LOVE STORY

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Chapter Twenty-One
Lovely Memories
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❝Forever's a long time, bud. Trust me.❞

YOUR EYES OPENED slowly and your gaze adjusted to the light that hurt your gold eyes at first. With a groan, you sat up and rubbed your head.

"What just happened?" You mumbled before you looked around to inspect the area. You were in Shuilian Cave, but it was a bit different. Realization then hit you harshly, you were now trapped in the Scroll of Memory. However, it seemed that it took you back to one of your many many memories, "I must get out of here. I hope Mk didn't get sealed too." You said while clenching your fists tightly then proceeded to look with your eyes for any way out.

No matter what, you will leave this place even if you have to tear your way out. The last thing you wanted was to be imprisoned in these endless memories of your past. Not to mention that you had to ensure that Mk was safe and didn't get dragged into the scroll as will, "There should be a way to get out." You thought with a frown on your face, preparing yourself to leap high in the air. However...

"Y/N? What are you doing here?"

You froze in place upon hearing the familiar voice coming from behind you. Your head slowly turn around to look over your shoulders only to see Macaque staring at you with puzzlement. He looked more different right now since this was his past self. Your expression softened yet there still was a hint on surprise, "M-Macaque?" Your voice that was gone moments ago came out, but it was barely audible.

The shadow monkey raised an eyebrow and crossed his arms, "What are you doing here? I thought you were going to with Azure and the others." He asked you. Azure, Azure Lion... a name you thought you would never hear again. He was a companion and a sworn brother of yours. It seems that you were brought to the time where the Brotherhood still existed. You quickly snapped out of your thoughts and forced a smile on your lips, "Oh. Hey, bud. There was a change of plans and I decided to stay." You lied while scratching the back of your head, letting out a nervous chuckle.

Macaque seemed skeptical about what you said, but he didn't actually question it any further and approached you, "Believable. But did you change your attire? Not gonna lie, it really suits you... like a real queen." He said then took your hand, planting a soft skill on the back of it. A blush formed on your face and your heart skipped a beat when you saw his mischievous smirk. It was the first time he did such a thing, it took you off guard. You pulled your hand away and forced a smile, "Y-Yeah... Thanks, I guess?" You were still surprised with everything that had just happened.

Macaque chuckled in amusement at your flushed behavior. Your embarrassment and nervousness were all new to him. You had always been that trickster and confident monkey, this side was new to him. Of course, he wasn't aware that he wasn't talking to the same version of yourself, "No problem, your highness. Anyway, wanna hangout? I saw a peach tree by the beach, it would be nice to sit there. Y'know, just you and me." Macaque suggested while rubbing the back of his neck, there was a hint of anticipation in his eyes.

You just couldn't refuse and say no to him, plus... you missed this side of Macaque. The side you no longer saw after that incident. Thus, it won't harm to relive some beautiful memories with this Macaque. A smile tugged on your lips and you nodded, "Okay, let's get going before the others return." You stated before grabbing his hand to go to that tree.

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You and Macaque laughed together, holding peaches in your hands as you two shared some jokes and funny stories. This small moment was really worth everything. After a short moment, you two went quiet gradually. Your gaze shifted to the calm sea, enjoying the gentle breeze hitting your face.

"Hey, Mac..."

"Hm?"

"Would you hate me someday?"

Your question confused your friend. He stared at you with a mouth filled with peach bites before swallowing, "What are you talking about? I will not hate you. You mean a lot to me, you're my best friend... and probably more." He stated, whispering the last part to himself. Although you heard what he said which was shocking, you pretend to not hear it and act normal, "I know this sounds weird and out of character of me, but there will be a day when I... might do something that forces you to hate me." You sincerely said, looking at the peach in your hand.

Macaque blinked a few times, a small frown on his face. He gently grabbed your hand and held it in his, "No matter what you do or say, I will never hate you. We promised to stay and fight together. I will not hate you, I promise." He assured you with determination on his face.

"I want to believe you, but I know you won't be able to keep that promise."

You really wanted to tell him this, but it wouldn't change anything because this was just a memory. You forced another smile and nodded in understanding, acting as if you believed him. At least you got spend some time with Macaque for the sake of the old times. Such lovely memories indeed.