Wish

Chapter 3: Whenever I'm Alone with You

In the quiet elegance of their shared moments, Chika Fujiwara treasured every instance with her dearest friend, Kaguya Shinomiya. Their laughter during student council meetings and the silent contemplation under starry skies during late-night study sessions were woven into Chika's soul with a silent, unspoken love. She longed to express these feelings, yet the uncertainty of Kaguya's heart kept her bound in a bittersweet dance of joy and sorrow.

Day after day, Chika admired Kaguya's grace and poise as she fulfilled her countless duties. The way Kaguya's eyes sparkled when speaking of her passions and the gentle smile that lit up her face, these were moments that brightened Chika's world. Yet, the thought of confessing her feelings felt akin to teetering on the edge of a cliff, fraught with the fear of shattering their cherished friendship for a love uncertain and untested.

One crisp autumn afternoon, the student council buzzed with the fervor of preparing for the approaching cultural festival. Papers cascaded over the table, and the frenetic activity wrapped around Chika like a soothing cloak. Her eyes often strayed to Kaguya, who was engrossed in organizing the event with her usual fervor.

"Chika-chan," Kaguya's voice broke through Chika's musings, drawing her from her thoughts. "Do you think these decorations will work for the main hall?"

Their eyes met, and for a heartbeat, time stood still. "They're perfect," Chika responded, a hint of admiration seeping into her voice.

"Thank you, Chika-chan." Kaguya's smile was luminous, quickening the rhythm of Chika's heart.

As the afternoon faded into evening, the student council's chaos waned, leaving them alone in the serene room, kissed by the gentle light of the setting sun.

Chika inhaled deeply, sensing the urgency of the moment. "Kaguya... Can I ask you something?"

Kaguya's head tilted slightly, her expression inviting. "Of course, Chika-chan. What is it?"

"What do you think... about love?" Chika's voice quivered softly, her words a tentative probe into deeper waters.

A contemplative silence stretched between them before Kaguya answered, her voice thoughtful. "Love... it's a beautiful yet intricate emotion, capable of bringing both joy and pain."

Chika swallowed, summoning her courage. "And... what if love is standing before you, but fear of losing something precious keeps you silent?"

Kaguya's gaze softened, her response measured and deliberate. "I believe... if the love is true and the bond strong, genuine friendship can survive the risks of confession—even if the outcome is uncertain."

Kaguya's words kindled a spark of hope within Chika. But just as she braced to reply, the door creaked open, and the spell was broken as Miyuki Shirogane and Yu Ishigami entered, dissipating the intimate atmosphere.

Later that evening, walking home side by side, Chika felt the sting of a missed opportunity. They moved in a comfortable silence, the streetlights casting elongated shadows on the pavement.

"Chika-chan," Kaguya spoke gently, breaking the silence. "About your question earlier... What made you ask?"

Chika hesitated, a small smile playing on her lips. "Just curious, I guess. You always have such thoughtful insights, Kaguya."

Kaguya smiled back, a trace of uncertainty lingering. "You know you can talk to me about anything, right?"

"I know," Chika replied, feeling a warm solace in Kaguya's words. "Thank you."

As they parted at the familiar crossroads, Chika watched Kaguya fade into the dusk, her heart heavy with unsaid words and unfathomable feelings. Yet, for the first time, she felt a glimmer of hope. As long as they could share these stolen moments, there was a sliver of a possibility that Kaguya might feel the same. And for now, that faint hope was enough to keep her going.