Chapter 20: Awaiting the Answer

The days after the exams passed, and although Ryo felt calmer, one thing continued to trouble him—the exam results. Even though he had done his best, the uncertainty still lingered in his mind. Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka had given him incredible support, but Ryo knew he had to face reality: whatever the results were, they would mark a turning point in his life.

However, he had also realized something important. The decision he had made—to maintain a balance between his academic goals and his relationships with Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka—was the right one. He no longer felt trapped in a dilemma because he now understood that life was not just about chasing a single grand goal but also about appreciating companionship and leading a balanced life.

One bright morning, Ryo decided to take a walk in the city park to reflect. He knew he had done his best, and now, he just had to wait for the results to come. But as he was enjoying the peaceful morning, his phone rang. It was a message from Mika.

"Ryo, I know you must be worried about your exam results, but I want you to know that no matter what happens, you're already amazing. I'll always be here for you. Don't worry too much, okay?"

Ryo smiled slightly as he read the message. Mika always knew how to bring him a sense of calm and confidence. "Thank you, Mika," Ryo replied, feeling a little more at ease. "I'll remember your words."

After that, Ryo decided to meet up with Ayumi and Haruka at their usual café. They always knew how to make him feel better, even when he was filled with doubt.

When he arrived at the café, Ayumi was already waiting with a cheerful smile. "Ryo! You look more relaxed! I'm happy to see you unwinding a bit," Ayumi said, greeting him enthusiastically.

"I feel a little better," Ryo replied, sitting across from her. "Even though the results haven't come out yet, I know I've done my best. What matters now is enjoying our time together, right?"

Ayumi laughed brightly. "Of course! Life isn't just about exams, Ryo! You need time to have fun too, you know?"

Not long after, Haruka arrived with her usual wise and gentle smile. "Looks like you two are already enjoying yourselves after the exams," she said as she took a seat beside them.

Ryo smiled. "Yeah, I'm trying to enjoy my time with friends. Even though the results haven't been released yet, I know I can't control the future. What I can do now is live each day with confidence."

Haruka nodded wisely. "That's right, Ryo. We can only control what's right in front of us. The future is always uncertain, but what matters is that we do our best."

Ryo felt relieved hearing Haruka's words. The decision he had made—to move forward while maintaining a balance between his dreams and his relationships with those who cared about him—was the right one. He knew that the future would still hold challenges, but he could face them with a calmer heart.

Days passed, and finally, the exam results arrived. Ryo felt nervous, but he knew that whatever happened, he had given his all. As he opened the envelope containing his results, his eyes widened. He had been accepted into his dream university—the one he had worked so hard for.

A mix of emotions filled him—relief, happiness, and deep gratitude. His dream had finally come true, but he knew this was just the beginning. Not only had he achieved his goal, but he also felt fulfilled knowing that his relationships with Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka continued to grow.

After receiving the good news, Ryo immediately contacted Mika, Ayumi, and Haruka to share his happiness. They all gathered at the city park—the place they always visited—to celebrate together.

"Ryo, you did it!" Ayumi cheered, her face full of excitement. "I knew you could do it!"

Mika beamed and gave him a warm hug. "I'm so proud of you, Ryo. You deserve this!"

Haruka smiled gently, looking at him with understanding. "You worked hard for this, Ryo. I'm glad to see you finally achieving your dream."

Surrounded by his friends, Ryo felt an overwhelming sense of happiness. He knew that this wasn't the end—it was the beginning of a new journey. His dream had come true, but he also understood that the road ahead would bring more challenges, more opportunities, and even more moments of joy waiting for him.