Hana, a quiet high school girl who hides in books and daydreams, never thought a small gesture could matter. On Valentine’s Day, she leaves handmade chocolates on the school librarian’s desk, unsigned and unnoticed or so she believes. It’s her one moment of courage.

Kenji Igarashi, the soft-spoken librarian, surprises her weeks later with a handwritten note for White Day. Under the cherry blossoms, over a simple cup of tea, something begins small, fragile, but real. Shared silences turn into conversations. Careful steps turn into a path neither expected.

But both carry shadows. Hana’s fear of rejection. Kenji’s past, heavy with words he once couldn’t say. The closer they grow, the more those fears press in, threatening to unravel what they’ve started.

Hana longs to speak her heart. Kenji wonders if he’s ready to let go of the silence that’s defined him.

Can two quiet souls learn to trust what blooms between them?

***

This is only one chapter of A Year of Sweethearts, a series that captures the gentle magic of love woven through traditions worldwide.

Twelve holidays. Twelve tender stories. A Year of Sweethearts gathers standalone romances set against the world’s most joyful celebrations. From the laughter of Songkran’s water fights to the quiet glow of Mid-Autumn lanterns, each tale offers a gentle, uplifting journey of connection. These are romances with soft edges light conflict, warm charm, and love that unfolds in the simple beauty of tradition and festivity.

Wholesome, cozy, and filled with cultural color, this series is for readers who want love stories that leave them smiling.

Twelve celebrations. Twelve chances to fall in love. Which one will you open first?

Contemporary