Chapter 10: Choosing a Path

That morning, Ryo felt more anxious than usual. Each day seemed heavier than the last. The big exam he had prepared for years—the one that would pave the way for his dream of entering the best university—was getting closer. Yet, despite knowing how crucial the exam was, the growing feelings he had for Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka made him feel more trapped than ever. Every time he tried to focus on his studies, the faces of those three girls appeared in his mind, reminding him of the tension that kept building.

That day, Ryo decided to go to the back garden of the school again, seeking peace. The afternoon breeze blew gently as he sat on a bench, gazing at the blue sky. Inside him, he felt a stronger conflict than ever. How could he choose between the dream he had fought for so long and the relationships that were beginning to take shape with these three girls who had such a significant impact on his life?

After sitting in silence for a few minutes, Mika approached him again, holding a cup of warm tea. "Ryo, I know you must be really anxious right now," she said softly. "But remember, you don't have to carry everything alone. I'll always be here for you."

Ryo looked at Mika with feelings he couldn't quite explain. Mika was always cheerful, caring, and sincere. On the other hand, he knew that her presence made him feel even more attached, and he realized those feelings could grow into something much deeper. But… could he really achieve the dream he had set for himself if he got caught up in a relationship like this?

Before Ryo could respond, Ayumi arrived with her usual bright smile and infectious energy. "Ryo! Let's go out after school today! A lot of our friends will be there, and you definitely need some time to relax, right?"

Ryo felt a bit uneasy, but Ayumi always had a way of making him open up in a different way. "Ayumi, I… I still have to study," he replied, trying not to feel too guilty for turning her down. "There's a lot I need to prepare for."

Ayumi shrugged with her usual playful smile. "Well, if that's your choice. But don't forget, life isn't just about exams! Sometimes, you need to have fun too."

Then, as if not wanting to be left out, Haruka appeared, standing beside them with a small, knowing smile. "Ryo, you know what's best for you. There's nothing wrong with socializing, but you also need to remember what you've been working so hard for all this time," she said, her voice calm but firm.

Ryo looked at the three girls, feeling the growing confusion inside him. Mika, with her warmth and care. Ayumi, with her cheerful and lively nature. And Haruka, who always offered wise advice. They all showed him attention, but at the same time, Ryo felt even more trapped. What should he choose?

Haruka continued with a thoughtful gaze. "Sometimes, big decisions have to be made with a heart full of certainty. What's more important to you, Ryo? Chasing your dream or opening your heart to a relationship that's starting to grow?"

Ryo lowered his head, feeling the weight of his emotions. His dream of entering the best university had been in his mind for years. But now, with the emotions he felt toward these three girls, he was more confused than ever. Mika showed him sincere kindness, Ayumi offered happiness in a fun and carefree way, and Haruka provided him with wisdom and guidance. Each choice felt equally difficult.

That night, when he returned home, Ryo sat at his desk, trying to focus, but his mind kept drifting back to Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka. Each of them offered something different—care, joy, and wisdom. But was that enough to steer him away from the life goal he had set for himself?

Finally, Ryo took a deep breath, closed his book, and sat still for a moment. This decision had to be made. What was more important to him? Would he continue fighting for the dream he had worked so hard for, or would he open his heart to the relationships that were beginning to take root?

Ryo knew that only he could answer that question. This decision was about choosing his own path, and he had to be ready to face the consequences of his choice.