Chapter 10: Secrets Between Friends

Monday came too soon.

Rose adjusted her bag and walked toward her department. Her body still tingled from the weekend spent in Henry's arms. Final exams were fast approaching, and so was graduation—but her thoughts kept circling back to him.

As she entered class, Sophie waved her over excitedly. Rose slid into the seat beside her, smiling as they exchanged greetings.

"Girl, you've been glowing since you walked in. What's going on?" Sophie said, nudging her with a knowing grin.

Rose hesitated. Her fingers toyed with her pen, and for a moment, she considered keeping it to herself. But Sophie was her girl—her ride-or-die.

"Sophie…" she began slowly, eyes lowered. "Henry and I… we're kind of in a relationship now."

Sophie's eyes widened. "What?!"

Heads turned at her sudden outburst.

Rose quickly grabbed her hand and dragged her out of the classroom. They stopped just outside, where students bustled past them without a second glance.

"You and Henry?" Sophie asked, her voice lower now, but still filled with disbelief. "As in your Henry?"

Rose nodded. "It just… happened. I didn't plan it, Soph. But it feels real. Different."

Sophie blinked, stunned. "Wow. Wait—are you sure it's not just the hormones talking? I mean, you've known him forever."

"I know," Rose said softly. "But it's not just physical. He looks at me like… like he really sees me. And this weekend, we didn't even do anything crazy. We just… connected. More than we ever have."

Sophie folded her arms, studying Rose for a long second. Then she finally smiled.

"You know what? I'm surprised—but I'm happy for you. If anyone deserves a love story, it's you. Just… don't shut me out again, okay?"

Rose laughed, relief washing over her. "I won't. Promise."

The bell rang in the distance, breaking their moment. They turned and headed back inside together—two friends, walking back to class with one big secret finally out in the open.