Chapter 68 - A Million Times

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Chapter Song: IU - "Love Wins All"
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Later that Night

The small town near Mitsuri's family hot springs buzzed with a quiet, romantic charm, its streets glowing under the soft amber light of countless lanterns. Vendors called out softly, their carts laden with freshly grilled skewers and steaming sweet buns, while the faint bubbling of the nearby hot springs added an ambient rhythm to the chilly autumn air.

Sanemi walked beside Kanae, his heart thundering in his chest, though his expression remained characteristically composed. Dressed in a deep green male kimono that fit his broad shoulders perfectly, he looked every bit the part of a gentleman escorting his beloved. Yet inside, he was far from calm. His fingers toyed nervously with the small jewelry box concealed in his sleeve, its presence heavier than he'd anticipated.

Kanae walked gracefully by his side, her white kimono  with blue and indigo floral patterns catching the soft lantern light as it swayed with each step. Her hair swept into an elegant updo adorned with ber delicate butterfly hair clip . The faint scent of jasmine lingered around her. She turned her head slightly, her lips curving into a gentle smile that made Sanemi's breath hitch.

"Sanemi," she said softly, her voice a soothing melody that cut through his nerves, "you've been awfully quiet tonight. Are you feeling alright?"

He cleared his throat, attempting to steady his nerves. "Yeah, I'm fine," he muttered. "Just... enjoyin' the peace, I guess. It's a perfect night."

She tilted her head, studying him for a moment before letting it go. "Yea... it is. The night sky is clear and the stars are shinning so bright." she replied with a knowing smile.

Sanemi glanced at her and smiled at her beauty. "Yea..."

They continued walking until Kanae stopped at a small shop displaying delicate, hand-painted trinkets. She stepped closer, her eyes lighting up at the sight of tiny, intricate ornaments.

"Aren't these adorable?" she asked, holding up a small glass charm shaped like a cherry blossom.

"Oh, yea, sure." Sanemi replied gruffly, though his attention was fixed entirely on her, not the trinket. She was breathtaking, her joy so pure that it nearly knocked the wind out of him. He couldn't keep his eyes away from her.

"$5! I think I'll buy this." Kanae told the employee. The employee wrapping the small trinket and handed her the bag, as she handed cash.

As Kanae admired the display, Sanemi caught sight of a secluded garden just ahead. The chrysanthemums in full bloom glowed under a single paper lantern, their vibrant colors a quiet sanctuary away from the bustle of the town. His pulse quickened. This was the moment.

"Hey," he said abruptly, his voice sharper than intended. Kanae turned, blinking in surprise.

"What is it?"

"Come with me for a minute," he said, nodding toward the garden.

Though puzzled, Kanae followed him without hesitation. Her geta clacked softly against the stone path as they entered the garden. The air was warmer here, the sweet scent of chrysanthemums mixing with the gentle steam from the hot springs.

Sanemi stopped near the lantern, his shoulders tense. He turned to face Kanae, who looked at him with her usual calm curiosity.

"Kanae," he began, his voice low but steady, "there's somethin' I need to say."

Her expression softened, and she stepped closer. "What is it, Sanemi?"

 "What is it, Sanemi?"

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