Tangled Hearts And Classroom Smiles

Trip III

The morning sun filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor as the school trip's second day kicked off with a hike through the mountains. Fourth walked alongside Gemini, both of them keeping a watchful eye on the excited kids as they explored the trail. The crisp air was filled with the sounds of laughter and chatter, a melody that set the perfect tone for the day's adventure.

Nan, who was bursting with energy, ran up to Fourth and Gemini every so often, asking for water or a snack. "Papa, can I have another cookie?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Just one more," Fourth said with a smile, handing her the treat. He couldn't help but feel a warmth settle in his chest at how naturally they fell into this little routine. Every time he looked up at Gemini, who was smiling down at Nan, it was like something inside him relaxed just a bit more.

Dunk, meanwhile, was the life of the hike. He was surrounded by a group of kids, his animated voice carrying through the trees as he entertained them with stories and sang nursery rhymes. "The wheels on the bus go round and round!" he sang, doing silly hand gestures that made the kids laugh. Nan, in particular, seemed to grow fond of Dunk, her eyes lighting up whenever he told a joke or did something goofy.

As the day wore on and they reached the end of the trail, the kids were exhausted but happy, their faces glowing with joy. The teachers gathered for a quick meeting to discuss the schedule for the rest of the trip, leaving Dunk and a few caretakers to look after the children.

After the meeting, the other teachers, noticing how hard Fourth and Gemini had worked throughout the day, insisted that the two of them go and relax in the hot springs. "You both have been running around more than anyone," one of the teachers said with a wink. "Go on, take a break. You've earned it."

Fourth tried to protest, feeling a bit awkward about accepting the offer, but Gemini just grinned and gave him a gentle nudge. "C'mon, Fourth, let's go," he said, his eyes twinkling. "We deserve it."

At the hot springs, they settled into the warm water, the steam rising around them as they both let out sighs of relief. Fourth felt his muscles relax almost immediately, the tension of the day melting away.

"I could get used to this," Gemini said, leaning back and closing his eyes with a smile.

Fourth laughed softly. "You mean lounging around while everyone else does the work?"

"Exactly," Gemini teased, opening one eye to look at Fourth. They both burst out laughing, the sound echoing in the tranquil surroundings.

For nearly an hour, they talked and laughed, sharing stories about their lives, their dreams, and even their most embarrassing moments. Fourth found himself growing more comfortable around Gemini, the playful banter and genuine smiles making him forget all his worries, at least for a while.

When they finally got out and dressed, Fourth felt a rush of boldness he couldn't quite explain. With Gemini looking at him with that warm, inviting smile, Fourth tiptoed and pressed a quick, soft kiss to his lips.

But just as their lips parted, they heard a soft gasp. They both turned to see Dunk standing at the doorway of the hot spring with Nan beside him. Dunk's eyes were wide with surprise, but it was Nan's face that made Fourth's heart drop—she looked shocked, her small face crumpling as tears welled up in her eyes.

"Nan?" Fourth called softly, but before he could say anything else, she ran to him and clung to his leg, burying her face in his pants as she started to cry. "Hey, hey, what's wrong, sweetie?" Fourth asked, kneeling down to her level, his heart breaking at the sight of her tears.

But Nan didn't answer, her little shoulders shaking as she sobbed quietly. Fourth exchanged a worried glance with Gemini before he scooped Nan up in his arms. "Let's go to our room, okay?" he said softly, carrying her away to give her some privacy.