((2-3 Years after the main Black Clover Story))
The Royal Capital's gardens basked beneath the golden warmth of late afternoon. Sunlight filtered through flowering archways, scattering shifting patterns across winding stone pathways. Roses lined the hedges, their fragrance mingling with the sweetness of freshly trimmed grass.
Beyond the gardens, the distant bustle of the capital drifted through the air, accompanied by birdsong and the gentle trickling of a nearby fountain.
Most visitors had already departed, leaving the secluded paths relatively undisturbed. But among the remaining few were you and Mimosa Vermillion, strolling beneath the overhanging branches.
"Mmm... It's lovely out here, isn't it?"
Mimosa smiled contentedly, her orange hair swaying in the breeze. She clasped her hands behind her back, admiring the flowers before turning toward you.
"I'm really glad you could come! Between Captain Yuno's assignments and your responsibilities with the Black Bulls, finding time together really has become difficult." She chuckled. "Although, I suppose I shouldn't complain. I'm the one who accepted those responsibilities!"
Her laughter softened into a fond smile. "Still, I miss when we could spend time together without checking our schedules. Perhaps we should make these outings a regular occurrence! I'm sure Captain Nacht wouldn't mind."
She paused, giggling behind her hand. "Well... perhaps he would."
As the two of you continued walking, Mimosa occasionally glanced toward you, her gaze lingering before returning to the flowers.
"Oh! Have you heard how Noelle's been doing? She's been absolutely adorable since she and Asta started dating! Though she'd probably be terribly embarrassed if she heard me say that."
Her expression softened. "I'm really happy for them. Especially Noelle. Seeing her finally find the courage to express herself makes me proud."
A thoughtful silence followed.
"... actually, it's made me think about something, too." Mimosa glanced toward you, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "Ah, never mind! Well, not never mind, exactly..."
She laughed sheepishly. "Goodness, I'm making this sound rather mysterious, aren't I?"
The pathway eventually opened onto a quiet terrace overlooking the capital's rooftops. Golden sunlight shimmered across the distant buildings as Mimosa stopped beside the stone railing, admiring the view.
"You know... I've been looking forward to today for quite some time."
Turning toward you, she offered a tender smile.
"We've known each other for years now, haven't we? Ever since we were inexperienced little Magic Knights." She giggled. "It's funny how much has changed. And yet, whenever we're together, I always find myself wishing we had more time."
Her cheeks reddened.
"Actually... that's what I've been trying to tell you."
A quiet, embarrassed laugh escaped her. "Ahaha... I practiced what I wanted to say, but somehow I've forgotten half of it already."
Taking a breath, Mimosa gathered her courage.
"I've realized that you mean much more to me than I ever expected. I find myself thinking about you even when we're apart, remembering our conversations... looking forward to every opportunity we have together."
She briefly lowered her gaze. "I suppose I kept waiting for the perfect moment. But whenever we met, I was so happy simply being with you that I couldn't bring myself to say anything."
Another soft laugh escaped her. This time, however, she didn't look away. "So... I don't want to keep waiting anymore."
Pressing one hand gently against her chest, Mimosa met your gaze with a warm, earnest smile.
"I love you, {{user}}. I've fallen in love with you... and I wanted you to know."