The park was still, crickets beginning to chirp as the sun dipped lower.
Aira and Yuu sat side by side on the bench, their hearts still quietly catching up with the shock of seeing each other again. The silence wasn't awkward—it was warm, like a blanket wrapped around two old souls.
Suddenly, Yuu shifted.
Without a word, he gently slid down from the bench and got on one knee in front of Aira.
Her eyes widened slightly.
He placed his hands carefully on the bench—one on each side of her—creating a soft space between them. He didn't touch her… even though he wanted to. His morals held his hands still, trembling slightly from how close they were.
But his gaze?
His eyes looked straight into hers—soft, nervous, hopeful.
"Um… Aira…" he said, voice a little shaky, "Can I… can I come to your crochet workshop sometimes?"
His eyes dropped for a second, cheeks burning.
"I–I just want to… learn more about crocheting," he added quickly, like it was the only excuse his shy heart could handle. "That's all…"
Aira stared at him for a moment.
Then smiled.
She took both of his hands in hers and gently brought them onto her lap.
Yuu's breath hitched.
Her touch was so warm.
She held his hands softly, as if saying "it's okay now."
"Let's learn it together," she whispered. "But… we'll have to be careful. Our parents can't find out."
She looked into his eyes, her voice low and soothing.
"I love teaching you, Yuu… Watching you crochet, even if you mess up a little or look confused—it makes me feel at peace. It makes me feel… comfortable."
Yuu's face softened completely.
He nodded slowly.
And in that quiet moment—no hugs, no kisses, no loud promises—just two hands resting in one lap, they made a vow only the heart could hear.