Although night had fallen, the festival was alive with activity. The colorful stalls and attractions were lit up with twinkling lights and lanterns, casting a warm and inviting glow over the entire area. The air was thick with the tantalizing smells of festival foods, and the sound of laughter and chatter filled the air.
Ushijima and she walked side by side, their arms brushing against each other occasionally. Ushijima's hair was still damp from the dunk tank, but his imposing presence commanded attention. Despite his serious expression, his interested eyes would occasionally dart towards her, and she couldn't help but feel her heart skip a beat.
As they walked, she couldn't help but feel drawn to him. The way he carried himself, with his broad shoulders and muscular frame, made her feel small and delicate in comparison. His focused demeanor only added to the allure.
For a moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the world, lost in their own bubble of companionship amidst the festival's chaos. But then, as they reached the viewing area for the fireworks display, a shadow seemed to fall over them.
The bursts of color, from deep blues to bright pinks, sparkled like diamonds against the black canvas of the night. The air was filled with the sound of crackling explosions, like a symphony of drums and cymbals.
It was a breathtaking sight that left everyone in awe, and for a moment, it felt as if time had stopped just to appreciate the beauty of the moment.
As the fireworks illuminated the sky, Ushijima turned to her and spoke in a low voice.
"I love you."
Her heart raced like crazy, and for a moment, everything else seemed to fade away.
But as quickly as the feeling had come, it was replaced by a sinking sensation in her chest. She couldn't bring herself to reciprocate the sentiment, not when Oikawa's face was still so fresh in her mind.
She forced a smile and looked away, unable to meet Ushijima's gaze. As the fireworks continued to explode above them, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was irreparably broken in herself.