Red Flags in the Rearview

Ending 2: Diverging Roads

Chapter Seven: Diverging Roads

The week had been a whirlwind for the group. Between late-night talks, impromptu hangouts, and the growing tension between the pairs, it felt like something big was about to give way. Neither Reymark nor Rayne had anticipated how deeply their lives would change when they met Lianne and Jhenny.

The last night of the week, they all decided to meet at the park where their friendship had first started to solidify. The four of them sat under the sprawling oak tree, a soft breeze rustling through the leaves. The city lights glimmered in the distance, casting a warm glow over the park.

Reymark leaned back on his elbows, watching the stars. "Feels like it's been months instead of weeks," he said, breaking the silence.

"That's because you're not used to actually connecting with people," Jhenny said, though her tone lacked its usual edge.

He smirked. "Maybe not. But I think I get it now."

Lianne tilted her head, studying him. "And what exactly do you 'get,' Reymark?"

"That some things are worth the effort," he replied, glancing at her.

She held his gaze for a moment before looking away, her expression unreadable.

Rayne stretched his legs out in front of him. "Well, I'm just glad this whole thing didn't blow up in our faces. Could've gone a lot worse."

Jhenny laughed. "True. I mean, Lianne was ready to kill you two when we first met."

"I'm still not sure I've completely changed my mind," Lianne said, but there was a hint of a smile on her lips.

Rayne raised his hands in mock surrender. "Noted. I'll stay on my best behavior."

***

As the night wore on, the group began to drift apart. Jhenny wandered over to the swing set, and Rayne followed, leaving Lianne and Reymark by the tree.

"You've been quiet tonight," Reymark said, watching her.

"Just thinking," Lianne replied.

"About what?"

"About us," she admitted, surprising even herself.

Reymark tilted his head, studying her. "Us?"

Lianne sighed, running a hand through her hair. "Look, you've changed a lot since we first met. I can see that. But I can't help wondering... is it real? Or is it just for show?"

He didn't answer right away, taking a moment to choose his words carefully. "I think I've changed, but not enough," Reymark said finally. "I still have a long way to go, Lianne. You deserve someone who's ready for you right now, not someone who's still trying to figure himself out."

Her eyes softened, and she nodded, though her voice was quiet. "I guess I respect that. I just... I wish things were different."

"Me too," Reymark said.

They sat in silence for a moment before Lianne stood, brushing the sand off her jeans. "Take care of yourself, Reymark."

"You too, Lianne," he said, watching her walk away.

***

By the swings, Rayne pushed Jhenny gently, her laughter ringing out into the night.

"You're such a kid," she teased, looking over her shoulder at him.

"And you love it," he shot back, grinning.

Jhenny rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her smile. "Maybe a little."

As the swing slowed, Rayne stepped in front of her, his expression turning serious. "Jhenny, can I be honest with you?"

She raised an eyebrow. "Since when are you anything but honest?"

He chuckled. "Fair point. But this is different."

She tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "Okay, what is it?"

Rayne took a deep breath. "I like you. A lot. And I think you've made me want to be better, Jhenny. You've made me believe I can be better."

Jhenny paused, her cheeks flushing. "You mean that?"

"Every word," he said.

She stood, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Well, then. I guess I'm in trouble."

"Why's that?"

"Because I might be falling for you," she said softly.

Rayne grinned, stepping closer. "Good. Makes it easier for me to catch you."

Jhenny laughed, and when Rayne leaned in, she met him halfway. Their kiss was soft and tentative, filled with unspoken promises of something new.

***

By the end of the night, the four of them stood at the edge of the park, saying their goodbyes.

"You guys better not ghost us after this," Jhenny said, trying to keep the mood light.

"Never," Reymark said, glancing at her. "We're in this for the long haul, right?"

Jhenny nodded, smiling. "Right."

Reymark shoved his hands in his pockets, a small smile tugging at his lips. "I'll see you guys around."

Lianne gave him a long look, then turned to Jhenny. "Ready?"

"Yeah," Jhenny said.

The girls walked off together, their laughter fading into the night.

Reymark and Rayne stood in silence for a moment, watching them go.

"You okay?" Rayne asked finally.

"Yeah," Reymark said, though his voice was tinged with melancholy. "I think I did the right thing."

Rayne clapped a hand on his shoulder. "You'll figure it out. We both will."

Reymark smiled faintly. "You sound like a new man."

"Maybe I am," Rayne said. "Or at least, I'm trying to be."

As they headed in opposite directions, the weight of their choices settled over them. Rayne was ready to take a leap of faith with Jhenny, determined to prove he could change. Reymark, meanwhile, knew he had to take some time to figure himself out before he could truly commit to anyone.

Though their paths were different, their friendship remained unshaken-a bond built on shared mistakes, hard lessons, and the hope for something better.

And for the first time, both of them felt like they were heading in the right direction.