The excitement of the cultural exchange continued to buzz through the school, and among all the friendships and new connections, something unexpected was blossoming. Kenta, always the jokester and life of the group, found himself looking at Hana differently. It had crept up on him, a feeling he couldn't quite shake.
One afternoon, Kenta found himself hanging back with Hana after a particularly successful fundraising event. The two of them were tasked with cleaning up the remaining decorations in the clubroom. Hana was humming a tune softly as she worked, her face lit up with a contented smile.
Kenta couldn't help but watch her, his heart beating a little faster than usual. He had always admired Hana's dedication and kindness, but now there was something more, something that made him nervous and excited all at once.
"You're pretty good at this," Kenta said, trying to sound casual as he adjusted a streamer. "I mean, the whole organizing thing."
Hana laughed softly. "Thanks, Kenta. But I think we all did a great job. It was a team effort."
Kenta nodded, his usual bravado slipping. "Yeah, but you kind of keep us all together, you know? Like the glue."
Hana looked up, her eyes meeting his. "That's sweet of you to say. I think everyone has their strengths. Yours is definitely making us laugh and keeping things light."
Kenta grinned, feeling a warmth spread through him. "Well, someone's gotta do it."
As they continued to clean, Kenta couldn't help but steal glances at Hana. He wanted to say something, to tell her how he felt, but the words seemed to stick in his throat.
The next day, during a break between classes, Kenta found himself sitting with Ryo and Aiko, who were discussing the upcoming activities for the French students. He was quieter than usual, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of Hana.
Aiko noticed and nudged Ryo, giving him a knowing look. "Hey, Kenta, everything okay? You're awfully quiet today."
Kenta snapped out of his reverie, forcing a smile. "Yeah, just thinking about stuff. You know, the exchange program and all."
Ryo raised an eyebrow. "Really? You're usually the first one to crack a joke. What's up?"
Kenta hesitated, then decided to take a leap. "Actually, there's something I need to talk to you guys about. But promise not to laugh, okay?"
Aiko and Ryo exchanged glances, then nodded seriously. "We promise," they said in unison.
Kenta took a deep breath. "I think... I think I have a crush on Hana."
Aiko's eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly composed herself. "That's wonderful, Kenta! Hana's a great person."
Ryo smirked. "I had a feeling something was up. You've been acting weird around her lately."
Kenta groaned. "Great, am I that obvious?"
Aiko laughed softly. "Not really. We've just known you for a while. So, what are you going to do about it?"
Kenta shrugged, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. "I don't know. I mean, what if she doesn't feel the same way?"
Ryo clapped a hand on Kenta's shoulder. "You won't know until you try. Just be yourself. Hana likes you for who you are."
Aiko nodded in agreement. "And maybe start by spending more time with her, getting to know her better. Who knows? She might feel the same way."
Encouraged by their support, Kenta decided to take the plunge. Over the next few days, he made an effort to be around Hana more, finding opportunities to talk to her and work on projects together. They laughed and joked, and Kenta found himself falling even more for her kindness and intelligence.
One evening, as they were walking home from school, Kenta gathered his courage. "Hey, Hana, can I ask you something?"
Hana turned to him, her expression curious. "Sure, Kenta. What's on your mind?"
Kenta took a deep breath, his heart pounding. "I really enjoy spending time with you, and I've realized that I like you. Like, more than just a friend."
Hana's eyes widened, and for a moment, Kenta feared the worst. But then, a smile spread across her face. "Kenta, I've been feeling the same way. I just didn't know how to say it."
Relief and joy flooded through Kenta. "Really? That's amazing! So, does that mean...?"
Hana nodded, her cheeks flushed. "Yes, it does."
Kenta grinned, feeling like he was on top of the world. They continued their walk, hands brushing against each other, a new chapter in their friendship just beginning.
As they said goodnight, Kenta couldn't help but feel grateful. For the exchange program, for his friends, and most of all, for Hana. This was just the start of something wonderful, and he couldn't wait to see where it would lead.