Kai had spent the last few days overthinking everything.
Since that fateful night when Rina had jokingly mentioned having a crush on Kenji, he couldn't shake the feeling of jealousy and sadness that had settled deep within him.
Rina's words echoed in his mind, and he was constantly analyzing every little interaction they had. He couldn’t help but wonder if she really liked Kenji or if it was just a joke. The uncertainty gnawed at him, making it hard to focus on anything else.
Sitting on his bed, staring at his phone, he contemplated messaging Rina again. It was risky, but he felt the urge to drop some hints about his feelings.
Maybe if he was subtle enough, she’d understand what he was trying to say without him having to directly admit it.
After all, the thought of confessing made him anxious, and he wasn't ready to face the possibility of rejection.
Taking a deep breath, he finally typed a message:
Kai: Hey Rina! Just wondering what you’re up to today?
He hit send, his heart racing as he waited for her response. Moments later, his phone buzzed.
Rina: Hey! Not much, just studying. You?
Kai felt a rush of warmth. Her reply was casual yet inviting.
Kai: Same here. Just trying to catch up on some homework.
Rina: Good idea! I’m really trying to focus. Quizzes are coming up, and I don’t want to fall behind.
Her mention of studying struck a chord with Kai. He admired Rina's dedication, but it also reminded him of how serious she was about her studies.
He hesitated for a moment, then decided to steer the conversation in a different direction, hoping to gauge her interest.
Kai: Have you seen any good movies lately? I could use a break from all this studying.
There was a pause before Rina replied.
Rina: Not really! Just documentaries for school, unfortunately. You know how it is.
He could picture her rolling her eyes, and it made him smile.
Kai: Yeah, I get that. Any recommendations?
Rina: Ugh, not really! But if I find something good, I’ll let you know.
Kai could sense her focus shifting back to studying, but he felt the urge to push on, to see if he could provoke any reaction from her.
Kai: You know, if you ever need a study buddy, I’m here. Just saying!
Rina: Haha, you’re sweet, Kai. But I think I can manage on my own for now. I’m really just focusing on my grades.
He felt a sting at her words. She was nice, but there was an underlying hint of dismissal. It made him doubt whether she even considered him a close friend.
After a few more minutes of small talk, Rina dropped the bomb he didn’t see coming.
Rina: So, I heard about this guy from another school. Do you know him? His name is... Takuya?
The sudden mention of a new guy sent Kai's mind spiraling. Who was this Takuya? Why was Rina asking about him? The fear of her liking someone else twisted his stomach into knots.
Kai: I don’t know him. Who is he?
He waited for her response, his heart is pounding.
Rina: Secret!
YOU ARE READING
The Depth of Love
RomantikA real life story where two transfer students find themselves in a new school, both feeling out of place. He falls for her first, but she's not interested-at least, not at the start. With time, barriers break down and what begins as indifference slo...
