The festival lights slowly dimmed as stalls closed and the lively crowd began to thin. Min and Kei walked side by side through the quieter streets, the faint hum of laughter and chatter trailing behind them. The cool night breeze carried the lingering scent of grilled food and sweet candy, wrapping the town in a gentle calm.
Min clutched the little bag with his goldfish, making sure it didn't sway too much as he walked. In his other arm, the stuffed rabbit rested against his chest. He couldn't help but smile.
"It feels… peaceful now," Min said softly. "Like the night is wrapping everything up neatly."
Kei glanced at him. "You enjoyed yourself?"
"Of course," Min replied without hesitation. "It's been a long time since I laughed this much." He looked down at the rabbit in his arms and added, a little sheepishly, "And… thank you. For this. And for the goldfish."
"You don't need to thank me," Kei said evenly, though his gaze softened. "You looked happier holding them. That's enough."
Min felt his cheeks warm, and he quickly turned his eyes toward the lanterns flickering in the distance. His heart hadn't stopped racing since the fireworks, and Kei's words only made it worse.
They turned down a quieter path leading toward Min's home. The streets here were lined with trees, their branches swaying gently under the moonlight. The silence stretched between them, not heavy but filled with unspoken words.
At one point, Min stumbled slightly over a loose stone. Kei's hand shot out instantly, steadying him by the elbow. The touch lingered a second longer than necessary.
"You should watch where you're going," Kei murmured.
Min nodded quickly, his face growing hot. "Y-Yeah, I will."
But even after Kei let go, the warmth of his hand remained.
By the time they reached the familiar corner near Min's shop, Min hesitated. He didn't want the night to end yet. "Thank you… for walking me back."
Kei's eyes met his in the dim glow of the streetlight. "I'll always walk you back."
The simple promise sent a shiver through Min, one he couldn't quite explain. Hugging the rabbit closer, he gave a small nod, unable to find words.
As Kei turned to leave, Min watched his retreating figure until it disappeared down the road. Only then did he whisper to himself, "Always, huh…"
The night felt fuller than any festival firework.
To be continued....