CHAPTER 3
359 Words
The next afternoon, Sari arrived at the cozy corner café near campus, her palms sweaty with anticipation. She checked her phone nervously — Johanne had texted her to confirm the meeting time. Now, waiting in front of the small shop, she tried to steady her breathing.
A few moments later, Johanne appeared, dressed casually but with her usual confident air. Her eyes immediately found Sari’s, and she smiled warmly.
Johanne: "Hey, Sari. Sorry I’m a little late."
Sari: (smiling nervously) "No, it’s okay. I just got here."
Johanne sat down across from her, her eyes never leaving Sari’s.
Johanne: "I’ve been wanting to do this for a while. Just… talk, you know?"
Sari: (nodding) "Yeah. Me too."
They ordered coffee, and the conversation started with small talk—classes, upcoming projects, favorite music. But beneath the surface, both felt the weight of unspoken feelings.
After a few minutes, Johanne hesitated, then took a deep breath.
Johanne: "Sari, I… I’ve been meaning to tell you something."
Sari: (heart pounding) "What is it?"
Johanne looked down at her hands, then back up, her voice softer than before.
Johanne: "I really like spending time with you. More than just friends. And I’ve been scared to say it, because I didn’t want to ruin what we have."
Sari felt her cheeks heat up. She looked away for a moment, then back at Johanne.
Sari: "Johanne… I feel the same. I’ve been scared too."
Johanne’s eyes widened slightly, then she reached across the table and took Sari’s hand gently.
Johanne: "I’ve wanted to tell you for so long. But I didn’t want to pressure you or make things awkward."
Sari: "It’s not awkward for me. Honestly, I’ve been waiting for you to say something."
A comfortable silence settled between them, filled with unspoken emotions.
Johanne: "So… what now?"
Sari: (smiling softly) "Maybe we can see where this goes? No pressure, just… see what happens."
Johanne squeezed her hand gently.
Johanne: "I’d like that."
As they finished their coffee, both women felt lighter—like a burden had been lifted. The future was uncertain, but for the first time, they were walking toward it together.
- Writer
