They found a quiet bench in the park and sat down, watching children run across the grass, their laughter ringing through the air, while couples walked hand in hand beneath the soft afternoon sun. The moment felt calm, like a small pocket of peace in the busy world.
"Do you remember the first time we met?" Ara asked suddenly, a small nostalgic smile on her lips.
Chenle turned toward her, a grin tugging at his own. "Of course," he said, chuckling. "It was that project where we were forced to work together."
Ara laughed softly. "And we came in first." She nudged him playfully. "I knew right then that we'd be great friends."
Chenle nodded, warmth spreading through his chest. Back then, he hadn't expected her to become such an important part of his life. But now, he couldn't imagine life without her.
As the sun dipped lower, painting the sky in soft pink and orange, a thought grew stronger in Chenle's mind. For the first time, he seriously considered what Ara had asked him. Could he do it?
With Kun and Ara beside him, maybe... just maybe... he could.
Before he could stop himself, he blurted, "Alright, I'll do it."
Ara blinked in surprise. "Wait... really?"
Chenle nodded, nervous but determined. "Yeah."
A bright smile spread across Ara's face. "That's amazing, Lele!" she exclaimed before throwing her arms around him in a tight hug. Chenle stiffened for a moment but then relaxed, letting out a quiet chuckle.
It felt... right.
Back home, Chenle didn't waste a second. As he stepped into his studio, inspiration rushed through him. He had made a choice, and now there was no turning back.
Kun and Ara stood in the doorway, watching with pride as Chenle set up a blank canvas. There was a spark in his eyes they hadn't seen in a long time.
"He's really doing it," Ara whispered.
Kun nodded. "And we'll be here every step of the way."
And they were.
Days turned into nights as Chenle poured his heart into his painting. The world outside disappeared, replaced by colors and brushstrokes that carried his feelings. He pushed himself, determined to create something that truly reflected him.
Kun and Ara kept him steady. They brought him meals when he forgot to eat, encouraged him to take breaks when he got tired, and filled his space with laughter and support.
"This is incredible, Lele," Ara whispered one evening as she admired his nearly finished piece. "I've never seen anything like it."
Chenle glanced at her, warmth filling his chest. "Thanks, Ara."
Kun entered with a steaming cup of tea. "How's it going?" he asked gently.
Chenle took a sip, shoulders relaxing. "Almost done. I think this might be my best work yet."
Kun smiled proudly. "I never doubted you."
This time, Chenle believed it too.
The day of the competition arrived, bringing nerves and excitement. Dressed in his best, Chenle stood at the gallery entrance, heart racing. Kun and Ara flanked him, their presence calming his fear.
"You've got this," Ara whispered, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze.
Inside, the gallery was filled with stunning artwork. Chenle looked around, and for the first time, he didn't feel small. He belonged here.
When the winners were announced, the room fell silent. Chenle's heart pounded.
"And the first prize goes to... Zhong Chenle!"
The words barely registered at first. The applause sounded distant.
Ara nudged him, smiling. "Lele, you won!"
Kun clapped him on the back, pride shining on his face. "Go on, get up there!"
Still in shock, Chenle walked to the stage, accepting the award with slightly trembling hands. As he looked out at the crowd, his eyes immediately found Kun and Ara. Their pride and joy were unmistakable.
This moment wasn't just his... it was theirs too.
That night, they celebrated at Chenle's favorite restaurant. Ningning joined them, her cheerful energy lighting up the table.
"I knew you could do it!" Ara said, raising her glass. "To Chenle, the most talented artist I know!"
Kun lifted his own glass. "To Chenle, and to many more masterpieces!"
Ningning grinned. "To our very own art prodigy!"
Chenle laughed, shaking his head as their glasses clinked together. Looking around at the people who had believed in him... even when he didn't believe in himself... he felt something heavy and comforting in his chest.
Gratitude. Love.
For the first time in a long while, he felt at peace.
And he knew, with them by his side, there was nothing he couldn't do.
