𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 | 𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘴𝘶𝘺𝘢 𝘵. ᯓ ᡣ𐭩

038. | ꜰɪʀᴇᴡᴏʀᴋ ᴋɪꜱꜱᴇꜱ

The Hanagaki siblings walked side by side, weaving through the throngs of festival goers in their vibrant yukatas. Kana's yukata was a delicate shade of pink, the fabric adorned with intricate cherry blossom patterns that seemed to dance in the soft evening light. Her hair was done up in a loose bun, a few strands framing her face.

Takemichi's deep navy blue yukata was a reflection of his dual nature. While the dark hue gave him an air of seriousness and resilience, the subtle white patterns on the fabric were reminiscent of tears, symbolizing his empathetic and emotional side. The yukata was both a warrior's armor and the attire of a young man with a big heart, making him appear both fierce and vulnerable at the same time.

Despite the festive atmosphere, the Hanagaki siblings bore the marks of their recent battles. Bandages adorned their faces and arms, reminders of the fight that had taken place just a week ago. Kana's movements were still cautious, her side tender from the stab wound that had only recently healed enough for her to be released from the hospital.

As they meandered through the festival, Kana occasionally winced, but her spirit remained unbroken. Takemichi, ever the protective brother, kept a close eye on her, his concern masked by a determined expression. They paused at a stall selling taiyaki, the sweet aroma of the fish-shaped cakes filling the air. Kana smiled softly, her eyes reflecting the lanterns' glow as she turned to her brother.

"It's been a while since we've done something like this," she said, her voice tinged with nostalgia.

Takemichi nodded, handing her a Taiyaki. "Yeah, it feels good to be out again. Let's make the most of tonight."

As Kana took the Taiyaki from her brother, she couldn't help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over her. It had been so long since they had been able to go to a festival together... so long since she had been able to act like a normal teenager.

She watched the festival goers pass by, her heart filled with a mixture of envy and gratitude. She had come so close to losing everything, and here she was, enjoying a simple night out with her brother.

Takemichi watched his sister, noting the wistful expression on her face. He knew how hard the past few months had been for her, and he was determined to make tonight as enjoyable as possible.

Kana took a bite of her Taiyaki, savoring the sweet taste as it filled her mouth. She turned to Takemichi with a curious expression, her thoughts finally giving way to a question that had been nagging at her. "Hey, Takemichi," she said, her voice quiet but steady. "Can I ask you something?"

Takemichu glanced at her, his expression a mix of curiosity and caution. "Sure," he replied. "What's up?"

She took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "This whole time-jumping thing you can do..." she began slowly, her eyes meeting his. "I was wondering... now that I'm alive again, does that mean you're going to jump back to the future?"

His expression soften at her question, a small, wistful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Yeah, but I won't leave immediately," he said softly. "Not yet. I want to stay here, with you guys in this timeline, for a bit longer."

Her heart felt like it was swelling with emotion. The idea that she could defy fate and stay in this timeline was exhilarating, and she could tell that Takemichi felt the same way.

As they continued to navigate through the crowded festival, her mind was racing with thoughts and emotions. The idea that she and Takemichi could carry on and create a future together in this timeline was both thrilling and terrifying. she glanced at her brother, taking comfort in his presence. He was her rock, her protector, her other half. Together, they could overcome anything. Kana found herself feeling more hopeful and secure than she had in months.