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Alberu crumpled the paper he was writing and tossed it into the trash. He took out Taerang in hopes that the Artificial Intelligence in it could help him. He had also called for Sui Khan.
— I, Taerang, had computed all the possible dating places. According to the statistics from various Earth dimensions, the city Paris was called the City of Love.
Alberu raised an eyebrow. “Paris? That’s on Earth, isn’t it?”
— Yes, Your Highness. Paris was renowned for its romantic atmosphere, historical architecture, and exquisite dining experiences.
“Dining experiences…” Alberu muttered, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. Cale did love to eat, and he had a penchant for fine cuisine, especially if it was something new and interesting.
Just then, Sui Khan strolled into the room, looking as casual as ever. “You called, Your Highness?”
“I need your help,” Alberu said, leaning back in his chair with a frustrated sigh. “Where would you take someone on a date if you wanted to impress them?”
Sui Khan’s eyebrows rose, and then he smirked. “Ah, so you’re finally taking that step, huh? About time.”
Alberu scowled. “Just answer the question.”
Sui Khan chuckled. “Well, if it’s Cale you’re talking about, you could just feed him good food and he’ll probably propose to you on the spot.”
“That’s… not helpful.” Alberu groaned.
“But it’s true.” Sui Khan shrugged before plopping himself into a nearby chair. “If you want something memorable, go somewhere Cale wouldn’t expect. Maybe not a battlefield for once.”
Alberu’s gaze sharpened. “I’m trying to do something special. Something… romantic.”
“Oh.” Sui Khan blinked, surprised by the sincerity in Alberu’s tone. “Well, if you’re aiming for romance, you could always try taking him to a place with a nice view. Somewhere quiet and peaceful. Cale’s the type to appreciate a simple, beautiful moment.”
Alberu nodded slowly, mulling over the idea. A beautiful view, something serene and pleasant… maybe a picnic under the stars or a visit to a scenic lake.
“Taerang suggested Paris…” Alberu trailed off.
Sui Khan raised an eyebrow. “Oh, bring our Cale to the City of Love? That’s a bold move.”
Suddenly someone burst through the door. It was Choi Han’s nephew once removed, Choi Jung Soo.
“Are you kidding me!? Paris!?” He exclaimed. “That’s such a basic destination!”
Alberu blinked, momentarily thrown off by Choi Jung Soo’s sudden entrance and loud declaration. “Basic?”
“Yes, basic!” Choi Jung Soo marched over, arms crossed and eyes blazing with the fire of someone who had way too many opinions for his own good. “Paris? It’s a tourist trap! Overcrowded, overpriced, and overhyped!”
Taerang hummed thoughtfully. — While Paris is indeed a popular destination, its reputation as the City of Love is largely based on—
“Marketing!” Choi Jung Soo interrupted, jabbing a finger at the air as if to emphasize his point. “If you want something that’ll actually impress Cale, you need something unique. Personal. Something with meaning.”
Alberu tilted his head. “Personal…?”
“Exactly!” Choi Jung Soo nodded enthusiastically. “You know how Cale’s always running around dealing with crises, right? How about a place where he can truly relax? Somewhere peaceful, where he doesn’t have to worry about anything for once.”
“That’s what I said,” Sui Khan commented with a lazy grin. “Quiet, nice view, not a battlefield. And maybe some good food on the side.”
“Right, but not just that.” Choi Jung Soo’s eyes gleamed with excitement. “Make it memorable for him. Something that’s not just beautiful, but also something that makes him feel… well, comfortable.”
Alberu stared at Choi Jung Soo, processing his words. “Comfortable.”
Choi Jung Soo grinned. “You’re trying to impress him, right? Make him feel at ease. Somewhere he can be himself without any pressure.”
“I suppose you have a place in mind, then?” Alberu asked, eyes narrowing in suspicion.
“Well…” Choi Jung Soo scratched his cheek sheepishly. “I say bring him to Japan. There’s a lot of festivals there that Cale would enjoy a lot.”
Alberu perked up at that. He actually took an effort to know more about the countries on Earth. Japan was one of the closest countries to Korea. He looked at Choi Jung Soo, “Can you help me with the accommodations and necessities?”
“Which festivals do you have in mind?” Sui Khan asked.
Choi Jung Soo’s eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. “Well, it depends on when you’re planning to go. But if you want something truly beautiful and memorable, I’d suggest the Tanabata Festival.”
“Tanabata Festival?” Alberu asked.
— Tanabata Festival or the Star Festival. Tanabata is a vibrant summer festival celebrated on July 7th (or sometimes in early August depending on the region) that commemorates the meeting of the star-crossed lovers, Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair), who are separated by the Milky Way.
Alberu’s interest was thoroughly piqued. “Star-crossed lovers… And it’s celebrated with a festival?”
“Yup.” Choi Jung Soo grinned. “It’s a beautiful festival. People write their wishes on colorful strips of paper called *tanzaku* and hang them on bamboo branches. The decorations, the food stalls, the vibrant atmosphere… It’s perfect.”
“Not to mention, the night view is incredible,” Sui Khan added. “Imagine all those lights and decorations under the stars. Cale would love it.”
Alberu nodded thoughtfully. A festival centered around a romantic legend, with beautiful decorations, food, and a dazzling night sky… it sounded perfect.
— Additionally, Your Highness, many Tanabata Festivals are accompanied by fireworks displays. The contrast between the vibrant lights and the night sky creates a breathtaking view.
“Fireworks, wishes, and good food,” Alberu murmured, his mind already spinning with ideas. “Cale would enjoy that.”
Choi Jung Soo nodded eagerly. “And the best part is, it’s something he’s never experienced before. It’ll be a completely new memory for him.”
Alberu’s lips curled into a determined smile. “Then that’s what I’ll do. I’ll bring him to the Tanabata Festival.”
— Shall I proceed with the preparations, Your Highness? I recommend the Sendai Tanabata Festival as it is one of the largest and most beautiful, held annually from August 6th to 8th.
“Sendai…” Alberu repeated thoughtfully. “A place known for its Tanabata Festival. That sounds like a good choice.”
“Plus, Sendai’s got good food,” Sui Khan said with a smirk. “Cale’s stomach will be happy.”
Choi Jung Soo laughed. “I can help you with all the details—arranging travel, accommodations, and even the yukata. You should definitely wear matching ones. Cale would act like he doesn’t care, but deep down, he’ll be charmed.”
“Matching yukata…” Alberu’s cheeks warmed slightly at the thought. “Yes, that sounds good. Thank you, Choi Jung Soo.”
“Anytime!” Choi Jung Soo beamed, clearly excited to play matchmaker.
Alberu took a deep breath. Everything was falling into place.
Now, he just had to get Cale to agree.
“Taerang, collaborate with Jung Soo, let me know once the preparations are complete.”
— Understood, Your Highness. Preparations will be arranged promptly.
Sui Khan gave him a lazy thumbs up. “Good luck convincing Cale. And remember, if you mention food, you’ve already won half the battle.”
Alberu chuckled. “I’ll keep that in mind.”
With his plan set, Alberu couldn’t help but feel anticipation building within him. For once, it wasn’t about strategy or politics. It was about Cale. About making him happy.
And if he had to lure him with promises of delicious food… well, so be it.
***
“Hyung-nim?” Cale looked at his boyfriend who entered his bedroom looking giddy.
Alberu practically glowed with excitement, something Cale found both suspicious and concerning. It was rare to see the usually composed and graceful crown prince looking so... eager.
“What’s with that look?” Cale asked, narrowing his eyes. “You look like you’ve just plotted someone’s downfall.”
Alberu chuckled. “Not quite, Cale. I was just thinking about taking some time off. And I want you to come with me.”
“Time off?” Cale blinked, immediately cautious. “Is something wrong? Are you sick? Are we under attack?”
Alberu sighed, though his smile remained. “Cale, not everything is a crisis.”
“That’s debatable,” Cale muttered under his breath. “But… a break, huh?”
“Yes.” Alberu’s expression softened, his gaze steady and earnest. “I want to take you somewhere special. Somewhere we can just relax. No responsibilities, no chaos, no schemes. Just… us.”
Cale’s eyebrows furrowed. Alberu was speaking like he’d put actual effort into this. And that was strange. Very strange. “And where exactly is this ‘somewhere special’?”
Alberu’s smile turned secretive. “It’s a surprise.”
Cale scowled. “I hate surprises.”
“I know.” Alberu chuckled. “But I think you’ll like this one.”
Cale opened his mouth to argue, but the sincerity in Alberu’s eyes made him hesitate. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. Besides, he was kind of tired. And if Alberu wanted to drag him off to some quiet, remote location, he wouldn’t mind a little peace.
“…Fine. When are we leaving?”
Alberu’s eyes brightened. “Tomorrow.”
“Tomorrow?” Cale gaped. “You’ve already prepared everything?”
“Of course.” Alberu looked far too smug. “You’re not the only one who can make meticulous plans, you know.”
Cale sighed. “Whatever. As long as it’s not somewhere ridiculous.”
“Oh, I assure you, it’s far from ridiculous.” Alberu leaned down and pressed a brief, warm kiss to Cale’s forehead. “Just pack light. And make sure to bring something comfortable.”
Cale stared at him, bewildered. “Why do I feel like you’re plotting something?”
Alberu merely grinned. “Just trust me.”
And with that, he left the room, leaving Cale sitting on his bed with a growing sense of unease.
***
The next day, Cale found himself standing in front of the same divine artifact they have used to travel dimensions in the Church of the God of Death, courtesy of Choi Jung Soo persuading(beating up) the God of Death to use it.
Cale eyed the artifact warily, arms crossed as he glanced between Alberu, Choi Jung Soo, and Sui Khan, who had apparently decided to tag along just to witness the spectacle.
“This is starting to feel very ridiculous,” Cale grumbled. “What’s wrong with a simple walk in the forest? Or just… staying home and napping?”
Choi Jung Soo snorted. “Trust me, Cale. This is going to be way better than sleeping your life away.”
“And way more memorable,” Sui Khan added with a lazy grin.
Alberu, dressed in casual attire that somehow still managed to look regal, gently took Cale’s hand. “I promise, you’ll enjoy this.”
Cale stared at their joined hands for a moment before sighing. “Fine. But if this turns out to be something troublesome, I’m making you handle everything.”
“That’s a risk I’m willing to take.” Alberu’s smile was disarmingly genuine.
The divine artifact shimmered to life, light swirling and coalescing until it wrapped around them like a cocoon. The sensation was both familiar and strange—a tugging feeling followed by a sudden stillness.
When the light faded, Cale blinked and looked around.
They were standing in a bustling city square. Tall buildings surrounded them, and colorful banners hung from poles, swaying gently in the breeze. Stalls lined the streets, selling all kinds of food and trinkets. People strolled by in colorful yukata, laughter and music filling the air. Japan.
“What… Where are we?” Cale asked, his eyes narrowing with suspicion. “Are we in Japan?”
Alberu’s smile was bright and triumphant. “Welcome to Sendai. We’ve arrived just in time for the Tanabata Festival.”
“The Tanabata Festival?” Cale repeated, his eyebrows furrowing. The name sounded familiar. He vaguely remembered Choi Jung Soo rambling about something like this before.
“Yes,” Alberu said softly. “It’s a festival that celebrates the meeting of two star-crossed lovers, Orihime and Hikoboshi. People write their wishes on colorful paper strips and hang them on bamboo trees. It’s a time for celebration, good food, beautiful decorations… and peace.”
Cale stared at him, his gaze searching. “You really planned all this just for… a date? And we’re on Earth? An Earth with no apocalypse?”
“I wanted to give you something special.” Alberu’s voice was calm but sincere. “Something you could enjoy without worrying about anything else. Just you and me. No battles. No responsibilities.”
Cale’s shoulders relaxed slightly, some of the suspicion melting away. “…That’s surprisingly thoughtful.”
Choi Jung Soo scoffed. “Surprisingly? Alberu’s been planning this like it’s a damn royal campaign.”
Sui Khan chuckled. “I’d say he’s trying to win a different kind of war.”
Alberu shot both of them a look before turning his attention back to Cale. “Would you like to explore the festival with me?”
Cale glanced around, his gaze lingering on the vibrant decorations and the enticing smell of food wafting from the stalls. “…Yeah. Sure.”
Alberu’s smile softened. “I’m glad.”
“Ugh, you two are disgusting,” Choi Jung Soo said with a dramatic gag. “Anyway, I’ve arranged everything with Taerang. You two have your accommodations ready, and I’ve marked the best places to visit.”
“And the best food stalls,” Sui Khan added. “Cale’s going to love those.”
Cale’s interest visibly perked up at the mention of food. Alberu caught the subtle shift in his expression and couldn’t help but chuckle.
“Then let’s get started,” Alberu said, his hand still clasped with Cale’s. “I have a few places I want to show you.”
“Lead the way, Your Highness,” Cale replied dryly, though his eyes were glinting with curiosity.
They began to walk through the festival, Cale’s eyes darting from one colorful stall to another. The crowd wasn’t overwhelming, but lively enough to create a festive atmosphere.
“So…” Cale started, glancing at Alberu. “Did you plan every detail of this?”
Alberu smiled sheepishly. “More or less. I may have gotten some help from Jung Soo and Sui Khan. And Taerang.”
“Of course.” Cale snorted. “You always overthink things.”
“I wanted it to be perfect,” Alberu admitted, his voice quiet. “For you.”
Cale’s expression softened. “…You’re ridiculous.”
“And you’re stubborn.” Alberu grinned.
“Touché.”
Their banter was interrupted by the smell of something savory and enticing. Cale’s gaze immediately zeroed in on a stall selling freshly grilled skewers.
Alberu laughed. “Go on. I know you want to try it.”
Cale didn’t need to be told twice. He dragged Alberu toward the stall, eyes gleaming with rare excitement.
Maybe, Alberu thought, this was exactly what they needed. A chance to be themselves, away from the weight of their titles and duties.
As they strolled through the festival, eating and laughing, Alberu couldn’t help but feel a warm sense of satisfaction bloom in his chest.
But the night was far from over.
And he still had a few surprises up his sleeve.
***
As the evening deepened, the festival’s lights grew brighter, lanterns glowing softly against the darkening sky. The air was rich with the scent of grilled food, sweet desserts, and flowers from the vibrant decorations lining the streets.
Alberu led Cale through the bustling festival, their fingers loosely intertwined. They sampled all kinds of food, from savory yakitori to sweet taiyaki filled with custard. Each time Cale’s eyes widened in surprise at a particularly good dish, Alberu’s chest tightened with a quiet joy.
They came upon a quiet pathway strung with delicate paper lanterns. Alberu guided Cale through it until they reached a bamboo grove swaying gently in the evening breeze.
“Here,” Alberu said, nodding toward a cluster of bamboo trees covered in colorful strips of paper. “This is where people hang their wishes.”
Cale stared at the fluttering papers, his expression unreadable. “Wishes, huh?”
“Yes. You write what you desire most, and hang it here for the gods to see.” Alberu handed him a blank strip of paper and a brush, a soft smile on his lips. “Would you like to make a wish?”
Cale glanced at the paper as if it were something dangerous. “I’m not exactly a wishful kind of person.”
“That’s alright. It doesn’t have to be anything big,” Alberu replied, his tone gentle. “Just… something from the heart.”
Cale looked down at the brush in his hand, then at Alberu. The sincerity in Alberu’s gaze was disarming. With a reluctant sigh, Cale dipped the brush in ink and scribbled something quickly before tying it to the bamboo.
“What did you write?” Alberu asked curiously.
Cale crossed his arms defensively. “None of your business.”
Alberu chuckled. “Fair enough.” He took his own strip of paper and carefully wrote something before tying it beside Cale’s.
They stood there for a moment in comfortable silence, watching the wishes flutter gently in the breeze. The air was cool and crisp, scented with the earthy freshness of bamboo and the faint sweetness of flowers.
As they made their way back to the bustling festival, Alberu guided Cale to a secluded area by the river where blankets had been laid out with a perfect view of the sky. The city lights twinkled faintly in the distance, but nothing could compare to the breathtaking view above.
“Come on,” Alberu urged, settling down on the blanket and patting the spot beside him.
Cale sat down with a bit of hesitation, glancing around. “What’s all this?”
“Just a place to relax,” Alberu replied with a smile. “I figured you’d enjoy something quiet after all the chaos.”
“…You’re not wrong.” Cale stretched his legs out, his shoulders visibly relaxing. “It’s nice.”
They sat together, shoulder to shoulder, gazing up at the stars. Every so often, the distant crackle of fireworks would light up the sky with bursts of color. The sound was muted from their secluded spot, more of a distant echo than an intrusion.
“It’s… peaceful,” Cale admitted, his voice soft.
“That was the goal.” Alberu chuckled. “I wanted to give you something calm. Something you could enjoy without any worries.”
Cale glanced at him, his expression uncharacteristically open. “You went through all this trouble just for that?”
“Yes,” Alberu replied without hesitation. “You deserve it.”
Cale opened his mouth, but whatever sarcastic remark he intended to make never left his lips. Instead, he just looked at Alberu, his eyes searching and uncertain.
“You’re really ridiculous,” Cale muttered eventually, his voice quiet. “But… thank you.”
Alberu’s smile was radiant. “You’re welcome.”
They stayed like that for a while, the festival’s noise distant and the night sky stretching above them in endless darkness. Eventually, Alberu pulled out a small, neatly wrapped package from his pocket.
“What’s that?” Cale asked, eyeing it suspiciously.
“A gift.” Alberu held it out, his cheeks tinged pink. “For you.”
Cale hesitated before taking the package and carefully unwrapping it. Inside was a delicately crafted bracelet made of polished silver, embedded with tiny, glimmering stones that resembled stars.
“It reminded me of you,” Alberu explained. “Stubborn, resilient, and a little rough around the edges, but… still brilliant.”
Cale’s eyes widened, and for once, he looked completely speechless. “You… got me jewelry?”
“If you hate it, I can take it back,” Alberu teased, though his voice held a note of nervousness.
Cale shook his head, his fingers tracing the cool, intricate metal. “I don’t hate it.” He paused, then added, almost grudgingly, “It’s… actually really nice.”
Alberu’s shoulders relaxed. “I’m glad you like it.”
Cale’s fingers tightened around the bracelet. “Why go through all this effort? Just for… me?”
“Yes.” Alberu’s voice was quiet but unwavering. “Because you matter to me. More than anything else.”
Cale stared at him, something unreadable flickering in his gaze. Then, in a rare moment of sincerity, he leaned his head against Alberu’s shoulder. “You really are an idiot.”
Alberu chuckled, his arm slipping around Cale’s shoulders. “I suppose I am.”
They stayed like that, watching the fireworks paint the sky in brilliant shades of red, blue, and gold. For once, there were no interruptions, no urgent calls to arms, no pressing responsibilities. Just them.
And for Cale, it was enough.
***
The night deepened, but neither of them made any move to leave their secluded spot by the river. The fireworks had faded into silence, leaving only the gentle murmur of the river and the occasional rustle of leaves in the cool breeze.
Alberu’s arm was still draped around Cale’s shoulders, their warmth mingling under the blanket. Cale had relaxed against him, his posture less guarded, eyes half-closed as if he was drifting between wakefulness and sleep.
They had been talking quietly for a while, exchanging banter, and even sharing a few stories from their pasts. It was simple. Uncomplicated.
“…You went to all this trouble for me,” Cale murmured, his voice subdued, almost drowsy. “I still don’t get why.”
Alberu’s gaze softened, his fingers tracing slow, absentminded circles along Cale’s arm. “I already told you. Because you matter to me.”
Cale huffed, his cheeks faintly flushed. “You’re… too much sometimes, Hyung-nim.”
“Is that so?” Alberu chuckled, his voice low and gentle. “Well, maybe I am. But only when it comes to you.”
The sincerity of his words seemed to catch Cale off guard. He looked away, his gaze fixed on the river’s dark surface. “…You’re serious, aren’t you?”
“Always.” Alberu’s fingers found Cale’s hand, their fingers intertwining with an ease that surprised them both.
Cale stared down at their joined hands, his expression conflicted. But he didn’t pull away. “I’m… not good at this kind of thing,” he admitted quietly. “All this… romance.”
Alberu smiled, his thumb brushing over Cale’s knuckles. “That’s alright. I didn’t bring you here expecting some grand confession or perfect moment.”
“Then why?”
“Because I wanted to be with you. Just like this.” Alberu’s voice was steady, his eyes warm and unwavering. “Because seeing you relax, seeing you smile… It’s worth more than anything else.”
Cale’s shoulders tensed for a moment before he let out a slow breath. “You’re really annoying, you know that?”
“So I’ve been told.” Alberu’s lips curved into a gentle smile.
They sat in silence, the quiet night wrapping around them like a cocoon. After a long moment, Cale spoke again, his voice softer than Alberu had ever heard it.
“You make it sound so easy.”
“Maybe it is.” Alberu leaned a little closer, his gaze locked on Cale’s. “When it’s with you, it always feels right.”
Cale’s eyes met his, something raw and vulnerable glinting in their depths. “You really don’t give up, do you?”
“Never.” Alberu’s voice was a whisper now, his breath mingling with Cale’s.
For a heartbeat, neither of them moved. Then, with a quiet sigh, Cale leaned in, his lips brushing against Alberu’s in a hesitant, almost fragile kiss.
It was soft, barely more than a touch, but it was real. Warm. Honest.
Alberu’s eyes fluttered closed as he pressed back, his hand cupping Cale’s face as if he were something precious. The kiss deepened, slow and gentle, their shared warmth melting away the lingering tension between them.
When they finally parted, Cale’s cheeks were flushed, his breathing slightly uneven. But his eyes were steady, their usual sharpness softened by something Alberu couldn’t quite name.
“…You’re ridiculous,” Cale mumbled, his lips quirking into a faint, genuine smile.
Alberu chuckled, his thumb tracing Cale’s cheek. “I think I’m just lucky.”
Cale shook his head, but the smile remained. And for once, Alberu could see the acceptance in his gaze—tentative, but real.
They spent the rest of the night nestled together beneath the stars, content in the silence and each other’s presence.
And Alberu couldn’t imagine anything more perfect.
***
The next time Alberu brought Cale to a late night date again, it was ten days from late March to early April. The quarter dark elf had learned something from Choi Jung Soo again. Who knew that guy, whose secret hobby was reading romance novels, would be useful in situations like this?
They went back to Earth, in Japan. Alberu had decided on a date by the Meguro River to see the cherry blossoms. It was really beautiful.
“I heard that it’s even more enchanting at night during the yozakura Illumination.” The fake blonde said. Cale turned to look at him, it was really surprising to see his boyfriend to be like this. But he’s glad that he could see this side of Alberu.
“So we’re staying here until night?” He inquired.
Alberu nodded, taking his hand so they could be intertwined. “I asked permission from everyone. Especially Ohn, Hong, and Raon, they let us have this.”
Cale’s eyes widened slightly. “You… asked them for permission?”
Alberu chuckled, his thumb gently rubbing over Cale’s knuckles. “They were surprisingly cooperative. Raon even insisted that I bring you back with snacks.”
“Of course he did,” Cale muttered, but his lips twitched with amusement. “Still… you really went through all that trouble just for this?”
“For you.” Alberu’s gaze was steady, unwavering. “I told you before, didn’t I? I want to give you moments you can enjoy. Just the two of us.”
Cale glanced away, his cheeks faintly pink. The truth was, he appreciated the effort. More than he would ever admit out loud. Alberu’s sincerity had a way of breaking down his defenses, brick by stubborn brick.
“Alright,” Cale mumbled, his fingers tightening around Alberu’s hand. “I suppose… this is nice.”
A pleased smile spread across Alberu’s face. “I’m glad you think so.”
They walked along the Meguro River, the delicate pink and white petals fluttering gently in the breeze. Cale’s gaze flickered around, his eyes growing more curious with every step. It was tranquil, the quiet hum of the city far enough away to feel like another world.
They reached a spot where the cherry blossoms arched overhead, forming a natural tunnel of pale blooms. Lanterns hung along the path, their soft glow illuminating the blossoms in a way that made them seem almost ethereal.
Cale inhaled deeply, his shoulders relaxing as he took in the serene view. “…It’s beautiful.”
“It’s nothing compared to the way you look right now.”
Cale turned to Alberu with an incredulous snort. “Really? You’re pulling out lines like that now?”
Alberu only grinned, completely unabashed. “I’m simply stating the truth.”
Cale shook his head but didn’t let go of Alberu’s hand. They continued walking, their steps unhurried. It wasn’t until the sky began to darken that Alberu finally guided him to a secluded spot near the riverbank, where a picnic had already been prepared.
“You really went all out this time,” Cale said, eyeing the spread of dishes Alberu had somehow arranged.
“I had help,” Alberu admitted with a chuckle. “Sui Khan insisted on adding some of his own recipes. And Choi Jung Soo practically forced me to include some traditional Japanese sweets.”
Cale raised an eyebrow. “They’re really invested in this, aren’t they?”
“They care about you, you were their dongsaeng.” Alberu’s gaze softened. “And so do I.”
Cale looked away, fiddling with his chopsticks. “You’re really… something, you know that?”
“I’ll take that as a compliment.” Alberu’s eyes gleamed with amusement.
They ate together, the conversation light and easy. Alberu watched as Cale’s expression grew more relaxed, his shoulders losing their usual tension.
And when the yozakura illumination began, Cale’s eyes widened in genuine awe.
The lanterns glowed brighter, their warm light reflecting off the river’s surface, creating a dance of shimmering colors against the night. The cherry blossoms overhead seemed to glow, petals drifting down like soft, pink snow.
“This…” Cale murmured, his gaze riveted to the sight before him. “…It’s really something else.”
“I’m glad you like it.” Alberu’s voice was quiet, his own gaze fixed on Cale’s face.
Cale turned to him, his eyes reflecting the gentle glow of the lanterns. “You keep doing this. Planning these… dates. You really don’t have to go this far.”
“I want to.” Alberu reached out, his fingers brushing against Cale’s cheek. “Seeing you enjoy yourself like this… It’s worth every effort.”
Cale’s lips parted, but no words came out. He only stared at Alberu, his expression torn between frustration and something softer, something almost vulnerable.
“…You’re making it really hard to argue with you.”
“That’s the idea.” Alberu’s smile was gentle, his fingers now threading through Cale’s hair. “Just… let me do this. Let me make you happy.”
Cale looked down, his cheeks flushed, but he didn’t pull away. “You’re ridiculous.”
“And yet, you’re still here with me.”
A beat of silence stretched between them before Cale finally met Alberu’s gaze, something resigned but content flickering in his eyes. “…Yeah. I am.”
Their faces were already close, their breaths mingling in the cool night air. Alberu’s hand remained cradling Cale’s cheek, his thumb tracing delicate patterns along his skin.
Slowly, deliberately, Alberu leaned in. And this time, Cale met him halfway.
Their lips met softly, a gentle, lingering kiss beneath the glowing cherry blossoms. It was sweet, unhurried, a promise spoken without words.
When they finally parted, Cale’s expression was torn between exasperation and fondness. “You’re impossible.”
“And yet, you seem to like me this way.” Alberu’s smile was bright, his eyes full of warmth.
“…Shut up.” But Cale didn’t pull away.
They remained like that, nestled together beneath the illuminated cherry blossoms, the world around them fading into the background.
And in that moment, Alberu couldn’t have been happier.
***
They remained like that, nestled together beneath the illuminated cherry blossoms, the world around them fading into the background.
And in that moment, Alberu couldn’t have been happier.
But he wasn’t done. Not yet.
Alberu took a deep breath, his heart pounding harder than it ever did in the midst of battle. “Cale.”
Cale glanced at him, brows furrowing at the serious tone. “What?”
Alberu’s fingers tightened slightly around Cale’s hand. “I brought you here tonight for more than just a date.”
Cale blinked, suspicion flickering in his eyes. “What do you mean?”
Alberu’s gaze softened, his golden eyes glimmering under the lantern lights. “I’ve spent so much time preparing for these dates, trying to give you something beautiful. Something worth remembering.”
“You’ve done that.” Cale replied bluntly, his expression still guarded. “What’s your point?”
“My point is…” Alberu chuckled, his voice shaking slightly. “I realized it’s not the places or the food or the effort that makes them special. It’s you. Just being with you.”
Cale’s eyes widened, his fingers twitching in Alberu’s grasp.
“And I want to keep making memories with you. Not just on dates, not just in moments like this, but every day.” Alberu’s free hand slid into his pocket, fingers closing around the small object he’d been carrying all night.
“Cale,” Alberu continued, his voice low and trembling with something more powerful than nerves. “Will you… will you marry me?”
For a moment, Cale just stared, his expression completely blank. Alberu could feel his own heartbeat roaring in his ears, his breath caught somewhere in his throat.
“What?” Cale finally said, his voice hoarse.
Alberu let out a strained laugh. “I’m asking you to marry me, Cale Henituse. I love you. And I want to spend my life with you.”
Cale looked like someone had just hit him over the head with a very large, very heavy book. His mouth opened and closed several times before he managed to force out, “You’re insane.”
“Probably.” Alberu smiled softly. “But it’s a genuine offer.” He brought out the ring he’d been holding, a simple, elegant band made of platinum with a subtle engraving of intertwining vines—one dark, one light. A symbol of them, of everything they were together.
Cale’s gaze dropped to the ring, his breathing shallow. “You’re really serious.”
“I’ve never been more serious about anything in my life.”
Silence stretched between them, broken only by the faint rustle of cherry blossom petals drifting down around them. Cale looked back up, eyes sharp and searching, as if trying to find some trick or joke in Alberu’s expression.
But there was nothing there but sincerity. And love.
Finally, Cale let out a ragged sigh, his shoulders slumping in defeat. “You’re impossible. Completely impossible.”
Alberu’s heart sank slightly, but he kept his smile steady. “Is that a yes or a no?”
“It’s a…” Cale’s eyes flicked away, his voice dropping to a near whisper. “…It’s a yes, you idiot.”
The breath Alberu had been holding came out in a rush, his chest flooding with relief and joy so potent it nearly brought tears to his eyes.
“Yes?” He repeated, his voice breaking.
“Yes.” Cale shot him a glare, though it lacked any real bite. “Now put that ring on me before I change my mind.”
Alberu laughed, his hands trembling slightly as he slid the ring onto Cale’s finger. It fit perfectly.
Cale looked down at the ring, his thumb tracing over the engraving. “…It’s beautiful.”
“Like you.” Alberu couldn’t help but tease, his grin so wide it nearly hurt.
Cale rolled his eyes. “You’re lucky I love you.”
“I’m the luckiest man alive.” Alberu leaned forward, capturing Cale’s lips in a deep, fervent kiss. One that spoke of promises and a future intertwined.
The cherry blossoms continued to fall around them, carried by the cool night breeze. But neither of them noticed.
They were too caught up in each other.