Love Equation

CHAPTER 7 - Graduation

The most difficult part of being a high schooler is the entrance exam. It basically decides what your future fate will be.

Even though there were some hindrances and turbulence along the journey, I still couldn't believe my eyes. I got accepted to an institution along with Micchan and my childhood friends, although we applied in different major.

And with that being said, the graduation ceremony is nearing.

As the days counted down to the momentous occasion, the air was filled with a bittersweet blend of nostalgia and anticipation. The familiar corridors echoed with the laughter and chatter of students, each step carrying the weight of countless memories created over the past few years. The cherry blossoms, which had bloomed and withered countless times during our journey, adorned the courtyard, creating a picturesque backdrop for the upcoming ceremony.

The rehearsal for the graduation ceremony brought a mix of excitement and sentimentality. Gowns were donned, caps adjusted, and the significance of the ceremonial rituals was not lost on any of us. The stage felt both surreal and inevitable—a symbolic bridge between the familiar past and the uncertain future.

As we practised the traditional procession, I couldn't help but glance at Micchan. The shared glances conveyed a silent acknowledgement of the journey we had collectively undertaken. The hurdles, successes and unspoken camaraderie were etched into our beings.

The following day, dressed in our graduation gowns and caps, we stood on the brink of a new chapter. The ceremony unfolded with a blend of formality and emotion. Speeches echoed through the auditorium, celebrating achievements, acknowledging challenges, and offering words of encouragement for the future.

As I walked across the stage to receive my diploma, the weight of the moment hit me. The applause of fellow students and families filled the hall, a resounding acknowledgement of the collective effort that had brought us to this point. I found myself searching for Mr Shizusu among the teachers, anticipating a glimpse of his distinctive presence. However, he was conspicuously absent.

What was I hoping for?

The graduation ceremony marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new journey, yet I couldn't shake the subtle disappointment that lingered in the background. The school gates, once a threshold of familiarity, swung open to release a group of graduates ready to embrace the uncertainties of adulthood.

The next day, Haburu, one of my childhood friends, invited the group to celebrate our graduation and entry to the same university. The venue for our celebration was a cosy karaoke, adorned with colourful decorations that mirrored the festive atmosphere of our gathering. Laughter and cheerful chatter filled the air as we settled into a reserved section, eagerly anticipating the shared camaraderie of the day.

Our room was adorned with a congratulatory cake, its sweet aroma wafting through the air. Each slice bore the weight of our collective accomplishments and dreams for the future. The atmosphere was a blend of nostalgia for the moments we had shared in high school and the anticipation of forging new memories in university.

"Say, Nacchan. Where'd you get that cute top? It made you look snatched.", Naruse asked while eyeing me from top to bottom.

"It's a gift... from my grandma..?", another lie wouldn't hurt, right?

"Sheesh. She had a good taste. I wish I was as good..."

The festive mood embraced us as Haburu, our spirited host, raised a toast to friendship, growth, and the exciting journey ahead. As we shared stories and laughter, his glances occasionally lingered a moment longer than usual. There was an unspoken language in his expressions, a familiarity that suggested a depth of connection that extended beyond friendship.