There’s no need to rush. Slow down the pace. The autumnal afternoons are the perfect time to waste moments with the one you like. Meeting at the entrance of the Ginkgo Park at 3 p.m., he was holding a freshly bought hot chestnut in his hand. Seeing you arrive, he peeled one and handed it to your mouth, the sweet and glutinous aroma enveloping the slightly cool breeze.
First, walk along the path covered with fallen leaves. The silver maple leaves crunch under your feet, like stepping on golden dust. He will suddenly stop, pick up a perfectly shaped silver maple leaf, with the stem facing downwards, folding it into a small fan and gently brushing it against your cheek, making you laugh until tears come. The sunlight filters through the golden branches and leaves, casting a warm glow on his hair. You secretly take a photo of him lowering his head to pick up the leaves, and in the photo, even the fallen leaves have a gentle halo.
He walked to the wooden pavilion by the lake and sat down there. Taking out the osmanthus oolong tea and chestnut cakes he had brought along, he poured the tea warm and it had the fragrance of osmanthus when tasted. The crust of the chestnut cake was crispy while the filling inside was fluffy. He broke half of his cake for you and handed the tea cup to him so that he could take a sip. Without saying a word, he just watched the rippling water surface of the lake, occasionally seeing fallen leaves drifting into the water and slowly moving with the ripples.
As the evening wind grew cooler, he took off his coat and draped it over your shoulders, carrying with it his warmth. You two headed towards the exit, passing by a stand selling sweet roasted chestnuts. You bought another bag. As he peeled the chestnuts, he said, “Next week the leaves will turn even more yellow. How about we take a group photo?” You nodded as you bit into the chestnut. Looking at the crumbs of chestnut shells on his fingertips, you felt more adorable than ever.
The best date is not held in a crowded place; rather, it is shared with the right person, turning an ordinary autumn afternoon into a warm memory.