Royal Road
Chapter 168: Even if we were to turn back time~
Chapter 168: Even if we were to turn back time~
If it were daytime, we could probably see the sea beautifully, but at this hour, there wont be much to see, I guess.
Its okay. Id like to see the sea at night too!
As we chatted, we climbed the stairs to the observation deck in the seaside park. Perhaps due to the late hour, there was hardly anyone around besides us, and the sound of the waves could be faintly heard in the distance.
By the way hehe.
Hm? Whats up?
Oh, its nothing I did get permission from my parents, but being alone with a boy like this until evening, it suddenly made me feel like Ive grown up.
I get it. It feels like weve entered unfamiliar territory, doesnt it?
Yes, exactly!
Walking up the long staircase, we finally reached the top of the observation deck.
The view that spread out before us
Wow
Wow!
Countless lights sparkled like stardust, illuminating the night.
Especially dazzling was the urban area in the distance. Perhaps due to the absence of clouds and the clear air, the night view was particularly vivid. The brilliance of human activity, shining so brilliantlyit was there.
Amazing I thought we wouldnt be able to see much of the sea, but I didnt expect the night view to be this beautiful.
Yes, its really beautiful
We were captivated by the distant night view.
Although we should be living in that world, when viewed from here, its radiance was overwhelmingly dazzling.
Suddenly, a cold wind brushed against our shoulders. Although it felt like we had just gone to the sea, the seasons were already changing.
Its getting pretty chilly. Winter is almost here.
Yes It seems so. Its already that time of year.
Looking at the brilliant night view, Haruka spoke with a sense of nostalgia.
Youve become so active and friendly with me since about seven months ago, right? It was spring back then, just after you leaped through time.
Seven months agoshe mentioned the time just after I leaped through. Haruka gazed into the distance, lost in thought.
Since then, every day has been so rich It was just so much fun.
She continued, savoring the memories.
From the lively cultural festival, to the intense studying for exams, and our class winning the sports tournament. Then, in the summer, I stayed over at your place and had a dream-like time at the sea. And I even worked part-time feeling a bit more like an adult
Haruka listed the memories one by one, each one a precious gem in my life. This second chance at life was a path I vowed to never regret.
In all those memories, you were there with me. I was so clueless, but because the boy I liked was by my side, those days were so enjoyable they brought tears to my eyes.
Haruka
Haruka turned towards me, giving me a gentle smile. Her radiance was even more dazzling than the night view behind her, captivating me endlessly.
Now, Im really happy. I can have silly conversations with Mizuki-san and Mai-san every day, and Im starting to get along with everyone in the other classes. And now, I can be your girlfriend
I cant believe the person I am now. Harukas eyes conveyed this feeling. But suddenly, her expression clouded.
But thats why there are times when I get scared.
Scared?
Yes. Even this wonderful youth will eventually come to an end.
Haruka lowered her gaze slightly and murmured her inner thoughts.
Now that winter is approaching, and when thats over, well be third years. Of course, its only natural that we have to start thinking about various things. But somehow, I cant help but feel so lonely
Ah, indeed, youth its truly a limited-time offer.
The time granted to be a child.
The youth that stands between being a child and an adult is what defines our student days. No one can stay there forever.
Um from now on, what kind of adult do you want to become, Shinichirou?
It was clear she was asking something she truly wanted to know, but I answered her question seriously.
Well, I do want to become a proper adult. Find a stable job and live for the simple joys of being human. It might seem plain, but thats really what I want.
Finding a reliable job and living a wholesome life as a human being. That was one of the fundamental premises I set for myself when starting this second life.
No, its not plain at all.
Haruka kindly affirmed my future plans, which might seem uninteresting to many.
The sparkling, wonderful future that wont lose to any other dreams. I truly believe that from the bottom of my heart.
Harukas smile shining in the night was filled with pure and honest feelings. She truly believed that this wish was something beautiful, from the depths of her heart.
Thank you, Haruka. But, you see, my wish isnt just that.
Huh?
The sea breeze whispered by, gently brushing against our shoulders. In the nights embrace, all that could be heard were the distant waves and the soft sounds of insects.
As Haruka said youth doesnt last forever. Because its so enjoyable, time flies by in the blink of an eye, and we inevitably grow up.
I felt the same loneliness about it.
I even thought that these jewel-like days, this golden time without any missing pieces, should continue on forever.
But, that cant happen, and it shouldnt.
Its fine to take detours, to rest, and sometimes its okay to start over. But ultimatelyno matter whatwe must keep moving forward.
From now on, both our external and internal worlds will change. But, its not all bad. I truly believe there are things we gain by moving forward.
Time passing by is a terrifying thing.
I know deep in my bones that the future isnt necessarily always bright.
Thats why we must continue to reach for a better future.
As I said earlier, I want to walk a proper path and find happiness. To be able to say with pride that my life is undoubtedly happy. So, um
Looking at Haruka, who was intently listening and watching me, I hesitated for a moment but continued with my words.
Its a rather forward conversation, but I want her to know that these are my true feelings.
After our youth ends, after we graduate from high school and become adults if, at that time, Haruka is still walking by my side without getting tired of me, if I can be a man who can properly support Haruka
The courage needed to say these things is something that my journey so far has given me.
Im not just a man covered in grief and regret anymore.
My revenge on the gloomy youth I hada revenge not just to clear my regrets, but also a path of growth to move forward into the future.
At that time, I want Harukas future. For the greatest happiness in my life that I desire.
!!!
In response to my words, carrying my feelings, Haruka covered her mouth with her hand and widened her eyes in surprise.
For several seconds, she remained frozen, seemingly unable to fully grasp the impact
Th-Then, at that time
With emotions she couldnt quite contain,
Her voice trembling, Haruka spoke.
Will you make me happy?
A single tear slid down Harukas cheek.
In the moonlight, that precious droplet sparkled.
Yes, I promise.
It was a vow that was only natural for me.
Making the most important girl in my life happy is also my own happiness.
Im surprised at how much I love you, Haruka.
Sh-Shinichirou-kun Ah
Harukas tears continued to flow, wetting her cheeks.
Seeing her like this, so dear to me, I held her tightly as if to envelop her entire body.
Feeling the softness of Harukas body against mine, I was on the verge of being intoxicated by her sweet scent.
Just that alone, I loved her so much.
I love you, I love you!
As if trying to convey the depth of her feelings, Haruka wrapped her arms around my back tightly.
I love you too, Shinichirou-kun! Thats why
Seeking each other, we became deeply entwined.
So, please let me be by your side forever!
Andour flushed faces had unknowingly drawn very close.
In a distance where our breaths seemed to almost overlap,
Haruka gently closed her eyes, as if in anticipation.
There was nothing to stop us anymore.
Mm
I put my feelings into a kiss on her cherry-colored lips.
With the heat driven by our emotions, our passions intertwined as one.
Everything I desire noweverything that fills me to the brimis born from the warm connection between Haruka and me.
Ah, I promise you, Haruka.
I will always be by your side.
Reality is always fragile, and there are plenty of painful and sad things.
The future often scatters not just hope, but also despair.
But no matter what difficulties lie ahead, no matter what fate awaits I will overcome it all.
Continuing to think of Haruka, I will simply continue to walk forward.
Even if we were to turn back time
Its all to make you happy.
(Next Episode: Epilogue)
(TLN) Thats the official end. 3 more epilogues. Also, his name was auto-translated as Shinoichiro this time. I giggled.