just a moment

Hi readers, sorry it took so long! Thank you to all who took time to read this and my other works. I'm very touched by the appreciative messages. I also want to apologize to those who want to do a collab. I won't be doing collabs, but thank you so much for thinking of my stories as worth your time and talent.

Mikan had been forewarned that recovering all of her memories would bring pain - and not just physicallly. She braced herself, but nothing could really prepare her for the sheer horror of rediscovering what her parents had to go through. She also had to remember the confusing but relieving memory of being reunited with her mother that was tragically cut short.

It was too cruel. It was too much. But it had happened, and it was part of her story too. She wanted to remember. She needed to remember all of it.

Mikan took several breaks in between the recovery sessions. Her uncle, Narumi-sensei, Shiki-san, Sakurano-san and the three specialists dedicated to her always encouraged her to go at her own pace.

So Mikan took time to cry, to write about her thoughts in a journal, to talk to people who knew Izumi and Yuka, to commit her emotions into paintings and after she mustered enough courage, to visit her parents' final resting place. It was in a serene spot in the academy protected with a special barrier that allowed only a very select few to enter.

Through it all, Natsume's steady support strengthened her. She particularly loved the hugs he gave her. His hugs made her feel safe. He made her feel both vulnerable and strong at the same time. He made her feel loved.

She also appreciated the numerous times he listened patiently as she poured out her sentiments, holding her hands, wiping her tears, making her tea, walking with her on their favorite paths, giving her puff fluffs and every so often, assuring her that she had every right to be sad, frustrated, angry and regretful. He said that her feelings were valid, and they mattered.

There was one thing that bothered Mikan.

"I'm sorry I can't share too much about the details of the recovery process. They said it was strictly confidential."

Natsume smirked.

"Silly. It's not like I can tell you a lot about my missions, you know."

"This and that are different."

"Yes, they are. But what I can tell you is this — my missions are not what they used to be. They're… more moderate."

"I know. You said that to me four months ago. You just end it with different variations of moderate. As for me, like I said before, while the recovery process differs from person to person, the negative side effects are minimal…or was it manageable? And the chances for full recovery are around 63%, partial recovery is about 89% or something akin to that, depending on a set of variables. But who knows? Maybe I can be the first one to surpass the records. I will certainly try. Not too hard of course!"

"Your explanation is becoming more concise. I approve," said Natsume as he nodded with playful exaggeration. He was rewarded with an equally playful slap from Mikan. He was actually very worried, but he didn't tell her that. He knew firsthand the things trauma does to a person.

Mikan laughed before turning somber.

"One day, in the far future, maybe we'll be finally able to talk more about it. My recovery journey and your missions."

"I guess so."

"I hope so, Natsume."

He kissed her knuckles gently, but he didn't commit to anything. Yet. Not just yet. But a tiny part of him was already looking forward to it.

One day, Mikan invited Natsume to visit her parents' final resting place. It was a fine day. The weather was perfect, like the heavens had given their blessing for the momentous event.

Natsume liked the whole setting. It had a very calming effect on him. It was the same for every visitor, he'd come to realize later.

"It's as beautiful and peaceful as you described it to me."

"About time I brought you here, Natsume. I'm sorry it took so long."

"It's alright. This is a sacred, intimate place for you and the people who knew them best."

"Well, now you're part of the special group of people too. I think you were always meant to be."

"Thank you. It means a lot to me."

"And to me, too. I love you so much, Natsume. You are more than deserving of being here."

"I love you too, Mikan. I love you very much."

Natsume gave Mikan one of his rare smiles, the one he reserved just for her. Then he finally placed the flowers they brought in front of the tombstones.

Mikan couldn't help but be a little teary eyed.

Daddy, Mommy… I think I am ready to move on, with this wonderful man by my side. Thank you for your sacrifices. I will do my best to make you proud.

It seemed like everything was alright in the world, even for just a moment.