The journey back to the city felt different this time. Kael and Hana walked together, their hands intertwined, both hearts fluttering with the new chapter in their lives. The group, ever supportive, teased them lightly but couldn't hide their smiles at the sight of the two of them, now officially a couple.
However, as the gates to the city loomed closer, Kael's thoughts shifted back to his responsibilities. His duties as the leader of the city awaited him.
"Well… looks like I have to get back to work," Kael said, his tone a bit reluctant as he glanced at Hana.
Hana smiled softly, understanding. "I'll wait for you, Kael."
With a final squeeze of her hand, Kael waved goodbye to the rest of his friends. Tetsu, Eri, and the others gave him encouraging smiles and nods as he headed off toward his office.
But before heading to work, Kael made a small detour. He stopped at a jewelry store in the city center, his thoughts focused. He had never imagined himself doing something like this, but the moment he had shared with Hana earlier had changed everything. It felt like the right time.
Two hours later, Kael walked into his office. His desk was cluttered with paperwork, reports, and correspondence. But even amidst the chaos of his responsibilities, he couldn't help but feel excited.
Kael sat at his desk, going through the motions of his work, but his thoughts often wandered back to Hana. He couldn't wait to see her again.
Finally, he reached for his phone and called Hana. "Hey, are you busy?"
"I'm just picking up some food," Hana replied. "I'll be there soon. Are you still in the office?"
"Yeah, I'm here. See you in a bit."
A few minutes later, Hana walked into the office, a small bag of takeout in her hand. She smiled brightly when she saw Kael at his desk, his serious expression softening as he looked up.
"I brought lunch!" Hana said, setting the bag down. "I hope it's okay with you."
Kael smiled, his heart lightened by her presence. "It's perfect."
They ate together, laughing and talking about their recent trip, the world outside their little office bubble seemingly vanishing as they enjoyed their time together.
But as Hana stood up to leave, Kael's heart raced. He couldn't let this moment pass by.
"Hana," he called softly, standing up and walking around the desk. He reached out and gently grabbed her arm. She turned around, surprised by the sudden attention.
"Kael?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity.
Kael's eyes softened, his expression serious but filled with warmth. "I know it hasn't been long since we started dating… but we've known each other for two years now. We've been through a lot, and I feel like we already know so much about each other."
Hana's heart skipped a beat as she looked at him, wondering where this conversation was going.
Kael took a deep breath and stepped closer to her. He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small, velvet box. He opened it, revealing a dazzling diamond ring.
"Hana Yume," Kael said, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Will you marry me?"
Hana stood there, stunned, her eyes wide as her face flushed bright red. The words seemed to hang in the air, and for a moment, everything around them seemed to stop.
Kael took a step forward, gently holding her hands. "I know this may seem sudden… but I don't want to wait. I want to build a future with you. So, will you marry me?"
Hana's breath caught in her throat, and without thinking, she flung herself into his arms. "Yes! Yes, I accept!" she said, her voice trembling with excitement.
Kael grinned, lifting her up into a tight embrace. As he pulled her closer, their lips met in a soft, passionate kiss. The world outside the office could wait—they were in this moment together, and nothing else mattered.
As they pulled away from the kiss, both their faces were flushed, their hearts full of happiness.
"We'll make this work," Kael whispered, his forehead resting against hers. "We'll make everything work, together."
Hana smiled, her eyes sparkling. "I believe that, Kael. I believe in us."
And with that, their journey toward a future filled with love, hope, and the promise of tomorrow began—side by side.