had a bit of that sister rivalry relationship. Even through all her teasing and my angry rants, I would throw around. Deep down we shared a fond connection towards one another."
"But, getting back to the matter," Lucy lets out a soft sigh "She was a very dear person to Brother. Looking back at it now... I can see the two truly loved each other and being honest... If she were still here today, Brother and Akeno wouldn't have ever become an item." "R-really?" Asia stutters out, a bit horrified imagining a scenario her brother and Akeno not becoming an item.
Lucy looks at Asia and wears a sad smile "I never should say this, but... Being honest, the love Brother had with her dwarfs over the love he now has with Akeno" she states, shocking the younger blonde. Lucy looks out of the window at the starless night "When I think back of all the times I've seen my brother was with her. Seeing just how much she could make him smile brightly and laugh. The two of them shared a very special bond that I have never seen my brother formed with another individual since."
Lucy shifts back to Asia "She was his significant other, his soulmate, his... Light." There was a space of silence between the two. Asia took a minute to digest everything before opening her mouth to speak, but Lucy speaks first "She and Brother had a shared Birthday," she reveals, shocking Asia "S-shared?" "Yes, I never honestly know if her Birthday is really on the same date as my brother, but when September 27 arrives... We would throw a lovely birthday celebration for my brother and her. Both of them always had their birthdays at the same time."
Asia's expression shift to heartbroken "S-So, that's why Onii-chan comes to dislike his birthday?" "Yes... To him, his Birthday doesn't make sense anymore without her also there. For the past five years, brother hasn't celebrated his birthday... This year it will be the sixth. The Sixth anniversary of her death" Lucy utters out, causing Asia to turn to her in surprise "S-she-" "Yes... She died on the very day of her birthday... Brother lost her at the day that was supposed to be an amazing day for the two of them."
Light tears begin escaping from Asia's closed eyes. It rolls down her cheeks and lands on the blanket. "I-I never kn-knew, Onii-chan has such a sad past," Asia sniff out, using her free arms to wipe the tears "H-He doesn't deserve it" "Life is full of the unexpected, Asia" Lucy whispers and pulls the younger Makasha into an embrace "All we can do is that one day brother would move on and be truly happy. But, right now it's best to give him space and not force things on him... It'll only open the wounds that's he's trying hard to close" "W-why is it taking so long? I-I want him better" "Because... Love like that can't be healed quickly. They were... Perfect for each other."
Lucy gently stroke Asia's back to comfort. "Onee-chan," Asia whispers, her face buries on the other girl's shoulder "Yes?" "Why don't you mention her name?" "... Because it was the request from brother. I promised him not to bring her up again... For his sake keep the promise to this day. Please don't bring this up to him ok, Asia?" "I won't."
As the sister stays in silent and comforts each other. Outside the room, leaned on the wall, next to the slightly open door is Akeno. A look of gloom and sadness is plastered on the Himejima's face. She heard everything, and in all honesty, she doesn't know what to think of it. Without a word, Akeno slowly stands straight and quietly makes her way back to the bedroom. Her head hung down ever slightly.
Next Day
Tuesday arrives, and it is the same routine for Nawin as it has been for the past month. Wake up, does his morning exercises, have breakfast, then goes to school with Akeno and his sisters. A routine he has gotten used to during the peaceful period and enjoys it.
Fortunately, Nawin and Akeno were able to patch things up after their argument. When he returned, Akeno immediately apologized and accepted his decision on not having a birthday celebration. Nawin was honestly caught off-guard by the sudden change since he expected Akeno to put more of a fight. But, in the end, he was grateful for her cooperation on his choice.
As the day pass by like a blink of an eye. The last bell for the school rings to signal the end of the day. Allowing students to leave and enjoy the rest of the day as they see fit.
After placing her books in, Akame shuts the locker and locks it. She turns around to see Nawin opening his locker and sets the textbooks inside. As he was about to close the door, a white envelope suddenly falls out from the locker. With his fast reflexes, Nawin catches it in midair and examines it while shutting the door, spinning the codes to lock it effectively.
"A letter?" Akame states, stopping beside her King "Probably another love letter," Nawin replies with a sigh "Do you want me to get rid of it?" Akame asks, offering her right hand to take the item. Nodding, Nawin proceeds to pass the envelope to Akame, but suddenly, something in him causes the motion to halt. Akame blinks when seeing her King start clenching the envelope tightly and looking at it with intent as he stops it halfway from her grasp.
Without a word, Nawin takes the envelope back and proceed to open it. He pulls the letter out and unfolds it. 'Dear Nawin... Please come to Amai Sekai at the Center of the town at 9 tonight. I would love to meet you...' Nawin notices at the bottom of a letter an initial written 'MC.'
Nawin stares long and hard at the initial as his grip on the letter becomes tighter, causing the paper to curl. "Nawin-kun," Akame softly calls out, snapping the Makasha out of his thoughts and turn to her. "Ah," he gives an apologetic smile "Sorry about ignoring you, Akame" "... It's fine... Are you going to meet up with this person?" she asks and sees Nawin looks down at the letter once more, his eyes show a variety of emotions that it was hard for her to depict "Yes... I should" he answers, though more to himself.
Hearing other students quickly rushing down the stairs after they are let go. Nawin swiftly heads to the door to exit the main building. Akame follows closely by the side. After walking across the large front campus, the two comes to a halt at the front gates. Nawin turns around and gives a warm smile to his Knight "I'll be heading straight home now. Haven't slept well recently so I'll be taking a nap before this meeting tonight" "Understood," Akeno replies "Let her down gently, ok?" "Of course," Nawin chuckles a bit at his friend's rare humor.
With their conversation over. Nawin and Akame go on their separate ways.
Time Skip: Night
With dinner finished a few hours since then. Nawin and Akeno have huddled up together on their bed to enjoy some movies on Netflix. This has become a routine for the lovers. Both enjoy movies and spending quiet time together. So, when Nawin isn't with his sisters after dinner, he would just sit on the bed with Akeno leaned beside him, both watching some movies. They would have the bed's blanket covering their lower half and carry a nice drink of hot chocolate as a treat.
Nawin takes the last sip of the hot chocolate drink, emptying it from the brown mug as he watches a crazy shooting scene happening on the television screen. Akeno holds her lover's right arm close while retaining the black mug on the other hand. She takes a sip of the delicious hot drink that is still half full in the mug.
"The story is a bit all over the place, but the action scenes are well shot," Nawin comments "Mhm-hmm," Akeno nods in agreement "The motive for the main character is a bit weak," "Yeah, but they could still have made it worked. It's just they did a lousy job convincing us. Look at John Wick. He killed all those people because the bastards killed his dog" "Oh?" Akeno sends a teasing smirk to her lover "I sensed some anger in there, Nawin-kun. Would you do the same thing if someone hurt Sairis" "If any idiot dare put harm onto Sairis they won't have anywhere in this earth or the supernatural world to hide from my wrath" "Aww," Akeno gives an affectionate kiss on the Makasha's cheek and smile lovingly "Your love for animals are so cute, Nawin-kun. I would be the same too. I detest people that dare commits animal cruelty."
Nawin takes his eyes away from the screen to look up at the wall clock pinned a few feet above the television. He sees it just turned 8:30. 'If the road is quiet than it'll take me roughly twenty minutes to get there... I better depart now. Rather get there early than late.'
"Can you release my arm, Akeno?" Nawin request which surprises the girl, but she incline, unwrapping her left arm and drops it to her side. "Do you need to go to the bathroom?" she asks, pausing the movie "No," Nawin gets off the bed and stands straight to stretch legs a bit from all the sitting.
Nawin shift to Akeno and gives her a warm smile "I need to head out to meet with a person," he informs and sets the empty mug on top of a cabinet that holds latest books that the couples are currently going through. "Meeting?" Akeno repeats, tilting her head at this new information "With who?" "I don't know," Nawin answers in honest "I received a letter today from a person. They wanted to meet me in the Center Town" "Letter?" Akeno repeats, her eyes narrow in distaste "Another love letter? Why are you bothering with those, Nawin-kun?" she asks, knowing every time when he received those, they would end up in the bin. 'Why is this any different?'
Nawin crosses his arms and tilts his head a bit "I don't believe this is a love letter. It's more of a request for a formal meeting. There's no hearts or a cheesy confession written on it. It's just a blunt and forward text that request me to meet up with them" "Oh," Akeno becomes more relief when hearing this. She smiles and gives the nod "Alright, then it's best you go see this person. It might be something serious" "I hope it isn't," Nawin says with a sigh, heading to wardrobe to pull out a black leather coat "But I want to see who this person is that sent the letter."
Akeno watches her lover slides in the coat and heads to the door. "Drive carefully," she requests, and Nawin turns around to give a smile "Of course. I'll try not to be late" "Ok, see you later" "Mhm-hmm." Nawin twists the knob to open the door then exits the room.
Yao exits the kitchen and pauses when seeing her son descending the stairs. "You are going somewhere at this hour?" she asks, noticing the worn coat "Just meeting someone," Nawin replies in a nonchalant manner "I won't be long" "Alright... Drive safe, ok?" "Of course, Mom" Nawin gives a smile then quick kiss to his Mother's cheek to reassure her before heading to the front door and exit the house.
Nawin heads to the side of the garage where his bike is parked. Picking up the helmet that's hung by the handle, Nawin's other hand summons the letter for him to examine it. He reads through the context once more and can't help but feel like this is something more than just an ordinary meeting. 'MC,' Nawin repeats the initials while his eyes sharpen.
Teleporting the letter away, Nawin gets onto the bike and puts the helmet on. Pushing the button to start the motorbike. He revs the monstrous engine to create a booming sound before letting go of the break and pulls the accelerator to swiftly drift the bike around and face the road.
Without another second to waste, Nawin pulls the accelerator and speed out of the driveway before taking a swift left turn. Now on the main road, Nawin blaze forward on the bike, racing into the Center of Kuoh.
With the current time of night. The main road to the Center is quite quiet aside from a few cars and buses. Probably from people who are heading there for some late-night parties or dinner. With it not busy, Nawin just pulled the accelerator to blaze through all the vehicles. Racing through the night.
It hadn't taken Nawin long to reach into the Center Town. Fortunately, there wasn't any police on the main road at the time to force him to slow down. Of course, when entering the Town, Nawin is required to drive more sensibly and not used all the horsepower his sport bike has to offer.
Not exactly knowing where the place the person mentioned in the letter is. Nawin typed it down on the map app on his phone and followed the trail. Luckily, it was near the Center of the town which made it easy for him to travel there since he is quite familiar with the area by now.
Stopping the Ducati on the space for motorbike parking. Nawin places his phone back into the jean's pocket before unclipping the helmet, pulling it off his head. He looks forward and sees a medium size dessert store that showcases many different varieties of sweets on the front windows to lure in customers. All of them really do look fantastic and delicious. Nawin can already catch the whiff of sweet smell escaping from the glass doors.
Hanging the helmet on the handle, Nawin gets off the bike and stands straight. He gazes upwards at the signboard nailed above the front doors. "Amai Sekai..." he softly reads out the name of the sweet store. It is the exact same name as is written in the letter.
Nawin catches a deep breath and takes a moment to look around his surroundings. The store was underneath a large office building that's built right at the center of the town. With it being night, the neon lights on the shopping malls and advertisement billboards glow brightly to create a world of colorful lights. The scene captivates Nawin for a moment considering he rarely comes to the Center during the night. The view in front of him is still entirely foreign, but a beautiful view for sure.
Blinking, Nawin turns around to face the sweet store once again. Climbing up the stairs, he pushes the glass door to cause the entrance bell to ring, signaling a new customer for the workers. "Welcome!" a beautiful and young waitress stops in front of the Makasha, looking a bit nervous by his looks "H-How many people with you, Sir?" "Table for two please," Nawin calmly answers "Certainly, please follow me."
Nawin takes a seat at a booth located near the end of the room, which is a perfect space since he wants this meeting to be away from public ears. He takes off the coat and sets it beside him before turning to the Waitress, offering a kind smile "I'll be ordering when my friend arrives" "Of course!" the girl beams before turning around to tend to other customers.
Glancing at his watch, Nawin notices it just turned 9:00. He doesn't know why, but he feels nervous. His heart beats faster than ordinary, and he doesn't know why. This meeting for all he knows could be for some stupid reason like a fan trying to talk to him by using different methods or a gang member who wants to threaten him. It could even be a ruse pulled by Issei for the two of them to hang out at this time of night. Nawin would not put past his cheeky best friend to pull off a stunt like this.
To calm himself, Nawin takes a deep breath and exhales. He turns the cup of glass that's laid on the table around then reach for the free jug of cold water to pour in it. Placing the jug down, Nawin takes a sip of the refreshing water and feels the cold liquid cool his body down. Drinking until it is half full, Nawin places the cup down. Crossing his arms, he leans back on the booth to get comfortable before closing his eyes.
A full five minutes pass by, and Nawin starts to get a bit annoyed since he doesn't like waiting. Especially in a meeting that isn't organized by himself. But, Nawin decides to wait for another five minutes before ditching this whole thing and return home.
Two minutes pass until Nawin hears footsteps walking from the side of the table. Nawin didn't open his eyes, thinking it might be a waitress, but he perks when hearing the person takes a sit on the booth across from him. 'So, they finally arrive.'
The Makasha slowly opens his eyes to finally meet the mysterious person that sent him the letter. "Uh?!" a shocking gasp escape from Nawin's mouth as his eyes widen entirely. She returns and sits right there, across the table and in front of him. Wearing that beautiful and warm smile, looking at him with those breathtaking and sparkling violet eyes. Even the large hat she wears could not hide those beautiful orbs.
But, Nawin quickly recomposes himself and shift his sight elsewhere, ignoring the illusion created from his mind. A sick trick he thought had been ridden off in Shigemi. The silence between the two continues until the Waitress stops in front of the table, smiling brightly "Would you two like to take your orders?" she ask "W-what?" Nawin whispers out in disbelief, looking at the Waitress stunned, wondering if what she just said is what he heard. "U-Um, I said would you and your friend like to order?" the woman repeats.
"I would like a Strawberry milkshake, please," the girl kindly ask "Certainly," the Waitress reply, her beaming smile returning as she writes the order down. She turns to Nawin "And you, Sir?" "... Ice lemon tea is fine..." "Certainly." When done writing the orders, the Waitress hastily leaves the table, sensing the tense air occurring between the two.
Nawin rests his arms on the table and clasps his hands together. He looks down at them with troubled expression plastered on his face. Unable to think straight on the current situation. Wondering if what just happened was even real. Has he just dozed off and this is now a dream?
"It's good to finally see you again, Nawin," she says with that warm smile "How have you been doing?" Glancing up to see that smile, Nawin finds himself opening his mouth "... Fine" he answers in an uncertain tone. Nawin hesitantly decides to ask her the same question "How have you been?" "I'm doing fine... Much better now that I finally get to see you again".
Makasha Household
When done watching the movie and having nothing else to do. Akeno decided to tidy the wardrobes in the room. She already finished hers and moved to Nawin's. "When it comes to his clothes, he sure just throws them in there" Akeno utters and chuckles. Even though her lover's wardrobe isn't that messy, it still needs more tidying up than hers.
Taking a pile of shirts out, Akeno quickly notices something laying at the back of the shelve. "Hmm?" she turns around to place the shirts on the bed before making way back to the wardrobe. She reaches out for the item but pauses for a moment, wondering if she is invading Nawin's privacy. But, Akeno's curiosity got the better of her, and she reaches for the item and pulls it out to the light.
"Uh?!" Akeno gasp when seeing it is a picture frame. The photo inside is a shot taken in a pretty and unknown park. The background shows nothing but vibrant green trees. There is only a single person in the picture, a beautiful and young girl who looks to be around twelve years old. The girl stood that right at the center of the picture with both her arms crossed behind her back. She wears a beautiful smile that filled with nothing but happiness and love that seems to be thrown toward the person who took the picture. The girl possesses sparkling violet eyes with smooth and glittering dark violet hair that's kept free and long.
Akeno stares at the girl's eyes. The two share the same color eyes, but the girl's one is a tint darker, but somehow it sparkles so elegantly. More than hers. Those eyes held so much affection for the person that took the picture. Akeno wasn't oblivious. She can come to the conclusion that the person who took the picture was Nawin.
Parts of the conversation from that night shared between Lucy and Asia begins to resurface.
'She was a very dear person to Brother. Looking back at it now... I can see the two truly loved each other and being honest... If she were still here today, Brother and Akeno wouldn't have ever become an item.' 'The love Brother had with her dwarfs the love he now has with Akeno.' Unconsciously, Akeno's hands start tightening around the picture frame, but she quickly controls herself before causing any damage.
'Stop it!' Akeno cuss at herself for feeling such jealous at a person that has passed away. "Don't be that kind of person, Akeno." She stares at the picture of this girl who once was a very dear and special person to her lover "I don't know your name, but... I hope I can fill the void in Nawin's heart that you once existed in" Akeno whispers before placing the photo back deep into the shelve.
As Akeno turns around but stops halfway. Her expression hardens, and she looks out the window at the night sky. Bringing her right hand to her chest, she grips the white shirt 'What is this ominous feeling?'
Center of Kuoh
Now, Nawin finds himself walking through the streets of Kuoh with her following not so far behind him. After their little exchanged in the beginning over, their meeting in Amai Sekai devoid to nothing but silence. Finishing their drinks without a word uttering at one another. Nawin was so deep in thought that she must have realized and kept her mouth shut.
But, Nawin wasn't walking around aimlessly. Soon enough he arrives in one of the many small parks that littered the own. He stops and hears she also comes to a halt. A cold night breeze blows pass them and cause the grass to rustle.
"Now," Nawin turns around to look at the girl with a harden expression, his eyes sharpen in anger "Tell me... Who the hell are you?" he demands with a forceful tone. The girl brings her hands up to pull the hat off, revealing her entire appearance. She smiles softly and drops the hate to the ground "You know who I am, Nawin."
Nawin strides forward and stops right in front of the girl. He glares down at her "I recognized your clothes! You are the woman from last night. We crossed paths at that bridge! I am going to give you the count of three to tell me who you are and why you have that face!" "... Your eyes... Do you even remember my name anymore, Nawin?" "One!" Nawin shouts out, his eyes flaring with anger "I am the girl who suffered from anemic. A girl you befriended" "Two!" Nawin continues, not believing her words, thinking this twisted person could somehow stole the medical records.
The girl's expression turns to a heartbroken one that immediately causes Nawin's heart to ache. She looks up at him with a sad smile "Remember those lovely words you once said all those years back? You would give me half your life without a second thought so I could finally be healthy."
Nawin's heart skips a beat, and he staggers back in shock. His eyes widen. "Y-You were d-dead... You had no pulse!" "I barely believed it myself. But I wasn't dead; instead, I went into a low-pulse coma." "L-Low-pulse?" Nawin whisper quietly, his eyes start turning glossy. "When I was in low-pulse coma it made my heartbeat very slow, considering I had already experience irregular heartbeats, it made the matter worse, and I was temporarily put into a partial death state for a few months."
The girl looks up at Nawin's face and gives him a weak smile "The doctors were fortunate to notice my situation when one them thoroughly examined my heart. But by then you and your family already left Japa-" she is cut off when Nawin pulls her into a hug and starts crying.
"I thought you died that day!" Nawin loudly cries as tears flow down his eyes. The girl immediately returns the hug and buries her face to his chest. She too starts to weep "I'm so sorry, Nawin. I put you through so much pain." "Aaaahhhh!" Nawin screams out to the night. The screams of pain he has held for all these years. He lets out all the tears he kept since that tragic day.
For a minute, the two stay the way they were. Letting all their tears out until there's nothing left. Nawin slowly pulls back but still kept his hands on her shoulders. The girl looks at his face and wears a soft smile. She reaches her right arm up to gently cup Nawin's cheek "Say my name, Nawin. Please say my name after all these years" "Miraya... Miraya Culdos" Nawin answers and smiles widely at finally uttering the name after so long.
Miraya's smile widens "Good to see you again, Nawin Makasha" "There are no words in the world to express how happy it is for me to see you again, Miraya," Nawin says, releasing the girl's shoulder to take her hands instead. Miraya closes her palms for them to hold each other hands. Even with the two grown up, their hands still fit perfectly together.
Without a word, the two close their eyes and leans toward one another. Just like when they were young. The two would at times rest their forehead together to feel each other's warmth. When their heads touch, both smile at feeling that familiar warmness. "Miraya... I missed you so much" "I missed you too, Nawin" "T-this isn't a dream?" "No, I am here in front of you. I'm back, Nawin."
Tonight marks the night Nawin is reunited with his dear past friend. It's a night that will never be forgotten by both individuals. After so many years, they are back together with the person they care and cherish dearly. The pain of loneliness inside the two has vanquished and replaced with indescribable happiness.
As Nawin and Miraya stare at each other's eyes, smiling happily. Both hope that the future for them will be a bright one. One that will allow them to stay together for a long time. One without the sorrow they experienced in the past.
Next Chapter: Catching Up, Nawin's Contentment