The Spring I Met You

Seven: No Regrets

Zoe's room, though smaller than her bedroom at home, is thoughtfully arranged to meet her needs. The walls are adorned with a fresh coat of white paint, creating a sense of cleanliness and tranquility. The wood floor adds a touch of warmth to the space, making it feel inviting. A compact yet convenient bathroom and kitchen complete her living quarters, ensuring she has all the essentials.

A spacious cabinet holds her clothes neatly, and she's pleased with how organized it looks. After unpacking the groceries and neatly arranging her new cooking utensils, she takes a moment to make the bed, creating a cozy nook for herself.

As the day comes to a close, Zoe settles on the floor, finding comfort in her meditation pose. She gazes out of the window, greeted by a breathtaking view of the night sky embellished with countless stars. Her eyes wander to her desk, where she spots some of her completed sticky notes, courtesy of Kaito's assistance. She recalls the tasks that still await her, like sorting out her insurance and residency, which does cause her some stress.

Her parents called earlier while she was putting away her shoes. She told them what they needed to know, omitting the fact that she almost broke down as soon as she got off at Kichijoji. They seemed to relax after knowing that she was safe. Seth and Elle also replied to her messages.

She casually told them about Kaito. As expected, Seth didn't sound so pleased, but he was glad she was safe. If not because of Kaito, she would have ended up crying on the street.

Her energy has completely been drained out of her body, though she is also satisfied that she survived her first day. She forces herself back up. She quickly grabs her journal and writes about the day. Capturing every emotion and detail, she wants to ensure that the memories of this significant day are preserved for the future.

She closes the journal as soon as she is done writing and then she clasps it between her arms and chest.

It was a good day.

******

The next morning, Zoe eagerly rises from her bed, preparing for the orientation ahead. As she stands up, she takes a moment to absorb the reality that she is now on her own, in a new place where she knows nobody. The silence is deafening yet strangely empowering. She smiles and proceeds to the kitchen to make some toast, then she pours herself a glass of milk. She takes a shower next, dries her hair, and slips on a white, long sleeve polo and black pants. She sends a 'good morning' message to Seth and then checks the route to the Hongo campus, saving screenshots of the directions. It is farther than the Komaba campus where she'll be going most of the time. But she will get by. Hopefully.

Before leaving her room, she grabs her trusty purple puffer jacket, ready to face the cool, sunny weather that prevails at 10 degrees Celsius. Zoe heads to the bicycle parking lot, ready to begin her journey to the Hongo campus. Riding slowly along the sidewalk, she pays careful attention to avoid curbs and not obstruct other cyclists.

With the route already etched in her memory from yesterday's bus ride, she comfortably navigates her way through the streets of Mitaka. The wind tousles her hair, turning it into a mess, but she's captivated by the serene and clean surroundings of the area, appreciating the beauty and novelty of her new environment.

Zoe stops at the Inokashira Park and ponders whether she still has the time to check the place around. Her curiosity wins over. The carefree laughter of three children running in the field reminds her of the joy of youth, prompting her to park her bicycle and take a moment to immerse herself in the beauty of the park. Finding respite under a blossoming tree, she feels the wind's chilly touch and embraces its invigorating effect on her spirits. The rustling sound of the leaves as they sway in the breeze brings a sense of peace to her heart.