{Creating Memories Together 2}

As we reminisced and swung on the swings, the sun slowly set.

The sky was ablaze with a fiery crimson hue, and the streetlights began to flicker on in the alley before us.

“Since then, we’ve made so many memories, haven’t we?”

“Yeah, we have.”

“Just being with you, Atsushi-kun, makes even ordinary days turn into memories.”

“I feel the same. Today was fun.”

Since then, we graduated from high school; Miyu got a job, and I went on to university. Even though our paths diverged, we met frequently and never drifted apart, and now we even live together. Every memory leading up to today is a precious one with Miyu.

Even after summer vacation ends, our days continue.

I have no intention of parting ways. I plan to stay by her side for twenty years and beyond.

“I really had a great time, too.”

Miyu looked at me and smiled.

Her face was also flushed with the color of the setting sun.

“That’s why I wanted to come here at the end of today. I thought that all the happy days and the many memories we’ve built up until now—and the happiness that will keep increasing from here—started right here.”

Yes, this place is, in a sense, where it all began for us.

Typically, one would choose a place with a better atmosphere or a deeper connection for such significant locations. Choosing a plain children’s park within reach, even if it was the only option, as the stage for my confession feels very much like us.

But for us, even the scenery of this ordinary park is unforgettable.

Today, the warmth of the chains on the swings we sat on together, the buzzing of the cicadas, and the summer sky painted by the evening light will surely become new and wonderful memories.

“Shall we come again?”

When I suggested this, Miyu nodded happily.

“Yeah. I wonder how long we can keep swinging.”

“Well, if we could swing past twenty, we can swing as long as we want.”

“What about when we’re old and gray?”

“Probably… if it comes to that, I’ll just bring our grandkids as an excuse.”

“Grandkids, huh?”

She squinted her eyes as if imagining it.

Her profile, dyed in the evening sun, was even more beautiful than the ‘Sato-san’ from my memories.

While she still had that gentle aura, her features and expressions had matured significantly. When did it become natural for her to wear makeup when going outside and start smiling quietly like this?

Every time new memories are created, I find myself mesmerized, breathless.

So I leaned the swing a bit closer to her and eagerly asked, “Can I kiss you?”

Just like back then.

Miyu’s eyes darted around nervously, and she furrowed her brows.

“Um… th-that’s not okay. We’re outside, and if someone sees us…”

“There’s no one around.”

“B-but it’s still not okay. We’re adults now.”

I wondered if it was permissible to kiss outside when we were high school students.

Well, I understood the sentiment that adults should have some discretion. It was disappointing, though. Extremely disappointing.

Just as I was thinking that, Miyu leaned closer to me on the swing.

Then she whispered in my ear.

“Let’s wait until we get home.”

Once she said that, I had no choice but to quickly get off the swing. Then I grabbed the shopping bags and said, “Alright, Miyu, let’s head home.”

“Geez, Atsushi-kun…”

Miyu got off the swing with a flushed face, giggling softly.