Chapter 23: Hearts in Bloom

Dear Diary,

They say that after a storm, the world feels brighter. Colors seem more vivid, the air feels fresher, and everything just seems… alive. That's exactly how today felt—like a new beginning.

The morning was quiet, the kind of quiet that made you feel like the world was holding its breath. When I walked into school, Rei was waiting for me, leaning against the gate with her usual carefree smile. But today, there was something different about her smile—softer, warmer.

"Morning, Gabu," she said, her voice light but full of something I couldn't quite name.

"Morning," I replied, trying to act casual even though my heart was doing backflips in my chest.

As we walked to class, everything felt surreal. The air between us was charged, every glance and touch carrying more weight than before. I kept replaying yesterday's moment in my mind, the way she had confessed, the way I had responded. It felt like a dream, too good to be true.

But it was real.

At lunch, Rei suggested we go to our usual spot under the oak tree. I agreed, of course, my nerves buzzing with anticipation. When we got there, she sat down first, patting the spot next to her.

I hesitated for just a second before sitting beside her, closer than usual. My shoulder brushed against hers, and I felt a spark run through me.

"So," Rei started, her voice teasing, "are you going to avoid talking about yesterday, or are we going to address the elephant in the room?"

I felt my cheeks heat up, and I looked down at my hands, fiddling with the hem of my skirt. "I wasn't avoiding it," I mumbled. "I just… didn't know how to bring it up."

Rei chuckled softly, leaning in slightly. "You're adorable when you're flustered, you know that?"

My cheeks burned even hotter, and I could feel the beginnings of a pout forming. "I'm not flustered," I lied, knowing full well she could see right through me.

"Sure, sure," Rei said, her grin widening. "But seriously, Gabu. I meant what I said yesterday. I like you. A lot."

Her words hit me all over again, the weight of them settling in my chest. I took a deep breath, forcing myself to look up at her. "I like you too," I admitted, my voice steady despite the butterflies in my stomach.

Rei's smile softened, and she reached out to take my hand. Her touch was gentle, her fingers warm against mine. "I'm glad," she said simply.

The rest of the day passed in a blur. Everything felt lighter, easier, like a weight I hadn't even realized I was carrying had been lifted. Rei and I didn't make a big deal out of what happened under the oak tree. It wasn't necessary. We both understood what it meant, and that was enough.

But of course, not everyone was oblivious.

Akemi cornered me after school, her sharp eyes practically boring into my soul. "Alright, spill," she demanded, crossing her arms. "What's going on with you and Rei?"

I blinked, caught off guard. "What do you mean?" I asked, trying to play dumb.

Akemi rolled her eyes. "Don't give me that. You've been practically glowing all day, and I saw the way you two were looking at each other during lunch. Something's definitely up."

I hesitated, debating whether or not to tell her. But this was Akemi—my best friend. If anyone deserved to know, it was her.

"She confessed to me," I said finally, my voice barely above a whisper.

Akemi's eyes widened, and for a moment, she just stared at me. Then, to my surprise, a huge grin spread across her face. "No way. She actually confessed?"

I nodded, feeling a little shy under her gaze. "Yeah. And… I confessed too."

Akemi let out a squeal of excitement, grabbing my hands and bouncing on the balls of her feet. "Oh my god, Gabu! I'm so happy for you!"

I couldn't help but laugh at her reaction, her enthusiasm infectious. "Thanks, Akemi."

She sobered slightly, her expression turning serious. "You deserve this, you know. To be happy. And if Rei makes you happy, then I'm all for it."

Her words brought a lump to my throat, and I felt my eyes sting with unshed tears. "Thank you," I said softly, my voice trembling.

Akemi smiled, pulling me into a quick hug. "Anytime, Gabu. Anytime."

Now, as I sit here writing, I can't help but feel a sense of hope. For so long, I've been afraid—afraid of my feelings, afraid of what they might mean, afraid of how they might change things.

But now, I'm starting to see that maybe change isn't such a bad thing.

Rei likes me. And I like her.

It's a simple truth, but it feels monumental.

The road ahead might not be easy, and there's still so much I don't know. But for the first time in a long time, I'm ready to face whatever comes next.

Love,

Gabu