[Chapter 29: Beneath the Fireworks – Season Finale]
The last sunset of the year painted the sky in soft orange and pink hues. Streets bustled with families and friends heading to shrines, stalls lined with sweet treats and steaming snacks. Takumi adjusted his scarf, waiting near the entrance of the shrine.
Then came Yuri.
She wore a soft cream-colored kimono with pale pink floral patterns, her light brown hair tied up with a subtle red ribbon. She looked breathtaking.
"…You look like a dream," Takumi murmured, genuinely stunned.
Yuri smiled shyly. "You don't look too bad yourself, Mr. Black Coat and Mysterious Aura."
They shared a quiet laugh before walking side by side toward the shrine. The night air was cold, but between them, it felt comfortably warm.
[A Prayer for the Year Ahead]
They washed their hands at the purification station, then stepped up to ring the bell. Closing their eyes, they clapped twice and made their wishes.
"What did you wish for?" Yuri asked gently.
"That would ruin the magic," Takumi said with a smirk. "But maybe… something about spending next year like this again."
Yuri blushed. "Then… I might've wished for the same thing."
They stood in silence, hearts beating just a little faster.
[A Small Gift Means a Lot]
Later, they walked to a quiet park with a view of the city skyline, waiting for the fireworks. The streets were glowing with lights, but this little spot felt like their own world.
Takumi pulled a small box from his coat pocket.
"…Here. For you."
Yuri blinked in surprise. "Takumi…"
Inside was a delicate silver necklace with a tiny star charm.
"I saw it and thought of you," he said, trying to keep his cool. "Elegant. Warm. Kinda… radiant."
Yuri's lips trembled into a tender smile as she carefully took it out. "Can you… put it on me?"
He nodded, stepping behind her and gently fastening it around her neck, fingers brushing her skin ever so lightly.
When he stepped back, she turned and took something from her purse.
"My turn."
She handed him a small, carefully wrapped box. Inside was a charcoal-gray wristwatch with a sleek design and a subtle 'T' engraved on the back.
"For someone who's always on time but never admits he cares."
Takumi chuckled softly, wearing it immediately. "It's perfect."
"Like you," Yuri whispered, cheeks pink.
[Under the Fireworks]
Boom.
The first firework lit up the sky in a burst of gold and red. They both looked up in awe, but soon, their gazes returned to each other.
The fireworks danced in their eyes.
Takumi reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair from Yuri's face.
"...Yuri."
"Hmm?"
He leaned in slowly, carefully—until his lips met hers under the sparkling sky.
A soft, sweet kiss.
The world seemed to pause—just for them.
When they pulled apart, Yuri's face was red, her smile trembling but bright.
"…Happy New Year, Takumi."
He held her hand tighter.
"Happy New Year, Yuri."
As the fireworks continued, their silhouettes stood close together, hearts quietly promising a year full of shared memories, laughter, and growing love.