Fading Love's Memory

It's the Time

Jake felt a mixture of nervousness and excitement well up inside him as the sun started to slowly set, creating long shadows across the schoolyard. He knew he had to tell Ziah about his unwavering feelings for her because they had grown strongly. However, he had to speak with Brian, his closest friend and trusted, before he could confront Ziah. He could confide his innermost feelings and secrets to Brian, who had always served as a sounding board for him.

With a book open, Jake discovered Brian reading beneath their cherished tree. He became calm at the sight of his friend and strode forward with purpose. A warm smile stretched across Brian's face as he looked up at Jake's approach.

"Hey, Jake," Brian said, putting down his book. "What's up? You look like you've got something on your mind."

Jake inhaled deeply, his lungs full of the crisp evening air. "Hey, Brian. Can we talk for a minute? There's something important I need to tell you."

Brian's expression changed to one of interest mixed with worry. "Of course, man. What's going on?"

Jake took a seat next to him, the grass giving way under his weight. He took a moment to gather his thoughts by glancing at the ground, and then he looked up to meet Brian's eyes. "It's about Ziah."

Brian's eyebrows went up just a little. "Ziah? What about her?"

Jake inhaled deeply once more, sensing the words beginning to come. "I've realized that I have feelings for her. Like, serious feelings. She's all I can think about lately."

Brian's eyes softened with understanding as they widened with surprise. "Wow, Jake. I didn't see that coming, but it makes sense. You two have always had a special connection."

Jake nodded, simultaneously nervous and relieved. "Yeah, it kind of hit me out of nowhere. And now, I feel like I need to tell her. I can't keep it bottled up anymore."

Looking thoughtful, Brian leaned back against the tree. "So you're planning to confess to her? That's a big step."

Jake nodded once more, his resolve growing stronger. "Yeah, I am. I just hope she feels the same way."

Brian smiled encouragingly at him. "Well, whatever happens, you know I've got your back. And honestly, from what I've seen, I think there's a good chance she likes you too. You guys just click."

Jake was filled with gratitude for what his friend had said. "Thanks, Brian. I needed to hear that. I was nervous about telling you, but I knew I had to before I talked to Ziah."

Brian extended his arm to give him a shoulder pat. "You did the right thing, man. And no matter what, I'm here for you. Just be honest with her, and I'm sure things will work out."

Jake laughed his confidence growing again. "Thanks, Brian. I appreciate it. Wish me luck."

Brian gave him a thumbs-up and smiled. "You've got this, Jake. Go get her."

Feeling more prepared than ever to confront Ziah, Jake got up, those words of encouragement still resounding in his mind. He inhaled deeply, relishing the quiet before the storm. He felt a deep sense of clarity as well as a mixture of anxious excitement as he made his way back into the school. He knew that he had the backing of a true friend no matter what came next. And it was that that changed everything.

Marcelo, one of Jake's classmates who was always bursting with energy and enthusiasm, welcomed him as he walked back into the school with a renewed sense of purpose and anticipation. When Marcelo noticed Jake getting closer, he was smiling broadly and relaxing against a locker.

Marcelo waved and exclaimed, "Hey, Jake!" "How are you today?"

Jake laughed feeling grateful for the kind offer. "Hey, Marcelo. I'm doing well, thanks. How about you?"