Kenji stepped onto the balcony, the night air cool against his skin. Haruka stood near the railing, her arms folded, golden eyes reflecting the moonlight in quiet contemplation. She hadn't moved since walking away, as if the world around her was just background noise.
For a moment, Kenji simply stared. How had it come to this?
Even after Fubara's words had shattered his illusions, even after realizing how deeply his past had shaped him—apologizing was still terrifying.Not because of pride, but because what if—just what if—he had hurt Haruka in a way that couldn't be undone?
Taking a deep breath, he approached.
"Haruka."
She didn't turn.
"Do you have a moment?"
Still, silence.
Kenji clenched his fists.
"Please, just hear me out."
Finally, she sighed, shifting slightly.*"Kenji, if this is another half-hearted apology, you can save it."
Her words hit harder than any blade.
"No, it's not. I promise,"
