The Depth of Love

Chapter 1: New Beginnings, Same Anxieties

(August 9)

Kai and Rina were both on edge-nervous but excited for their first day at a new school tomorrow.

Kai's POV:

Kai sat with his phone in hand, messaging his close friend Ash, about the big day. "What do you think we'll do in class tomorrow?" he typed, fingers trembling slightly from nerves. Ash quickly replied, "Probably just introductions." Kai sighed. He knew that wouldn't be easy for him. He was painfully aware of his awkwardness and anti-social tendencies. The thought of standing up and introducing himself to a room full of strangers made his chest tighten.

But despite the anxiety, there was a flicker of excitement deep down-maybe things would be different this time. Maybe he'd finally be able to blend in and not stand out for the wrong reasons.

Rina's POV:
Though Rina was also introverted and quiet, confidence wasn't something she lacked. Lying in bed, her thoughts raced, but it wasn't fear she felt-it was excitement. This was the beginning of something new, and for her, it symbolized a fresh start. School had always been her safe space, where her dedication and hard work paid off.

She promised herself, before drifting off to sleep, that no matter what challenges she faced, she'd push herself harder and make her junior high school years count.

(August 10)

The first day of school arrived, and their schedules were set from 1 PM to 6 PM. No need to wake up at dawn, but the anticipation made the hours stretch endlessly.

Kai's POV:
Kai woke up at 10 AM, the pit of anxiety in his stomach heavier than ever. He sat at the edge of his bed, staring at his uneaten breakfast. He wasn't hungry-he was too busy overthinking everything. "Will anyone talk to me? What if I make a fool of myself? Are my classmates going to be smarter than me?" His mind spiraled with questions, each one tightening the knot in his stomach.

After getting ready, he messaged Ash. They agreed to meet up before heading to their new sections together. It was a small relief knowing he wouldn't be completely alone.

As the time to leave drew closer, Kai felt his heart race. Maybe this year I'll just lay low, stay quiet, and get through the day without any issues. But deep down, he knew that even staying quiet wouldn't stop the anxiety that came with being the "new kid."

Rina's POV:

Even though their class started at 1 PM, Rina woke up early. Being productive was her way of managing nerves. She focused on her morning routine, trying to distract herself from the bubbling anxiety in her chest. With her things packed and ready to go, she took a deep breath.

"This is just the beginning," she told herself. "I'm doing this for my future."

Rina wasn't too concerned about making friends or fitting in. She'd always been fine on her own, focusing on her studies. But the thought of entering a new school still made her stomach flutter with nerves.

(When they finally arrived at their new school, the wave of unfamiliarity hit them both-but they dealt with it in their own ways.)

Kai's POV:
Kai struggled to find his section. His vision blurred slightly, and though he had glasses, he couldn't bring himself to wear them. He hated how they made him look, and the insecurity gnawed at him. He wandered aimlessly, too shy to ask anyone for help. Finally, he gave up and decided to wait Ash.

When they met up, he felt a sense of relief. Together, they navigated the maze of classrooms until they found their rooms. Kai's stomach dropped when he realized they weren't in the same section. The thought of being alone among strangers gnawed at him.

As they parted ways, Kai forced a smile. "We'll catch up at break," he muttered to himself, trying to find comfort in the idea. But deep down, he knew the first day would test him in ways he wasn't ready for.

Rina's POV:
The moment Rina stepped into the campus, her anxiety spiked. Students surrounded her, chatting and laughing, and the noise was overwhelming. She quickly ducked into the restroom, taking a moment to steady herself. In the quiet of the restroom, she stared at her reflection. "You've got this, Rina. It's just another step."

After a few deep breaths, she felt calmer and walked back into the bustling hallway. She spotted a water fountain and decided to grab a drink, hoping it would help ease her nerves. Once she gathered her thoughts, she reminded herself that today was just the beginning of her journey to achieve more. She wasn't worried about making friends-just focusing on her own goals.

As the bell rang, signaling the start of their classes, students flooded into their respective rooms, laughter and chatter filling the air.

Kai stood in front of his classroom, heart racing as he took a deep breath. This is it, he thought, feeling both nervous and excited. He pushed the door open and stepped inside, scanning the room for any familiar faces.

Meanwhile, Rina walked toward her classroom, her mind racing with thoughts about her classes and goals. She took a deep breath, reminding herself that she was here for a reason. As she entered her room, she noticed the energy buzzing around her classmates-some were chatting animatedly, while others were already lost in their phones.

As both Kai and Rina took their seats, the teacher stepped in, commanding attention with a warm smile. "Welcome, everyone! I'm excited to kick off this new school year with you all. Let's start with introductions. I want you to share your name and one interesting fact about yourself."

Kai's heart sank. Here it comes-the moment I have to speak in front of everyone. He felt the familiar knot of anxiety tighten in his stomach. He glanced around, taking in the faces of his classmates, each one a stranger. Would he be able to get through this without stumbling over his words?

Rina sat silently, her thoughts racing. "Why do they always do this on the first day?" She prepared herself mentally, reminding herself to stay calm. Despite her nerves, she wasn't worried about making friends; she just needed to focus on her studies.

As the teacher began calling on students, Kai's heart pounded louder with each introduction. "What if I said something embarrassing?" "What if no one wanted to talk to me afterward?" Meanwhile, Rina felt a sense of determination rising within her. This was just another challenge she would conquer.

With the classroom settling into a rhythm, it became clear that both Kai and Rina were about to embark on a journey that would change everything they thought they knew about themselves and each other.