Leaves fell gently, flowing with the breeze. The scenic lake beside the park glistened below the sun. Quietness was all that can be heard within the park, as it was mellowed out by the rustling of the foliage. It has been a while since both Aki and Miko has gotten out to unwind themselves. Transitioning into university has clogged up their schedule then, but now they can finally ease off of their studies.

Miko sighed in relief, "you know, I'm glad we went out, it's been weeks since." She let out a groan, "but gosh, university's one hell of a pain in the ass sometimes."

"I agree, we haven't been able to do much except study all day long."

"At least we've adjusted to the schedule now."

"Yeah, we can take it easy for a bit."

"Anyway, let's put all this school gibberish aside. I want to relax... with you." Miko shied her head away.

Aki inched closer, poking fun at her, "oh what's this? Feeling a little embarrassed, are we now?"

"Shut up..."

Miko kept her face away as far as she could, whilst maintaining their linked hands.

As much as she was abashed, she loved the cheeky teasing her boyfriend would pull every so often. The clear embarrassment could only be kept hidden for so long. She could never admit it, but she is also constantly idolising her other half.

However, the two would not be able to tell this to the other. Despite them expressing their affection and love as is, they both thought it might be a little peculiar to still have a crush during the dating stage. 'Because shouldn't you already be accustomed to each other's company?' is what they both thought for so long. But unbeknownst to the young couple, their love only deepened each passing day. Placing each other on a pedestal to admire at. It was not something they are completely familiar with, seeing as this is both their first relationship.

Aki felt his hand squeeze. "Let's stay like this for a bit..." Miko whispered, tugging him to her side, as their walk continued in intimate silence.

"Oh look, there's a bench over here by a tree," Aki pointed out, leading Miko with his hand. "It's plenty shaded, too."

Miko sat on the bench comfortably, as did Aki. "That's true, but it's not too hot today, so I wouldn't have minded if we relaxed on the grass."

"Would you have preferred to sit out in the sun then?"

"I'd like that."

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This time, Miko got up and led Aki towards an open patch of grass. Instead of sitting, they decided to lay down beside each other. A couple of different interests were slotted in their deep conversation, as the clouds crept through the cerulean canvas above. Only few words were exchanged eventually, but the moment was mostly spoken through their body language. Softly trailing their fingers along each other's hands. Their eyes scattered around the soft blue sky, searching for irregular clouds to comment on. After a couple minutes of doing so, their eyes met coincidentally.

"Got something on your mind?" Aki teased.

Miko shook her head, "No, nothing at all." A brief pause came after her sentence, "Though... there is one thing..."

"Oh? What is it?"

"You... silly."

Aki's smile formed subconsciously. Another critical hit shot straight to his heart. A rosy blush accompanied his wobbly smile. Miko giggled at the obvious embarrassment. Her delicate hands rested around his cheek. The warmth as his face reddened felt welcoming.

"I love how whenever you drop your guard, you act so cute, you know?"

"Really...? It's not like I'm trying to."

"That's exactly why it's cute."

"You think so?"

"Of course I think so!" She chuckled, beaming in expression, "You do~ also have an adorable smile."

Aki's defenses were torn apart. Having succumbed to his girlfriend's playful teasing and honesty, he leaned forward and pecked Miko's lips softly. Not a single thought occurred, except instinct. Though fairly surprised, she then returned a proper kiss. Even if it was, but for a fleeting second. The high of the moment made the kiss feel long-lasting. They parted lips and laughed to themselves.

"Have you been practicing this with your hand lately?" Miko joked in an impish manner.

Aki messed with her the same, "would you have wanted to practice together instead?"

"Maybe... I wouldn't turn down your offer."

A short pause came in, as the lovebirds grin from ear to ear.

"I love you."

"I love you more."

The two bicker back and forth. Instinctively after, they sat up and quickly glanced around them, hoping no one saw their embarrassing banter. At the same time, they wanted the opposite, so people would know they were in love. The surrounding was still clear of anyone. They were relieved and disappointed no one has visited the park yet. Aki stretched his arms, letting out a groan. Miko slid adjacent to him, wrapping her closest arm around his waist comfortably.

She slanted her head on his shoulder, "It's quite nice."

A questioned hum arose from Aki.

"This, I mean. Being able to take it slow and enjoy the moment," Miko answered. "Hopefully it'll remain like this, at least for a while."

"Likewise, but we'll eventually have to return to our responsibilities."

"True..."

"But even then, I'll make our time worth it whenever we get the chance."

"I'll try just as hard. Though, I can settle with simple things like this. There's not a lot going on, so it's more calming."

"I agree, but I know you'd want to go somewhere new and fun every now and then."

Miko nodded candidly and laughed, "You know me so well. I can't say I disagree."

"You think it's about time we have lunch now? We lost track of time, it might already be past midday."

Aki pulled out his phone, and to his disbelief, it was already way past one p.m. They unknowingly spent three hours at least goofing around in the park.

"I am feeling a little hungry, so let's go get lunch," Miko responded as she stood up.

"Alright, what are we feeling today? Sushi, ramen? A bento perhaps?"

"Hmm, what if we suggested something for each other and whoever liked the other's food most, wins?"

"Another one of your contests, huh? Okay, I'm down," Aki proclaimed, as they made haste to the nearest shopping district for lunch.