The Unbreakable Thread Of LOVE

Chapter - 34

One sunny afternoon, Almin and Jessica found themselves sitting on a bench in the school courtyard, their conversation light and easy as they discussed everything from their favorite subjects to weekend plans. The air was filled with laughter and friendly banter, and for a moment, Jessica felt at ease.

As they spoke, Almin glanced sideways at Jessica, his expression shifting slightly. "Hey, can I ask you something?" he said, his tone casual but laced with curiosity.

"Of course! What's on your mind?" Jessica replied, leaning in slightly, her interest piqued.

"What do you think Jessy likes? You know, as in hobbies or stuff like that?" Almin asked, his eyes brightening at the thought of his friend. "I've been thinking about how to cheer her up since she's been a bit down lately."

Jessica's heart clenched at the mention of Jessy. She fought to maintain her composure, forcing a smile despite the sudden pang of jealousy that shot through her. "Oh, Jessy? She loves art and music. She's really into painting and has been working on this amazing piece for her portfolio."

Almin nodded, his expression thoughtful. "That's really cool. I think I'll suggest we do something creative together, then. I want to let her know I appreciate her." He paused for a moment, his gaze shifting as he contemplated his next words. "You know, I really like Jessy. She's so vibrant and full of life. It's hard not to like her, honestly."

Jessica's heart sank, the forced smile fading as a wave of sadness washed over her. Inside, she felt a whirlwind of emotions: happiness for Jessy but also a bitter sting of unfulfilled desire for Almin himself. She took a breath, trying to mask her true feelings. "Oh... really? That's good! She's lucky to have someone who cares about her so much," she managed to say, her voice steady despite the turmoil beneath the surface.

"Yeah, I just feel like she deserves someone who truly appreciates her, you know?" Almin continued, oblivious to the storm brewing in Jessica's heart. "I think we could really connect. I just want to find the right moment to tell her."

Jessica clenched her fists in her lap, forcing back the feelings of disappointment that threatened to spill over. "You should definitely tell her. I'm sure she'll be really happy to hear that from you," she said, trying to keep her tone light and supportive. Inside, she felt the weight of her own unspoken feelings for Almin pressing down on her chest.

Almin grinned, his excitement infectious. "Thanks, Jessica. I knew you'd understand! You're a great friend." He leaned back against the bench, a sense of satisfaction radiating from him.

As their conversation drifted into lighter topics, Jessica found herself torn between her admiration for Almin and the bittersweet ache in her heart. The friendly banter continued, but beneath the surface, the air was thick with unacknowledged feelings, leaving both of them unaware of how their friendship was about to shift in unexpected ways.

With each laugh and shared smile, Jessica struggled to suppress the sorrow of unreciprocated love while supporting Almin in his pursuit of Jessy. Little did they know, the path ahead would become increasingly complicated, intertwining their fates in a way none of them could have anticipated.

After Almin left, Jessica felt the weight of unfulfilled emotions pressing down on her like a heavy shroud. She stood up abruptly, her heart racing as she made her way behind a nearby wall. Once out of sight, the facade she had maintained crumbled, and tears streamed down her cheeks, each drop carrying the weight of her disappointment and longing.

As she stood there, the soft sound of her quiet sobs echoed in the secluded space, her heart aching for the connection she had hoped to forge with Almin. Just as the flood of emotion felt overwhelming, she felt a gentle touch on her back. Turning slightly, she found Haimaki standing there, a look of genuine concern etched across his face.