𝔹𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝕓𝕪 𝔽𝕒𝕥𝕖 // 𝔾𝕀𝕐𝕌𝕌 𝕏 𝕊ℍ𝕀ℕ𝕆𝔹𝕌 𝕗𝕒𝕟𝕗𝕚𝕔

ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 12

One morning, after an early breakfast on the hotel's terrace, Giyu suggested a day trip to a nearby island for some sightseeing and exploration. Everyone agreed enthusiastically, but the mood shifted as soon as they boarded the ferry. Shinobu, eager to capture the stunning scenery, was busy taking photographs, while Kanae stood at the railing, gazing out at the ocean with a contemplative expression.

As the ferry cruised towards the island, Shinobu noticed Kanae standing alone and decided to approach her. She hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Kanae, isn't it beautiful out here? The water is so clear."

Kanae turned to look at her sister, forcing a smile. "Yes, it is. Hawaii is truly a paradise."

Shinobu sensed the distance in Kanae's tone and decided to press further. "I've been thinking a lot about us, about everything that's happened. This trip has made me realize how much I miss our closeness."

Kanae's smile faded, replaced by a look of guarded emotion. "I miss it too, Shinobu. But things have changed, and it's not easy to just forget everything that's happened."

Shinobu felt a pang of guilt and frustration. "I know, and I'm not asking you to forget. I just want us to find a way to move forward. I've been trying to show you that I care, that I want to fix things."

Kanae sighed, her gaze returning to the horizon. "I appreciate your efforts, Shinobu. I really do. But it's not just about what you want or what you do. It's about how I feel, and right now, I'm still hurt and confused."

The honesty in Kanae's words stung, but Shinobu knew she had to face it. "I understand, Kanae. I just hope that one day we can get past this. I'm willing to do whatever it takes."

Before Kanae could respond, Sanemi and Giyu joined them, breaking the tension. Sanemi suggested they play a game to pass the time. The sisters agreed, grateful for the distraction, but the conversation lingered in the back of their minds.

Upon arriving at the island, they spent the day exploring lush forests, swimming in hidden waterfalls, and visiting quaint local markets. The beauty of the island offered a temporary reprieve, and for a while, they managed to enjoy themselves, the day filled with laughter and lighthearted moments.

However, the underlying tension resurfaced in the evening when they returned to the hotel. After dinner, the group decided to relax by the pool. Giyu and Sanemi headed to the bar to get drinks, leaving Kanae and Shinobu alone on the loungers.

Shinobu, determined not to let the day end on a sour note, decided to try again. "Kanae, I'm sorry if I brought up something painful this morning. I just... I want us to be okay."

Kanae, who had been staring at the stars, turned to face her sister. "Shinobu, I appreciate your sincerity. But it's not something that can be fixed overnight. There are a lot of emotions involved, and I need time to process everything."

Shinobu nodded, her eyes filled with unshed tears. "I understand. It's just it already has been so long..."

Kanae's expression softened, and she reached out to squeeze Shinobu's hand. "I know, Shinobu. I just need some more time."

The moment was interrupted by the return of Giyu and Sanemi, who brought drinks and attempted to lighten the mood with jokes and stories. The sisters joined in the laughter, but the weight of their earlier conversation lingered.

Over the next few days, the pattern continued. The group enjoyed their activities—surfing, hiking, and exploring the local culture—but the tension between Kanae and Shinobu remained. There were moments of genuine connection and warmth, but they were often overshadowed by unspoken words and unresolved feelings.