Lotus Flower

Sub blog of 'rizumary' ーhere I share yume art of my OC Hana with many many canon ♡

[rizumaryy]

【蓮花の愛の香り】 ー The Lotus Flower Love Fragrance

Kaji Ren, a boy who believed his worth only existed in what he could protect, met Akeno Hana, a girl who loved people before they could prove their value. What began as an unexpected middle school friendship slowly turned into the deepest bond of their lives. Through shared ordinary days, quiet comfort, embarrassing tenderness, and painful battles, Hana became the person who stayed beside Kaji even after seeing his darkest side—while Kaji became the person who would always come when Hana reached out her hand.

✤ The Lotus Flower Love Fragrance ✤ Prologue / Confession / Same Promise / Resilient Ally / One Step Closer / Taking Action / First Date / Reveal / Comfort / First Meeting / Doubt / Bleach / Turquoise Beach / Summer Festival / Mark / Culture Festival / Big Brother / Autumn Leaves / Christmas / New Year / Chocolate and Rain / Before the Bloom ✤ The Lotus Flower Blooming ✤ A Glimpse of Future and Past / Hanami / Just This Once

[rizumaryy]

The Lotus Flower Love Fragrance

Kaji Ren x Akeno Hana 4683 words (omg what am I doing?) 🎵 Tomohisa Sako - Zutto Prologue

ーConfession

Kaji Ren leaned against the familiar brick wall of a building in Tonpuu Shopping District, a lollipop sticking out from the corner of his mouth. His headphones blasted a rock song, a stark contrast to the relatively peaceful afternoon. Patrol was almost over, and his mind was wondering about her.

Since the incident, the one where he'd lost control, he'd made a decision. No more distance. No more pushing Akeno away. He’d been a fool to think he could protect her by isolating himself. He’d only hurt them both. He needed to be closer, to watch over her, to… well, to be with her. The only way to protect Akeno, truly protect her, was to keep her close. Integrate her into his life, let the strength of his bonds become a shield for her too. The more people who cared about her, the safer she would be.

Introducing her to Enomoto and Kusumi had felt like a risk, exposing his softer side, the part that genuinely cared about this girl, to the two new constants in his life. Even though the two boys are aware of who Akeno Hana is, being the well-known little sister of their unit leader Hiragi Toma, this is their first chance to actually talk to her. And they had surprised him, in the best possible way.

Akeno, in her typical fashion, had charmed them instantly. 

“Ah, so this is the famous Hana-chan! Hirrrragi-san childhood frrriend and Kaji's dearrest frrrriend! It is an honorrr to meet ya!” She didn't even flinch at Enomoto's loud pronouncements or his dramatic rolled R's – in fact, she giggled, her eyes sparkling.

"It’s nice to meet you, Enomoto-kun! The way you talk is interesting! I think I’ll never get tired listening to you." she'd said cheerfully, making Enomoto puff out his chest with pride. 

Kusumi, as always, had been silent, observing from behind the curtain of his bowl-cut hair. He pulled out his phone, typed rapidly, and showed the screen to Akeno with a smile:

Nice to meet you, Akeno-san. Kaji talks a lot about you. (＾▽＾)

Kaji had felt a familiar heat creep up his neck at Kusumi’s bluntness, shooting him a glare that was entirely ignored. Akeno, however, had just smiled warmly. “Nice to meet you too, Kusumi-kun! And please, just call me Hana!”

They like her. Genuinely. It wasn't just tolerance for Kaji's sake; it was a genuine connection forming. Enomoto even managed to get her interested in watching the yakuza movie he loves on their first meeting. Kaji is a little bit jealous that the both of them get to call her by her first name from the start, even though he knows her longer, but it was his choice to call her by Akeno back at middle school. And seeing his two most trusted friends embrace Akeno, protectiveness surging through him transformed into quiet gratitude.

This was working. And, unexpectedly, Enomoto and Kusumi seemed to instinctively understand the shift in Kaji's demeanor around her. Without a single word being exchanged about it, they became… wingmen. Not overtly, not embarrassingly, but subtly. Distracting others, creating opportunities for Kaji and Akeno to talk one-on-one, offering knowing glances that Kaji pretended not to see.

With Akeno becoming a comfortable presence in their group patrols and occasional hangouts, Kaji began his quiet, calculated advance. He didn’t know how to do this. His experience with emotions, especially tender ones, was strictly limited. But he knew what he wanted. He wanted Akeno to feel safe, yes, but he also wanted her to feel something else when she was near him. Something akin to the frantic, exhilarating flutter in his own chest.

"Hey," he'd say, voice low, leaning slightly towards her during a break from patrol. "Walk with me?" It wasn't a question that required a group answer. It was an invitation, just for her. 

They'd stroll a little ahead of the others, the familiar sounds of the shopping district filling the silence. He’d find small excuses for physical contact. Taking her hand to pull her aside from an oncoming scooter, the brief touch lingering just a second longer than necessary. A light tap on her arm to get her attention. A casual brush against her shoulder. Each touch was deliberate, gentle, a test. He watched her reaction from the corner of his eye, maintaining the poker face with practiced ease while his heart hammered a frantic rhythm against his ribs.

Over the next few weeks, the pattern continued. Group hangouts, patrol overlaps, subtle touches, quiet moments alone. Akeno grew visibly more comfortable around Enomoto and Kusumi, laughing freely, sharing stories about Fujioka. Kaji watched, a sense of quiet satisfaction warming him. She was becoming part of their world.

He saw the changes too. Her cheeks would dust with a light pink when his hand lingered. She'd become slightly flustered, her usual easy chatter sometimes stumbling for a moment after he touched her or held her gaze. Her pink eyes would widen slightly, a question hidden within them. A small, fragile hope began to blossom in Kaji’s chest. Maybe, just maybe, she felt it too. Maybe her heart raced like his did whenever she was near.

One afternoon, the air in Tonpuu Shopping District was thick with tension. A group of delinquents from a neighboring town had arrived, causing trouble, intimidating shop owners – the kind of behaviour Bofurin existed to prevent. Kaji and his group had handled it swiftly, but not without consequences. Kaji, ever at the forefront, had taken a few hits.

Akeno was on her way home from Fujioka, taking a slightly longer route through the edge of Tonpuu, when she saw him. He was sitting hunched on a park bench, partially hidden by some bushes, pulling a small first-aid kit from a plastic bag. He was gingerly touching his nose, a trickle of blood staining his lip.

“Kaji-kun!” Akeno cried, rushing over. Her cheerful demeanor vanished, replaced by immediate, sharp worry. She knelt beside him. “Are you okay? You’re bleeding!”

Kaji looked up, startled. His grey eyes, usually so flat, held a flicker of surprise, then annoyance – not at her, but at being caught in this state. He quickly wiped his lip with the back of his hand, trying to school his features into his usual blankness. “It’s nothing. Just a scrape.” He started to close the kit. “Go on home, Akeno. It’s getting late.”

He tried to shoo her away gently, not wanting her to see him injured, not wanting her to worry about the violent reality of his life at Furin. It was part of why he’d pulled away before, the fear that this side of him would eventually touch her, harming her in a way.

But Akeno wasn't deterred. Her brow furrowed in concern as she reached out, taking the first-aid kit from his hand. “Don’t be silly, Kaji-kun. ‘Just a scrape’?” She examined his face and knuckles, littered with scrapes and bruises. Although this isn't the first time she's seen him after a fight, it still worries her because Kaji always seems to return with more bruises than Hiragi, who almost always appears unharmed. She opened a packet of antiseptic wipes. “Let me help.”

He flinched slightly as she dabbed at the blood gently. “Akeno, really, I’m fine. Enomoto or Kusumi can help me later.”

“No! They have to look out for themselves too!” she insisted, her voice firm despite the slight tremble in her hands. She carefully cleaned the area around his nose.

“I… I can’t fight like your friends do,” she said, her voice softening. “I can’t stand beside you in a brawl or take hits for you.” She put down the wipe and picked up a band aid. “But I can worry about you. I want to worry about you.” Her pink eyes met his, earnest and shining. “So please, just let me do this. Let me be useful somehow.”

She carefully applied the band aid over the bridge of his nose. Her fingers were gentle, her focus absolute. Kaji watched her, his heart aching with a feeling so profound it stole his breath. Seeing her so focused, so intent on caring for him, broke through the walls he usually kept around his emotions.

Akeno finished taping the band aid and looked up at him, a small, shy smile gracing her lips. “There. All done. Does it still hurt?”

Kaji couldn't speak for a moment. He just stared at her, overwhelmed. He felt a sudden, desperate need to know if the hope blooming in his chest was real.

“Akeno…” he started; his voice rougher than usual. “Why… why do you worry about me so much?”

Her smile widened, brighter this time. “Because you’re important to me, Kaji-kun! And I like you!”

The words hit him like a physical blow. “...You… You like me?” His poker face crumbled instantly, his grey eyes wide, a flush rising from his neck to his cheeks. He sputtered, his mind racing. She likes me? She actually likes me back? After everything? After seeing that ugly side of me, she still…

“Yeah!” Akeno confirmed cheerfully, mistaking his shock for simple surprise. “Of course I do! You’re my best friend, and you’re really dear to me.”

The air left Kaji's lungs. Best friend. The word echoed in his ears, crushing the nascent hope. Dear to me. Not like me, not like like me. Just… friendship. Platonic. Important, yes, but not in the way he desperately wanted. His face went carefully blank again, the mask snapping back into place, though the faint blush remained. He swallowed the lump in his throat.

“Oh. Right. Best friend.” He managed a small, tight nod. “Thanks, Akeno.” He stood up, wincing slightly. “I should head back. Need to report in.”

Akeno, unaware of his shifting mood, also stood up, collecting the used bandage wrappers. “Okay. Be careful, Kaji-kun.”

“Yeah.” He didn’t make eye contact. “See ya.”

He walked away, leaving Akeno by the bench, the calm façade he usually maintained for her cracking entirely once he was out of sight. The disappointment was a heavy weight in his chest, heavier than any blow he’d taken in the fight.

After that day, Kaji stopped.

He stopped the gentle touches, stopped asking her to hang out alone. When they did see each other, usually in a group with Enomoto and Kusumi, he reverted to his earlier, more distant self. He still cared, fiercely so, but the hope had been extinguished, replaced by the dull ache of being firmly placed in the "best friend" box. He reasoned it was for the best. Maybe distance was necessary. If she didn't feel the same way, pushing for more would only make things awkward, maybe even ruin their friendship. He thought of giving up entirely, retreating back into his quiet shell where his feelings couldn't be hurt.

His friends noticed. Enomoto, in his loud way, asked, “Hey Kaji! Ya haven’t been hanging out with Hana-chan much lately! Everrrything okay? Did ya two rrrrumble?”

Kusumi held up his phone:

Hana-chan seemed a little lonely last time. Did something happen?

Kaji just shrugged, his eyes on his lollipop. “Nothing happened. Just busy.”

But Akeno noticed it most of all.

The midday sun spilled through the large windows of Fujioka High School's bustling cafeteria, painting streaks of warmth across the worn linoleum floor. Akeno Hana picked at her bento box, her usual cheerful demeanor clouded by a persistent frown. Around her, classmates laughed and chatted, the familiar din of lunch break filling the air, but Akeno felt a strange, quiet ache in her chest.

For the past few days, something had felt off with Kaji. Not drastically, not like he was ghosting her or anything, but there was a definite shift. Conversations were shorter. His replies, once quick and easy, now sometimes felt delayed or slightly stilted. When they did talk, he seemed… careful. Like he was measuring his words, or worse, trying to end the interaction quickly. He wasn't avoiding her entirely – she'd still see him around and they'd exchange brief greetings – but the casual closeness they'd built was gone. It was like he’d quietly pulled back, leaving her standing alone on the metaphorical bridge they’d been crossing.

Akeno couldn't understand it. Had she said something wrong? Done something to upset him? She’d replayed their last few interactions a hundred times in her head, searching for a mistake, but found nothing. Why was he suddenly creating distance?

Hagiwara Yuka, perched on the seat opposite Akeno, watched her friend with narrowed eyes. Hagiwara, with her short, dyed blond hair and effortless cool, looked every bit the 'ex delinquent' she claimed to be, her varsity jacket slung carelessly over her uniform. But there’s kindness beneath the toughness. Hagiwara was fiercely protective, always scanning for threats, and right now, the only threat seemed to be Akeno's own confused misery.

“Alright, spill it, Hana,” Hagiwara said, pushing a carton of milk towards her. “You’re sulking worse than when you dropped your ice cream last week. What’s up?”

Akeno hesitated, tracing patterns on her bento lid. She doesn’t want to bother her friend with her problem, but she knows she needs to. Hesitantly, she began to explain the situation, detailing Kaji’s subtle withdrawal, the lack of explanation, and her own bewildered attempts to figure it out.

Hagiwara listened intently; her gaze sharp. She knew Kaji. Akeno talked a lot about him after all. As Akeno spoke, describing the easy laughter they used to share, the way he used to invite her to hang out somewhere together, the sudden coolness, Hagiwara started putting pieces together. It sounded a lot like someone who was realizing they had feelings they shouldn’t, or couldn't act on, and were trying to create space before they did something stupid. Akeno, bless her kind, oblivious heart, had probably been radiating pure, platonic friendship energy right into his face, effectively trapping him in the dreaded 'best friend zone'.

Hagiwara stifled a sigh. Telling Akeno that would be too blunt, too fast. Akeno needed to figure this out herself.

“Okay,” Hagiwara said slowly, leaning back in her chair. “So, you like Kaji, right?”

Akeno blinked, surprised. “Yeah! Of course! He’s a really good friend. We’ve been together since middle school after all.”

Hagiwara resisted the urge to roll her eyes. “Yeah, yeah, friend. Got it. But like… when you’re around him, or if you accidentally brush against him… does your heart ever feel like it’s doing a little drum solo?”

Akeno’s pink eyes widened slightly, and a faint dusting of pink appeared on her cheeks. She looked away, fiddling with a stray piece of rice. After a moment, she gave a nearly imperceptible nod.

Hagiwara grinned, a mischievous glint in her eye. “Aha! See? That’s not just ‘good friend’ stuff, Hana. That's your heart telling you something different. You like him. As a man.”

“No way, Yuka-chan!” Akeno protested quickly, shaking her head. “He’s just… Kaji-kun. He’s always so nice to me. That’s why I like him. It’s just… friendship.” The blush on her cheeks deepened, contradicting her words.

Hagiwara sighed dramatically. “Okay, fine, denial is a powerful drug. Let’s try this another way.” She thought for a moment, tapping her chin. “Alright. What if… what if you saw Kaji hanging out with a girl? Like, really close. Laughing, sharing food, looking comfortable?” She knew Kaji's immediate circle was all guys right now, making this a purely hypothetical scenario, but it was a good test.

Akeno’s cheerful expression faltered. She pictured Kaji, not with Kusumi or Enomoto, but with some unknown girl. Saw him smiling that rare, soft smile at her, saw them together. A heavy, unpleasant feeling settled in her stomach; a tight knot accompanied by a quick, anxious pang in her chest. It was a feeling she definitely didn't experience when she saw Kusumi or Enomoto hanging out with girls.

“I…” Akeno swallowed, suddenly finding it hard to speak. “I think… I think I’d feel sad. And… worried?” The admission felt strange, like speaking a foreign language.

Hagiwara hummed while observing her friend’s reaction. Yep. Definitely sadness and anxiety about potential romantic rivals. Good. Progress. But Akeno still seemed stuck on the ‘friend’ label. Hagiwara needed a clearer contrast.

An idea sparked in Hagiwara’s mind, a more direct approach that might cut through Akeno’s innocent confusion. She thought of Hiragi, Akeno's older childhood friend, the one Akeno always spoke of with fond respect, like a big brother.

“Okay, let’s try this,” Hagiwara said, a smirk playing on her lips. “You like Hiragi, right?”

“Yeah! Toma is the best! He has always taken care of me since we’re small, even now.” Akeno’s face brightened slightly at the thought of her reliable, kind, worrywart friend.

“Right. You like him. Would you want to… kiss him?” Hagiwara asked, watching Akeno closely.

Akeno stared at Hagiwara like she’d grown a second head. Then, she giggles, covering her mouth with her hand. “Kiss Toma? No way! That’s weird! He’s like my big brother!”

Hagiwara waited for Akeno’s laughter to subside, her smirk widening. “Okay,” she said, leaning closer, her voice dropping slightly. “Now… How about Kaji? Do you mind… if he kissed you?”

The question hung in the air between them. Akeno’s laughter died instantly. Her pink eyes widened again, this time in genuine shock. The image of Kaji, quiet Kaji, with his hand gently on her cheek, leaning in… flashed through her mind. It wasn’t weird like the thought of kissing Hiragi was weird. It was… Her face exploded in a blush that started at her neck and crept all the way to her hairline. She dropped her gaze, suddenly fascinated by the grain of the table, her heart hammering against her ribs even faster than before. She didn't mind. The thought wasn't strange or gross or brotherly. It was… terrifyingly, thrillingly okay.

“See?” Hagiwara said gently, a rare softness in her voice, though the smirk remained. “That’s the difference, Hana. That tight feeling when you think of him with another girl? That blush just now? You don’t feel that way about Hiragi, even though you like him too. That’s not just friendship.”

Akeno remained silent, her mind reeling. A sudden, overwhelming realization washed over her. It was true. Her feelings for Kaji were different. They weren't the comfortable, familiar warmth of friendship. They were something new, something confusing, something that made her stomach flutter and her cheeks burn.

"So," Hagiwara said, resting her chin on her hand. "He's been acting weird, probably because he's feeling the same thing. And you've probably been giving him mixed signals by being your usual friendly self, which just makes it harder for him.

“He's probably not gonna be the one to chase you down and talk about. And from what I've seen, he's trying to stuff whatever he's feeling down." She glanced back at Akeno, who was slowly lowering her hands, looking utterly bewildered. "It's better if you're the one to talk to him about it. About why he's being distant, and maybe... about what you just figured out."

Akeno looked up at Hagiwara, her pink eyes wide with newfound understanding, and a little bit of terror. "Yuka-chan... Thank you." The words were heartfelt. "I wouldn't have realized..."

"Don't mention it," Hagiwara waved her free hand. "Just trying to protect my overly kind best friend from getting hurt. Or being an idiot." She snickers.

"But... now what?" Akeno asked, a fresh wave of worry washing over her. "He's my precious friend, before anything else. I don't want us to keep drifting apart like this, but now that I know... this..." She gestured vaguely at herself. "It feels complicated."

Hagiwara's smirk softened into a genuine smile. "Precious friend, huh? And here I thought I was your precious friend."

Akeno gasped, her worry momentarily forgotten. "Yuka-chan! Of course you too! You're my most precious friend here at Fujioka!"

Hagiwara laughed, pulling back. "Yeah, yeah. I know that. Just messing with you." She looked at Akeno, her expression warm. "You'll figure it out, Hana. Just remember you want to talk to him because you don't want to lose him, whatever label you put on it."

Akeno smiled back, a genuine, albeit still slightly flustered, smile finally replacing the worry. The knot in her stomach hadn't entirely disappeared, but it was looser now, replaced by a different kind of nervous energy – the kind that came with a revelation and the daunting task of facing it head-on. Straightening up, she finally picked up her bento, a glimmer of appetite returning.

"Okay," Akeno said, feeling a surge of determination mixed with butterflies. "Okay. I can do this."

Hagiwara watched her friend, the hint of a knowing smile playing on her lips. "That's the spirit, Hana. Now finish your lunch, you’ll need your energy."

Akeno picked up her chopsticks, the confusion hadn't vanished entirely. But it was now mixed with a surprising sense of clarity, trepidation, and a tiny, hopeful flutter in her chest. The cafeteria noise faded into the background as she focused on the one thought dominating her mind: She had to talk to Kaji. And to do that, she needs help from certain vices.

The sun started to set as Akeno sat anxiously on the park bench, hoping to catch a glimpse of Kaji as he passed by. Kusumi had told her that their patrol was over for the day and that Kaji just headed home. When she saw the familiar blond hair adorned with headphones, Akeno walked right up to him and gently tugged on his sleeve. Kaji lowered his headphones. His grey eyes, usually steady when looking at her, seemed to avoid her gaze.

“Kaji-kun,” she started, her voice quiet, laced with worry. “Have I… have I done something?”

He blinked slowly. “No. Why?”

“Because you’re… you’re acting different,” she said, her bluntness taking over. “You seem… like you don’t want to hang out anymore. Like you’re avoiding me. Did I say something wrong?”

Her words pierced through his carefully constructed defenses. Avoiding her. He was doing it again. Just like after the incident, just like he promised himself he wouldn't. Pushing her away because he was scared, because he was hurting. The thought that his attempt to protect himself from disappointment was actually hurting her too was unbearable. All the pent-up frustration, the buried hope, the crushing disappointment, and the fresh realization of his mistake surged within him.

He took the lollipop from his mouth, his hand trembling slightly. He lowered his headphones entirely, letting them rest around his neck. His poker face was gone, replaced by a raw, vulnerable expression she had rarely seen.

“Akeno,” he said, his voice low and rough, completely devoid of its usual flatness. “It’s not you. …It’s me.” He ran a hand through his short blond hair, something he only did when he was truly rattled. “That day… when you said you liked me. When you said I was dear to you?”

Akeno felt her cheeks warm, remembering her own bold words. “Yeah?”

Kaji took a deep breath, lowered his head. His gazes focused on his shoes, unable to meet her eyes. "When you said that… for a second, I thought… I thought maybe you felt something else. Something more." His voice cracked slightly. "Because I do, Akeno. I have for a long time. Since middle school."

Damnit, just tell her everything.

His grip on his lollipop stick tightened; his usual guardedness completely stripped away. "You stayed by my side even when I was… messed up. Even when I pulled away, you were still there, waiting for me. You see past… all of this." He gestured vaguely to himself, the symbol of Furin he wore.

"You see me... and you don’t judge it. You just… accept it. Worry about it." His voice was thick with emotion now. "... I don’t just like you as a best friend." Kaji's grey eyes finally locking onto her pink ones, and this time, they were filled with a turbulent emotion that made her heart pound.

He swallowed hard, the confession heavy and terrifying on his tongue. "I like you... I like like you. More than anything."

Akeno stared at him, stunned. His face, usually so unreadable, was completely open, vulnerable, and flushed with the intensity of his confession. His grey eyes held a depth of feeling that stole her breath. She hadn't realized his feelings ran so deep, that her own burgeoning feelings had a mirror in him. Her own cheeks were burning, a deep blush spreading rapidly.

She took a shaky breath. "Kaji-kun..."

His expression flickered with fear, his poker face threatening to return, bracing for rejection.

"I... I didn't know," she whispered. "I mean... I knew I liked being with you. I knew my heart beat fast when you were close, and I got clumsy. I just... I didn't realize what it meant." She looked down for a second, then back up at him, a shy, happy smile breaking through her stunned expression. "But... now I understand. That I like you too, Kaji-kun. Like how you like me."

The look of disbelief on his face was unmistakable. Kaji couldn't believe that she shared the same feelings. He needs to make sure that it's not exhaustion causing him to hallucinate and mishear what she just said.

"You… you do?" he asked, his voice softer now, filled with a hopeful disbelief.

Akeno nodded, her pink eyes sparkling with sudden joy. "Yeah, I do. I'm really happy you feel the same."

Relief washed over him, the tension in his shoulders eased. A small, genuine smile, one that rarely surfaced and transformed his entire face, touched his lips.

He had done it. He had managed to convey his feelings, and she felt the same. For a moment, neither of them spoke. The confession hung between them, no longer frightening, but no less overwhelming. Akeno looked down on her hands, fidgeted with the edge of her sleeve. Her cheeks still pink from the new experience. Kaji rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly finding their surroundings far more interesting than her eyes. He shoved the forgotten lollipop back into his mouth, hoping the familiar sweetness would somehow calm his still-racing heartbeat.

The silence stretched. Not uncomfortable, just... new. They liked each other and they both knew it now. But neither of them seemed entirely sure what came next.

Kaji blinked.

Right.

There was still one thing he had to ask.

He slipped the lollipop from his mouth and forced himself to meet her eyes.

“Then, uh...” he said, his voice low with a hint of nervousness. “Akeno, be my girlfriend?”

Hearing that, Akeno’s smile widened, radiant and beautiful. Her heart soared. This quiet, strong boy who was more than the delinquent reputation of his school, who protected others even when it hurt him, who saw her and valued her, who she likes a lot… is asking her to be his girlfriend.

“Yes, Kaji-kun,” she said happily. “Of course, I will!”

Another smile appeared on Kaji's face. This time, it was wider but softer than before. Somehow, despite the pounding of his heart and the lingering embarrassment, everything felt lighter. She had said yes.

The last rays of the sun painted the street with gold as they stood there, smiling toward each other, the quiet delinquent and the cheerful pianist, standing on the precipice of something new and uncertain. Kaji didn't know if his heart would ever stop racing around her. Their journey had just begun, and he couldn’t imagine a more perfect partner to share it with.

"Hey, Kaji-kun?" she asked, her voice already back to its usual bright tone, as if she hadn’t been a bundle of nerves just moments ago.

Caught in his own internal turmoil, Kaji only hummed in response. Staring straight ahead and hoping his face wasn’t giving too much away as he walks beside her.

"So," she continued, her bluntness making a sudden reappearance. "Since we’re dating now…"

She tilted her head slightly, a sparkle dancing in her eyes. "Should I call you Ren from now on?"

The question hit Kaji with the force of a physical blow.

Call him Ren?

His carefully reconstructed poker face shattered instantly. The faint blush he'd been desperately trying to suppress exploded across his cheeks, vivid and unmistakable. His grey eyes widened, his mouth opening in a silent, stunned gasp. Just the idea — just hearing her say his first name — was enough to completely short-circuit him.

"Wh—What!?" he spluttered, his voice coming out far louder than intended, the same way it always did when he forgot he still had his headphones on.

Akeno burst into giggles, the sound light and bright like wind chimes, this time tinged with unmistakable affection. "You’re all red, Ren!"

"Shut up!" he snapped instinctively, mortified — but he keep his pace steady beside her. Even as every instinct screamed at him to run away and hide his flaming face forever, he didn’t move.

[rizumaryy]

I changed a small part of this chapter because the past me want to put everything in this one chapter. Back then, I didn't think I'll write a full book about them. I hope this new version will make Kaji less OOC and their relationship more sweeter.

[rizumaryy]

【蓮花の愛の香り】 ー The Lotus Flower Love Fragrance

Kaji Ren, a boy who believed his worth only existed in what he could protect, met Akeno Hana, a girl who loved people before they could prove their value. What began as an unexpected middle school friendship slowly turned into the deepest bond of their lives. Through shared ordinary days, quiet comfort, embarrassing tenderness, and painful battles, Hana became the person who stayed beside Ren even after seeing his darkest side—while Ren became the person who would always come when Hana reached out her hand.

✤ The Lotus Flower Love Fragrance ✤ Prologue / Confession / Same Promise / Resilient Ally / One Step Closer / Taking Action / First Date / Reveal / Comfort / First Meeting / Doubt / Bleach / Turquoise Beach / Summer Festival / Mark / Culture Festival / Big Brother / Autumn Leaves / Christmas / New Year / Chocolate and Rain / Before the Bloom ✤ The Lotus Flower Blooming ✤ A Glimpse of Future and Past / Hanami / Just This Once

[rizumaryy]

I tidied up their introduction post and story list. I hope this will make it easier to understand who they are here ( •̤ᴗ•̤ )♡

[rizumaryy]

No doubt Kaji is a cat, right?

[rizumaryy]

The Lotus Flower Blooming

Kaji Ren x Akeno Hana 879 words Happy Kiss Day (5.23) everyone! Just a small filler chapter to fill our heart ♡

ーJust This Once

The early spring air was cool against Hana’s cheeks as she walked beside Kaji through the neighborhood streets, their hands loosely intertwined between them. The sky had already begun turning orange with the late afternoon sun, yet the usual noise of people returning home was strangely absent today. No chatting neighbors, no loud bicycles rushing past them. Just the distant rustle of trees and the soft sound of their footsteps.

And the quiet was making Hana far too aware of the boy beside her. Especially because Kaji had his usual lollipop in his mouth.

Her grip tightened slightly around his hand before relaxing again. They had kissed before—many times, even. But every single one had always started with him leaning down first. Him closing the distance. Him making the choice for both of them while she melted into embarrassment afterward.

Today, she wanted to try it herself.

The thought alone already made her heart pound so hard she wondered if Kaji could feel it through their joined hands.

She slowed her pace, glancing up at the familiar side profile of his face. He looked as cool and composed as ever, his headphones resting around his neck. She took a breath, letting her eyes sweep the empty, hushed street. They were completely alone.

"Ren?" she started, her voice sounding a little too thin in the quiet.

Kaji looked at her with a quiet hum.

Hana’s pulse spiked. She tried to keep her tone bright and nonchalant. "…Can I borrow your candy?"

One of his brows lifted immediately, the lollipop stick shifting. "…Why?"

“I’m just curious,” Hana answered quickly, trying very hard to sound casual and failing horribly at it.

Kaji stared at her silently. The longer he looked, the hotter Hana’s face became.

Just when she thought she might combust on the spot, Kaji finally slipped the lollipop from his mouth with a soft pop and handed it to her. His gaze was heavy, searching hers, as if he were trying to deduce exactly what she was planning.

Hana took the stick, her fingers trembling slightly. She twirled the candy between her thumb and forefinger, humming to herself to mask the frantic thumping in her ears. Her cheeks grew warmer and warmer under Kaji’s steady gaze. She stole another glance around the quiet street, then caught his gaze from under her long lashes—one last look to steel her nerves—and before her courage could desert her, she rose onto her toes and pressed her lips against his.

The contact was sudden. Kaji stiffened, his eyes widening in pure surprise. A tiny sound caught in his throat, but he didn’t pull away. For a heartbeat, the world stopped moving. Then, his instincts took over; his arms wrapped loosely around her waist to steady her before she lost balance. As he registered the movement, a flush began to crawl up his neck, tinting his ears a deep, vibrant red.

He knew Hana was shy about kisses. Handholding came easily to her. Hugs too. But kisses? Every single time, she always became flustered afterward. So he had never expected her to kiss him first.

Hana pulled away slowly, her face burning with the heat of a thousand suns. She looked everywhere but at him, her hands clenching the candy stick.

"I-I just… I wanted to be the one to start it, for once," she stuttered, her voice barely a whisper.

Kaji stood frozen, his breath hitching. He felt something tighten painfully soft inside his chest.

So goddamn cute.

His gaze flickered around the street as realization suddenly hit him—they were still outside. His shoulders loosened slightly after confirming nobody was nearby witnessing the scene. Then he looked back at Hana. He took a slow breath before lifting one hand to cup her warm cheek gently.

And leaned in to properly kiss her.

The kiss was a soft, lingering pressure that tasted faintly of sugar and, more importantly, of him. The kind that always made Hana’s chest feel warm all the way through. Kaji kissed her carefully, unhurried, like he wanted to savor the feeling properly this time.

When he finally pulled away, his forehead nearly brushed hers.

"…Thank God we’re outside." he murmured quietly. His voice slightly raspy, betraying his composure. "Don’t expect me to stay still next time."

Hana froze completely. Her brain stopped functioning somewhere in the middle of his sentence.

Kaji stared at her red face for another second before leaned back completely, quietly taking the lollipop back from her hand. Then, without warning, he placed it between her lips instead and pushed it gently into her mouth.

A tiny embarrassed squeak escaped her instantly.

Kaji’s ears turned even redder at the sound. Before Hana could recover enough to say anything, he take her smaller hand in his; holding her hand much tighter than before, and immediately started walking again. His pace was suspiciously faster too.

As they moved down the quiet street, Hana stole a glance at his profile. She blinked in surprise before noticing the bright red color spreading all the way to the tips of his ears.

A smile slowly bloomed across her face. Then she giggled softly, tightening her fingers around his hand in return. Happy to know that she wasn't the only one whose heart was racing out of control.

[rizumaryy]

𝐋𝐮𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚

Our lives are a constellation of events, strung together, glittering; the shapes only being seen from a distance.

[rizumaryy]

5/10 is Maid Day in Japan! Moe moe kyun ♡

[rizumaryy]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬.

"Let's exchange contact info!" "...Sure" (happy)

[rizumaryy]

The Lotus Flower Blooming

Kaji Ren x Akeno Hana 1805 words

ーHanami

The evening air in Makochi was crisp, carrying the faint, sweet scent of cherry blossoms and the distant murmur of a town beginning to unwind. Above, the sky had transitioned from a bruised purple to a deep, velvety indigo, making the illuminated sakura trees in Makochi Park appear like floating pink clouds.

Hiragi adjusted the heavy bag of containers in his hand, his brow furrowed in its habitual expression of mild stress. Beside him, Hana practically vibrated with excitement. Her long brown hair bounced with every step, and her pink eyes sparkled, reflecting the fallen sakura petals that lined the park’s pathways.

"Do you think they’ve found a good spot, Toma?" Hana asked, swinging her own smaller bento bag. Most of her homemade food was in Hiragi's bag. "Ren mentioned the park was getting crowded when they arrived."

Hiragi hummed. "Matsumoto is there. He’s big enough to claim a territory just by standing in it. And with Kaji and Yanagida around, I doubt anyone’s going to try and push them off their sheet." He shifted the weight of the food.

Leaning in slightly, a giggle escaped Hana's lips. "I can't wait to eat your grilled onigiri! It's so delicious, I missed it so much."

Hiragi’s sigh was almost lost in the rustle of the cherry blossoms above. “You’re lucky I had time.”

As they rounded a corner, the park came into view. It was a sea of colorful tarps and laughter under the blossoming sakura trees. True to Hiragi’s word, they spotted their group easily. Matsumoto was waving a large arm frantically; his boisterous laugh audibles even from a distance. Yanagida sat calmly beside him, looking like a statue of serenity amidst the chaos, and Kaji Ren arranging drinks they bought on the sheet, his signature headphones around his neck.

"Over here!" Matsumoto roared.

When Hiragi and Hana reached the spot, the atmosphere immediately shifted to one of warmth.

"You made a lot," Kaji muttered, though his eyes lingered on Hana just a second longer than anyone else. He shifted slightly, making room for her on the mat as she settled beside him.

"Yup! It's because I'm so excited for today. Before I knew it, I’d made this much." Kneeling down, Hana chirped as she began unpacking.

The spread was impressive. She laid out her containers with practiced ease: bright yellow tamagoyaki, crispy golden karaage, simmered bamboo shoots that smelled of dashi and spring, and spinach goma-ae dusted with toasted sesame seeds. But the centerpiece was her bento of small onigiri, meticulously shaped into sakura petals.

Hiragi added his contribution—a stack of charred, savory grilled onigiri that smelled of toasted soy sauce.

"Whoa, Hana-chan! This looks professional," Matsumoto praised, his eyes wide as he immediately reached for a piece of her sakura shaped onigiri. "Are these onigiri? So skilled! And it tastes delicious too!"

Yanagida nodded slowly after tasting one of her tamagoyaki, his voice soft. "The seasoning is very balanced. You’ve been practicing."

Matsumoto looked over at Kaji with a wide grin, knowing glint in his eyes. "Kaji, you’re a lucky man, getting to eat this often."

Kaji, who had just reached for a karaage, froze. He felt the heat crawl up his neck. He didn't look up, instead focusing intently on the crispy piece in his hand as if it held the secrets to the universe.

"It’s... it’s fine," he mumbled, though he took a large, appreciative bite a moment later to hide a stubborn blush creeping up on his face.

Beaming, Hana’s cheeks tinged with a soft pink that rivaled the blossoms above. "I'm glad you like it! Ren is my best taste-tester, even if he doesn't say much."

She took a bite of Hiragi's grilled onigiri. “Mmm! Toma, your grilled onigiri is really delicious! I love it!”

Hiragi gave her a soft smile. “Glad you like it.”

The group settled into a rhythm of eating and chatting. As the wind picked up, blowing a flurry of petals across their picnic sheet, Hana’s gaze drifted to the empty space on the mat.

"I wish Sako-kun could have come," she said softly, her voice tinged with a sudden, quiet melancholy. "I texted him yesterday, but he said he couldn't make it. It feels a little incomplete without him, doesn't it? Since we were all together in middle school."

The conversation faltered. A brief silence settled over the group, heavier than before. Hiragi’s expression tightened, his gaze falling to his lap. Matsumoto and Yanagida exchanged a quick, unreadable look. They all knew it wasn’t just about being busy.

Hiragi was the first to break the silence. He reached out and gently patted Hana’s head. "Don't worry about it, Hana. Different schools mean different schedules… He's probably just busy figuring things out."

"I guess," Hana sighed, leaning into Hiragi’s touch. "I just hope he isn't lonely."

Kaji quietly opened a peach-flavored bottled juice and handed it to Hana. "He'll be fine." A smile returned to her face as she accepted the drink.

Foods quickly vanished as the conversation turned toward the day’s events. Hiragi took a long drink of tea and sighed, his hand instinctively moving to his stomach as if anticipating a cramp.

"Speaking of things that happened today, Hana, something's happened at Tonpuu again today." Matsumoto started.

Hana paused; bottled juice paused halfway to her mouth. She lowered it slowly. "Tonpuu? What happened?"

Matsumoto grinned. "Well, Hiragi got a frantic call from one of the store owners. Turns out a bunch of idiots decided to start breaking windows and displays over at the shopping street."

Eyes widened, her expression shifting to one of deep concern. "Oh no! Was anyone hurt?"

Hiragi raised a hand to reassure her. "Everyone is fine. No, well, one guy got hurt. Nothing serious though."

"Who?" Hana tilted her head.

"Well, when we got there, a guy already fighting those punks. But he struggled to fight back while protecting Kotoha-chan. Glad we got there just in time before anything bad happened to those two." Hiragi grimaced, looking at the trees. "But Hana... let's keep this between us. If Umemiya hears that Kotoha-chan was even remotely in danger, it'll turn into a huge mess. I don't need that kind of headache on the first day of school."

Hana nodded solemnly. "Okay, I understand. I'm so glad no one got hurt badly. But who helped her?"

Kaji took the lollipop out of his mouth. "It was a first year. New face."

"A first year?" The idea of Furin new addition piqued her interests. "Already getting into fights on his first day? As expected of future Furin student, I guess?"

"He’s interesting," Yanagida add quietly. "He got this unique hair. Black on one side, white on the other."

"Split hair?" Hana’s face lit up. "That’s so cool! Is it dyed? Or is it natural? It sounds like something out of a manga."

"It seemed natural," Hiragi tried to remember the earlier memory of the day, looking up to the sky as if it hold the answer. "And his name was... Sakura, if I recall."

Now Hana practically sparkled. "Sakura! His name is Sakura-kun? That’s perfect! I love spring, and I love sakura too. I really want to meet him one day. …But why does he have monochrome hair? Aren't his hair supposed to be pink like sakura?"

Kaji gave her a look. "...That's not how names work."

"Yeah, by that logic, Hiragi should have holly leaves growing out of his head." Matsumoto snorted at his own thought.

Hiragi groaned. "Don't give her ideas."

The laughter returned and conversation drifted to the looming transition of the school year.

"Speaking of which, you guys are officially second years tommorrow! How does it feel to be the 'senpai' of the school?" Matsumoto turns his gaze toward Kaji and Hana.

The girl soft, pink eyes glimmer. "Oh! It feels amazing! I’m so excited to finally have kouhai. I want to be the kind of senpai everyone can come to for advice. Or snacks!"

Kaji shrugged, leaning back on his hands. "I’ll do what I can as a second-year." His words were as brief and direct as always, yet carried a quiet determination.

"And what about you three?" Hana turned to the older boys. "How does it feel to be third-years?"

A deep rumble in his chest as Matsumoto chuckled. "Nothing much will change for me, I reckon. Just another year of preventing Hiragi from stressing too much."

Yanagida, with a thoughtful expression, murmured, "I’m curious. What kind of first-years will join us this time?"

Hiragi let out a groan that seemed to come from his soul. "I just hope this year’s crop of first years isn't as troublesome as you lot were. Between Umemiya’s whims and the new kids, I’ll be lucky if I have any hair left by graduation."

"You said that, but you actually love us, right?" Hana teased, poking his arm.

"I tolerate you," Hiragi corrected, though the small smile creeping onto his face betrayed him.

The night wore on, filled with more stories of patrol mishaps, Hana’s club activities with her school band, and Yanagida's quiet observations about the changing seasons. Eventually, the air grew colder, and the crowds in the park began to thin.

"We should probably start packing up," Hiragi suggested, standing up to stretch his legs.

As they began gathering the empty bento boxes and folding the picnic sheet, Hana suddenly gasped, clapping her hands to her cheeks. "Wait! We didn't take any picture!"

Hiragi groaned. "Do we have to? It’s dark already."

"No worries! Night sakura looks pretty too!" Hana insisted, pulling her phone from her pocket and bouncing on the balls of her feet. "The lighting is perfect with the lanterns. Toma, you have the longest arms, you have to take it! Here!" She handed her phone to Hiragi.

He let out a sigh but a small, indulgent smile touched his lips. “Fine, fine. Everyone, get in close.”

They huddled together near one of the cherry trees. Matsumoto stood at the back, towering over everyone and flashing a peace sign. Yanagida stood beside him, looking toward the camera with a calm, soft expression. Kaji stood next to Hana, his hands in his pockets, looking like he doesn't care but clearly leaning his shoulder into hers. Hana was in the center, her face lit up with a brilliant, genuine smile.

Hiragi held the phone out far, his face twisted in concentration as he tried to frame the shot.

"Okay, say cheese," Hiragi commanded.

The soft click of the camera captured them, frozen in that moment: five friends, under a sky of falling blossoms, ready for a new semester, a new responsibility, and whatever challenges and joys it might bring. The image, a tapestry of shared laughter and quiet understanding, would forever hold the warmth of their hanami night.

[rizumaryy]

“I want to do with you what spring does with the cherry trees.” — Pablo Neruda 🌸🌸🌸

[rizumaryy]

Some birthday pics I take for Kaji's birthday last year 🎂🎉

I can't find peach cake that day, sorry Kaji.

[rizumaryy]

Just one more round! 🎮

[rizumaryy]

A surprise attack 💋

[rizumaryy]

❤Valentine's Day / 💙White Day

[rizumaryy]

In Your Hands 🌸

The world fades to white. Only the warmth between our palms remains — careful, steady, and certain.

[rizumaryy]

「ビターチョコは砕けない」 Kaji Ren & Akeno Hana helping out Kikuchiya at the department store's Valentine's Day Fair ❤ Eating a little bit of chocolate won't hurt, right?

[rizumaryy]

The Lotus Flower Love Fragrance (END)

Kaji Ren x Akeno Hana 1992 words

ーBefore the Bloom

The glow of strings of warm lights in the Tonpuu shopping district flickered against the cool March air as Hana made her way back home. The farewell party for her band club senpais had lasted well into the night, filled with laughter, clinking glasses of juice, and the bittersweet lyrics sung one last time together. As the last piece of music faded, her friends dispersed, each carrying their own memories of the evening. Now, the once-bustling party was over, and Hana walked slowly, the echoes of laughter still lingering in her mind.

Graduation was always a time of mixed emotions—joy for the milestones achieved, but also a quiet solitude as everyone started to part ways. Though she had spent the night surrounded by people, the weight of the evening settled on her as she stepped into the quiet streets. Still, a spark of hope flickered in her chest. This wasn’t the end, after all. It was the beginning of something new—freedom, possibilities, and the chance to grow.

She adjusted the strap of her bag and began the familiar walk home through the shopping district. The street glowed warmly at night. Paper lanterns swayed gently above storefronts, and wind chimes hung at the entrance gate chimed softly as the breeze passed through them, their clear notes echoing down the street. The scent of oil and fried batter drifted through the air, mixing with sweet bread and roasted tea.

“Hana-chan, you’re out late today,” one of the shop owners called as she passed.

She turned with a bright smile. “Yes! There was a graduation party today.”

“That so?” another voice chimed in. “Congratulations to your senpai, then. Don’t stay out too late.”

“I won’t! Thank you,” she replied, bowing lightly before continuing on.

It still surprised her sometimes—being recognized like this. That part of town had become a second home over the past year. Since spring, she’d slipped into the rhythm of the Furin’s patrols, tagging along with Kaji whenever their schedule matched. She’d lingered at Café Pothos, had a girl talk and exchanged recipes with Kotoha. Bought a warm loaf of sourdough from Cactus Bakery, and hunted for new novels in the cramped second‑floor bookstore that smelled of ink and old paper.

As she walked deeper into the street, the scent of fried meat and garlic hit Hana before she even saw them. The nikuya across the street was still open, its deep-fried treasures bubbling in golden oil. As she approached, she saw the familiar figures gathered outside the shop.

Kaji stood with his hands tucked into the pockets of his jeans. Beside him, Enomoto was gesturing wildly, laughter booming as usual, while Kusumi stood quietly with a smile. Hana brightened instantly.

“Ren! Enomoto-kun, Kusumi-kun!” she greeted, her voice breaking the momentary silence.

“Ou! Hana-chan!” Enomoto greeted back. Kusumi waved a hand while Kaji gave her a nod.

She stepped closer, naturally moving to stand beside Kaji. “Still not home yet?”

Enomoto’s grin widened, his voice booming even in the calm. “We werrre hunting a rrrunaway parrrrot all afterrnoon. That birrd got more attitude than a seniorrr with a deadline!”

Kusumi raised his phone, tapping a photo that showed a bright‑green feathered parrot perched safely in a small cage, its beak slightly ajar as if mid‑argument.

“Caught him rrright beforre sunset. He’s a tough customerr, but we didn’t let him get away.” Enomoto continued.

Hana giggled. “A parrot? That sounds like a lot of work. Good job guys!”

Enomoto puffed out his chest. “We orrrrdered snacks to rrefuel after that exhausting chase.”

Kaji glanced at her, his eyebrows lifting. “Anything you want?”

The faint aroma of fresh korokke curled around them, a buttery scent that made Hana’s stomach rumble. “Then, I’ll have a korokke,” she said, eyes bright. “It smells amazing!”

Enomoto’s eyes flicked between Kaji and Hana. “Same thing, huh?” he teased, nudging Kaji with his elbow. “You two arrrre always orrdering the same.”

Kaji shot back a muted, “Shut up,” before calling the butcher to add Hana’s order with theirs.

The older man packed their order into a paper bag. “Hard work today, huh? Take an extra piece on the house. And don’t stay out too late, alright? The night’s still young, but you need your rest properly.”

They thanked him and stepped aside near the storefront, steam rising faintly from the snacks. As he held his korokke, Kaji glanced at Hana. “Careful, it’s still hot.”

But it was a beat late because just after the words left his mouth, Hana yelped ‘hot!’.

Enomoto laughed. “You warrrrned her too late, Captain!” That makes Kaji shoot a look at him. The boys make sure Hana is fine before they focus back on their snacks.

The four of them fell into a comfortable rhythm of chatter, swapping stories about their day’s patrols, the graduation ceremony at Fujioka today—the reason why she was later than usual, and the soon‑to‑be‑held ceremony at Furin High a few days later. The strange feeling of being on the edge of something new.

The paper bags were lighter by the time they finished eating, only crumbs and the faint warmth of oil left behind. Enomoto stretched his arms over his head with an exaggerated groan, declaring he was finally alive again after ‘nearly dying to a bird smaller than his fist.’ Kusumi typed something on his phone—another comment about the parrot—then showed Hana, earning a small laugh from her.

It was getting late. The shopping district had begun to thin out, shutters rolling down one by one, neon lights flickering on above quiet storefronts. Even the air felt calmer, cooler against Hana’s cheeks after the warmth of the nikuya.

Enomoto pointed down the street. “We’re heading that way.”

Kaji nodded. “I’ll walk Hana home first.”

“Yeah, yeah, boyfrrrriend duty,” Enomoto said with a grin, dodging the kick Kaji half-heartedly aimed at him.

They said their goodbyes at the corner—Enomoto loud as always, Kusumi lifting his hand in a small, polite wave. Then it was just the two of them left under the streetlights.

Hana smiled, and their hands found each other without thought. The warmth of his fingers wrapped around hers was as familiar as the steady rhythm of their heartbeat. Walking beside him, she let out a soft sigh, her mind drifting to the countless times they had spent together in these very streets.

Hana talked about her day—about the karaoke party, the tears, the way her senpai hugged her and told her to keep playing music. Kaji listened, responding here and there, squeezing her hand slightly when her voice dipped.

“Hey, Ren…” She said suddenly.

He hummed in response. She hesitated, then spoke softly. “You know… you don’t really say ‘I like you’ anymore.”

His steps faltered, gaze flicking to her before turning away. He exhaled through his nose, the faintest trace of a blush coloring his pale skin.

She hurried on, cheeks pink. “I know you show it in other ways. You always walk me home, and you help me with everything, and—this isn’t a complaint. I just…” She looked down. “…You only said it once. When you confessed. Almost a year ago.”

Kaji stopped walking. Hana turned to him, worried she’d gone too far. His shoulders tensed, his grip on her hand tightening just a little. He didn’t say anything at first, the silence stretching between them.

“…You know I’m bad at that.” He said, his voice lower than usual, almost reluctant.

“I know,” she said gently, her fingers tightening around his. “…But I like hearing your voice say it.”

His heartbeat roared in his ears. Running would be easier. Deflecting. Staying silent. It wasn’t that he didn’t feel it—he did. More than he had expected. Every moment with Hana, every time she laughed, every time she reached for his hand, it made his heart race in a way he still didn’t quite understand.

He wasn’t an open person. Never had been. He wasn’t like her, who could say what she wanted and meant it without hesitation. He wasn’t like Enomoto, who could shout his feelings from the rooftops. He had always been the quiet one, the one who showed his affection with actions instead of words. But now, Hana was asking for something he couldn’t give easily.

And yet, he didn’t run.

Because if he did, he’d regret it forever.

He swallowed hard, took a breath that was too long and too shaky, and finally, he said it.

“…I like you.”

The words barely made it past his lips, barely above a whisper, but they were real.

Hana’s eyes widened in surprise. The warmth in her chest swelled so suddenly that her breath caught. She looked at Kaji, his gaze still forward, his face flush with something that wasn’t quite nervous anymore. He had done it. He had made that small, impossible step forward.

She didn’t say anything at first, just pressed her palm gently against his, fingers curling around his in an almost desperate hold. Then, with a soft, breathless whisper, she managed, “…Again?”

Her voice was small, but Kaji flinched anyway. His shoulders tensed, and he exhaled slowly, as if she had asked for something far more difficult than words.

“You’re cruel,” he muttered, but there was no real reprimand in his tone. Just the quiet honesty of someone who was trying. Someone who was here, even when it was hard.

His fingers flexed in her grip before he took a steadier breath. Then, more clearly, he finally turned to face her properly. “…I like you, Hana.”

It wasn’t loud, it wasn’t dramatic. It was still awkward. It was still stiff. But it was real.

Hana couldn’t help it—her smile bloomed wide, so big it stretched from ear to ear, her eyes sparkling with the kind of happiness that made her seem younger, brighter. She threw her arms around him without hesitation, pressing her face into his chest. “Thank you, Ren! I like you too—so sooo much!”

Kaji froze for a half-second, his body going rigid under her embrace. Then slowly, carefully, wrapped his arms around her in return. A small, unguarded smile curved his lips.

The night breeze moved gently through Makochi, carrying with it the faint scent of earth slowly warming toward spring. Above them, the cherry trees lining the road stood in quiet anticipation. Their branches were still mostly bare, winter clinging stubbornly to the tips — but if one looked closely, small buds had begun to swell at the ends of each twig.

Not yet flowers. Not yet the burst of pink that would soon transform the street into something dazzling.

Just promise.

Kaji felt it — the way things were shifting. Not loudly. Not dramatically. Just… steadily. Like the way those buds had formed without anyone noticing.

Hana pulled back slightly from their embrace, her hands still clutching his jacket as if she wasn’t quite ready to let go. Her smile hadn’t faded. It probably wouldn’t for a while.

He wasn’t good with grand declarations. He wasn’t the kind of person who bloomed all at once. But he could grow. Slowly. Quietly. In ways only she seemed patient enough to wait for.

A single petal — too early, too impatient — drifted down from somewhere above. Hana caught it instinctively, staring at the pale pink resting against her palm.

“Oh,” she breathed.

Kaji glanced at it, then at her.

“Too soon,” he muttered.

Hana laughed softly. “Maybe it just couldn’t wait.”

He huffed — but he reached for her hand again, threading their fingers together like it was the most natural thing in the world.

In a few weeks, those branches will be heavy with blossoms. New school year. New responsibilities. Kouhai. Changes neither of them could fully predict.

But for now, under trees not yet in bloom, they walked side by side.

Not in full bloom. Not finished growing.

Just beginning.

And that felt like enough.

Thank you for reading until the end. With this, RenHana's 1st year stories are finished. I don't know what to say except thank you so much for always supporting me to finish TLFLF. Their 2nd year story already published in my Ao3, but you can read the prologue here too. It'll follow the actual Wind Breaker timeline so expect a slow update to avoid a clash with canon. See you in The Lotus Flower Blooming! 🎧🎀