NAKANO RYU
I brought Kairi to Sakura Park, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning pink cherry blossoms. Even though it was almost winter, the trees retained their beautiful blooms, creating a magical atmosphere. The park was bustling with visitors, adding to the lively ambiance.
"Ryu, why are we here?" Kairi asked, her eyes reflecting the soft glow of the blossoms.
"Kairi, how many years have we been together?" I asked, steering the conversation gently.
"Thirteen years," she replied with a nostalgic smile. "We're twenty-eight now. Why do you ask?"
"Do you love me?" I asked, my heart pounding. "Have your feelings stayed strong all this time?"
"Of course, they have," she said without hesitation. "You're my first boyfriend, Ryu. And when I fall in love—"
"I know," I interrupted, smiling. "When you fall in love, it's for a lifetime."
She chuckled softly, her eyes shining. "You really do know me."
I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. "Kairi, are you sure about us? About me?"
She looked at me, puzzled. "Of course, I am. Why would you even ask that?"
"I just need to be certain," I said, guiding her away from the crowd of tourists. I stopped, turning to face her. "Kairi?"
"Hmm?" she responded, her eyes questioning.
I smiled at her, then kissed her forehead gently. Slowly, I knelt down on one knee. Her brows furrowed in confusion.
"Kairi, I've been thinking about this for a while now," I began, my voice trembling slightly. "I'm certain about you."
"Ryu, what are you doing?" she asked, her voice a mix of curiosity and anxiety.
Our friends, Noel, Kei, Haruto, Eito, Keyon, and Naoya, stepped forward, each holding a rose. The girls followed suit, handing them to Kairi. She looked at me, bewildered.
"Ryu, just tell me what's happening," she pleaded.
"Kairi," I said, opening a small ring box. "I've loved you for so long."
"Ryu," she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes.
"I've loved you since we were fifteen," I continued. "You've changed everything for me."
"Ryu Kairi!!!" Noel shouted, but Sakura quickly covered his mouth, silencing him.
"You are my first love, and I want you to be my last," I said, holding her gaze.
She wiped her tears, a radiant smile breaking through. "That will surely happen, Ryu."
I took a deep breath, fighting back my own tears. "Kairi, will you be my wife?"
"Yes, Ryu!" she exclaimed; her voice filled with joy. "Yes, I will be your wife!"
As I slid the ring onto her finger, applause and cheers erupted around us. I stood up and pulled her into a tight embrace. "I love you so much, Kairi."
"I love you more," she whispered, hugging me back. "I will love you forever."
I glanced over and saw our parents clapping enthusiastically. My dad gave me a thumb-up, signaling me to kiss her. I nodded and called her name softly. "Kairi..."
