The Shards of War: Ascension and Secrets

Chapter 30

The next morning, Matsu sat at the kitchen table, sipping a cup of tea and savoring his breakfast. The events of the previous day, the intense match and the heart-to-heart with his friends, were still fresh in his mind. He couldn't help but reflect on the bond he had with his friends, especially his "found family," and it brought a warm smile to his face.

Just as he was finishing his meal, his phone chimed with a text message. It was from Blaze. She was ready to ask out Merli, the girl from her class, and she wanted Matsu to be there for her. Matsu's smile widened as he read the message, appreciating the trust Blaze had in him.

He quickly replied, "Of course, Blaze! I'll be there to support you. Just let me know when and where."

Matsu knew that Blaze was like a little sister to him, and he wanted to be there for her during this important moment in her life. It was a reminder that no matter how chaotic life could be, the bonds of friendship and family remained strong and unbreakable.

Matsu, excited to be there for Blaze's special moment, quickly texted the rest of their friends. He wanted Blaze to have all the support she needed for her confession. Angelo, Orca, Terry, Jackie, Calie, Marie, Opal, and Marina all received invitations, and they eagerly agreed to be part of the surprise.

As they gathered in a nearby park, hidden from view to give Blaze and Merli some privacy, they exchanged smiles and whispered words of encouragement to each other.

Angelo, his arm wrapped around Orca, whispered, "This is a big moment for Blaze. Let's give her all the support she needs."

Orca nodded in agreement, a serene smile on her face. "I'm sure she'll do great. It's lovely to see our friends finding happiness."

Terry, who was known for his witty humor, chimed in, "I just hope Blaze doesn't accidentally challenge Merli to a tactical takedown match as her way of confessing!"

Laughter rippled through the group, a testament to the camaraderie they shared. As they waited in anticipation, they watched Blaze, who was talking to Merli with a nervous but determined expression.

Calie and Marie, watching with affectionate smiles, added, "Young love is so sweet, isn't it?"

Jackie, who often took a wise and observant stance, mused, "It's beautiful to witness the courage it takes to express one's feelings."

Opal and Marina, who had been friends with the group for a long time, shared knowing glances and looked back at Matsu. Marina said, "Matsu, you've created such a wonderful and supportive circle of friends."

Matsu beamed with pride, grateful for the bonds they shared. "I'm lucky to have all of you in my life. Let's give Blaze the best surprise she could hope for."

They continued to watch, hearts filled with anticipation for what would unfold.

The group remained hidden, peeking through the bushes and whispering softly to each other as they watched Blaze and Merli.

Opal leaned closer to Marina and murmured, "Do you think Merli knows what's coming?"Marina shook her head, her voice just above a whisper. "I doubt it. Knowing Blaze, she's probably been planning this for a while."

As they observed the scene, Blaze took a deep breath, her face glowing with determination. She looked over her shoulder, catching a glimpse of Matsu and their friends hidden in the bushes. With a reassuring smile, Matsu gave her a thumbs-up, and the group responded with encouraging nods and smiles of their own.

Jackie spoke quietly, "This is it. She's doing it."

Orca added, "I hope it goes well for her. It takes courage to confess."