Chapter 13: Walking the Path

That night, after his conversation with Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka, Ryo felt more at ease. He knew that the decision he had made—to stay focused on his goals while not closing his heart to the relationships growing around him—was the right step. His dreams remained a priority, but he also realized that the bonds with those who cared about him added a different color to his life.

That morning, Ryo felt lighter as he walked to school. Although the exams were drawing closer, the usual anxiety that followed him had somewhat subsided. He knew that the opportunity to achieve his great dream was still there, and most importantly, he no longer felt trapped between two conflicting worlds.

Upon arriving at school, Ryo headed straight to the back garden as usual. Even though he had decided to be more open to his relationships with the girls, he still needed time for himself—to reflect and prepare. However, as he sat on the bench, he realized he wasn't alone. Mika approached him with her usual gentle smile.

"Ryo, you look calmer today," Mika said as she sat beside him.

Ryo looked at Mika and smiled. "Yeah, I feel better now. I've decided to focus on my exams while keeping my heart open to these relationships."

Mika's smile widened. "I'm glad to hear that. I knew you would choose the best path. Don't worry about anything else. You can do this, Ryo."

Ryo felt a sense of relief. Mika had always given him unconditional support, and it meant a lot to him. They continued talking about school life, but Ryo couldn't stop thinking about Ayumi and Haruka as well.

A few moments later, Ayumi came running, full of energy as always. "Ryo! Come with me! There's a big event after school. You have to come—it'll be fun!"

Ryo chuckled, feeling a bit awkward. "Ayumi, I... I still need to study. But I promise I'll make time after the exams."

Ayumi pouted slightly, but her bright smile remained. "Alright, I understand. But don't be too hard on yourself, okay? We can go out together after your exams."

Ryo nodded, feeling more comfortable with his decision. Ayumi was full of life, and while he knew he had to stay focused, he also didn't want to shut himself off from chances to have fun and enjoy life.

After classes ended, Haruka appeared with her usual knowing gaze. "Ryo, I know you're dealing with a lot, but I want you to understand that there's nothing wrong with choosing a clear path. If you're confident in your decision, that path will lead you to the right place."

Ryo smiled, feeling as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. "Thank you, Haruka. I know I can handle this. I'll focus on my exams, but I also want to keep my heart open to the relationships growing around me."

Haruka gave a wise smile. "You've chosen the right path, Ryo. The most important thing now is to walk it with confidence, without hesitation. As long as you're happy with your decision, that's all that matters."

That day, Ryo went home with a lighter heart. His decision to stay committed to his goals while embracing the growing bonds with Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka felt right. Finding that balance made him realize that he could do both—pursue his dreams and nurture his relationships—without having to choose one over the other.

That night, as he studied for his upcoming exams, Ryo felt calmer and more prepared than ever. The decision he had made wasn't easy, but now he knew that the path he had chosen would lead him toward a brighter future—both in his academic career and in the relationships that continued to grow around him.