That day, the afternoon sky was slightly cloudy, but the city remained lively with people coming and going. Lucas walked leisurely along the sidewalk, occasionally glancing beside him, where Rei was walking calmly.
Today was their date.
After their emotional conversation a few days ago, Lucas had agreed to go out with Rei. Not just to give her an answer but also to understand her feelings more deeply.
Rei wore a casual outfit—a light cream sweater paired with a short, light brown skirt. Her hair was tied in a low ponytail, slightly different from usual, making her look more elegant than Lucas remembered.
"You look beautiful today," Lucas said casually.
Rei blushed slightly but only let out a small scoff. "You always flirt so easily, huh?"
Lucas chuckled. "I'm just telling the truth."
They walked toward a quiet park. The place had a stone-paved path surrounded by trees and park benches. A few other couples were also there, enjoying their time together.
They sat on a bench under a cherry blossom tree, its leaves beginning to fall, signaling the arrival of autumn.
Rei stared at the sky while swinging her legs slightly. "It's been a while since I've gone out like this."
Lucas glanced at her. "What do you mean?"
Rei smiled faintly. "Since starting high school, I've spent most of my time with Takashi and Hisashi… or just by myself. It feels like I rarely get to relax like this."
Lucas nodded in understanding. "You always seem busy."
Rei let out a small laugh. "Not busy, just… overthinking too much."
Lucas waited, letting her continue.
Rei finally turned to Lucas with a soft, almost melancholic smile. "Lucas, there's something I want to tell you."
Lucas nodded slightly. "I'm listening."
Rei took a deep breath before speaking. "Hisashi… a few days ago, he confessed his feelings to me."
Lucas was slightly surprised but remained calm. "Really?"
Rei nodded. "He said he's liked me for a long time. I know it wasn't something sudden, but… I couldn't return his feelings."
Lucas stayed silent, letting Rei speak without interruption.
Rei bit her lip before continuing. "I can't lie to myself. I like someone… someone who already has two girlfriends."
Lucas looked at Rei, his eyes softening slightly.
Rei smiled, but there was sadness in her eyes. "I like you, Lucas."
Lucas didn't respond immediately. He could feel how difficult it was for Rei to say those words.
"But I don't expect you to feel the same," Rei quickly added. "I know you're already with Saeko and Takagi. I don't want to ruin your relationship, and I won't wait for an answer from you."
Lucas noticed how Rei's hands clenched slightly in her lap.
Rei gazed at the sky again, her voice quieter. "I just wanted to tell you how I feel. I want to enjoy today without any burden, without any regrets. I want this date to be something I can remember."
Lucas gave her a small smile. "Rei…"
Rei let out a soft laugh. "I won't ask anything from you. I just want this time to be ours, even if only for a day."
Lucas stared at her for a long moment before finally smiling. "Alright then… let's make today unforgettable."
After that, they spent their time doing small, enjoyable things.
They went to a small café, where Rei tried different kinds of sweets while Lucas teased her about her overly sugary choices.
They walked along the river, talking about their past—about Rei's childhood memories with Takashi and Hisashi, about how Lucas first started training himself before the zombie outbreak.
As night began to fall, they returned to the park where they had first sat.
Rei stood in front of Lucas, her eyes slightly glistening.
"Thank you, Lucas," she said softly. "Today was the happiest day of my life."
Lucas smiled warmly. "I'm glad I could make you happy."
Rei looked at him for a moment before stepping closer.
And before Lucas could say anything, Rei stood on her toes and gently kissed his lips.
The kiss was brief, yet filled with emotion.
When they parted, Rei gave him a small smile.
"Goodbye, Lucas."
Without waiting for a response, Rei turned and walked away, leaving Lucas standing there in silence.
Lucas touched his lips, still feeling the gentle trace of Rei's kiss.
He let out a sigh, his emotions mixed.
"Hah… Rei, you really made things more complicated."