Taste Of Love - MatchaBlossom

11)

+ Day 1 - Italy

Kaoru and Kojiro stepped out onto the bustling streets of Rome, the city pulsating with life and history. The sun bathed the ancient architecture in a warm glow, casting long shadows that danced on the cobblestone pathways

Their first stop was Kojiro's main restaurant, a place where everything started for Kojiro.

As they entered the familiar yet foreign establishment, the scent of delicious Italian cuisine greeted their senses, bringing back memories of their shared passion for food and entrepreneurship.

"Welcome to my kingdom, Kaoru!" Kojiro announced with a flourish, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Prepare yourself for a culinary experience like no other."

Kaoru rolled his eyes playfully, a smirk dancing on his lips. "Please, don't overhype it too much. I'm sure it's just as mediocre as your cooking back in Japan," he retorted, his voice laced with mock sarcasm.

Kojiro feigned offense, clutching his heart dramatically. "Mediocre? Kaoru, you wound me," he replied, his voice dripping with mock hurt. "Just wait. I'll prove you wrong."

They settled at a table near the window, the ambiance of the restaurant enveloping them in a comforting embrace. The menu presented an array of dishes, each one more tempting than the last.

As they savored the flavors of Italy, their conversation flowed effortlessly, meandering through the corridors of their high school memories. Laughter echoed through the restaurant, drawing curious glances from other patrons, but Kaoru and Kojiro were in their own world, oblivious to the outside observers

Between mouthfuls of pasta and sips of wine, Kaoru couldn't help but steal glances at Kojiro. There was something undeniably magnetic about his friend's infectious charisma and his ability to brighten even the darkest of days

After bidding farewell to the restaurant, Kaoru and Kojiro embarked on a journey through the streets of Rome. The city unfolded before them like a living museum, each step revealing a new tale of ancient grandeur.

Their laughter echoed through the narrow alleyways as they weaved through the labyrinthine streets, exchanging playful jabs and witty remarks.

As they approached the colossal structure that was the Colosseum, a sense of awe enveloped them. The sheer magnitude of history and human achievement left them speechless for a moment.

"Can you believe it, Kaoru? People from centuries ago stood right here, in this very spot," Kojiro mused, his voice filled with a reverence that was rare for him.

Kaoru nodded, his eyes tracing the ancient walls of the Colosseum. "It's humbling, isn't it? The weight of history is tangible here," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

As they wandered through the ruins of Rome, the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the city. The streets grew quieter, and a sense of tranquility enveloped them, wrapping them in a cocoon of shared experiences.

They found themselves at a small café, their tired feet

seeking respite. With steaming cups of espresso in hand, they sat in comfortable silence, their eyes mirroring the unspoken emotions that flickered between them.

As darkness settled over the city, Kaoru stole a glance at Kojiro. The soft glow of the streetlights painted his features in gentle shadows, highlighting the warmth in his eyes and the subtle vulnerability that lay beneath the surface.

Kojiro looked over at Kaoru, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "So, Kaoru, what do you think of the city? Isn't it beautiful?" he asked a hint of excitement in his voice.

Kaoru took a moment to absorb the enchanting sights that surrounded them—the ancient architecture, the vibrant colors, and the rich history that seemed to breathe through every stone. He let out a contented sigh before turning to his friend, a soft smile gracing his lips.

"It's more than beautiful, Kojiro. It's awe-inspiring," Kaoru replied, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "The vies we saw were amazing, it's a pity I didn't bring his sketchbook."

Kojiro's face lit up with pride as if he were personally responsible for the city's allure. "I knew you'd love it," he declared, his voice brimming with satisfaction. "There's just something magical about Rome, isn't there? It has a way of capturing your heart and never letting go."

Kaoru nodded, a glimmer of something more profound than admiration shining in his eyes. "You're right. There's a certain kind of magic in this city, but you know what's even more magical?" he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Kojiro tilted his head, curiosity written all over his face. "What's that, Kaoru?"

A playful smirk tugged at the corners of Kaoru's lips. "That's a secret for another time"

Kojiro's usual confident demeanor wavered for just a moment as his eyes met Kaoru's, and a vulnerability flickered across his face. "Kaoru..." he started, his voice laced with unspoken words.

But before either of them could delve deeper into their conversation, the vibrant streets of Rome beckoned them to continue their adventure. They walked together, side by side, unspoken.

As they wandered through the narrow streets, laughter and teasing resumed their rightful place in their conversation, masking the depths of their unspoken desires for now

"I still want to know Four Eyes" Kojiro nudge the pink head

"Not now" Kaoru sighed