In The Light Of Cherry Blossom

As the date of Kaori's surgery approached, the atmosphere shifted between them. The weight of unspoken feelings hung heavily in the air, a tension that seemed to pulse with every glance they shared. Arima couldn't shake the feeling that their friendship was on the brink of something beautiful yet terrifying.

One evening, while they were studying at Arima's house, the air was thick with unsaid words. They sat in silence, the only sound coming from the soft strumming of his guitar as he absentmindedly played a tune.

He caught Kaori looking at him, her eyes filled with an emotion he couldn't quite decipher.

"Arima," she said softly, breaking the silence.

"What do you think love is?"He paused, the question surprising him. "Love? I think it's… a connection.

It's when someone becomes a part of you, and you can't imagine life without them. It's wanting to protect them, to see them happy.

"Kaori smiled, but there was a hint of sadness in her gaze. "And what if you love someone but don't know if you'll be able to be with them?"Arima's heart raced.

"You can't give up hope. Love is worth fighting for, no matter the obstacles."As he spoke, he felt an urge to confess his feelings, but the fear of losing her held him back.

Instead, he reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers.

"Just know that whatever happens, I'll always be here for you."Kaori looked down at their joined hands, her expression contemplative.

"Thank you, Arima. That means everything to me."