First Day Chronicles: A New Love

Chapter 14: Changing for Love

Leo:

On my way to college, my thoughts were racing. Could Wai really change? Could he actually follow through with what he promised? I had my doubts. He wasn’t the type of guy to take things seriously, especially not his studies.

I attended my lecture, but my mind kept wandering back to Wai. After class, I decided to go to the library to grab a book. When I got there, I was taken aback by what I saw—Wai, sitting at a table, deeply engrossed in his studies.
My expression must have been a mix of surprise and disbelief. I couldn’t believe my eyes.

Not wanting him to see me, I quickly left the library. Outside, I pretended to be busy with my phone, but I was really just waiting for him to come out.

When he finally did, I could see the tiredness on his face. Despite that, he walked up to me with a determined look. "Hey, Leo," he greeted, trying to sound casual. "Have you had dinner yet?"

I was about to say no, but he cutely added, "Na na, please, Leo." His persistence made me smile, and I nodded in agreement.

"Alright, let's go," I said.

We found a small café nearby and grabbed a booth. As we waited for our food, I asked, "So, how's the studying going?"

"It's tough," he admitted, "but I'm managing. I really don't want to lose you, Leo."

His sincerity struck a chord with me. After dinner, he insisted on dropping me at my dorm. As we reached my place, he leaned over and kissed me on the cheek. I pretended to be shocked, but inside, I was happy. I left the car with a smile on my face.

The next day, while running through the hallway, I overheard some students gossiping about Wai and Beer. Curious, I stopped to ask them what had happened.

"Beer was targeting Wai, trying to provoke him," one of the students explained. "But instead of fighting back, Wai told him to leave. When Beer wouldn’t stop, Wai just gathered his things and walked away."

Hearing this, I was shocked. Wai was really trying to change himself. I still couldn’t fully believe it, but inside, I felt a surge of happiness. Maybe he really did like me.

The exam period was tense for everyone, but especially for Wai. He had been putting in extra hours at the library, diligently attending classes, and even seeking help from tutors to ensure he was prepared. Throughout this time, I couldn't help but notice the change in him. Gone were the days of casual indifference; now, there was a determination in his eyes that hadn't been there before.

On the day the exams concluded, Wai approached me with a mixture of nervousness and hopefulness. "Leo," he started tentatively, "I did everything I could to not lose you. I think I'll pass all my subjects."

I nodded, trying to temper my response. "We'll see," I replied diplomatically, though inwardly, I was proud of his efforts. Wai's face fell slightly at my reserved response, but he didn't push further, understanding that results would speak louder than words.

As we prepared to leave, a girl suddenly appeared and enveloped Wai in a tight hug. I instinctively tensed, my thoughts racing, until Wai quickly clarified, "Leo, this is my sister Mei." Relief washed over me, mixed with curiosity about this new side of Wai's life that I hadn't yet encountered.

Mei, a warm and bubbly presence, greeted me with a bright smile. "You must be Leo," she said cheerfully, extending her hand. "Wai has told me so much about you. It's nice to finally meet you."

I shook her hand, returning her smile. "Likewise, Mei. Wai has mentioned you too." It was a relief to meet someone from Wai's family, adding a layer of context to his life that I hadn't fully appreciated.

Turning to Wai, Mei teased, "You've been neglecting your big sister, you know. I missed you!"

Wai scratched his head sheepishly. "Sorry, Mei. I've been swamped with exams. But I promise I'll visit soon."

Mei's expression softened. "It's okay, Wai. I understand." She then turned to me again, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Leo. I've noticed a positive change in Wai since he started spending time with you."

I blushed slightly, feeling both honored and awkward under her praise. "I'm just glad to see him doing well," I replied modestly.

Wai interjected hastily, eager to change the subject. "Mei, what are you doing here anyway? Shouldn't you be at work?"

Mei rolled her eyes playfully. "I took the afternoon off. Like I said, I missed you." She then turned to me with a mischievous grin. "But enough about me. Leo, you must have some stories about Wai that he's never shared with us."

Wai's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and he shot me a pleading look. I chuckled softly, realizing Mei was intentionally putting him on the spot. "Maybe another time," I deflected diplomatically.

Mei laughed, clearly enjoying herself. "Alright, alright. I won't pry... for now." She winked at Wai, who groaned in mock protest.

After a few more minutes of light-hearted banter, Mei bid us farewell, promising to catch up with Wai soon. As she walked away, Wai turned to me with a mixture of relief and apprehension. "I hope she didn't make you uncomfortable," he apologized.

I shook my head, smiling reassuringly. "Not at all. She seems nice."