9 — Reconcile

Two weeks had passed since Ame's resolve solidified, her determination to win back Sera growing stronger with each day. The season continued its graceful shift into late autumn, with the trees on Aina University’s campus ablaze in vivid shades of orange, red, and gold. The air carried a crisp chill, and the stronger breezes swirled fallen leaves in spirals, painting the pathways with nature’s vibrant confetti. The once lush greenery was now a breathtaking array of autumnal hues, and the towering maple and ginkgo trees that lined the main quad stood as pillars of the season’s splendor, casting dappled shadows across the cobblestone walkways.

As the temperature dropped, the university transitioned to its winter uniform sets. The winter attire was made from heavier fabrics, offering warmth and a touch of elegance. The uniforms were more formal than their casual summer counterparts, with layers that consisted of sweaters or vests beneath fitted blazers. Students wore long pants or skirts, the fabric chosen to withstand the chill, while scarves and gloves became common additions to keep the brisk wind at bay. The darker color palette of the winter uniform—deep navy, charcoal, and blue—contrasted beautifully with the fiery autumn backdrop.

The campus, always bustling with life, now had a different kind of energy as students hurried between classes, their breath visible in the morning air. The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of focus and excitement as the semester deepened, and the seasonal change brought with it a new kind of beauty, one that seemed to mirror the quiet transformation taking place within Ame. As the world around her evolved with the turning of the leaves, so too did her heart, growing ever more certain of the path she had chosen to follow.

With autumn deepening, Aina University was buzzing with the upcoming student council election, a key event on campus that drew the attention of students and faculty alike. As the election season approached, the campaign posters began to populate the walls, and the candidates gave speeches to rally support for their causes. The election was a time-honored tradition at AinaU, representing not just student involvement, but a place for future leaders to emerge. With the current term coming to an end, the campus was abuzz with discussion about who would be the next to take up the mantle.

Ame, having served as the youngest Student Council President in the university’s history, was still highly regarded. Students and teachers often stopped to praise her for the exemplary job she did during her term, expressing appreciation for the policies she implemented and the programs she established. Even though she was no longer running things directly, many thanked her for still being involved as the student council’s overseer. Though Ame graciously accepted the recognition with modesty, she did not dwell on the compliments. Her thoughts were elsewhere, occupied almost entirely by Sera, who had become her primary focus ever since that night.

Meanwhile, Sera had continued to stay at June's house, gradually getting used to the change. She fit in well with June's family, enjoying the company of June's parents and younger sister, who had quickly taken a liking to her. Despite finding a measure of comfort there, Sera couldn't escape the guilt that gnawed at her every time she spoke to her own parents. She’d been lying to them about her situation with Ame, assuring them that everything at the apartment was fine, even though she hadn’t stepped foot inside for over two weeks. The dishonesty left a bitter taste in her mouth, but she still clung to a glimmer of hope that maybe things would improve one day.

The strain from her situation had spilled over into her academic life as well. Sera had begun skipping some of her business classes, despite June's gentle insistence that she attend. June understood why Sera was struggling, but her absences hadn't gone unnoticed by Ame, who had observed Sera’s name missing from the attendance list. Each time she saw it, her heart sank a little further, knowing it was likely because of their fallout. For Sera, attending that class had become unbearable. Sitting there amidst reminders of Ame—the professor’s voice, the seat where they once exchanged knowing glances—made her heartache impossible to ignore, so she had started to avoid it altogether.

Yet, as Sera and her friends, June, Luca, Ren, and Hana, took note of the student council election nearing, her thoughts inevitably drifted back to Ame. There was a wistful longing each time she glanced at the campaign materials, a pull in her heart that made her remember the passion Ame always showed when it came to the council, and the light that would spark in her eyes whenever they spoke about it.

As Sera and her friends strolled across campus, the lively conversation naturally drifted towards the upcoming student council election. The crisp autumn air carried the smell of fallen leaves, and the sun cast a warm glow over the vibrant red and orange foliage that adorned the campus grounds. Their discussion grew animated as they passed by one of the university’s many student lounges, a place where campaign posters and fliers had begun to pile up.

"I hear the candidates are really stepping up their game this year," Luca remarked, glancing at a colorful campaign poster. "Whoever wins is going to have some big shoes to fill."

"Yeah, Misaki really set a high bar," Ren added, nodding. "She was the youngest president in the school's history and still managed to be the best. Everyone says she made a ton of improvements."

June gave a curious glance toward Sera, who had become uncharacteristically quiet, before Hana chimed in, "I think it was her attention to detail. Like, the way she handled the budgets was insane. She always found ways to make sure each club got what it needed."

Sera finally spoke up, her voice warm with enthusiasm, "Not just the budgets. Remember our orientation at the fall festival last year? I learned it was her that completely revamped it to include more activities, like those charity booths and cultural showcases. She got everyone involved in a way that brought the whole community together." Her eyes seemed to sparkle as she spoke, recalling the way Ame took such pride in coordinating even the smallest details.

"And don’t forget the sports events!" Sera continued, her enthusiasm for Ame spilling out. "The funding she secured helped improve the fields and equipment, not to mention bringing in guest speakers to do workshops with the teams. It made such a difference for everyone who participated."

Hana looked over at Sera with a hint of surprise. "Wow, you know a lot about her!" she exclaimed, raising an eyebrow.

Sera paused, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I suppose..." she murmured quietly, her voice trailing off as her gaze wandered to a nearby window. She found herself staring out at the golden leaves fluttering to the ground and onto the surface of the lake beyond. The sight seemed to mirror the thoughts drifting through her mind—thoughts of Ame and everything she had done, not just for the school, but the mark she had left on Sera's own heart.

As the group continued to walk, Sera’s focus remained on the falling leaves, their gentle descent stirring something deep inside her. Even now, her thoughts were always drawn back to Ame.

After school, Sera and her friends hopped off the train and made their way to the convenience store, chatting animatedly as they went. Inside, the fluorescent lights buzzed softly above them, casting a warm glow over the aisles lined with snacks, drinks, and a surprising variety of household items. Luca and Ren, predictably, had launched into one of their goofy debates about which instant noodles were superior.

"Come on, there's no way beef flavor is better than spicy miso!" Luca exclaimed, holding up a package triumphantly.

"Y-you're out of your mind! Beef has that classic taste—it's like comfort food!" Ren shot back, equally determined.

Hana rolled her eyes and smirked at their antics. "You two argue about the most pointless things," she teased, giving them a light shove as she passed.

At the other end of the store, June wandered down the aisle until she found Sera standing near a display of hair accessories. Sera was gazing at the selection of hairclips, combs, and scrunchies with a small, bemused smile. Why are these even at a convenience store? she thought to herself, the absurdity of it giving her a faint sense of amusement.

"Hey, how are you doing?" June asked, breaking the momentary silence.

Sera looked up, her hand still hovering over a particularly sparkly clip. "I'm fine." she replied with a small nod. Her smile was polite but firm—just enough to show she was trying to keep up appearances.

June's eyes sparkled as she remembered something. "Oh! The annual school fashion show is coming up soon," she said, her excitement palpable. "Since you are a fashion major, aren’t you taking part?"

Sera gave a small, unenthusiastic chuckle and nodded. "Yes, of course." she said, forcing a firmer smile this time.

June's expression faltered for a moment. She knew how much Sera loved the fashion show, but the lack of enthusiasm was evident, and it was clear to her why. Still, she tried to keep things light. "What about the student council?" she asked. "You ever thought about joining?"

Sera laughed at the suggestion, shaking her head. "Nah, I’m definitely not student council material." she said, a touch of humor in her voice.

June crossed her arms and leaned against the store’s window, pouting playfully. "Really?" she asked, her tone teasing.

Sera glanced over at her, puzzled. "What?"

June raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in her eye. "I mean, it kinda sounded like you knew a lot about it," she said with a knowing smile. "And you really seemed to know a lot about Ame Misaki..."

Sera's cheeks flushed as she quickly blinked a couple times, turning back to the display, pretending to be focused on the hairclips she was shuffling through. "What's that supposed to mean?" she asked, her voice coming out a bit sharper than she intended.

June shrugged playfully, a small smirk still lingering on her lips. "I dunno~" she replied, the hint of a tease still in her voice.

Sera bit her lip, feeling her heartbeat quicken slightly. She knew June was just playing around, but that was kind of weird to ask, wasn’t it? Was she onto her?

Later after finishing their quick meal together in the convenience store parking lot, the group laughed and joked around, reluctant to end the fun. Eventually, they said their goodbyes, with Luca and Ren still playfully arguing over which noodles were superior, Hana rolling her eyes but grinning, and June and Sera waving as they headed toward the train station.

The train ride home was calm, and before long, they reached June's place. As they walked in, June's mother greeted Sera warmly, treating her like she was her own. "Welcome home, Sera!" June's mother said, her tone full of genuine kindness, while June's father gave her a smile from his seat in the living room.

Sera felt her chest tighten with warmth at the hospitality. It was comforting—almost too comforting. She appreciated how they made her feel so welcome, but at the same time, she couldn’t help feeling a bit like a burden. She hoped she wouldn’t need to stay too much longer.

Later, Sera found herself in the beautiful living room, seated comfortably as June practiced her flute nearby. The gentle notes floated through the air, each one more captivating than the last.

"Ahh, June, you are so good!" Sera exclaimed, genuinely impressed.

June paused for a moment, her hazel eyes glancing at Sera with a modest smile. "Oh, it's nothing, really!" she said, a faint blush on her cheeks. "But thank you."

As June finished her next piece, the room fell into a calm silence, and Sera took a deep breath before speaking. "June, again, thank you. You and your family have been so kind to take me in... You didn’t have to at all." Her voice softened with gratitude.

June stopped playing and turned toward Sera, wrapping her in a warm hug. "Ah~ Sera, stop getting all sentimental," she teased lightly. "It's totally fine! It's like you're the third sister in this house we never had—… or something like that!"

Sera laughed and hugged her back. "June, seriously..." she said, her voice trailing off into a chuckle that mixed seamlessly with June's.

The two soon found themselves lounging on the couch together, June's little sister, Jessika, hogging the TV as they settled in.

"So, did you go to business class today?" June asked playfully, her expression hinting at her already knowing the answer.

Sera hesitated for a moment. "Oh... uh—yeah." she said, not sounding convincing in the slightest.

June raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching with amusement. "Mhm, sure you did. You weren’t there, again." she teased with a laugh.

Sera sighed, knowing she had been caught, but chuckled along with June nonetheless.

June's playful pout deepened as she leaned into Sera, hugging her tightly. "Okay, but seriously, Sera, it isn't good to skip classes!" she said, clinging to her for extra emphasis. "Plus... I miss you!" She gave a dramatic pout, making a show of looking as forlorn as possible.

Sera, caught off guard by the sudden embrace, went from a neutral expression to a surprised laugh. "June?! Okay... okay! Fine!" she said, struggling playfully against June's grip. "Maybe... on Friday, I'll show up.." she conceded with a small smile.

June's face lit up with joy at the promise. "Yay! I'll hold you to it," she replied, before her expression softened into something more serious. She let go of Sera and looked at her with genuine concern. "I know it's been hard with what you're going through... but seriously, try to keep going, okay? I'm rooting for you, every step of the way."

Sera's eyes widened a bit, her heart warmed by June's encouragement. She returned the hug, a wide smile spreading across her face. "I'm rooting for you too, June. Thank you, so much... as always."

June grinned, her whole face beaming as she hugged Sera back. "Always, Sera."

Friday would arrive quicker than expected, and Sera found herself feeling a mix of anxiety and motivation. She pushed herself to stay focused, drawing strength from the support of her friends and the determination she was rediscovering within herself. The morning was spent in fashion class, where she poured her energy into working on preliminary designs for her outfit piece for the upcoming fashion show. She sat at her desk, diligently sketching different ideas, her creativity flowing with each stroke of the pencil.

After fashion class, she met up with June, and together they made their way to the business building. It was still early, so they decided to hang out in the luxurious business building lounge, relaxing in the plush, comfortable chairs. June, who was almost never early to business class, was actually on time for once thanks to meeting up with Sera beforehand.

As they chatted, Sera's gaze wandered toward the hallway leading to the classrooms, her thoughts drifting. Today marked the first time she would be returning to business class since she'd started skipping. Her heart tightened with a mix of dread and anticipation at the thought of seeing Ame again. The confrontation they had, and the unresolved tension since, hung heavy in her mind, making her feel a bit out of it.

"Are you good?" June asked, noticing the distant look on Sera's face.

Sera quickly cleared her throat, running a hand through her hair as she turned her focus back to June. "Yeah, I’m good. Just... thinking about business class. Ah, she’s probably going to be so mad at me for skipping." she joked, trying to lighten the mood, even though deep down she knew that wasn't the real reason for her nervousness. It wasn't about missing assignments or catching up on notes—it was about Ame, and the emotional weight that lingered between them.

June gave her a reassuring smile. "I doubt Miss Misaki will be too mad. She’s nice, and besides, you’ll just have to catch up on the work. It’s not the end of the world."

Sera chuckled weakly, appreciating June's attempt to comfort her, but knowing there was more to it than just missed lessons. As the time for class approached, she took a deep breath, bracing herself for what awaited her in the lecture hall.

As Sera and June entered the business class, Sera's chest tightened, each breath feeling heavier than the last. Her heart pounded in her ears, and the anxiety swirled inside her, making it hard to focus on anything but the thought of seeing Ame again. She forced herself to move through the motions, walking alongside June, who seemed far more relaxed.

They settled into their usual seats. Sera opened her bag and pulled out her notebook, pens, and laptop, the usual tools she'd need for the class. June did the same, flashing Sera a bright smile and giving her a big thumbs-up for encouragement. Sera tried to muster the same energy, but her smile was weak, her thumbs-up half-hearted. Despite June’s optimism, the lingering thoughts of Ame consumed her.

One by one, students trickled into the classroom, filling the space as the clock slowly inched toward the start of the lecture. Every tick made Sera more anxious, the anticipation gnawing at her. Her mind raced with questions. Would she even acknowledge me? She thought.

Meanwhile, Ame was making her way from her office to the classroom. As it was late autumn now, the weather had changed and so had her attire. Her black knee-high boots, with sharp heels, clicked crisply against the tiled floor as she walked. Her outfit was as sleek and monochromatic as ever—a black, fitted skirt with a high waist and gold buttons, paired with a white warm crewneck adorned with a long parka trench coat draped over her shoulders. The coat, accented with beige kitsch fur around the hood, framed her cold, elegant features. Ame’s silky black hair, was left down today, cascading over her shoulders in a smooth wave that contrasted against the rich fur of her coat.

As she neared the classroom entrance, she paused for a moment, her hand resting lightly on the doorframe. Little did she know, inside that very room, sitting quietly and anxiously, was Sera—back after weeks of skipping classes, her presence almost unnoticed in the midst of other students. Sera, who had been the source of her late-night reflections, her quiet resolve, and the heartache she couldn’t quite shake.

Ame took a deep breath, her usual stoic demeanor masking the emotional turbulence underneath, and prepared to enter. Could this be the day Sera was there?

As Ame opened the door, her breath caught in her throat, and she stopped dead in her tracks, stunned by what she saw. There, sitting in one of the familiar seats, was Sera. For a moment, it felt unreal, as if she was seeing a mirage. Her mouth fell open slightly, her eyes widening as a rush of overwhelming joy filled her chest, so powerful that it threatened to spill over. She had truly believed she might never see Sera again, that their paths had diverged for good. But now, there she was, real and present, and the world seemed to pause around them.

The familiar rhythmic clacking of Ame's heels must have drawn Sera's attention, as she turned to meet Ame’s gaze.

It was like the first time all over again—the same magnetic pull, the world falling away, leaving just the two of them.

Sera’s eyes widened slightly, mirroring Ame's shock and relief.

The connection sparked to life once more, vivid and undeniable.

Ame’s expression softened, her initial shock transforming into an ecstatic, choked-up smile. Her lips quivered as she fought back the emotions that surged forward. She felt an intense wave of relief wash over her, almost knocking her off balance. She had to speak, had to break the silence and let Sera know just how much this moment meant to her.

"T-Tsukiko...!" she managed, her voice trembling with emotion as she took a step forward. The wide smile on her face was one of pure, heartfelt relief, and it took everything she had not to let tears fall. "Welcome back." Her words were laced with so much feeling that it seemed to reach out and embrace Sera.

Sera was starstruck seeing Ame again and retained her gaze. She felt such warmth spread through her chest, hearing her voice.

It felt surreal to be acknowledged by the one she loved once again.

She returned the smile without even thinking, her heart fluttering in a way she hadn’t expected. "T-thank you, Miss Misaki," she replied, her voice equally soft, yet filled with sincerity. "Glad to be back."

Ame blinked quickly, as if snapping out of a daze. She had been so entirely fixated on Sera that she almost forgot she needed to head to her desk. Taking a step forward, she stumbled slightly, her heel catching the floor in her haste, nearly tripping over herself. She caught herself just in time, her cheeks flushing as she realized how uncharacteristically clumsy she had been. Both she and Sera seemed to come back to reality at the same time, suddenly aware that they weren’t alone in the room. A few other students had witnessed the interaction, and Ame could feel a few curious gazes on them, making the moment even more embarrassing.

Clearing her throat, Ame tore her eyes away from Sera, the wide, involuntary smile still lingering on her face as she turned her head and dropped her gaze to the floor. She felt an almost giddy energy surging through her, filling her with a liveliness she hadn’t felt in weeks. Quickening her pace, she almost sped walked to her desk, her heels clicking rapidly as she tried to compose herself.

June, sitting beside Sera, noticed the whole exchange with raised eyebrows, glancing between Ame and Sera. Her eyes settled on Sera, who seemed equally affected, her cheeks tinged pink as she recovered from the moment. Sera ran a hand through her hair, a smile curling on her lips just like the one Ame had worn as she reached into her bag to pull out her makeup mirror. The same warm, quiet happiness lit up her features, mirroring Ame’s own expression moments earlier.

June leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms as a small smirk played on her lips. As Sera's best and closest friend, she had a knack for picking up on the little things and reading between the lines, especially when it came to Sera's emotions. She’d been trying to piece together the mystery of who had captured her friend's heart for a while now, and this interaction was a very intriguing clue.

June’s gaze shifted between Ame, who was practically glowing at the front of the room, and Sera, who still wore a soft, private smile as she tucked her hair behind her ear. Could it be that the person Sera had been struggling with was really Ame? She dismissed the thought initially; it seemed so improbable. Ame Misaki, the poised and untouchable teacher, was the last person she’d have considered. But then again, the way Sera and Ame had looked at each other, like they were the only two people in the room, made her doubt her earlier assumptions.

No way… June thought, the smirk on her face growing slightly. Or... could it really be her? She thought again.

Class began promptly, with Ame standing at the front of the room, her smile broad and genuine.

"Good afternoon, everyone," she began, her voice filled with warmth and energy. "Today, we'll be going over the details of your next assessment." Her hands were clasped together as she spoke, exuding a composed but upbeat demeanor.

Her gaze drifted momentarily towards Sera, who sat a few rows back. As if sensing the attention, Sera met Ame's eyes and offered a shy smile before quickly turning her focus to her laptop. She nervously played with the hem of her skirt, her cheeks warming with a blush. Noticing the reaction, Ame’s eyes narrowed in delight, her smile growing for just a moment longer before she brought her attention back to the entire class.

"The class has shown a lot of dedication lately, and it's reflected in your marks. I hope to see this continue," Ame praised, her voice encouraging and full of pride. "Keep up the great work, and you'll be well prepared for next assessment." The students seemed pleased, their expressions showing satisfaction and motivation as they listened attentively to the rest of the lecture.

The lesson went smoothly, with the class taking detailed notes and showing enthusiasm for the upcoming assessment. When it was time to wrap up, Ame stood before the class and clapped her hands together. "Well done, everyone. You’re dismissed."

Chairs scraped back as students began gathering their things. June turned to Sera with a small smile. "Want to go find Luca and Hana? I think they’re in one of the student lounges," she suggested, slinging her bag over her shoulder.

Sera grinned. "Yeah, sounds good to me. I’m sure those two are probably arguing over something again." she teased, packing up her belongings.

As they prepared to leave, Sera’s gaze drifted back towards Ame, who was still tidying up at her desk. Her thoughts lingered on how Ame had acknowledged her presence today, the look in her eyes, the warmth in her smile.

Meanwhile, Ame’s attention was fixated on Sera, who was now about to exit the classroom. Her heart began to race, and she quickly started packing up her own materials, the urgency and excitement surging through her. She didn’t want to let this moment slip by; she had to catch Sera before she left.

This was her chance.

Sera and June stood just inside the classroom doorway, pausing for a moment to chat before heading out. Meanwhile, back at her desk, Ame was a flurry of motion, fingers racing over her keyboard and papers hastily shoved into her bag. Her eyes darted to the clock, then to the door, knowing she only had a few seconds before Sera would be out of reach.

The pair began walking down the hallway, making it several meters from the classroom, when the distinct clack of heels echoed sharply down the corridor. Without a second thought, Ame burst through the door, the handle slamming against the wall with a resounding thud. She stood in the doorway, chest heaving as she glanced left and right, eyes desperately scanning the hallway. Her breath caught as her gaze finally settled on Sera walking away with June, her heart pounding with the intensity of her emotions.

“S-Sera!!” Ame's voice came out in a half-choked cry, a mix of desperation and relief, as she called out, using her first name for the first time in what felt like an eternity. The sound of her voice, so raw and urgent, stopped Sera in her tracks. She gasped softly, her heart fluttering wildly in her chest as she slowly turned around. The world seemed to fall away, her vision narrowing until all she could see was Ame standing there, just outside the classroom.

June, looking between Sera and Ame, arched a curious eyebrow, her expression a mix of surprise and understanding. Sera’s initial shock melted away, replaced by an overwhelming sense of relief and joy, as if a weight had been lifted from her chest. Her breath came out unsteadily, and she felt her eyes sting with the threat of tears, a deep happiness surfacing inside her. Ame had reached out to her, called for her despite everything that had happened. It didn’t matter where they were or who was around; Ame was there, and that was all Sera needed.

Ame hugged herself briefly, hesitating as the reality of their public surroundings sank in. She glanced around the hallway, aware that anyone could see them, but when her eyes returned to Sera, the uncertainty vanished. She stepped forward, unable to hold back any longer. “D-Do you have a moment?” she asked, her voice softer now, almost pleading, as she held Sera’s gaze.

Sera looked back at June, who was watching the scene unfold with growing interest. Catching Sera’s uncertain expression, June smirked slightly before straightening her face, feigning indifference. “We can catch up later,” she said with a bright smile, giving a nod before walking ahead, leaving the two of them alone in the hallway.

Sera turned back to Ame, a wide, genuine smile spreading across her face. “I do.” she said softly, leaning forward a bit, hands clasped behind her back.

Ame returned the smile, her heart pounding with relief and a tinge of nervous excitement. “Come with me.” she whispered.

After a quick detour to drop off a few things at her office, Ame led her through a seldom-used teacher-only stairwell. Sera followed quietly, her pulse quickening as they ascended the steps. She glanced around, unsure where they were headed, but a shy smile played at her lips. Whatever this was, it felt important—special.

Finally, the stairwell gave way to the rooftop, where the air was crisp and the view breathtaking. The sun hung low, casting a warm golden hue across the cityscape and the surrounding autumn foliage. Sera stepped out onto the rooftop, her heart racing as she took in the stunning view. “Ame... what is this?” she whispered, glancing back at her, eyes wide with curiosity and a touch of awe.

The rooftop was a serene and breathtaking sanctuary, perched above the city like a secret world. The sleek white walls and elegant architecture contrasted beautifully against the backdrop of a sprawling metropolis, where distant skyscrapers gleamed under the fading autumn light. Golden-red leaves swirled around the space, carried by the cool breeze that stirred the air, adding a touch of the season’s warmth to the otherwise pristine surroundings. The open view stretched far into the horizon, where the sun dipped low, casting long shadows and painting the sky with shades of amber and lavender.

Ame stood at the edge of the rooftop, her back to Sera, the wind catching her jet-black hair and loose coat, causing them to billow dramatically. She placed a hand over her heart, her gaze locked on the city sprawled before her, as though she were seeing it for the first time. Sera lingered a few paces behind, caught between awe and curiosity, the world around her seeming almost unreal. Her eyes were fixed on Ame, who was about to break the silence that had lingered since they arrived.

"I'm sorry, Sera. I was wrong," Ame began, her voice steady yet brimming with emotion, the words piercing the air like an arrow.

Sera’s eyes widened, her expression growing serious as she focused entirely on what Ame was saying. The wind tousled her golden hair, making it shimmer in the light, strands dancing across her cheeks as she listened.

Ame continued, still staring out into the distance as if searching for answers within the cityscape. "For a long time, I suffered. I closed my heart off to the world. Expectations, disappointments, and even achievements... they all kept my heart locked away. I became a hollow shadow of the woman I wanted to be. I thought if I was perfect—if I could be everything that everyone else needed me to be…maybe I would finally be happy. But even the choices I made for myself, that I thought were genuinely mine…they felt like falsehoods. They pleased who I had trained myself to be, but not who I truly was."

Her voice trembled slightly as she spoke, each word carrying years of pent-up emotion, the weight of her past struggles coming to light. "It was a choice to please the mask," she said, a hint of bitterness in her tone, as though acknowledging the burden she had carried for so long. Her hand tightened over her chest, grasping at the fabric of her coat.

Sera’s heart ached as she listened, each of Ame’s words resonating deeply with her. She took a hesitant step forward, her eyes never leaving Ame’s silhouette against the autumn sky. The realization of how deeply Ame had been hurting made her chest tighten with empathy and sadness. She understood completely; Ame's coldness, her strict adherence to rules, the walls she had built—it had been like she had said before, it wasn’t her.

Ame's voice trembled with emotion as she stood at the edge of the rooftop, her back still facing Sera. Her gaze remained fixed on the city skyline as if drawing strength from the endless horizon. Her voice dropped, full of weight and meaning, as she continued.

"But then... someone came into my life..." Her words hung in the air, almost lost in the autumn wind.

Sera's eyes widened, her breath catching in her throat. Her heart began to pound as she leaned in unconsciously, hanging on Ame's every word.

Ame's tone softened, but her voice grew more intense as she pressed on. "She would decide to end my suffering." She took a deep breath, letting out an exhale that felt like years of tension unraveling. "In our short time together, she was so kind. She showed me such love, even through the barriers my mind put up time and time again. Every moment we had together she attempted to reach out to me. Every small act of kindness, every smile…every genuine effort to see the real me—I fought against her, tried to push her away... but she never gave up."

Ame’s hand tightened against her chest, right where her heart would be, as her emotions surged forward like an unstoppable wave. "She always challenged me. She would pull me out of my isolation, she saw through me when I tried to hide. She cared, even when I did everything to make her think I didn’t need anyone and despite everything, despite seeing every single flaw… she still reached out and truly touched my heart." Her voice trembled, rich with the weight of her feelings, her face filled with intense and serious emotion.

"She was the girl who helped me live for my heart, live for myself again," Ame said, her voice filled with emotion as she gripped her chest.

With a dramatic turn, Ame swiftly faced Sera, her hair sweeping across her face with the motion, her coat swirling around her legs. She struggled to keep her expression composed, her eyes glassy as she held Sera's gaze with everything she had, as if willing her heart to be seen clearly. "So that's why...despite everything!…" Her voice grew louder, urgent, as if the words were pouring out from the deepest part of her being.

She swallowed hard, willing the tears to stay back, determination burning brightly in her eyes.

"Sera!" she continued, her voice fierce and yet achingly vulnerable. "I won’t let you go! I won’t let the chance to tell you... that I—" Her voice broke, raw with emotion, her breath trembling in the cold autumn air.

Sera stood there, the words crashing over her like a tidal wave, her entire body trembling under the weight of everything she was hearing. Her eyes were wide, shimmering with the tears she was desperately trying to hold back, her lips parted as she struggled to keep steady breaths. Each word from Ame pierced straight into her heart, confirming what she had barely dared to hope for. It was her—Ame was talking about her. The truth was raw, undeniable, and it made her heart pound like a drum, echoing in her ears. She clutched her chest, fingers digging into the fabric of her sweater as if trying to contain the storm of emotions bursting within her.

When Ame turned to face her, there was such determination in those gray eyes, a depth of emotion she had never seen in the woman before. It took everything for Sera to meet her gaze, to keep herself from falling apart right there.

Sera's breath hitched, her legs nearly giving way beneath her as her hand tightened over her heart. "A-Ame..." she whispered, her voice trembling with the overwhelming surge of emotions. It was almost too much to bear, her whole world tilting on its axis as she teetered on the edge of tears. The love in her eyes was unmistakable, but so was the disbelief. Could this really be happening? She gave everything she had to stay present, to hear the next words that Ame would speak, even as it felt like her heart was about to burst.

Ame stood there, the weight of everything she’d held back for so long crashing down upon her. Her chest tightened, the emotions swirling within her reaching a fever pitch as she fought to force the words out, her voice trembling with desperation and longing. “That I...!” she exclaimed, her voice rising above the howling wind. As if propelled by some invisible force, she closed the gap between them, now standing inches away from Sera. With a trembling hand, she reached out to grip Sera’s shoulders, her touch gentle but firm. Her gaze, intense and unwavering, locked onto Sera’s ocean-blue eyes.

Ame’s hair whipped around her face as the autumn wind swept through the rooftop, yet her eyes remained fixated on Sera’s tear-filled ones, her expression resolute but brimming with raw emotion. She searched Sera’s gaze, the overwhelming love and disbelief she saw there giving her the final burst of courage she needed. Her heart pounded in her ears, the world falling away as she finally found the strength to say what had been trapped inside for so long.

“I LOVE YOU!” she cried out, her voice bursting forth with euphoria and relief, as if releasing a thousand pent-up emotions all at once.

The words echoed in Sera’s ears, crashing over her like a wave she wasn’t prepared for. She gasped, her whole body trembling as the truth hit her, washing over her like a flood. It felt surreal, like a dream too perfect to be real. Her legs wobbled, and she almost collapsed in Ame’s arms, clutching at her to keep from sinking to the ground. “A-Ame!” she cooed softly, her voice thick with emotion as the tears finally spilled down her cheeks. She melted into Ame’s embrace, letting herself fall against her, overcome with the sheer joy and relief of it all.

Ame wrapped her arms around Sera, pulling her close and holding her as if she never wanted to let go. It was the warmest, most loving embrace—gentle yet protective, conveying a promise that went beyond words. She pressed her face into Sera’s hair, closing her eyes as tears began to streak down her own cheeks, slow, each drop carrying the weight of everything they had both felt for so long.

“Oh~ Ame...” Sera whispered, her voice tender and soft as she buried her face against Ame’s chest, holding her tightly as if she could disappear at any moment. Her tears soaked into Ame's coat as she gripped her back, her heart pounding wildly against Ame’s. She never thought she could be this happy—so completely and utterly over the moon that it felt like a dream. The two of them stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, tears flowing freely as they clung to one another, finally allowing themselves to feel everything they had fought so hard to deny.

Ame slowly lifted her head, her heart racing as she pressed Sera against her, wrapping her arms securely around her waist. She held Sera close, her fingers gently rubbing up and down her back, before pausing and gripping her waist, ensuring she stayed grounded in this moment. Ame's gaze was tender and full of love, her gray eyes softened as they took in every detail of Sera's tear-streaked face. Her voice came out warm and sincere, every word spoken with the utmost care.

“Sera...” she whispered, her voice so gentle, it was almost a plea. The sound of Sera's name on her lips was filled with longing and affection. “…i-if you forgive me… if you still love me… please…kiss me.” She pleaded desperately, her words wrapped in warmth and sincerity. Ame’s trembling voice carried all the weight of her vulnerability, her heart laid bare.

Sera's breath hitched as she listened, and she felt her heart skip a beat at Ame’s earnest plea. She nodded slowly, her eyes shimmering with emotion, and gently wiped away the tears that had gathered on her cheeks with the sleeve of her sweater. She let out a soft, breathless giggle—the sound light, full of relief and joy.

Mustering every ounce of courage, Sera took control. Looking up towards Ame without another thought, she threw her arms around her neck, pulling them closer than ever before. Their foreheads brushed together, and for a moment, they simply gazed at each other, sharing the most intimate connection in that gaze—a mixture of yearning and profound love.

Sera's eyes flickered back and forth from Ame's stormy gray eyes to her soft, inviting lips. They looked warm and welcoming, and her heart pounded in her chest. The world seemed to hold its breath as their heads leaned toward each other, their shared heat and anticipation enveloping them. “I love you…so…mu—” Her voice a tender whisper, Sera’s eyes fluttered shut as she eagerly closed the last of the distance, pressing her lips fervently against Ame's in a passionate, deep kiss.

The moment their lips met, it was like a spark igniting a fire; all the emotions they had suppressed and fought against were unleashed in that kiss. Sera kissed her deeply, her hands gripping the back of Ame's neck as if to never let go. Ame's arms tightened around her, drawing Sera closer still, and she returned the kiss with equal fervor, their lips moving together in a dance of passion and love. Ame's fingers slipped through Sera’s golden hair, her touch sending a shiver down Sera’s spine as she responded with a soft moan.

Their mouths parted slightly, and tongues met in a tender but hungry exchange. The kiss grew deeper, more fervent, as if they were trying to pour everything they felt into that single, breathless moment. The sensation was overwhelming—Sera almost forgot to breathe as she lost herself in the warmth of Ame’s lips and the sensation of her body pressed close.

The golden autumn leaves swirled around them, dancing in the wind as the sun shone behind, casting a soft glow over the scene. Their hair and clothing fluttered in the breeze, but all they felt was each other. Time seemed to stand still, the world fading away, leaving only the intensity of their shared kiss—a kiss that spoke of longing, of reunion, of a love that had finally found its voice.