"Love and fear are two sides of the same coin."
╰┈➤ two academic rivals who are too prideful to admit their feelings. They both know what their hearts want yet they won't allow themselves to be the first one to confess.
...
I woke up about 30 minutes ago, groggy but excited for the day ahead. After a quick shower, I threw on some comfortable clothes and headed to the kitchen. Breakfast was simple—a slice of toast with jam and a glass of orange juice—but it did the trick. As I ate, my mind was already running through the checklist of things I needed to pack.
Once I finished eating, I headed back to my room and started gathering my essentials. I tossed in some extra clothes, just in case our trip turned out to be longer than expected. I brought couple of t-shirts, jeans, and enough socks and under-garments to last me the week. I added other stuff like—shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, and skincare products—making sure I had everything I might need. My wallet, packed with enough cash and cards, went into the side pocket of my bag.
I glanced at myself in the mirror as I threw my hair into a loose ponytail. I kept my makeup light, just some foundation, eyeliner, and a touch of mascara—enough to make me feel put together but not too much that I'd have to worry about it throughout the day.
My outfit was simple but comfortable: a black top, my favorite pair of jeans, and some well-worn rubber shoes that I knew would be perfect for whatever adventures we might get into.
As I was zipping up my bag, I remembered the conversation I had with Mina last night. She had suggested we stay at an Airbnb, and had even sent me the link. I had clicked through the photos—it looked cozy and had enough space for all of us.
She had mentioned that we should all pitch in to cover the cost, which made sense, but I wasn't too concerned about the money. My allowance was high and I enjoyed saving up so I didn't mind covering more than my share if it meant we could all have a good time. I texted Mina back last night, letting her know I'd be happy to pay for the stay, but she insisted that we split the costs evenly.
I chuckled to myself, thinking about how stubborn she could be. Mina was always the type to make sure everything was fair, even if it meant arguing over who got to pay for what. Kirishima, on the other hand, was more laid-back. He'd probably just go along with whatever Mina decided, which meant we'd all end up chipping in whether I liked it or not.
With my bag packed and ready, I took a moment to think about my mom. She wasn't home, as usual. Ever since my dad left, we didn't talk much. Our relationship was distant, more like roommates than family. She left me money when I needed it, and I kept to myself, which worked for us. I sent her a quick text, letting her know I'd be out for the week. I doubted she'd be too concerned—she was always wrapped up in her own world—but I figured it was better to let her know.
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After sending the text, I sat on the edge of my bed, phone in hand. I opened up the group chat with Mina and Kirishima, typing out a quick message to let them know I'd be picking them up soon.
