Chapter 02
What Lies Beyond This Feeling
For the past few days, Einhard's mind had been consumed by an unexpected request from Verossa Acous, the chief of the Time-Space Administrative Bureau's Intelligence Division. The mission—retrieving the Gundam Exia from Katsumi's world—was no small task, and the more she thought about it, the more questions it raised.
How did Verossa even know about the Gundam Exia's existence in that world? Who was this First Innovator who had entrusted the Bureau with the machine in the first place? And why was the Bureau suddenly considering Katsumi's world as one of its administrated territories?
These lingering uncertainties gnawed at her, keeping her awake at night and leaving her distracted throughout the day. She had briefly considered reaching out to Hayate Yagami, commander of the Bureau's Ground Forces, for insight. But Ave had advised against it.
When she asked why, Ave had only given her a knowing smile. "Hayate entrusted us with this, Haru. That means it's our responsibility to find the answers."
Though hesitant, Einhard had ultimately chosen to trust him. If they were going to uncover the truth, they would have to do it themselves—once they set foot in Katsumi's world.
As Einhard sat at her desk, her chin resting on her hand, she gazed out the window, watching the overcast sky stretch endlessly above the Midchildan skyline. Her mind, however, was far from the peaceful afternoon outside.
How did Verossa-san even know about the Gundam Exia? Her mismatched purple and blue eyes flickered with unease as she stared blankly at the drifting clouds. And this "First Innovator"… Who are they? Why would they entrust something as powerful as a Gundam to the Bureau?
Her fingers idly traced the edge of her notebook, the familiar motion grounding her. But no matter how much she tried to push the thoughts aside, doubt gnawed at her.
Ave-kun told me not to ask Commander Yagami… but why? She frowned slightly. If she were the one who put her trust in us, wouldn't she want us to know everything? What if this mission is more than what Verossa-san is telling us?
The possibility that they were walking into something far bigger than they could handle made her stomach tighten. The Bureau's secrecy, the uncertainty surrounding Katsumi's world, and the true reason behind retrieving the Exia—it all felt too vague.
What if the Bureau isn't telling us the full truth? Her grip on her notebook tightened slightly. What if they're using us to secure the Gundam for their own purposes?
And then there was Katsumi's world itself.
If we take the Exia, what happens to them? The thought sent an uneasy shiver down her spine. Are we helping… or are we just taking something they need?
She let out a soft sigh, trying to shake off the tension building inside her. Frustration bubbled under the surface. I hate this feeling… I hate not knowing everything. I hate being left in the dark.
But then she remembered Ave's words—his quiet confidence, the way he reassured her with that warm smile of his. He trusted Verossa. And Hayate trusted them.
Maybe… maybe I just need to trust them too.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the classroom door sliding open. She blinked as a familiar voice called out to her.
"Einhard-san."
She turned to see Yumina standing there, her warm, gentle smile as calming as ever. "Are you ready for lunch?"
For a moment, Einhard hesitated. The storm of thoughts still lingered at the back of her mind. But then she exhaled softly, forcing herself to relax.
"…Yeah," she said, offering Yumina a small smile. "Let's go."
Yumina studied her for a moment before stepping closer. "You seem a little distracted. Is something bothering you?"
Einhard shook her head lightly. "It's nothing… Just thinking about some things."
Yumina's eyes softened with understanding, but she didn't press. Instead, she simply tilted her head slightly and smiled. "If it's something important, I'm sure you'll figure it out, Einhard-san. You always do."
Einhard blinked at her, surprised by the certainty in Yumina's voice.
Do I? She wasn't so sure.
But… hearing Yumina say it made her feel a little lighter.
"Thanks, Yumina-san," she said softly.
Yumina beamed. "Come on, Vivio and the others are waiting."
At the mention of Vivio, Einhard felt another small weight lift off her shoulders. If nothing else, lunch with her friends would be a welcome distraction.
As she stood up and followed Yumina out the door, she pushed the lingering doubts to the back of her mind. For now… I just need to focus on what's in front of me.
As Einhard gathered her things, preparing to leave for lunch, her mind remained preoccupied with Verossa's request. The mystery surrounding the Gundam Exia, the First Innovator, and the Bureau's true intentions had consumed her thoughts so completely that she had forgotten about something important—something that should have been at the forefront of her mind.
It wasn't until Yumina asked her with a gentle, curious tone that reality came crashing down.
"Einhard-san, are you planning to make your own chocolate for Ave-san this year, or are you going to buy one from Quincy? Their chocolates are famous across the administrated worlds, you know."
Einhard froze mid-step.
Her mismatched purple and blue eyes widened in shock as the words sank in.
Valentine's Day… I completely forgot!
A sudden wave of panic hit her like a ton of bricks. She turned to Yumina, her expression shifting from realization to desperation.
"Y-Yumina-san, please help me!" she blurted out, her voice rising slightly as she grasped the other girl's hands. "I don't know how to make chocolate! What if it turns out terrible? What if Ave-kun hates it?"
Yumina's warm, reassuring smile didn't waver for a second. Instead, she placed a comforting hand on Einhard's shoulder. "Calm down, Einhard-san. It's not as hard as you think. I'll help you every step of the way. But remember, you'll need to be the one to make the chocolate yourself. It's the thought and effort that counts, after all."
Einhard's shoulders slumped slightly, her initial panic giving way to unease. She averted her gaze, a faint blush dusting her cheeks. "But… what if I mess it up?" she muttered, fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve. "You know how bad I am at cooking… The last time I tried to make something, it ended up… well, you remember."
Yumina giggled softly, a knowing sparkle in her eyes. "I remember."
Einhard groaned, covering her face with her hands. That was a disaster…
"But that's why I'm here," Yumina continued, her voice light with amusement but filled with kindness. "We'll take it slow, and I'll guide you through every step. You'll do just fine, Einhard-san."
Einhard peeked through her fingers before hesitantly lowering her hands. Her expression softened, but the uncertainty still lingered. "I just… I want it to be special," she admitted quietly. "Ave-kun has done so much for me, and I want to show him how much I appreciate him. But what if I ruin it?"
Yumina's expression became even gentler as she gave Einhard's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Einhard-san, Ave-san cares about you, not whether the chocolate is perfect. He'll love it because it's something you made for him. That's what really matters."
Einhard hesitated, and then let out a small breath. Would Ave-kun really be happy with something I made… even if it's not perfect?
The image of his warm, easygoing smile flashed through her mind, and she felt her nerves settle just a little.
"…You really think so?" she asked, her voice quieter now.
"I know so," Yumina said with confidence. "Now, let's make a plan. We'll meet after school, and I'll help you get everything you need. We'll make sure it turns out great."
Einhard stared at her for a moment before a small, grateful smile formed on her lips. "Thanks, Yumina-san… I don't know what I'd do without you."
Yumina beamed. "That's what friends are for."
As they walked toward the cafeteria together, Einhard felt a little lighter. There was still a lot on her mind, but for now…
I just need to focus on making something for Ave-kun.
As Einhard followed Yumina out of the classroom, her mind was still in turmoil.
How could I forget Valentine's Day? A pang of guilt settled in her chest. Ave-kun has always been so kind and understanding… and I almost let something this important slip by. What kind of girlfriend does that?
She stole a glance at Yumina, who walked next to her, humming softly, completely at ease.
Yumina-san is always so calm and composed… She always knows exactly what to say to make me feel better. I'm really lucky to have her as a friend.
But even as that thought comforted her, her mind inevitably drifted back to Ave. The warmth of his smile, the way he always seemed to understand her without her needing to say much.
Ave-kun… He's always there for me, no matter what. Even when I've been distracted by Verossa-san's request, he never once complained. He's so patient with me… and I…
Einhard clenched her fists slightly, a new resolve taking root in her heart.
I want to do something special for him. Something that really shows how much he means to me.
Even if her chocolate wasn't perfect, even if she made mistakes along the way—none of that mattered.
What matters is that it's from the heart. Ave-kun deserves at least that much.
As they walked through the school courtyard, Einhard couldn't shake the nervous energy bubbling inside her. She kept sneaking glances at Yumina, her expression shifting between gratitude and uncertainty.
"Yumina-san… do you really think Ave-kun will like it?" she asked hesitantly, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve. "Even if it's not as good as the chocolates from Quincy?"
Yumina turned to her with a warm, reassuring smile. "Einhard-san, Ave-san will love it because you made it. It's not about how perfect it is—it's the effort and feelings you put into it that make it special."
Einhard's cheeks warmed slightly, and she lowered her gaze. Ave-kun is always so kind to me… I just want to make sure I do something that really makes him happy.
"I… I hope you're right," she murmured. "I just want to do this properly."
Yumina's gentle expression didn't waver as she gave Einhard a small, encouraging pat on the back. "You already make him happy, Einhard-san. This is just another way to show him how much you care."
A quiet pause followed before Einhard slowly exhaled. Then, her lips curled into a small but determined smile. "Thank you, Yumina-san. I'll do my best."
As they reached the school gates, Yumina's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Now, let's go get our ingredients. We'll need high-quality chocolate… and maybe some decorations to make it extra special."
Einhard blinked. "Decorations? Like… what kind?"
Yumina chuckled. "You'll see. Don't worry, Einhard-san—I'll guide you through everything. Trust me, it'll be fun."
Einhard glanced away, still feeling a little unsure. But as she thought about Ave's smile—how he always seemed so happy just to be with her—a small spark of excitement began to push away her nervousness.
"…Okay," she said, nodding. "Let's do this."
Later that afternoon, after Ave picked Einhard up from school and dropped her off at Nakajima Gym, she told him she'd be spending the evening with Yumina.
Ave just smiled, his tone light and encouraging. "You should enjoy yourself, Haru. You've been so focused on everything lately—it's good to take a break."
Einhard returned his smile, feeling warmth spread through her chest. "Thanks, Ave-kun… You're the best."
At the gym, she trained alongside Yumina, Vivio, Rio, Corona, and Fūka. The lively atmosphere was filled with the rhythmic sounds of punches and kicks striking pads, the occasional grunt of exertion, and bursts of laughter when someone fumbled a move. As the training session wound down, Rio, ever the troublemaker, leaned casually against the wall with her arms crossed, her teal eyes glinting with mischief.
"So, Einhard-san," she began, her tone full of amusement, "are you doing some special training to make Valentine's chocolate for Oniisan? Or is this just to work off the stress from realizing you forgot until the last minute?"
Einhard, mid-punch, froze. A deep red flush spread across her face as she turned toward Rio, her mismatched purple and blue eyes widening. "H-How did you know?!" she blurted, her voice rising slightly in panic.
Vivio, who had been practicing quick strikes nearby, giggled as she stepped closer. Her golden-blonde hair, tied in a side ponytail with a dark blue ribbon, swayed as she tilted her head. "Rio has a way of figuring things out, Einhard-san. But don't worry, we're all cheering for you. This is your first time making chocolate, right? It's gonna be… interesting."
Corona, stretching off to the side, chuckled. "Let's just hope Ave-san survives. We all remember what happened the last time Einhard-san tried cooking…That curry disaster at the gym potluck?"
Einhard groaned, burying her face in her hands. "That was one time! And I've improved since then… probably."
Vivio laughed, her mismatched green and red eyes twinkling. "Relax, Corona. I'm sure Einhard-san will manage… barely. And besides, Ave-nii will appreciate the effort, even if it's not perfect."
Nearby, Miura, who had been quietly observing, turned to Vivio with innocent curiosity. "Vivio-san, are you making chocolates too?"
Vivio nodded, her smile warm and cheerful. "Of course! I'm making two this year—one for Ave-nii and one for Einhard-san. It's kind of a tradition for me."
Miura's eyes widened with admiration. "That's so thoughtful of you, Vivio-san. It's just very you to do something like that."
Rio smirked, her attention shifting. "What about you, Miura? Got chocolates planned for anyone special?"
Miura immediately stiffened, her face turning pink. "N-No! I mean… I might make some for my family, but that's it!"
Corona nudged Rio with her elbow and smirking. "Looks like Miura too shy to admit she has a crush on someone."
Miura's face turned an even deeper shade of red. "I-I don't have a crush on anyone! Really!"
The group burst into laughter, and even Einhard couldn't help but smile at Miura's frantic denial. But Rio, clearly enjoying herself, wasn't done teasing. She turned her sights to Fūka, who had been in the corner, focused on hitting a wooden training dummy with sharp, precise strikes.
"Hey, Fūka-san!" Rio called out, her voice dripping with mischief. "You're lucky Rinne-san makes chocolates for you every year. Must be nice having someone so devoted to you."
Fūka froze mid-strike, her face immediately heating up. "W-What are you talking about? Rinne just… does it because she's nice, that's all!"
Corona crossed her arms, amused. "Oh, come on, Fūka-san. We all know Rinne's got a soft spot for you. Just admit it—you're lucky."
Vivio, ever the peacemaker, giggled. "Don't tease Fūka-san too much, you two. But… Fūka-san, you have to admit, Rinne's chocolates are always amazing. You are pretty lucky."
Fūka turned even redder, muttering something under her breath before turning back to the dummy. "I-I'm going back to training now…"
The group laughed again, and Einhard felt familiar warmth spread through her chest. They tease each other a lot, but… everyone really cares about each other. She glanced at Vivio, who was still smiling, and felt grateful. No matter how much she fretted over her chocolate-making skills, she wasn't alone.
As the teasing carried on, Einhard found her thoughts drifting. I'm really lucky to have friends like this… Her mismatched purple and blue eyes softened as she watched Rio and Corona continue to pester Fūka. Even with all the jokes, they're always there for me. And Vivio-san… she's always so supportive.
Her mind then wandered to Ave, and before she knew it, a small smile tugged at her lips. Ave-kun… he always understands. Even when I sometimes forget something important, he doesn't get upset. He just wants me to be happy… Warmth spread through her chest. I really am lucky to have him.
The thought of making chocolate for him made her smile widen. It might not be perfect, but that's not the point. As long as I put my heart into it, that's what matters… right?
Rio, catching sight of Einhard's expression, smirked. "Oho? What's that smile for, Einhard-san? Already thinking about Oniisan?"
Einhard's cheeks flushed, and she quickly shook her head. "N-No! I was just… thinking about training!"
Corona raised an eyebrow, her smirk growing. "Training, huh? Uh-huh. We totally believe you."
Vivio laughed and stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Einhard's shoulder. "It's okay, Einhard-san. We know you've got a lot on your mind. Just don't forget to enjoy yourself too. Valentine's Day is supposed to be fun."
Einhard blinked, then let out a small breath before nodding. "Yeah… You're right, Vivio-san. I'll do my best."
Miura, ever the earnest one, chimed in, her tone gentle. "I think Ave-san will love whatever you make, Einhard-san. It's the thought that counts the most, right?"
Einhard felt warmth different from embarrassment settle in her chest. She met Miura's gaze and nodded. "Thanks, Miura-san… That means a lot."
As the group continued chatting and laughing, Einhard felt a sense of ease wash over her. Even if I mess up, I know my friends will be here for me. And with Ave-kun by my side… She exhaled, a quiet smile lingering. I feel like I can handle anything.
That evening, at Einhard's apartment, the kitchen had turned into a battlefield of chocolate-covered chaos. Bowls, spoons, and half-melted chocolate littered the counter, and the air carried a sweet but slightly burnt aroma.
Perched on a bookshelf, Asteion watched the mess unfold below, his small, fluffy tail flicking lazily. The plushie-like snow leopard Device let out a soft, amused meow, as if silently judging Einhard's struggle.
Einhard, her long silvery-green hair tied back in a loose ponytail, stood at the stove, her apron dusted with cocoa powder. She stared at the pot of melted chocolate, brows furrowed in deep concentration. This time… I won't mess it up.
"Okay, Yumina-san," she said, voice tinged with hesitation. "I think I've got it this time. I just need to temper it properly, right?"
Beside her, Yumina gave a warm, encouraging nod. "That's right, Einhard-san. Heat it slowly and keep stirring. If you rush it, the chocolate will seize."
Einhard nodded firmly, gripping the spoon with renewed determination. She carefully stirred the chocolate; her movements deliberate, though slightly stiff. For a moment, it actually looked promising—the mixture was smooth and glossy. Her heart leaped.
"I think I'm doing it!" she said, a rare excitement in her voice.
But just as the words left her mouth, the chocolate suddenly thickened and turned grainy. Her expression fell as the batch was ruined in an instant.
"No! Not again!" She groaned, slumping over the counter in defeat. "Why does this keep happening?"
Yumina placed a gentle hand on Einhard's shoulder, her expression calm as always. "It's okay, Einhard-san. Tempering chocolate is tricky, even for professionals. Let's try again."
Einhard exhaled sharply, frustration evident in her furrowed brows. "I've already ruined three batches… Maybe I'm just not cut out for this."
Yumina let out a soft chuckle. "That's not true, Einhard-san. You just need a little more patience. Cooking is like martial arts—it takes practice and focus."
Einhard pouted slightly, puffing out her cheeks. "But with martial arts, I can actually see my progress. With this… it just feels like I'm making a mess."
Asteion let out another small meow from his perch, his tone almost playful. You're doing great, keep going!
Einhard glanced up at him, her expression softening just a little. "Thanks, Tio…I think."
Yumina's smile remained unwavering. "Let's try one more time, Einhard-san. I'll guide you through every step."
Einhard let out a slow breath, straightening her posture. One more time… I can do this.
"…Okay. One more time."
With Yumina's guidance, Einhard started over, moving carefully this time. Her hands were steady as she stirred, keeping her focus locked on the chocolate.
"That's it, Einhard-san," Yumina said gently, watching over her. "Keep the heat low and stir nice and slow."
Einhard gave a small nod, her mismatched eyes narrowed in concentration. Steady… don't rush… She could feel the mixture gradually smoothing out, the glossy sheen returning. Her heart pounded.
"It's working…" she murmured, almost afraid to jinx it. Then, as the chocolate reached the perfect consistency, excitement flickered across her face. "It's really working!"
Carefully, she lifted the pot and poured the chocolate into the moulds Yumina had prepared. She exhaled as she stepped back, her hands trembling slightly from the effort.
"I… I did it." The words came out as a whisper, almost like she couldn't believe it herself. She turned to Yumina, gratitude shining in her mismatched eyes. "Thanks, Yumina-san… I couldn't have done it without you."
Yumina smiled, her warm expression filled with quiet pride. "You did it yourself, Einhard-san. I just helped a little. Ave-san is going to love it."
Einhard's cheeks turned a faint shade of pink at the mention of Ave, and she glanced down, fiddling with the edge of her apron. I hope so… I just want it to be special.
As they carefully wrapped the chocolate in a simple yet elegant box, Yumina's expression softened, her eyes studying Einhard for a moment. Her voice was gentle, but there was a hint of concern. "Einhard-san, you've seemed a little distant today. Is something on your mind?"
Einhard paused, her fingers momentarily still as she tied the ribbon around the box. She sighed softly, her shoulders slumping as a cloud of worry settled over her. "It's...Verossa-san's request. He asked Ave-kun and me to retrieve something when we visit Katsumi's world. It's been weighing on my mind, and I can't shake the feeling that I'm missing something important."
Yumina's gaze turned understanding, and she placed a reassuring hand on Einhard's shoulder. "Whatever it is, I'm sure you and Ave-san will figure it out. You always do what's right. Just focus on finding the answers, and everything will fall into place."
Einhard's lips curved into a small, grateful smile as she met Yumina's kind eyes. She's right… "Thank you, Yumina-san. I've been overthinking it too much."
Yumina's smile deepened, and she gave her shoulder a soft squeeze. "You're stronger than you realize, Einhard-san. And you're not alone. Ave-san, Vivio-san, and all of us are here for you."
Einhard felt warmth flood her chest, and her mismatched eyes softened with appreciation. "I know... and I'm really grateful for that. I just...want to make sure I'm doing the right thing."
Yumina's expression shifted slightly, becoming more thoughtful, and she tilted her head. "Sometimes, the right thing isn't clear at first. But if you follow your heart and trust what you believe is best, you'll never regret it."
Einhard nodded slowly, her resolve solidifying with Yumina's words. "You're right, Yumina-san. I'll trust my instincts and do my best."
As Einhard and Yumina finished wrapping the chocolate, Asteion let out a soft meow from his perch on the bookshelf. Einhard glanced up at him, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Thanks for cheering me on, Tio. I couldn't have done it without you either."
Asteion flicked his tail lazily, letting out another meow, almost smug in tone, as if to say, Of course you couldn't.
Yumina let out a soft chuckle, her eyes dancing with amusement. "It seems even Asteion-chan recognizes how hard you worked, Einhard-san."
Einhard smiled, feeling warmth spread through her chest. I'm glad they're all here for me… "Yeah... I guess I did."
Valentine's Day at St. Hilde Academy was filled with a buzzing energy, the air thick with the scent of sweets and the sound of excited chatter. Students exchanged chocolates with smiles and laughter, but Rio and Corona seemed far from the festive mood. They sat together on a bench in the courtyard, their expressions a blend of mock despair and lighthearted amusement.
"No chocolates for us this year," Rio sighed dramatically, leaning back against the bench. "Guess we're just not as charming as we thought, huh, Corona?"
Corona crossed her arms, her voice equally theatrical. "A true tragedy, Rio. How could the world be so cruel to two such lovely ladies?"
From the side, Miura, who had been quietly watching their antics, approached with a small smile on her face. She extended two neatly wrapped chocolates toward them, her cheeks flushed slightly pink. "Here, Rio-san, Corona-san. These are for you."
Rio and Corona blinked, their exaggerated drama fading for a moment. "Miura-san! You're giving us chocolates?" Rio asked, her teal eyes wide with mock shock.
Corona clutched her chest with exaggerated flair. "Miura-san, you've saved us from the depths of despair! You're our Valentine's Day hero!"
Miura giggled softly, her warm kindness shining through. "It is just obligation chocolate, but I hope you like it."
Rio and Corona exchanged mischievous grins, their playful expressions returning. "Obligation chocolate or not, we'll treasure it forever!" Rio declared, her tone full of mock seriousness.
Corona nodded gravely. "Yes, this chocolate will be the highlight of our Valentine's Day. Thank you, Miura-san!"
Miura blushed slightly, clearly entertained by their antics. "You're welcome, Rio-san, Corona-san."
Yumina stood near the school gates, her serene smile lighting up her face as she accepted a small, neatly wrapped chocolate from Aya, a classmate who seemed to be doing her best to calm her nerves. "Thank you, Aya-san," Yumina said, her voice soft and full of warmth. "That's very thoughtful of you."
Aya's face turned bright red, and she stammered, her words tumbling out in a rush, "I-I just wanted to thank you for always being so kind, Yumina-san! I hope you like it!" Before Yumina could respond, Aya quickly turned and dashed off, her embarrassment clear in every step.
Yumina watched her run off, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. How adorable, she thought, her smile gentle as she held the chocolate close. As she turned her gaze toward the hill behind the school, a thought lingered in her mind. I wonder how Einhard-san is doing with her Valentine's Day plans...
Einhard's long, silvery-green hair swayed softly with each step as she led Ave to the secluded hill behind St. Hilde Academy's main building. Her twin tails, tied with vibrant red ribbons, bounced lightly, and a few stray strands framed her face, gently softening her otherwise composed expression. Ave followed without question, though his brow furrowed in mild confusion.
"Haru, what's going on?" Ave asked, his voice calm but curious. "You're acting a bit mysterious today."
Einhard's cheeks flushed, and she glanced back at him, her mismatched eyes—one purple, one blue—flashing with a mix of nervousness and determination. "You'll see, Ave-kun. Just… trust me, okay?"
Ave chuckled, the warmth in his eyes unmistakable. "Alright, Haru. I always trust you."
Once they reached the top of the hill, Einhard turned to face him, her hands trembling slightly as she offered him a small, neatly wrapped box. "Ave-kun," she said, her voice soft but steady, "happy Valentine's Day."
Ave's eyes widened in surprise as he took the box with care, his expression softening with affection. "Haru…I completely forgot it was Valentine's Day. I'm sorry."
Einhard chuckled nervously, her blush deepening. "It's okay, Ave-kun. I… I made this for you. It's my first time making chocolate, so… it might not taste very good."
Ave's smile grew wider as he opened the box, revealing a modest but perfectly formed piece of chocolate. "Haru, this is amazing. You made this yourself?"
Einhard nodded, her gaze dropping to the ground as she nervously fidgeted with the hem of her skirt. "Yumina-san helped me, but… I did most of it. I wanted it to be special."
Ave's heart swelled with affection, and he gently placed a hand on her shoulder, his voice tender. "Haru, anything you make is perfect to me. You put your heart into it, and that's all that matters."
Einhard's mismatched eyes shimmered with emotion, her gaze lifting to meet his. "Thank you, Ave-kun. But… you have to be honest. Tell me how it tastes so I can get better for next time."
Ave smiled, unwavering and filled with warmth. "I will. But I already know it's perfect."
As they shared a deep, tender kiss, the world around them seemed to disappear, leaving just the two of them in their moment of pure connection. Einhard's heart raced, the earlier nerves vanishing as she basked in Ave's warmth. I'm so lucky to have him, she thought, her heart swelling with happiness. No matter what comes next, I know we'll face it together.
Unbeknownst to Einhard and Ave, Vivio stood at a distance, her golden-blonde hair fluttering gently in the breeze. She held two chocolates in her hands—one for Ave and one for Einhard—watching the tender moment between her closest friends with a soft smile on her lips.
"They're so happy together, Chris," Vivio whispered to Sacred Heart, a small bunny plushie who peeked curiously over her shoulder. Her mismatched eyes, green and red, reflected a quiet joy, though there was a faint tinge of something else—something that lingered in the depths of her heart. "I'll give these to them later… I don't want to interrupt."
Sacred Heart's ears twitched, almost as if it sensed the subtle melancholy in Vivio's tone. Vivio sighed softly, her smile shifting ever so slightly. I'm happy for them… really, I am, she thought, watching them with a sense of contentment. They deserve to be happy. They're perfect for each other.
Her heart fluttered briefly, a fleeting thought crossing her mind, but she quickly brushed it away. But that's okay. I'm okay with this. She shook her head, her smile returning as she glanced at them again. Just seeing them happy... that's enough for me.
Deep down, she couldn't deny the small ache in her chest, but Vivio had long learned to bury such feelings. For now, her friends' happiness was all that mattered.
To Be Continued…