After his date with Takagi, Lucas went back to his usual routine. However, something felt different. Saeko had started acting a little distant toward him. Normally, she would greet him with a calm smile whenever they met at the dojo or school, but now she only gave him a brief glance before refocusing on her sword.
Lucas knew something was wrong.
That day, after kendo practice ended, Lucas approached Saeko, who was cleaning her sword.
"Hey, Saeko," he greeted casually.
Saeko only glanced at him briefly before returning her attention to her sword. "What is it?"
Lucas raised an eyebrow. "I feel like you've been avoiding me lately. Did I do something wrong?"
Saeko was silent for a moment before letting out a quiet sigh. "I was just thinking... you've been quite busy with Takagi lately."
Lucas immediately understood. He scratched his head, feeling a little guilty.
"I know this might sound like an excuse, but I really haven't had the chance to take you out again," Lucas admitted honestly. "And if that's what's bothering you, how about we go on a date tomorrow?"
Saeko looked at him, her eyes softening slightly. "You want to make up for it?"
Lucas smirked. "Of course. A man has to take responsibility, right?"
Saeko finally gave a small smile. "Alright. I'll accept your invitation."
Lucas let out a relieved sigh. "Good. So tomorrow, we'll spend time together. I'll make sure it's a great date."
Saeko simply smiled gently and continued tending to her sword, while Lucas felt relieved that he had managed to ease her feelings.
However, deep in his mind, he realized that maintaining balance between the two girls he cared about would be a challenge on its own.
That day, the weather was clear with a gentle breeze adding to the coolness of the evening. Lucas stood in front of a traditional Japanese-style restaurant, the place Saeko had chosen for their date this time. Unlike before, where they had spent time casually strolling around, this time, Saeko was the one who planned everything.
Lucas smiled slightly. "So, you chose this place, huh?"
From the opposite direction, Saeko approached with graceful steps. She wore a blue yukata with white sakura patterns, giving off a completely different aura than usual. Normally, Saeko appeared as a strong warrior—today, she looked like a soft and elegant woman.
"Why? You don't like it?" Saeko asked teasingly.
Lucas shook his head. "Not at all. You look... absolutely beautiful."
A gentle smile appeared on Saeko's lips. "Thank you, Lucas. Let's go inside."
They entered the restaurant, where the traditional atmosphere immediately welcomed them. The soft sound of shamisen music played in the background, and paper lanterns hung throughout the room, creating a peaceful ambiance.
They chose a table in the corner, where it was more private. After ordering their food, Lucas watched as Saeko seemed to enjoy the atmosphere.
"So," Lucas started the conversation, "why did you choose this place?"
Saeko gazed at him calmly. "I wanted to try something different. We usually meet at the dojo or in open places. I wanted to spend time with you in a more... intimate setting."
Lucas smiled slightly. "I'm glad you feel that way."
Soon, their food arrived—sushi, tempura, and a steaming bowl of udon. They began eating while chatting about various things, from kendo practice to everyday events at school.
As they were nearly finished with their meal, Saeko looked at Lucas with a slightly serious expression.
"Lucas, can I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"What do you think about the future?"
Lucas fell silent for a moment before answering, "I'm not entirely sure. I've always focused on myself. But if you're asking about the long-term future... I want to stay alive and protect the people I love."
Saeko smiled softly. "I'm happy to hear that."
Lucas looked at her curiously. "Why do you ask?"
Saeko set down her chopsticks and gazed at Lucas with sincere eyes.
"Because I want to know… if I'm a part of your future."
Lucas paused for a moment, but he didn't need to think for long. "Of course. I can't imagine a future without you in it."
Saeko gave a small smile, then, with a gentle yet confident movement, she reached for Lucas's hand across the table.
"I'm glad to hear that," she said softly.
Lucas could feel the warmth in Saeko's touch. This wasn't just an ordinary date. There was something deeper here.
After finishing their meal and walking out of the restaurant, Saeko suddenly took Lucas's hand and led him to a small park nearby.
Under the glow of the rising moon, Saeko looked at Lucas with a gentle expression.
"Lucas…"
"Hm?"
Saeko took a step forward, closing the distance between them. "Thank you for spending time with me today. I truly appreciate it."
Lucas smiled. "I enjoyed it too. It was a wonderful night."
Then, without warning, Saeko suddenly stood on her toes and kissed Lucas softly.
Lucas was momentarily surprised, but he didn't resist. He returned the kiss, feeling the warmth and sincerity that Saeko poured into it.
As they parted, Saeko's eyes still shimmered with emotion.
"I want more moments like this with you," she whispered.
Lucas gently brushed a strand of Saeko's hair. "We'll have plenty of time for that."
With a satisfied smile, they walked home together, their hands still tightly intertwined.
After their date, Lucas walked Saeko home. They strolled together along the quiet streets, illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights. Saeko still appeared calm after confessing her feelings, while Lucas was trying to process everything.
"This still feels strange," Lucas suddenly said.
Saeko glanced at him. "What feels strange?"
Lucas smiled slightly. "The fact that I've gone on dates with two amazing girls in such a short time. Honestly, I never expected my life to turn out like this."
Saeko gazed at him with understanding. "You're a good man, Lucas. Takagi and I both realized that, and that's why we like you."
Lucas scratched his head, feeling a bit awkward. "So… you really don't mind that I also have feelings for Saya?"
Saeko shook her head gently. "No. Like I said, as long as you're fair, I'll accept it. After all, love doesn't always have to be possessive, does it?"
Lucas fell silent for a moment, thinking about Saeko's words. He had always believed that romantic relationships had to be exclusive, but apparently, some people could accept more than that.
Saeko gave a small smile, then briefly held Lucas's hand before letting go. "But don't forget, I'll always be by your side."
Lucas could only smile. "Thank you, Saeko."