We silently waited as their arguing came to an end. As their tension simmered down, I told them everything. I was anxious as I awaited their response. "Took you long enough. I mean we knew something was wrong but we've been waiting for you to come out with it." Alexander stated so nonchalantly. "I've been holding this back for the longest while." She approached me and slapped me in my face. "Don't you dare make me worry about you again!" "Damn by honestly you deserve it. I would hit you too but I see that you've been through enough already so that slap was for the both of us."
I began crying. "Wait did I hit you that hard?" "Yo bro are you okay?" Tears fell from my face but it wasn't because of the bruise on my face. I was so moved by how they genuinely care for me. I hugged them tightly crying over their shoulders as they endured it. Ayumi remained stationary admiring our showcase of friendship. "Join in," he said as he made a slight gesture. "You are a part of this group. Don't make me have to drag you into this hug." She rushed to participate in the group hug with a bright smile on her face. It was the first time we had all hugged each other simultaneously. It was definitely an unforgettable moment.
"Look this is summer vacation bro. We should enjoy it." "I agree with Alex but what should we do?" "It would have to wait till after my training is done." "Party pooper!" "Don't you have art lessons?" She remained silent. "Look we got plenty of time, right? So, I say we wait till our business is over and then enjoy summer. I know a certain person definitely needs to relax." "I like that idea. We'll have our time to hang out just us bros!" "I don't know how I feel about being called a bro." "It's decided then. How about in the last week of summer break we'll do whatever we want?"
We all agreed and after just keeping each company for a little while longer we each headed for home. "Tell me how does it feel?" "What do you mean?" "For once you finally look relaxed." "Oh that, it actually feels nice." "Glad to hear." She was shocked when I suddenly stopped walking. "Umm is something wrong?" "How about we spend the rest of this day together?" "That is so sudden plus where would we go?" "I got a place; you want to go?" "I would have to ask my aunt first." "Actually, don't worry about it." I started walking once more.
I saw her off and arrived home eventually. Of course, meeting me at the door giving me a cold stare was my father. "Where were you?" "With friends." "Shouldn't you be studying?" "It is summer break I'm taking this chance to take a break." "From what!" I could tell he was pleased. A scowl appeared on his face and his arms were folded as he menacingly looked at me. "You should be studying as you didn't place first or did you already forget that recent failure?" I was intimidated but I was motivated by the recent encounter with my friends.
"I am sorry that I wasn't able to live up to your standards but honestly dad I tried my hardest and I am quite satisfied with the results I've received. Mom is also. Maybe next time they will meet your expectations." I entered the house to see my mom smiling with pride. I left for my room and shut the door behind me. Soon I couldn't hide it anymore. I was breathing heavily and my chest felt tight. I couldn't believe I was able to maintain my composure throughout that ordeal. Despite this feeling, I was proud of myself. I was able to convey my emotions and remained respectful. That was definitely a step in the right direction and hopefully, I could keep it up.
My attention soon drifted to my phone as I had received a message. It was Ayumi requesting if we could go on a call together. I checked to see if the coast was clear and then called her. "Hello, how are you?" "Hi, I'm ok. You?" "I had a situation with my dad but I spoke a bit of my mind so I'm fine." "Proud of you!" I chuckled hearing her wholesome voice utter those words. "Thanks. Did you want to talk about something in particular?" "Umm actually yes. About what happened earlier. How about the last day of summer? I'll bring the book I wanted you to read."
"Sounds like a plan. Also sorry for today." "Why are you sorry?" "I was supposed to be tutoring you today." "Oh that. I actually wanted to discuss that so thanks for reminding me. You shouldn't have to help me especially after going through your basketball training. Use that time to relax. You have helped plenty and I need more help I know who to call." "Ok then, I'll be sure to help if you do ask." "Bye Ken!" Just like that, the conversation was over. I sat on my bed thinking. Something was bothering me and I didn't know the answer or I just didn't want to acknowledge it.
I yawned as my energy was about to run out. I wrapped myself in my bed and soon I was asleep. Again, I found myself in darkness, staring my younger self down. "Good job, you actually did something. It is nice to see you smiling for once. Although this is so I can tell something is on your mind want to talk about it?" I overcame my reluctance and began speaking. "It's about Ayumi. She is a great friend and I care about her but sometimes I think do I just see her as a friend?" "Why don't you say something?" "I'm not sure about these feelings plus if I did confess wouldn't it ruin our friendship and what if she doesn't like me?"
"Well, I'm not sure if she does like you back but what I do know is she wouldn't stop being your friend so easily." "I guess." The younger me approached me, tiptoed, and placed his hand on my shoulder. "I can't tell you what to do. I'm just the kid version of you. You have to decide that for yourself." As usual, he faded away and I soon began reliving memories. This time it wasn't about the tragic moments but it was the times I spent with her. When I roused from my sleep it felt weird to not have a damp bed and my heart was racing. I was certain I had feelings for her but was uncertain what to do with them.