Chapter 8: Turning Point

That morning, Ryo felt more anxious than usual. The big exam was getting closer, and time was running out. Every day spent without making the most of his time made him feel further away from the dreams he had worked so hard to build. However, even though he knew that getting into the best university was his top priority, he couldn't ignore the reality that his feelings for Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka were becoming more distracting.

That day, after class ended, Ryo chose to go to the back garden of the school—a place that had always been his escape from the crowd. The afternoon breeze blew gently, carrying fresh air that should have been soothing, yet Ryo felt a heavy heart. Could he make a choice? Could he stay focused on his goal and ignore the feelings that were growing stronger?

As he sat on a bench in the garden, footsteps suddenly approached. Ryo turned his head and saw Mika walking toward him with a gentle expression. She sat beside him without saying much, simply offering a cup of tea she had brought from the cafeteria.

"Ryo, I know you must be very busy, but…" Mika paused for a moment before continuing, "I just want you to know that I'm here if you need a friend. I know how hard you're trying, and I really respect that."

Ryo fell silent for a moment, feeling awkward. "Mika, I… I have to focus on the exam. There's no time for anything else."

Mika gave a small smile, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "I know, Ryo. But sometimes, you need to take a moment to pause and appreciate what you've already accomplished. Don't be too hard on yourself."

Ryo was touched, but at the same time, that anxious feeling crept back in. Mika was a kind girl, and her attention made Ryo feel more connected to her. However, those feelings only made it harder for him to stay focused.

Before Ryo could respond, more footsteps were heard. This time, Ayumi appeared, looking as lively as ever.

"Ryo! You have to come to the event tonight! A lot of our friends will be there, and I'm sure it'll be fun! We can chat and enjoy ourselves—forget about exams for a while," Ayumi said cheerfully.

Ryo's confusion deepened. On one hand, Ayumi was always full of energy and encouraged him to break free from his stressful routine. But on the other hand, he knew that study time was slipping away.

"I… I have to study, Ayumi," Ryo replied, trying to stay firm despite the guilt in his heart.

Ayumi looked disappointed but kept smiling. "You're too serious, Ryo! Life needs balance, too! You need a little fun so you can focus better later."

Mika, who was still sitting beside Ryo, glanced at Ayumi with slight concern. "Ayumi, you know how hard Ryo has been working. Maybe he really does need time to study," she said softly.

Ayumi smiled, though it seemed slightly forced. "Alright then, if that's what you want. But don't hold yourself back for too long, Ryo. Don't miss out on the little things that make life enjoyable."

Ryo felt more cornered than ever. Mika, who was caring, Ayumi, who was cheerful, and Haruka, who was wise—they all showed concern for him in different ways, but it only made him feel more trapped. The decision he had to make was getting heavier.

As school ended, Ryo walked home with heavy steps. He knew that the remaining days were getting fewer, and he had to make a big decision soon. Mika and Ayumi might not fully understand, but perhaps Haruka already knew what he needed to choose. Yet even with all the advice and support from them, Ryo knew that in the end, he had to make the decision for himself.

That night, Ryo returned to his desk. His books lay open, but his mind was filled with thoughts of the three girls. What if he lost the chance to form relationships with them because he was too focused on his goal? Or on the other hand, would he lose his lifelong dream if he got caught up in relationships that might only be temporary?

He closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. Time was running out. The choice he would make would determine the path of his life.