The photograph radiated warmth, capturing a transcendent moment of unity between Akai and Ryder. As she gazed at the image, Akai's heart swelled with affection, her eyes locking onto the tender embrace they shared. The photo exuded a sense of togetherness, freezing a fleeting moment of bliss between them. Akai's heart swelled, seeing herself and Ryder captured in such perfect harmony.
Present day...
Gazing at the photo, Akai's lips curved into a soft smile. At 14, love was still a mystery, but her heart fluttered whenever Ryder was near.
She hadn't realized when her friendship with Ryder crossed into uncharted territory. The photo revealed a truth she couldn't yet articulate – her eyes locked onto his, shining with an unspoken affection.
