Monsoon Romance

(Age: 6)

Scene:

A week after their first meeting, Haruto is once again sitting under the cherry tree, reading his book. This time, he's more relaxed, the warmth of the sun making the day feel peaceful. Suddenly, he hears Aiko's voice again.

Aiko (calling from a distance):

"Haruto! Haruto, I found you!"

Haruto looks up, and there she is, running toward him, her pink ribbon tied neatly in her hair.

Aiko (with a grin):

"Look! I didn't lose it again!"

Haruto (smiling quietly):

"I see that. It looks nice on you."

Aiko beams at him, then plops down next to him under the tree.

Aiko (playfully):

"I thought maybe the stars would fall down one day, and I'd have to catch them for you, but I think this ribbon is good enough for now!"

Haruto laughs, a soft sound, but it feels like a huge step for him. He hadn't laughed much before, but Aiko's energy is contagious.

Haruto (grinning slightly):

"Maybe… but I'd like to see the stars, too. They're way up there, just waiting to be looked at."

Aiko (tilting her head):

"That's kind of like me. I want to be an artist someday! Maybe I'll paint the stars! What do you think, Haruto?"

Haruto looks at Aiko, surprised by her big dream.

Haruto (thoughtfully):

"You'll probably be a great artist. You have the kind of heart that can capture everything around you."

Aiko's eyes shine with gratitude. She pulls out a small notebook and pencil from her bag.

Aiko (excited):

"Maybe I'll draw you a picture of the stars! Can you imagine it? A night sky filled with constellations and… and us under the tree, watching it all?"

Haruto's heart skips a beat at the thought.

Haruto (softly):

"Yeah... I'd like that."