My Lie in October

Chapter 24

Still bawling, Sakura cried: "Why, Kousei? Why are you still here?"

Kousei whispered in her ear, "Because I have loved you for a while now. I've seen your best moments, and those are the only ones that matter to me."

Sakura continued crying but they were starting to become tears of joy as she held on to him.

Kousei continued to comfort her. "It's ok. I will love you even if no one else will. Rely on me, please."

Comforting words and tears were exchanged for several minutes as all emotions came out and settled into bliss. Finally, Sakura said, "If you're willing to love me despite everything, I will love you too like I always have. I'll be your girlfriend."

"I could never hope to cause you any heartache. I'll be here to remove that and fill it with something better as long as you wish. I'll be your boyfriend."

After a few seconds, they brought their faces closer together in a passionate kiss. It was almost like a fierce competition to see who could love the other the most. If Kousei pushed harder, Sakura pushed back, pausing occasionally to take a breath. Kousei won after a minute or two because he literally had the high ground.

When they pulled away, Kousei sat down on the chair next to the bed. He gave her some instructions before he left. "Tell your mom and the doctor everything that you told me. Take your medicine and do whatever they say. And call me if you need someone to talk to."

She nodded firmly. "Will do." She leaned forward while saying, "And you..." She touched his forehead briefly. "...keep being you." Sakura settled back into her bed.

Kousei gave her a lasting smile. "Ok. Take care of yourself." He slowly walked out of the hospital room and headed home.