Akari stood frozen in Noah's embrace.
Her lips were just as soft and sweet as they had been during their first kiss.
Though surprise had momentarily overwhelmed her, she didn't push him away. Instead, her arms slowly wrapped around him, and she began returning his kiss.
She didn't seem to care about Noah being younger than her anymore. Right now kissing him was all that mattered.
They remained that way for a long while, forgetting everything around them.
Eventually, they parted, their faces still close. For a moment, they simply gazed into each other's eyes.
"I wasn't flirting with you just for fun or to tease you," Noah said softly. "Maybe that's how it started... but somewhere along the way, my feelings became genuine. And the reason is..."
He leaned closer, bringing his lips near her ear. He finally made the courage.
"I really love you, Akari."
"Haa?!"
Akari jolted backward, her eyes wide with disbelief.
"Y-You really mean that?"
