*Sigh*

Such a shame...

Hehe. Hinomori, I think you're being too hard on yourself.

But I missed my last shot...

Then, let's have another contest sometime.

What?

This one ended in a draw...

But I'll win next time.

Yes, let's...!

And I promise to do my best then!

At the same time... This place has a very different feel to it when it's snowing.

I agree.

And no one else is here... It's almost like we're in a dream of some sort.

Speaking of which, I often used to make snow rabbits when I was little.

Snow rabbits?

Yes. Because Shii always really liked it whenever I did.

Oh, this might be just enough snow... All you have to do is round some up into a ball and...

For the eyes...we can use these bamboo berries, and some leaves for the ears. And there you are. A snow rabbit.

Hehe. It's very cute...

At the same time, it's also a little sad that it's going to melt when the sun comes out...

Yes...

Shii used to say the same thing.

But it's not all bad.

Huh?

The memory of having made this snow rabbit will remain.

It may be physically gone...

But as long as you don't forget, it'll persist as a precious piece of your past.

As long as I don't forget...

Do you really believe that...?

I can't say for sure, but want to believe it's true...

I see...

So, I'd like it if you could remember what we did today...

What?

I'm sure that there are already plenty of people around you who are willing to give you their support.

But I'd like it if you could remember that I'm also there for you.

Thank you...

(Huh...?

Just now. She seemed a little...)

Anyway, it's starting to get dark, so let's head home.

Oh, right. We should...

Eep!!!

H-Hinomori?!

Is everything okay? Are you hurt?

I-I'm sorry. I slipped on the ice...

That was so scary...!

Fortunately, I didn't get hurt so... Oh no!

What's wrong?

My umbrella... I bent it...

What do I do...?

Oh, you're right.

It probably won't open now...

So, why don't we walk to the station together? We should both be able to fit under my umbrella.

Really?

Thank you so much, Asahina...!

You're welcome.

Please, come in.

Then, if you don't mind.

Oh. Hehe...

Huh?

Is something the matter, Asahina?

It's just... Hinomori, there's some snow on your face. Hehehe...

Th-There is?

Oh dear...

Just give me one second. I'll get it with my handkerchief...

There. All gone...

Oh...

My hands are so cold. I guess I was outside for a fairly long time.

And yet...

Oh, Shizuku, you're home.

Oh, Shii.

Yes, I am.

Mom said we're having curry for dinner tonight, so she was wondering if you could help peel the... Hm?

Did something good happen to you today...?

Oh, you noticed...?!

But I didn't say anything! You're like a mind reader, Shii!

I'm pretty sure anyone would've noticed. I mean, your grin sort of gave it all away...

So, what happened?

Oh, so...!

Um... It's a bit of a long story, but...

I was able to give back a little today...

I see. Good for you...

Shiho! Shizuku!

Mind helping me with these?

Oh... Yes! We'll be right there!

Let's go, Shii! We can talk more in the kitchen!