Chapter 6 - A Treat from Me

Chapter 6 - A Treat from Me

Friday.

The week had passed with its usual hustle, but there was a sense of relief and accomplishment in the air now that the student council hearing was behind me. I had been working diligently on my community service and attending counseling sessions, trying to make amends for the consequences of the fight.

Today, I felt a surge of gratitude and wanted to show my appreciation to Aiya and Deku for their unwavering support through the whole ordeal. They had been there for me every step of the way, and it was time to thank them properly.

I approached them after school. Aiya was leaning against her locker, and Deku was waiting by the front gate. "Hey, can we talk for a minute?"

They both looked up, curiosity evident in their expressions. "Sure," Deku replied.

"I wanted to thank you both for everything," I began. "You've been amazing friends, and I don't think I could've gotten through this without your support."

Aiya smiled warmly. "We're just glad we could help. You've done a lot to make things right."

"Yeah, we're proud of you," Deku added.

"I want to treat you both," I said, trying to keep my voice casual. "How about we go out for dinner? My treat."

Aiya's eyes lit up. "That sounds great! I've been craving something nice."

Deku nodded in agreement. "I'm in. Where are we going?"

"I was thinking of trying that new Italian place downtown," I suggested. "I've heard good things about it."

As we made our way to the restaurant, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the city. The Italian restaurant was cozy and inviting, with soft lighting and the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air.

We were seated at a corner table, and the menu was filled with a variety of mouthwatering options. I looked around, enjoying the ambiance and feeling a sense of normalcy.

"So, how's everything going with your community service?" Aiya asked, perusing the menu.

"It's been busy but rewarding," I said. "I've been helping out with school events and tutoring younger students. It's a lot of work, but it feels good to contribute."

Deku grinned. "That's awesome. I've noticed the school activities have been running smoother lately. Your efforts are definitely making a difference."

The waiter arrived, and we placed our orders. While we waited for our food, the conversation turned to lighter topics. We talked about upcoming school events, shared funny stories, and joked about the latest trends. It was a welcome distraction from the past week's stress.

When the food arrived, the table was soon filled with delicious dishes—pasta, pizza, and a variety of appetizers. We dug in, savoring each bite and enjoying the meal.

"This place is amazing," Aiya said, taking a bite of her pasta. "You picked a great spot, Asahi-kun."

"Yeah, the food's fantastic," Deku agreed, nodding in satisfaction.

I smiled, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. "I'm really glad you both like it. It's the least I can do for everything you've done for me."

As the evening went on, we continued to enjoy our meal and each other's company. The tension from the past week seemed to melt away, replaced by the comfort of good food and good friends.

After we finished eating, I settled the bill, much to their protests. "It's my treat," I insisted. "You've earned it."

As we left the restaurant, the city lights sparkled around us, and I felt a renewed sense of optimism. The challenges of the past week had brought us closer, and I was grateful for the support and friendship I had.

"Thanks again for everything," I said as we stood outside. "I couldn't have asked for better friends."

Aiya and Deku both smiled, their eyes reflecting the warmth of the evening. "Anytime, Asahi-kun," Aiya said. "We're always here for you."

"Yeah, we've got your back," Deku added.

With that, we said our goodbyes and went our separate ways, each carrying a sense of camaraderie and relief. The night had been a perfect way to celebrate the progress I had made and the strength of the friendships that had helped me through.

As I walked home, I couldn't help but feel that the future, despite its uncertainties, was looking brighter. With friends like Aiya and Deku by my side, I felt ready to face whatever came next.