Basic

Chapter 14

After class, Ace made his way to the school gym, eager to blow off some steam and focus on something other than his impending confession to Lili. As he stepped onto the court and picked up a volleyball, he was met with Jared's teasing grin.

Jared: "So, Ace, have you written your love letter yet? Or are you planning on serenading Lili in front of the entire graduating class?"

Ace chuckled nervously, his cheeks flushing at Jared's playful jab.

Ace: "Ha, very funny. I'm still figuring things out."

But before Ace could divert the conversation, Lili's name floated into the air, drawing her attention.

Lili: "Hey, are you guys talking about me?"

Ace and Jared exchanged a quick glance, their silent communication enough to dodge Lili's question without arousing suspicion.

Jared: "Oh, you know, just discussing the finer points of graduation attire."

Lili looked puzzled, but shrugged it off, allowing Ace to breathe a sigh of relief.

As they practiced volleyball, Ace found it increasingly difficult to concentrate, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of his confession to Lili. Meanwhile, Jared seemed to be thoroughly enjoying himself, his laughter echoing through the gym.

After practice, Ace mustered up the courage to approach Lili, his heart pounding in his chest.

Ace: "Hey, Lili, do you want to walk home together?"

Lili's face lit up with a smile as she nodded in agreement.

As they walked home, Ace couldn't shake the nervous flutter in his stomach, but he was determined to enjoy their time together. They chatted about everything and nothing, their conversation flowing effortlessly as they laughed and shared stories.

Spotting a street food vendor along the way, Ace couldn't resist the opportunity to treat Lili to a snack.

Ace: "Hey, want to grab something to eat? It's on me."

Lili's eyes sparkled with excitement as she eagerly accepted Ace's offer.

They sat on a nearby bench, enjoying their food and each other's company as the sun began to set.

As they walked home, Ace's resolve strengthened, and he turned to Lili with a determined expression.

Ace: "Lili, there's something I want to tell you on graduation day."

Lili's brow furrowed in confusion, but before she could inquire further, Ace simply smiled and said, "You'll find out then."

With a sense of anticipation hanging in the air, they continued their journey home, their hearts aflutter with the promise of what the future might hold.