As the sun rose over the trees, I watched the disappointed look grow on her face. Should I run to her? Should I put aside all my fears so we can be together? I hesitate for too long. When I look up again, she’s already halfway across the field. I drop the flowers I had in my hand. They were supposed to be hers. Why hadn’t I taken them to her? Why, oh why, was I so afraid? I burst out from the trees, running across the meadow screaming out, “Wait Akemi!” She’s gone. Her shadow fades into the far tree line and I stop. This is my fault. This is all my fault.
I slowly walk to where she had stood, waiting all night for me. The grass is tramped down and the smell of peppermint still lingers. “Akemi…” I whisper, a tear slipping down my cheek. “I’m so sorry.”
I’d let her down. I know I had. She told me she loved me. She asked me to meet her here if I felt the same way. I’d been terrified. I’d let my own stupid mind win. Crumpled in the grass was a not and I picked it.
I’m sorry you didn’t come and I see you’re here now… I had hoped you would but I couldn’t leave without good bye. I couldn’t give up on you… Not when I love you like this. Chiyo if you’re here now you must care for me… I can’t help but think that. You have one more chance. One more night. I’ll give you that but this is it. I have to move on with my life.
One more chance. I have one more chance. I smooth the paper out and tuck it into my pocket. I’ll come tonight. I won’t let myself be afraid. I have to face her. I need to confess my love for her. She is my entire world and I cannot lose her tonight.