Chapter 23: Uninvited Guests
The sun shone warmly in the clear blue sky, illuminating the park filled with the laughter and chatter of children. The green grass became a playground for them as they ran freely, enjoying the simple joys of tag or casually drawing random patterns on the ground with sticks.
In another corner of the park, there was a sandpit where a few young children were busy building sandcastles, creating their own little worlds with toy shovels and small buckets. Not far from there, the slides and swings were never empty, always adorned with cheerful shouts as the children took turns playing.
Under the shade of the trees, families spread out picnic mats, enjoying the meals they had brought while chatting in a warm atmosphere. Some young couples sat side by side on park benches, engrossed in casual conversation or simply soaking in the tranquility of the afternoon. Elsewhere, a group of elderly people chatted quietly, keeping an eye on their grandchildren while occasionally smiling at the innocent antics of the children.
Amidst the lively atmosphere, a gazebo slightly hidden behind cherry blossom trees became a spot for a pair of young people to relax. Ren sat with his arms folded behind his head, his eyes observing the park scene without a clear expression. Beside him, Itsuki sipped from a plastic bottle, occasionally playing with the ends of her wind-blown hair.
She turned to Ren, her voice soft but filled with curiosity.
"Have you been busy at school lately?"
Ren simply shrugged, his eyes still fixed ahead. "Nothing interesting."
Itsuki tilted her head slightly, looking at him more intently. "You really don't want to go back to the Archery Club? They're probably still hoping you'll rejoin."
Ren chuckled softly, his tone flat but confident. "Archery is fun, but I've already reached the peak. There's no challenge left there."
Itsuki sighed, as if she had expected that answer. She knew Ren was always searching for something more challenging, something that made him feel alive.
After a moment, she asked teasingly, "How's your relationship with Maria-san?"