A Day in Rina's life
As I opened the door to our cozy little apartment, a warm smile spread across my face. Our living room was filled with the gentle hum of morning chatter, and the aroma of freshly brewed green tea wafted through the air. Kerin, Yoshi, and Kei were already up and about, busy preparing breakfast in the kitchen.
Our apartment was a reflection of our unique personalities. Colorful posters and artwork adorned the walls, while plush cushions and cozy blankets made our living room feel like a snug little nest. My favorite corner of the room was dedicated to my design projects, with sketches, fabrics, and half-finished crafts scattered about.
"Good morning, everyone!" I chimed, dropping my bag onto the floor. "What's for breakfast?"
"Tamagoyaki, toast, and miso soup," Yoshi announced, holding up a steaming tray of Japanese-style rolled omelets.
My stomach growled in anticipation as I joined the others at the table. We dug in, savoring the flavors and textures of our traditional Japanese breakfast.
As we ate, our conversation turned to our design project, which was due today. I was nervous but excited to submit my application for the internship.
"Guys, I'm so nervous about this project," I admitted, fidgeting with my chopsticks. "What if I don't get in?"
Kei placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "You'll be fine, Rina. Your designs are amazing."
Yoshi nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and you've worked so hard on this project. You deserve to get in."
Kerin, who had been quietly observing our conversation, coughed twice to grab our attention. "Um, sorry to interrupt, but can we please not talk about design projects at the breakfast table?"
We all laughed, knowing that Kerin wasn't exactly thrilled about our design discussions.
As we finished our breakfast, Harumi's car pulled up outside. We grabbed our bags and headed out the door, chatting excitedly about our day ahead.
In the car, our conversation turned to the latest BL series we'd watched the night before. Kei and Yoshi were both fans of the genre, and they eagerly discussed the latest plot twists and character developments.
I grinned, happy to see my friends so passionate about something. "I know, right? I ship those two characters so hard!"
Kerin, who was sitting in the front passenger seat, turned around and raised an eyebrow. "You guys and your BL obsession..."
We all laughed, knowing that Kerin wasn't exactly into the same things as us. But she was never judgmental or critical, and we appreciated her acceptance and support.
As we pulled up to the college campus, I felt grateful for my friends and our little family. We might be different, but we fit together perfectly, like pieces of a puzzle.
And as we headed off to our respective classes, I knew that no matter what the day brought, I could face it with confidence, knowing that my friends had my back.
After submitting my project, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. I had done it. Now, all I had to do was wait and see if I got the internship.
I headed back to the Navy Flower Shop, where I worked as a part-timer. As I pushed open the door, a bell above it rang out, and I was greeted by the warm smile of Mrs. Nakamura, the owner of the shop.
"Ah, Rina-chan! Welcome back! How did your project submission go?" Mrs. Nakamura asked, her eyes sparkling with interest.
I smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards her. Mrs. Nakamura had been like a mentor to me, teaching me the art of flower arrangement and helping me to develop my skills.
"It went well, thank you for asking," I replied, hanging up my bag and apron. "I'm just waiting to hear back now."
Mrs. Nakamura nodded, her expression encouraging. "I'm sure you'll do fine. You're one of the hardest-working students I've ever met."
I blushed, feeling a sense of pride. Mrs. Nakamura was always so supportive and kind. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued.
As I began to work on the day's arrangements, Mrs. Nakamura came over to help me. We chatted and laughed together, our hands moving in tandem as we created beautiful bouquets and centerpieces.
It was moments like these that I cherished, working alongside Mrs. Nakamura and learning from her expertise. She was more than just a boss; she was a friend and a mentor, and I was grateful to have her in my life.
As I turned the corner, arranging a bouquet of flowers, I was startled to see a familiar face standing in front of the counter. My heart skipped a beat as our eyes met, and I felt a rush of emotions that I couldn't quite explain.
It was Yuchi.
The same Yuchi I had been desperately trying to avoid.
The same Yuchi I had shared a unforgettable moment with at the wedding.
I hadn't expected to see him again, especially not here, in the flower shop where I worked. My mind went blank as I struggled to process my emotions.
Yuchi, on the other hand, seemed completely at ease. He flashed me a charming smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Rina, it's great to see you again," he said, his voice low and smooth.
I felt a flutter in my chest as I tried to respond, but my voice caught in my throat. I managed a weak smile, feeling like I was drowning in a sea of emotions.
Mrs. Nakamura, oblivious to the tension between us, greeted Yuchi warmly and asked how she could help him. Yuchi ordered a bouquet of flowers, his eyes never leaving mine as he spoke.
I felt like I was trapped in a dream, unable to move or speak. All I could do was stand there, frozen in time, as Yuchi's gaze held me captive.
As he finished his order and turned to leave, our hands touched briefly, sending a spark of electricity through my body. I felt like I was melting into his eyes, losing myself in their depths.
And then, just as suddenly as he had appeared, Yuchi was gone, leaving me feeling breathless and bewildered.
I couldn't shake off the feeling that my life was about to change in ways I couldn't even imagine.
As I stepped out of the flower shop, I was surprised to see Yuchi waiting for me, leaning against his car. He looked even more handsome in the daylight, and I felt a flutter in my chest as our eyes met.
"Get in the car, Rina," he said, his voice low and commanding.
I hesitated, unsure of what to do. But Yuchi's eyes seemed to bore into mine, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. Without thinking, I walked towards the car and got in.
As we drove through the crowded streets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Where was Yuchi taking me? And why?
It wasn't until we left the city behind and entered a peaceful, serene area that Yuchi finally spoke up.
"What's wrong, Rina?" he asked, turning towards me with a piercing gaze.
I felt a blush rise to my cheeks as I looked away, unsure of how to respond. Yuchi's eyes seemed to see right through me, and I felt vulnerable and exposed.
"You've been avoiding me," Yuchi stated, his voice low and husky. "Why?"
I shook my head, still looking away. "I...I don't know what you're talking about."
Yuchi chuckled, a low, throaty sound. "Don't lie to me, Rina. I can see it in your eyes. You're scared of me."
I felt a surge of fear at his words, but Yuchi's next sentence caught me off guard.
"You're scared of how you feel, aren't you?" he asked, his eyes glinting with amusement.
I felt a blush rise to my cheeks as I looked away, unsure of how to respond.
Yuchi leaned in close, his breath whispering against my ear. "I have to say, I'm flattered. Especially after that kiss at Harumi and Toshiro's wedding."
My heart skipped a beat as I felt a rush of memories flood back. The way Yuchi's lips had felt against mine, the way my heart had skipped a beat....
I turned to him, my eyes wide with surprise. "You...you remembered that?"
Yuchi grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "How could I forget?"