𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 | 𝐆. 𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐔

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐈𝐈

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the festival grounds transformed into a magical wonderland illuminated by colorful lanterns. The air buzzed with anticipation as everyone gathered for the fireworks display. [M/N] stood with Gojo, Ieiri, Geto, Nanami, and Haibara, excitement palpable in the air.

"Get ready!" Gojo exclaimed, his voice bright with enthusiasm. "These fireworks are going to be epic!"

As the first firework shot into the sky, bursting into a dazzling display of colors, [M/N] couldn't help but glance at Gojo. The light reflected in his eyes, making them sparkle with childlike wonder. It was a sight that made [M/N] momentarily forget the weight of the past few months.

"Pretty amazing, right?" Gojo nudged [M/N], a grin stretching across his face.

"Yeah, it's... impressive," [M/N] replied, allowing himself to feel a spark of enjoyment despite his usual reservations.

As more fireworks erupted, painting the sky with hues of red, blue, and gold, Haibara leaned in, practically vibrating with excitement. "Look at that one!" he shouted, pointing at a particularly bright explosion. "It looks like a flower!"

"More like a star explosion," Geto quipped, crossing his arms with a smirk. "But sure, let's go with flowers."

Nanami chuckled, shaking his head at the playful banter. "You two are impossible," he said, but his tone was fond.

[M/N] watched the camaraderie around him, feeling a warmth he hadn't anticipated. Gojo turned to him, eyes glimmering in the light of the fireworks. "What about you, Takahashi-kun? What do you think of this?"

"Honestly? It's a nice break from... everything," [M/N] admitted, surprising even himself. "I guess I needed this."

Gojo tilted his head, curiosity evident in his expression. "You know, it's okay to let loose sometimes. You don't always have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders."

Before [M/N] could respond, another firework lit up the sky, showering them in brilliant colors. He watched the explosions, the sounds resonating deep within him, and felt an unexpected sense of release.

As the final fireworks lit up the sky in a stunning display, Gojo leaned closer, his voice lowered slightly. "So, what's your wish for tonight?"

[M/N] hesitated, unsure if he wanted to share his thoughts. But the relaxed atmosphere and Gojo's genuine curiosity encouraged him. "I wished... for a change. Maybe for things to get a little easier."

Gojo nodded, understanding flickering in his eyes. "Yeah, I get that. Sometimes it feels like everything is just one fight after another, huh? But remember, it's okay to enjoy moments like these."

The final firework burst in a brilliant explosion, and [M/N] allowed himself to feel a bit lighter. "Thanks, Gojo. I appreciate it."

With the display ending, the group erupted into applause and cheers. Haibara bounced on his heels, looking around with bright eyes. "That was amazing! We should do this every year!"

"Definitely," Ieiri chimed in, nudging Nanami playfully. "Next year, I expect you to be more enthusiastic, Nanami!"

Nanami rolled his eyes but smiled. "I'll try my best."

As they moved away from the viewing area, Gojo fell into step beside [M/N]. "So, what's next on your festival agenda? More games? Food?"

"Let's see how long I can keep up with you guys," [M/N] replied, a small smirk appearing on his face.

"Challenge accepted!" Gojo laughed, already pulling [M/N] toward the food stalls. "I think you'll be surprised by how much fun you can have!"

As they joined the rest of the group, [M/N] felt a sense of belonging wash over him, grateful for the unexpected turn of events that had led him to this moment.