Under the Ginko Tree

Chapter 6: Nezuko and Muichiro's Growing Bond

The next few weeks brought a sense of normalcy back to the campus after the carnival's drama. Spring was in full bloom, and the students settled into their routines of classes, assignments, and social activities. For Nezuko and Muichiro, their bond continued to grow stronger.

One sunny afternoon, Nezuko and Muichiro decided to take a break from studying and spend time together at a nearby park. The air was warm and filled with the scent of blooming flowers. They found a quiet spot under a large cherry blossom tree, its petals gently falling around them.

"This place is beautiful," Nezuko said, looking around with a contented sigh. "I'm glad we came here."

Muichiro nodded, his gaze soft as he watched her. "It is. And it's even better because I'm here with you."

Nezuko blushed, smiling shyly. "You always know the right thing to say."

Muichiro shrugged, a faint smile on his lips. "I just speak the truth."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the tranquility of the park. Nezuko leaned against Muichiro, feeling a sense of peace she hadn't felt in a long time.

"Muichiro," Nezuko began hesitantly, "can I ask you something personal?"

Muichiro turned to her, his expression open. "Of course."

Nezuko took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "I've been thinking a lot about what you said at the carnival. About how you feel a special connection with me. I feel the same way, but... I guess I just want to know more about you. About your past and what makes you who you are."

Muichiro's gaze softened, and he nodded slowly. "I understand. There's a lot I haven't told you yet."

He paused, looking up at the cherry blossoms, as if gathering his thoughts. "I don't remember much about my past. My parents died when I was very young, and my memory of them is hazy. My brother and I were separated, and I grew up in different foster homes. That's why I often feel... disconnected."

Nezuko listened intently, her heart aching for him. "That sounds really hard. I'm sorry you had to go through that."

Muichiro shook his head, his expression resolute. "It's in the past. What matters now is the present and the people who are important to me. And you're one of those people, Nezuko."

Nezuko felt a lump in her throat, touched by his words. "Thank you for sharing that with me. I know it's not easy to talk about."

Muichiro smiled faintly. "It's easier with you. You make me feel like I can be myself."

Nezuko reached out and took his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I'm glad. I want you to always feel comfortable with me."

They stayed like that for a while, holding hands and enjoying each other's company. As the afternoon turned to evening, they reluctantly decided to head back to campus.

On the way back, they passed by a café that Nezuko had been wanting to try. Muichiro noticed her glancing at it and smiled. "Do you want to stop for a drink? We still have some time before it gets dark."

Nezuko's eyes lit up. "Yes, I'd love that!"

They entered the cozy café and found a corner table. The warm, inviting atmosphere was a perfect setting for their continued conversation. They ordered their drinks and settled in, the soft hum of background music creating a pleasant ambiance.

As they sipped their drinks, Nezuko brought up another topic. "Muichiro, have you thought about what you want to do after college?"

Muichiro nodded, looking thoughtful. "I have. I want to continue my studies in medicine. Helping others has always been important to me, and I think I can make a difference as a doctor."

Nezuko smiled, impressed. "That's a wonderful goal. I can see you being an amazing doctor."

Muichiro's expression softened. "What about you, Nezuko? What are your plans?"

Nezuko hesitated for a moment before answering. "I'm still figuring it out. I love helping people too, but I'm not sure in what capacity yet. Maybe something in social work or counseling. I just want to make a positive impact on people's lives."

Muichiro reached across the table and took her hand again, his eyes full of warmth. "Whatever you choose, I know you'll be great at it. You have a kind heart, and that makes all the difference."

Nezuko felt her cheeks heat up, but she didn't pull away. "Thank you, Muichiro. That means a lot to me."

They continued talking, sharing their hopes and dreams for the future. The café's warm lights and the comforting presence of each other made it a perfect evening.

As they walked back to their dorms, Muichiro suddenly stopped and turned to Nezuko. "Nezuko, I want you to know that no matter what happens, I'll always be here for you. You're important to me, and I want us to face the future together."

Nezuko's heart swelled with emotion, and she nodded, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "I feel the same way, Muichiro. Let's always support each other, no matter what."

They embraced under the streetlights, the world around them fading away. In that moment, they knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, their bond growing stronger with each passing day.