Taro nervously stood outside the classroom, clutching his rewritten assignment. Two sleepless nights and countless hours of hard work had paid off.
Arata, sitting on a nearby bench, gave him a reassuring smile.
"You've got this, Taro."
Taro took a deep breath and walked in.
_Ms. Tanaka's Classroom_
Ms. Tanaka handed back the graded assignments, her eyes scanning the room.
"And the highest mark goes to...Taro Yamada."
The class erupted in surprise. Taro's eyes widened as he saw his grade: 98%.
Sira's scowl deepened.
"How did you...?"
Taro grinned.
"Determination. And a little help from a friend."
_Park_
Taro rushed to the park, spotting Arata on a bench.
"Arata!" Taro exclaimed, waving his paper.
Arata stood up, beaming.
"You did it!"
Taro sprinted toward Arata, embracing him tightly.
"Thank you! I couldn't have done it without you!"
Arata laughed, hugging Taro back.
"You're welcome!"
Their enthusiasm proved too much; they lost balance and tumbled to the grass.
Taro's laughter mingled with Arata's as they sat up, grinning.
"I owe you one," Taro said, eyes shining.
Arata's gaze softened.
"You don't owe me anything."
Their faces inches apart, Taro felt a flutter in his chest.
For a moment, they just looked at each other.
The world around them melted away
