Proposal...?

Little by little, I was presented a broadened view on this world. Not everyone can be taken for granted, and not anyone deserves to be deserted. While humans are the most intelligent species on the planet, it does not mean we can't some spare some time into acting as a non-intelligent being. The concept of life and its purpose is to cherish the memories you have, rather than finding ways into living longer or ruling over a certain area of the earth.

Before our relationship, I thought life was meant to be ruled by those powerful. That the hierarchy system of the school was correct. However, placing high in society does not necessarily mean the life you lead is greater than those below you. All that matters is the perception of oneself, the surroundings, and the world.

I’m starting to learn how life truly serves as a purpose.

“Hey, you're dozing off again!”

Suddenly, the boot of a young maiden strikes my leg. I crouch down and hold my leg in pain.

“Was... that really necessary-” she brings out her compass from her pocket, “I’m sorry, madam.”

“I’d rather you call me by my first name.”

“Right, I’m sorry, Suzune.”

I stand back up and hold hands with her once again, with my mittens.

“Doesn't that scarf cover a quarter of your face? Maybe I should replace that scarf with a new one?”

She holds her scarf. The scarf that has crimson, checkered marking. I bought it for her to withstand the winter season, but it looks a bit large on her.

“It's fine. My brother said to always accept things gracefully, especially someone's first gift...”

“Mm. Manabu taught you well.”

He's been in the hospital for a month now, as it is currently the 19th of October.

For an odd reason, Suzune made a weekly tradition of having a date every Saturday, no matter the circumstances. And we would take turns in planning out the date, and if the other side is displeased, then one of us would write out 100 lines of ‘I love you’ on a piece of paper.

Today, it was Suzune's turn to plan a date.

“Kiyotaka,” she says, “What do you plan on doing after graduation?”

“Huh?”

What do I plan on doing?

“Don't tell me you haven't thought about it?!”

“And if I do?”

“Well...” she tightens her grip, “I haven't thought about anything too, so I wouldn't say anything in particular... after all, being in class D arises trouble for our future dreams. Rising up to class A has always been on my mind...”

“Interesting," I lied, I just wish to change the subject, "Well, I haven't thought anything. There's still some years left before we graduate, so why not enjoy things as they are now before mapping out the future.”

“I guess that's true... but, you know. Lately, I’ve been thinking of something... regarding the future...”

Her face turns red, “And what is that?” I ask.

She stutters and stumbles upon her words, “I-I- uh...” But she finally finds the resolve,

“I want to spend the future... with you...”

We stop walking, as I turn my face to her.

What was that? Another confession?

Or maybe...

“Was that a proposal or something?”

“Huh!?” She holds her head, unable to comprehend her own words, “W-What!? A proposal!? Why do you say so!? I thought- I mean- isn't that a man's job!? Why would I have to propose!? Don't misunderstand me, idiot!”

“Oh, misunderstand? I'm sure everyone who would have been told the same thing would perceive it as so.”

“I didn't mean to propose!”

“Yes, yes, if you say so.”

“Believe me!”

“I wish I could.”

“I’ll stab you.”

“I believe you, after all.”

“You better...”

“I knew it, you look cuter when you're embarrassed.”

A stinging pain derived from my shoulder.

“Could you please put that compass away...?”

Ever since the fire that had occurred a month ago, everything had been back to normal. The third years had to sleep in an old dormitory building that was about to be demolished. Suzune had consent to visit her brother sometimes, though, I’m sure she had difficulty sitting in the same room as him, alone. But now, she feels somewhat calm and composed now that everything had been steady. It's as if all her problem had worn away.

But, my problem still looms.

Koenji hasn't acted all much since then, though, he often smiles at me as an indication to say that the battle isn't over as of yet. If I were to predict the time he would strike, it would be tomorrow.

I, on the other hand, have been doing my share of work.

“Are you thinking of Koenji-kun again, Kiyotaka?” asks Suzune.

“I would lie if I say I wasn't.”

She sighs, I thought I had to prepare for another stab of her compass, but Suzune has pity.

“You said you planned everything, right? But somethings were still left uncompleted, so you needed more time to prepare?”

“I can do that after the date.”

“Are you sure?”

“I don't want to leave in the middle of a date you have planned, so I’ll see this out.”

She smiles, “I hope you won't be disappointed.”

I was still unaware as to where she would take me.

For all I know, she may be intentionally attempting to make me suffer.

I guess we'll wait and see.

“Huh?”

My vision is blocked.

“You'll have to shut your eyes first,” she says with her hand over my eyes.

“For what?”

“You'll see, don't be impatient or I’ll stab you again.”

“Right...”

“I trust you won't open your eyes once I let go, right?”

“I won't...”

“Then-" uncovering my eyes, she holds my hand and guides me to the unknown. My eyes remain shut, so I prevent myself from getting stabbed.

“You seem excited,” I say.

“Just shut up, okay?”

“Right, right. Just don't be too hasty or I will fall over something.”

“Perhaps I should do just that.”

“No, please.”

“Then shut up.”

“Roger...”

Though minor obstacles such as litter and rocks came in my way, I stay on my feet without expressing my discontent. Subtle restraints like these are crucial when one seeks to please his girlfriend, at least, that's what Hirata told me. The advice I've received from him in the past month has helped me sustain this relationship.

“We’re here.”

“We're here?”

“Yes, we’re here.”

“Does that mean-"

“Keep your eyes shut. The compass is in my other hand.”

“Right...”

“And wait here.”

I sit on the bench nearby, what I presume is, a shop. Suzune walks off leaving me isolated in my darkness. Though, i can vaguely hear her talking to another man, most likely the shopkeeper.

“Excuse me. I came here for what I ordered.”

“Oh, are you the young lady that rung in this morning?”

“Yes, this is my profile.” I assume she's holding out her phone with her details, “Is it ready?”

“Of course it is! Give me one second whilst I get it out!”

I wonder what it is? My curiosity is surging.

“Here you go, young lady! Give my regards to your boyfriend!”

“I’ll do so, thank you Mr.”

I hear her footsteps grow louder.

“You can open up, now.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, I’m telling you.”

“You won't stab me?”

“I’m not sadistic, as harsh as I may be.”

“Then-"

I open my eyes.

“Happy birthday, Kiyotaka.”

A shiny object is placed on my lap. It takes me a second or two to adjust to the shininess, and finally make out what the object is.

“A... watch?”

“Yes, it tells the time.”

“Well, I know that much.”

“Oh I'm sorry. you took a while to recognize it, so I thought you merely knew the bare minimum.”

“Oh, right...” I take another look at it. The gold and silver colours of the watch made it seem expensive, “How much private points did you spend?”

“Is it not rude asking for such details?”

“I suppose so." It probably cost a lot, "Anyhow, my birthday isn't until tomorrow, so why give it to me today? Did you, perhaps, forget when my birthday was-”

“Of course not! I gave it today since it was a perfect day to give you a present, especially since it is the day of our date. It is also an element of surprise; giving presents during their birthdate is too predictable. So I gave it the day before, obviously."

"Mm."

If I were to be honest, I am happy. The first gift I have received for such occasion, Suzune has now taken that place. And I’m glad it was her.

“Thank you, Suzune. I’m very happy with this.”

“Hmm, really? You don't look happy...”

“Do I ever look happy?”

“That's true...” she stretches her arm, “Ahh, that is relieving. For an odd reason, I thought maybe you would not like it, but anything pleases you, huh? Anyway, you'd better pay me back one day, preferably my birthday.”

“No-"

“What?”

“I’ll pay you back right now.”

I get up from my seat, walking toward the jewellery shop Suzune had previously visited.

“Excuse me? Can I have... _ ____"

I whisper the last few words into his ears.

“D-Don’t tell me-, are you really doing this?”

“Of course,” I look at Suzune, who looks confused, “If you may turn around for a few minutes, I would appreciate it, Suzune.”

“I said to repay me when it is my birthd-"

“I know, I will get you something remarkable when your birthday comes around. However, I will give you this on a mere whim.”

She squints her eyes, “Fine... I suppose I'll accept whatever it is you give me...”

And so, she turns around.

I have a very limited amount of points within my gauge, but I pray for it to be suffice to pay the price.

And as I had hoped, the shopkeeper approves of my purchase.

“Good luck!” he whispers in my ears.

I walk to Suzune. I'm sure she will bring forth some strange ideas, but, at the same time, I feel as though I want her to get that idea.

“Turn around, Suzune"

As she turns around, I quickly take her hand and slide the object through her finger.

“What are you-"

“This is my repayment. I hope you like it.”

She gazes at her finger in awe,

“A... ring?”

“Yes, you wear it on your finger.”

“Are you... proposing?!”

As I had predicted, she thought of such idea. Though, as I said, I do not mind the reaction. After all, I have some plans to incorporate her into my life in the future,

“Who knows?”

“Why are you messing with me?! Give me a straight answer!”

“You'll receive a straight answer in the future. For now, accept this as a gift from your boyfriend.”

“You...-“

She becomes teary-eyed.

She holds her hand to her lips,

And kisses her finger.

The sight I lay on her truly is remarkable.

It reminds me of someone I love wholeheartedly.

Unable to contain this feeling, I take a step forward and wrap my hands around her, embracing her warmth and squeezing her into me.

“Wha-"

“I love you, Suzune.”

I remind her of my undying love.

Because even if the future holds uncertainties,

I can say, for sure, that this is the certain present.

Main account: https://www.wattpad.com/user/Diefeel

I know I said Sudo would be here this chapter, but I thought it would be nice just to write a full date for the chapter instead of forcing the story to develop. Also, the replies from the last chapter probably influenced my decision in writing this out. Most of you guys said 'the kiss' was the best chapter, which, I'm honestly happy about. I remember the amount of time I took writing that, and how frustrated I was for making so many mistakes. I'm glad the hardwork paid off lol.

I would appreciate a vote and, even if you're shy, more comments. I read every single one, and sometimes reply :) It makes me happy to see people comment on my works.

Thanks for reading!