My Favorite Color Is You (GL)

CHAPTER 9: Start Again

After the group’s lighthearted teasing and the subtle reunion between Therrien and Red, everyone decided to spend the day exploring more of the city. They strolled through busy streets, visiting small shops, and sampling new foods (to everyone’s amusement and Therrien’s slight horror when it came to more adventurous options).

As they wandered, Red seemed more comfortable, her hand brushing Therrien’s occasionally. This small gesture reassured Therrien that their relationship was rebuilding, even if only in little steps.

At one point, they found a quiet spot—a small park with a view of the city, overlooking the bustling energy below. The group took a break, sitting on the benches and chatting, watching people pass by. Charla snapped photos, capturing silly expressions and candid moments, determined to preserve memories of their trip.

Finally, Red suggested they check out a nearby street market that only opened at night. "It’s one of my favorite spots," Red told them. "It’s beautiful, with all the lights and people. Plus, they have amazing food."

Therrien looked excited. "I’d love to see it. Lead the way."

As they reached the market, the lights illuminated the street in warm, golden hues. Therrien looked around, taking in the sights and sounds, feeling at ease with Red by her side. They stopped at stalls, tried street food, and looked through trinkets. Red bought Therrien a small charm bracelet, a subtle gift that made her smile.

Towards the end of the evening, as they sat on a low wall overlooking the market, Red quietly spoke, "I’m glad we’re here like this."

Therrien smiled, holding the charm bracelet gently. "Me too."

Charla noticed the two of them sitting off to the side and playfully nudged Neumi. "See that? They’re getting along again."

Neumi grinned, "Finally, right?"

The next morning, the group decided to take a slow day after their evening at the night market. They lingered over breakfast, sharing stories and laughing about their favorite moments from the trip so far.

After breakfast, Charla suggested they check out a nearby temple known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the city. Therrien and Red agreed, eager to explore. As they wandered through the beautiful temple grounds, the group admired the intricate architecture, snapping photos and talking quietly to respect the calm setting.

At one point, Therrien and Red found themselves drifting away from the others, standing alone near a small pond surrounded by lush greenery. Red glanced at Therrien with a gentle smile, breaking the peaceful silence.

"You know, it’s been a while since we just... did something normal together," Red said, her eyes soft.

Therrien nodded. "It feels good. Like we’re starting over, maybe."

Red took a deep breath. "Therrien, I know we’ve been through a lot, and I don’t want to mess this up again. But I’m willing to try if you are."

Therrien’s gaze met Red’s, and her expression softened. "I’m willing, Red. Let’s take it slow. No pressure, no rush—just... us."

They stood there, quietly holding hands by the pond, a silent promise hanging between them. It was simple, yet it felt like the most meaningful step forward.

Eventually, Charla, Neumi, and Plin found them. Charla noticed their hands and raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Well, well, look who’s finally back together!"

Therrien and Red laughed, not denying anything but not confirming it either. They shared a look, and Therrien squeezed Red’s hand gently before letting go.

As they all continued walking through the temple grounds, Red leaned close and whispered to Therrien, "This time, we’ll do it right."

Therrien smiled, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. "Yeah, we will."

As the evening wore on, Therrien and Red found themselves alone on the terrace. The soft glow of the city lights created a gentle, quiet moment just for them.

Red looked over, her gaze warm. “Feels strange, but in a good way. Being here with you… it’s like everything we felt is still there. Only… different.”

Therrien nodded slowly, her heart racing. “Yeah. Like we’re picking up where we left off, but it doesn’t feel like the past. It’s just… us.”

Red smiled softly, the kind of smile that showed in her eyes. “I think we never stopped caring, you know? It just got buried under everything else.”

Therrien looked down, her fingers brushing against Red’s hand. “I didn’t think I’d get another chance to feel this way with you. Like it’s all new but… familiar.”

Red gently squeezed her hand. “Maybe that’s what makes it special. We’re not the same people we were, but maybe we’re better together now because of it.”

Therrien’s eyes softened as she looked at her. “Red, I love you—still. Maybe even more because we found each other again after all this.”

Red’s smile widened, and she brought Therrien’s hand to her chest. “I love you, too. Nothing about that ever really changed, did it?”

They sat together quietly, each holding onto the feeling, letting it settle in.

Therrien leaned her head against Red’s shoulder, closing her eyes. “Feels like we’re falling in love all over again. But this time… I think I know what I have, and I don’t want to lose it.”

Red stroked her hair gently. “Then let’s make it last, this time. No doubts, no holding back.”

With that, they stayed together in comfortable silence, savoring each other’s presence, as if the whole world had disappeared around them, leaving only them and the quiet promise of what was yet to come.