Curious Hearts

Chapter 22

In the afternoon, Ain was sitting in the school garden, her sketchbook open on her lap. The garden had become her favourite place to think. As she absentmindedly doodled a flower, she noticed Jay approaching her.

"Hey, what are you drawing?"

Ain quickly closed her sketchbook.

"Oh, nothing special. Just... random things."

"You always say that, but I bet your drawings are amazing."

Ain trying to hide her embarrassment.

"Maybe. What brings you here?"

He looked down at his hands, fiddling with a piece of paper.

"I actually wanted to talk to you about something."

"Oh? What is it??"

"It's about... us. I've been thinking a lot lately, especially after what happened with Minji. I realized there's something I've been wanting to say, but... I'm not sure how."

She could feel her heart pounding in her chest.

"What is it, Jay?"

"I... I just wanted to say that I'm really glad we're friends. I've never met anyone like you, Ain. You make everything... brighter."

"I'm glad we're friends too. You're... special to me, Jay."

"Yeah... special."

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In the evening, Ain lying in bed, staring at the ceiling. Her mind kept replaying their conversation in the garden. He said I make everything brighter. He called me special. But why did it feel like he was holding back? Was he afraid? Or was he unsure of his own feelings??

She sat up, grabbing her diary from the bedside table.

Dear Diary,

Today, Jay almost said something important. I could feel it in his voice, see it in his eyes. But he didn't. And now I'm left wondering... what if? What if he feels the same way I do?? What if he's just as scared to say it? Maybe I should be the one to take the first step... But what if I'm wrong? What if I ruin everything??

She paused, biting her lip. Her pen hovered over the page as she considered her next words.

I wish I had the courage to tell him how I feel. I wish I could just look into his eyes and say, 'Jay, I like you. I think I've liked you from the moment we first met.' But I'm afraid... afraid of losing him if I'm wrong.

She closed the diary, hugging it to her chest. A single tear slipped down her cheek as she whispered to herself.

"I just don't know what to do.."

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The next day, Jay seemed quieter than usual. Ain noticed the way he seemed lost in thought.

"Jay, are you okay??"

"Huh? Oh, yeah... I'm fine."

"Are you sure? You've been acting... different lately. Is something bothering you??"

"No, it's nothing. Really.."

"You know, Jay.. if there's ever something you want to say, you can tell me. I'm here for you, no matter what."

"I know, Ain. Thank you. But... maybe some things are better left unsaid."

"Okay, whenever you're ready."