Maybe, Someday

Chapter 2

Serene's POV

The morning flew by in a blur of lectures and laughter. Once Aki dropped me off at school, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as I entered the bustling hallways.

My friends, Irin and Nop, greeted me with wide smiles, their energy infectious.

"Hey, Samantha! Did you convince Zyd to let you skip school today?" Irin teased, nudging me playfully.

I laughed, shaking my head. "As if! You know my Aki, she wouldn't let me get away with it. She's like my personal guardian."

Nop rolled his eyes dramatically. "You're lucky to have someone like her looking out for you. I'd love a personal chauffeur."

We settled into our classroom, and I focused on the lessons, but my thoughts kept drifting back to Aki. I couldn't help but smile every time I recalled her warm laughter and the way she brushed her hair behind her ear.

Moments like those made school feel a little brighter.

As the clock ticked toward lunchtime, I felt a flutter of anticipation. Lunchtime was always a highlight—time to unwind, share stories, and, more importantly, think about Aki.

Finally, the bell rang, and I practically leaped from my seat. "Lunchtime!" I exclaimed, and my friends cheered in response.

We headed to the cafeteria, where the aroma of food filled the air. I grabbed a tray and picked out my usual favorites, but my mind was elsewhere.

I found a seat with Irin and Nop, and we chatted about the latest school gossip, but a part of me was still waiting for that familiar sound.

Just as I was about to dig into my food, my phone buzzed on the table. I quickly glanced at the screen and felt my heart race—it was Aki calling!

I answered, trying to keep my voice steady. "Aki! Hi!"

"Hey, kiddo! Just checking in. Have you had lunch yet?" Her voice was like a warm embrace, and I could almost picture her smiling through the phone.

I pouted when I heard her again, calling me kiddo. But I shrugged it off, I'm used to it anyways.

"Not yet! I just sat down. What about you?" I asked, unable to hide the excitement in my tone.

"I had a quick bite. I wanted to make sure you were taking care of yourself," she replied, and I could hear the affection in her voice.

"Awwww you're too sweet," I said, my cheeks flushing. "I'm fine! Just hanging out with Irin and Nop."

"Tell them I said hi!" Aki laughed softly. "And make sure you eat something healthy, okay? Don't just survive on fries."

"Oh, come on, we all know fries are a food group!" I laughed, feeling giddy. "But I promise I'll have some fruit too."

"Good! I'll hold you to that," she replied, her tone teasing but caring. "Okay, enjoy your lunch. By the way, I already told your parents that you will be spending dinner with my family. No need to inform them, but update them also."

"Thank you! I'll text mom later." I uttered excitedly.

"So, I'll see you later after school?" she softly asked.

"Absolutely!" I said, my heart fluttering at the thought of her picking me up later. "Thanks for calling, Aki. It made my day!"

"Anytime, Serene. Take care." With that, she hung up, and I felt a surge of happiness wash over me.

I turned to Irin and Nop, practically glowing. "Aki just called! She's the best!"

Nop raised an eyebrow, smirking. "You're totally in love with her, aren't you?"