Kiana And Sal's Bizzare RomCom Drabble Collection

KiaSal Drabble 63: Forgotten Memories 4.8

"Were you aware, ninety per cent of these islands' profit comes from tourism?" Sal pointed at the group of Spanish-Philipino-Indian-Italian tourists flocking to the takoyaki stall on the adjacent corner of the beach. Despite the rich flora and fauna of these islands, it is a wonder why they are not involved in the import and export of exotic fruits or vegetables. That would be a great business if you ask me."

"Ever wondered people might not want to let go of their traditions?" Susannah took a bite from her popsicle and offered. They had been walking aimlessly from stall to stall for over an hour now.

"But isn't that stupid?" Sal nibbled at his Karaage.

"I don't think holding onto your beliefs is stupid, idiot."

"First of all, idiot is not a nickname, and secondly, if holding onto the past is hindering your city's economy, you've got to let it go." He shrugged. "In these trying times, one needs to be logical more than emotional."

"If I were to be logical, then I would have never fallen for you." Susannah shot him a smile. "You see, dear idiot, sometimes logic doesn't compute with what people's emotions are translating to."

"You make absolutely no sense."

"When have you?" Susannah added with a grin.

"Touché, Manatt," Sal shook his head.

"Hardly Apocalypse.

Before Susannah left for her date with Sal, Seele had mentioned to her about the miracle of the Ogasawara beach fireworks. It was believed any confession made under the veil of Bonin's final showcase would lead to an outcome favourable for both parties. Susannah, being the hopeless romantic she was, accepted her idea. And now, sitting shoulder to shoulder with her childhood friend and crush, she reevaluated her life choices.

"Last time we did something like this was during our final year." Sal grinned at her. His eyes beaming, as his hair ruffled along the night breeze. Susannah felt her chest tighten. The dream she had carried for years was about to shatter. She was going to wake up soon.

"That time we broke the rules," Susannah pulled up a facade, offering Sal a smile. "So I must say this time is better."

"But I loved the sense of being fugitives," Sal complained. Susannah rolled her eyes.

Just a bit longer. She prayed. Let the dream not end. If only for a second, I want to spend it with him.

"You just want to pilot a Gundam." Susannah tugged at his cheek.

"No," Sal averted his gaze.

"You lie when you can't meet my gaze."

"I hate that you know it."

"I know everything about you." Susannah puffed her chest with pride.

Just a bit longer.

"Nah, that's surely a lie." Sal gave her a smug gaze. "You have to be a God to know everything about me."

"Wanna try?"

"You are on," Sal grinned, and turned to face her. "It's time we settle our year-old rivalry, Manatt."

Let this dream last a bit longer. Susannah pressed her lips together, stifling a tear. Her vision dimmed as the sound of wave crashing, chatters of the public all became a distant echo, all she could see was Sal and his dumb smile. She loved it. She loved everything about him. And that's why it hurt even more.