THE ME BEFORE

chapter 5 comforting conversations

As we walked home, the evening air carried the sweet scent of blooming cherry blossoms. Akira chattered enthusiastically about her new friends, while I listened, nodding along.

"...and then, Taro-kun told the funniest joke! I swear, I almost snorted my drink out!" Akira exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

I chuckled, at Akira's infectious laughter. We strolled side by side, our footsteps synchronized.it was an interesting sight one who could talk for hours on end and the other who preferred to only talk when necessary walking side by side is this the law of opposites attract ? .

As we walked, the conversation shifted to our encounter with the seniors. Akira's eyes sparkled with mischief.

"Hey, Talie, what's going on with you and Yuki Senpai? You two seemed...awkward," Akira teased, raising an eyebrow.

I rolled my eyes, feeling a flush rise. "Nothing's going on, Akira. We just...misunderstood each other."

Akira grinned. "Oh, I think it's more than that! You're always so stoic, but I saw the way you looked at him."

I shook my head, trying to deflect. "You're imagining things, Akira."

Akira chuckled. "Maybe, but I know you, Talie. You're not as tough as you seem."

Her words warmed my heart, and I smiled, feeling grateful for our friendship.

As we approached our dorm, Akira turned to me. "Hey, Talie ? You know I'm here for you, right? No matter what happens with Yuki Senpai or anyone else."

I nodded, my throat tightening. Akira's kindness meant the world to me.

"Thanks, Akira" I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

Akira beamed, her smile radiant. "I know, right? And don't worry, I won't tell anyone about your secret crush on Yuki Senpai...yet."

I playfully shoved her, laughing. "Shut up, Akira!"

As we stood outside our dorm, Akira gave me a gentle hug. "Goodnight, Talie. Sweet dreams, and don't worry about Yuki Senpai. He's not worth losing sleep over."

I smiled, feeling a sense of comfort and helplessness over her misunderstanding. "Goodnight, Akira. Thanks for being you."

As we parted ways, I realized that Akira's friendship was exactly what I needed – a reminder that some relationships didn't have to be complicated.

And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that Akira's words would stay with me, a gentle reminder that I wasn't alone. It was an odd feeling but honestly it wasn't so bad. I thought almost forgetting about the storm in the form of a man that happened earlier.

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