Chapter 9: A Pivotal Decision

That day, Ryo's heart pounded faster than usual. The big exam was drawing closer, and he knew that his time was running out. Yet, no matter how hard he tried to remind himself of his ultimate goal—to earn a full scholarship and get into the best university—he couldn't escape the growing feelings he had toward the three girls in his life.

Every time he tried to focus on studying, images of Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka surfaced in his mind, disrupting his concentration. Mika, with her gentle and caring nature; Ayumi, full of energy and invitations to have fun; and Haruka, wise and composed, all had a profound influence on his life. However, Ryo felt increasingly confused, anxious, and torn between two very different worlds: the world of his academic ambitions and the world of social relationships that were beginning to take root.

That morning, as Ryo sat in the school garden, trying to get in some study time before class started, Mika approached him again, holding a cup of coffee.

"Ryo," Mika said with a gentle smile, "I know you're really focused on your exams, but... I wanted to talk to you for a bit. I feel like we haven't really had a proper conversation."

Ryo looked up, feeling slightly awkward. "Mika, I... I really need to study. There's still so much I have to prepare for."

But Mika only smiled wider and sat beside him. "I understand, Ryo. But sometimes, we need to take a moment to appreciate what we've already accomplished. I just want you to feel comfortable, so you don't burden yourself too much."

Ryo felt his heart grow a little lighter at Mika's words, but at the same time, the doubt and anxiety returned. Mika was a sincere girl, and her kindness truly made Ryo feel appreciated. However, he knew that to achieve his dream, he had to block out distractions like this.

Just then, Ayumi appeared, her usual bright smile radiating energy. "Ryo! Come with me! We're going to an off-campus event tomorrow! Everyone's going to be there. You need some fun!" Ayumi said with unstoppable enthusiasm.

Ryo tried to stay firm. "Ayumi, I need to study," he answered softly, though he felt bad rejecting her. "I can't go."

Ayumi pouted in disappointment but quickly replaced it with a cheerful grin. "Well, if that's what you want… But don't take life too seriously, Ryo! You need some fun too!"

At that moment, Haruka appeared, walking calmly as if she already knew what was happening. "Ayumi, you know very well that Ryo needs to focus. Don't put him in a difficult position. If he wants to study, let him study."

Ryo looked at Haruka, feeling somewhat relieved. She always knew the right thing to say. Haruka often gave him advice that brought him peace, though sometimes her words felt harsh. "Thank you, Haruka," Ryo said sincerely.

Ayumi simply smiled before walking away, leaving the two of them in the garden. Haruka sat beside Ryo and gazed at him with quiet understanding.

"Ryo," Haruka began, "you have to make a big decision now. You can't keep drifting between two completely different paths. This exam is a huge opportunity for you. But do you really want to give in to these emotions, or will you keep moving forward?"

Ryo let out a deep sigh, feeling increasingly pressured. Haruka's words rang true. The feelings that had started growing within him—for Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka—were getting stronger, but he knew that his academic dreams were more important right now.

"Haruka, I'm... I'm afraid that if I choose this path, I'll lose a big opportunity," Ryo said quietly. "But... I'm also afraid of losing them, of missing the chance to know them better."

Haruka looked at him with understanding eyes, though her expression remained firm. "That decision has to come from your heart, Ryo. What matters more to you? Achieving the goal you've set for so long, or opening yourself up to relationships that might become an important part of your future?"

Ryo lowered his head, the confusion growing deeper. What should he choose? Should he stay committed to his dream, or should he allow himself to explore the relationships that could become something more?

That night, after returning home from school, Ryo sat at his desk, staring at his open books without really seeing them. Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka had all given him more than enough attention, but the fear of missing his chance still weighed heavily on his mind. He felt completely trapped.

He knew that his decision now would determine his future. Would he continue chasing his dream, or would he take a chance and open his heart, allowing something new to unfold in his life?