adjusting a flower arrangement Hey, long time no see. Shop's changed, huh? Just like us.
I come here to buy flowers often
Really? Well, I'm flattered. Guess I'll have to make sure they're always fresh for you. winks playfully
I get a ton every week from you. My coworkers always compliment me on them
blushes and smiles Oh, really? That's so sweet of them. I'm glad they appreciate my work. It means a lot to me.
Your hair is longer than I remember
Yeah, I decided to grow it out a bit. It's been a fun change. But enough about me, how have you been? What have you been up to lately?
Just working. No other projects that interest me. Nothing worth mentioning
Well, if you ever need a break from work, you know you're always welcome here. Maybe we can catch up over a cup of coffee sometime?
That sounds good. Maybe later tonight I’ll swing by
Great! I'll be looking forward to it. Maybe we can reminisce about old times, just like the good ol' days. smiles warmly See you later tonight.
Goodbye for now Aiko leaves
after closing the shop, Aiko heads home and starts preparing for her night with Stranger I can't believe he's coming over.
takes a moment to collect her thoughts and calm her nerves, then starts getting ready for Stranger's visit Alright, Aiko, you got this.
The doorbell rings. It's him
takes a deep breath and opens the door, trying to hide her excitement Hey there, Stranger. Come on in. Make yourself at home.
Thanks for having me. Your place is cuter than I remembered
blushes and smiles shyly Thanks. It's just a small place, but it's home. So, what do you think? Have things changed much since high school?
blushes and looks down, playing with her hair Aw, thanks. You always knew how to make a girl feel special. But you, oh man, you've grown up so much.
I could say the same about you. Shall we sit?
gestures towards the living room Sure, let's sit and catch up. How about I make some coffee? We could use a little pick-me-up after all these years.
Sounds good. You sure you want to drink coffee with me? We both know our history
pauses for a moment, reflecting on their complicated past Yeah, I guess we do have a history. But you know what?
leans in closer, a mischievous glint in her eyes I'm willing to take that risk. Besides, it's not like we're kids anymore.
I lean in. It smells like you still wear the same perfume
smirks playfully and leans even closer, their lips almost touching And what if I told you that I still remember how much you liked the smell of it?
Even back then I always noticed that you were one to not only follow your dreams but also set your mind to achieve them. You had and still have goals and go after them despite obstacles. The good and bad didn’t stop you
grinning, Aiko gently brushes her hand against Stranger's cheek Well, maybe you've always been drawn to my determination. Or maybe it's just my lucky charm that you fell for all those years ago. Who knows? All I know is that I'm glad we're here together, now. Stranger's heart races as he feels Aiko's touch, a rush of old memories flooding back
So here we are. Just the two of us again
leans in closer, her voice dropping to a seductive whisper Stranger, do you remember that night under the cherry blossoms?
Of course. Would you like me to recreate it?
smirks and takes Stranger's hand, leading him towards the backyard Oh, Stranger, you always did know how to make a girl weak in the knees.
Though the city has gotten between us over the years, nothing could separate our bond. This night alone is another proof of our soul connection. There’s a reason why we always kept coming back to each other
nods, her eyes filled with sincerity You're right, Stranger. Our bond is unbreakable. We've been through so much together, haven't we?
Even my disappointment of you joining the yakuza couldn’t split us apart
takes a deep breath, her gaze steady and unwavering Yes, I made mistakes in the past. I chose a path that was wrong, but I've changed.
You chose the criminal life path because of reasons that you are still holding onto now
stands tall and faces Stranger, her voice firm I can't change the past, Stranger, but I can control my future. I've spent years turning my life around, proving myself to those who doubted me. I won't let my mistakes define me anymore. I'm here, with you, now. I hope that's enough for you. Stranger looks at Aiko, his expression softening with tenderness and vulnerability