Maybe, Someday

Chapter 11

Serene's POV

I woke up slowly, the morning light filtering through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. It took me a moment to realize that Aki wasn't beside me.

I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the lingering effects of the alcohol.

Rubbing my eyes, I pushed myself up and glanced around the dim room. The bed felt empty without Aki, but the memory of her warmth lingered. I swung my legs over the edge and stood up, feeling slightly unsteady but determined to find her.

As I made my way downstairs, the comforting smell of something savory wafted through the house, guiding me toward the kitchen.

When I entered, I was greeted by a cozy scene: Aki's parents were sitting at the table, engaged in light conversation, and there was Aki, standing at the stove, stirring a pot.

My heart swelled at the sight of her. She looked so effortlessly beautiful in her casual clothes, her hair slightly messy but framing her face perfectly.

I watched as she poured something into a bowl, a concentrated look on her face.

"Good morning, sleepyhead! Haven't seen you in a while, I've missed you, young lady." Aki's mom called out, smiling warmly at me.

"Morning too tita mommy. I've missed you too, you and tito dad." I replied, a little shyly as I stepped further into the kitchen.

"Good morning to my daughter's princess. I miss you also, Sam." Aki's dad added.

I then went to hug them both, which they gave back.

Aki turned around, catching sight of me. "Hey, how are you feeling?" she asked, her eyes filled with concern.

"Like I got hit by a truck," I admitted, rubbing my temples. "What's that smell?"

"Hangover soup," Aki said, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "And I've got some medicine for you too. You need to hydrate."

"That sounds amazing," I said, sinking into a chair at the table. Aki's parents exchanged knowing glances, and I felt the heat rise to my cheeks.

"Don't worry, we've all been there," Aki's dad chuckled. "Just take it easy today."

As Aki served me the soup, I felt a rush of gratitude. She was taking care of me in the sweetest way, just like she always did. "Thank you," I murmured, taking the warm bowl from her hands.

"Just eat up. We'll talk privately after breakfast," she promised, her voice soft but firm.

I nodded, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness. I needed to talk to her, to clear the air between us.

Each spoonful of soup was comforting, and I savored it as I watched Aki interact with her parents, her laughter filling the room.

Once I finished, I set the bowl aside and took a deep breath. "Ready when you are," I said, looking at Aki, who was still busy preparing my medicine.

She met my gaze, her expression serious but warm. "Let's go to my room."

We then bid goodbye to her parents as they were leaving for a meeting.

As we returned upstairs, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and anxiety. I wanted to know where we stood, to see if there was a path forward for us.

Aki opened the door to her room, and I followed her inside, the familiar scent of her space wrapping around me like a comforting blanket.

Once the door was closed, the atmosphere shifted. I could feel the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air.