𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙈𝙧. 𝙈𝙖𝙣𝙝𝙞𝙙

3. Prepare Your Heart

Everyone was busy preparing for the upcoming school fair. I could barely catch a glimpse of Zayne.

I was assigned to the art station, while Hailey and Zayne were both busy with the drama play. Hailey was one of the lead actresses, and Zayne, naturally, was the director.

Hailey had always loved acting, and Zayne had a passion for directing. Meanwhile, I found my joy in art, spending hours at the art station painting and setting up displays. That’s why I hadn’t seen much of them over the past few days.

But tonight, everyone would gather to watch the play. And after the show, I’d finally ask Zayne for an answer—an answer to the question that had lingered between us for so long. We’d been close for years, and I felt it was about time we were honest about our feelings.

I could hardly contain my excitement.

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Tonight is the night. After the show, I'm going to ask Hailey to be my girlfriend.

As I prepare on stage, my excitement is through the roof. I’ve even hidden flowers and balloons in Mr. Tan’s office, ready to surprise her. I can't wait to see Hailey's reaction. Tonight, I’m going to make her the happiest girl in the world.

“Zayne, good luck with the play,” one of the cast members said with a shy smile.

“Do your best, Director!” said another girl, smiling widely.

I could tell they were thrilled just to get a glance from me. I was used to this kind of attention, to be honest. Not to brag, but I know I have the looks that turn heads.

But my eyes were always meant for Hailey alone.

When she looked at me and smiled, I felt my heart leap with joy.

“Good luck, Direk,” she said simply, but it was enough to fill my heart with happiness.

I could hardly wait for her to be my girlfriend. I wanted to know what it felt like to hold her hand as we walked down the street. To go on dates, hug her, and maybe even steal a kiss.

Then, I thought of Bella.

I hoped she’d understand that once Hailey and I were together, it would mostly be just the two of us going out on dates. While we could still hang out as a trio, it would feel a bit awkward to have Bella tagging along every time. Maybe Bella should find someone to date too.

“Hail, do you think Bella has a crush on someone?” I asked Hailey as we rested backstage.

She thought about it for a moment before answering. “I think so. She mentioned she’s close to getting a boyfriend.”

“Really? That’s good news.”

“Why?”

“Hmm, no reason. I’m just glad to hear she’s not, you know… a tomboy.”

“Hahaha! I don’t think Bella is a tomboy,” Hailey laughed.

“Do you know who she might be interested in?”

“Actually, I have no idea. Maybe someone from her art class?”

I nodded, considering her words. That made sense. I didn’t know her classmates in art, but maybe one of them had caught Bella’s attention.

It was perfect. Once Hailey and I were official, I wouldn’t have to feel guilty. Bella would have someone, and I’d finally get to be with Hailey.