The day felt bright and fresh as Latychia stepped into school excitedly. She wore her neat junior high school uniform—a white blouse with a light blue skirt, her long hair tied in ponytails, so her face looked more cheerful. Despite being only 12 years old, Latychia has a cheerful and energetic personality, always spreading cheerfulness wherever she is. However, in his heart, there was a deeper and more complicated feeling, a feeling that was difficult to express to his best friend, Jose.

Jose is a close friend of Latychia who is two years older. She is already in the 9th grade of junior high school, while Latychia is still in the 7th grade. With his ideal height and charming smile, Jose has an irresistible charm. Every time Latychia saw him, his heart skipped a beat. They've been friends since childhood, but over time, Latychia realizes that her feelings for Jose have turned into something more complex—love.

At school, the atmosphere is very crowded. Many students gathered on the court to practice ahead of the upcoming inter-class basketball game. Latychia walked towards the field, her eyes looking for a figure that could always make her feel excited. And there he was, Jose, standing with his male friends—Jeremy, Denzel, and Alvin—while they laughed and joked.

"Laty! Come here!" called out to Jose as he saw Latychia approaching. Her warm smile made Latychia's heart beat faster. He stepped closer, trying not to show how nervous he was.

"Laty, do you want to watch us practice or do you want to join us?" asked Jose, his face full of hope.

Latychia thought for a moment. He wasn't very good at basketball, but didn't want to disappoint Jose. "I... I just watched it. I don't want to disturb," he replied, trying to sound relaxed, though his heart was full of hope.

Jose nodded, his face looking understanding. "Okay, but don't worry, you can join in at any time! We need a great striker like you!" he teased, making Latychia smile widely.

Latychia sat on the sidelines, watching them practice. Every move Jose seemed so graceful and powerful. He runs, jumps, and scores with ease. Latychia couldn't help but smile, feeling a deep admiration. He began to think about his feelings. Why couldn't he reveal all this to Jose? Could it be that he felt the same way?

When the practice was over, their friends began to gather around Jose. They all seemed so familiar and cheerful. "Laty, you should have joined the training! We need more female players!" exclaimed Denzel, excited.

"Ah, yes! Come on, Laty! We can make a basketball team!" Alvin added, making Latychia laugh.

"Sorry, guys. Maybe next time," Latychia replied with a smile. He didn't want to reject them, but also felt insecure.

After the practice, they all went to the cafeteria for lunch. Latychia sat down beside Jose, and a warm feeling flowed inside her. During the meal, they discussed various things—movies, music, and plans for the weekend. As Jose spoke, Latychia couldn't help but be fascinated by his voice. He wanted to remember all the details about this moment.

"Eh, Laty, do you know we have a basketball game this weekend?" asked Jeremy.

"Seriously? When?" Latychia asked enthusiastically.

"Saturday morning. We need the support of all friends. You have to come!" Jeremy replied.

Latychia nodded. "Sure! I'll definitely come!" It felt like the perfect opportunity to see Jose play. Every second he spent near Jose felt precious, and he promised himself that he would use the opportunity to get closer to Jose.

After lunch, they returned to class. Inside the classroom, Latychia felt a little uneasy. The day's lessons were boring, and his mind drifted on Jose. He tried to concentrate, but the shadow of his face was always annoying. When the bell rings, Latychia immediately packs up and prepares to go home, her spirits dwindling as she longs to see Jose back.

On the way home, Latychia walked alone while contemplating. He was eager to brave himself to express his feelings. However, fear and anxiety always make him retreat. What would Jose say? Will he feel the same?

Arriving home, Latychia went straight to her room and opened her notebook. He began to write, expressing everything that was on his mind.

"Dear Diary,

Today was a lot of fun! I saw Jose again, and he was amazing on the pitch. It felt like my heart was beating every time I saw it. Sometimes I think, does he feel the same way? Or am I just delusional?

I really hope to have the courage to express my feelings to her. We've been friends for a long time, and I'm afraid that everything will change if I say it. But on the other hand, I couldn't keep it.

Hopefully one day, I can find the courage to speak out."

After writing, Latychia felt a little relieved. He closes the book and prepares to go to bed, hoping to have a beautiful dream about Jose. In his sleep, he imagined various scenarios, where the two of them were cuddling under the moonlight, or perhaps dancing at a party.

The next day, the atmosphere at school felt more cheerful. All students were excited to discuss about the upcoming basketball game. Latychia and her friends gathered in the cafeteria, chatting about their plans to support Jose and his team.

"Laty, are you ready for tomorrow's game?" asked Chloe, her cheerful best friend.

"Ready! I can't wait to see them play!" replied Latychia, trying to contain her feelings.

Meanwhile, Denzel and Alvin were seen planning a strategy for the match. "We have to win! We have Jose, so we can definitely do it!" exclaimed Denzel.

Latychia couldn't help but smile at the enthusiasm of her friends. However, his heart was still full of nervousness. Perhaps, he could talk to Jose after the match. It can be a good opportunity to express his feelings.

The day of the match arrived. All students gathered on the field, wearing team shirts and carrying placards to support. Latychia stood in the middle of the crowd, feeling the vibe of enthusiasm in the air. When Jose and his team entered the field, cheers erupted.

Latychia held up her plaque, shouting in support. "Come on, Jose! You can!" His heart trembled when he saw Jose focused, ready to compete.

The match was very exciting. Latychia couldn't stop cheering for her team. Jose played amazingly, scoring point after point. Seeing him in action on the field, Latychia felt proud. As Jose did a spectacular slam dunk, the cheers grew louder, and everyone cheered with joy.

In the middle of the game, he promised himself that after the game, he would talk to Jose. When the final whistle sounded and Jose's team managed to win, cheers rang out throughout the field. Latychia jumped for joy, feeling joy in her heart.

After the match, everyone gathered to celebrate the victory. Latychia searches for Jose in the crowd. When he finally found it, his heart was pounding. Jose approached him with a big smile.

"Laty! Thank you for coming! You're so cool!" he said, hugging him tightly.

"No problem, Jose! You're amazing on the pitch! I'm proud of you!" replied Latychia, feeling warm as she hugged.

They stood together, enjoying the moment of victory. Their friends began to gather, cheering and laughing. However, Latychia knew that this was the right time to express her feelings. He gathered all his courage, trying not to seem nervous.

"Jose, can we talk for a minute?" he asked, trying to sound calm.

"Yes, sure! Do you have anything to say?" Jose replied, looking curious.

They moved away from the crowd, heading to a quieter place near the field. Latychia could feel her heart beating faster. "I... I've been wanting to say something for a long time, and I hope you'll hear it," he said, his voice trembling slightly.

"Laty, you can say anything. I'll listen," Jose replied, looking at him attentively.

With a deep breath, Latychia continued, "I know we've been friends for a long time, and I really appreciate our friendship. But... As time went by, I felt that my feelings for you were more than just a friend. I... I like you, Jose. I've been feeling this way for a long time."

Hearing that confession, Jose's face looked shocked, but a smile slowly appeared on his face. "Laty... I like you too. I've felt it for a long time, but I don't know how to say it."

The two were silent in a moment full of happiness. Eventually, all the fear and doubt disappeared. Latychia felt as if a huge burden had been lifted from her shoulders.

"So, what are we going to do now?" asked Latychia, a smile that couldn't escape her face.

"How about we start by spending more time together? We can get to know each other better," Jose suggested.

"Yes, I like that!" replied Latychia, feeling a new spirit in her.

They rejoined friends, but now there is a stronger bond between them. A feeling of happiness filled Latychia's heart. He knew that this was the beginning of something beautiful.

The following days at school became more cheerful. Latychia and Jose are spending more and more time together, sharing stories, and planning for the future. They support each other in lessons and extracurricular activities. Latychia felt that her life had become more colorful.

One afternoon, while they were sitting in the park, Jose suddenly invited Latychia for a walk. "Laty, I want to show you something," he said with a smile.

Latychia followed Jose curiously. They took a walk around the park, enjoying the quiet afternoon atmosphere. Jose takes Latychia to a beautiful place, where there is a large tree with dangling branches.

"This is my favorite place. I often come here to think," Jose said, sitting under a tree.

Latychia felt comfortable beside her. "Nice place. I like the atmosphere."

They talk about many things, from dreams to fear. Latychia feels closer to Jose. Time seemed to pass so quickly as they talked.

When dusk began to come, Latychia felt lucky to have a moment like this. "Thank you for inviting me here, Jose. This means a lot to me."

"Nothing means more to me than sharing this moment with you, Laty. I'm glad we can be together," Jose replied, looking at him gently.

At the time, Latychia knew that their relationship had grown into something more than a friendship. He felt happy and grateful to have Jose by his side. They are both ready to face any challenge that will come, together.

With a new spirit and a growing love, Latychia felt confident that this was the beginning of an extraordinary journey. With Jose, he is ready to explore every moment, every experience, and every step in their lives.

After a sweet conversation in the park, the following days became even more special for Latychia. Every moment he spent with Jose felt like a precious moment that he didn't want to miss. They shared a lot of laughter and stories, forging a stronger bond. However, behind that happiness, Latychia also felt a little anxious. What if this relationship doesn't go the way she expected?

Latychia returned to school with a new spirit. Every morning, he can't wait to meet Jose. They often walked hand in hand to class, and it felt like the world belonged to both of them. Inside the classroom, they sit next to each other, sharing notes and whispering as the lesson progresses. Their friends often flirt, but Latychia doesn't mind. He was actually happy to get that attention.

One day, while they were resting, Jeremy came up with a face full of curiosity. "Laty, so the two of you have become already, huh?" he asked, accompanied by a laugh.

Latychia, who was surprised, immediately blushed. "Eh, no... Not really!" he replied, trying to cover up his embarrassment. Meanwhile, Jose only smiled widely, looking proud.

"Well, it looks like you guys are a good match! I can see your chemistry," continued Denzel, who laughed.

"Yes already, don't tease us continuously!" Latychia protested, although in her heart, she felt happy.

Those days passed quickly. The weekend arrives, and Latychia can't wait to spend time with Jose. They plan to go to the cinema with their friends. This is a great opportunity for Latychia to get closer to Jose in the presence of friends.

When it arrives at the cinema, the atmosphere is full of joy. They bought tickets and popcorn before entering the room. Latychia sat next to Jose, and as the movie began, she felt palpitations. Is it time to embrace it? But he hesitated, afraid of disturbing the atmosphere.

During the film, Latychia realizes how much fun it is to watch a movie with Jose. He could feel his presence, how much he enjoyed their company. When a romantic scene appeared on the screen, Latychia felt her heart tremble. What if she and Jose also had such a romantic moment? Could it be someday?

After the movie was over, they came out with a big smile. "That's amazing! I love the part where they kiss!" exclaimed Chloe, who was also watching.

"Ah, yes! That's so sweet!" replied Denzel, making Latychia feel even more embarrassed. Jose turned his head towards Latychia with a mysterious smile.

"So, what's your favorite part?" asked Jose, his eyes shining with curiosity.

Latychia was silent for a moment, thinking. "I love it when they express their feelings to each other. It feels very real and... romantic." The remark made Jose's face turn red.

In the afternoon, while they were eating at a café, Latychia felt that the moment was perfect. They sat at a small table, talking about the movie and their dreams for the future. "What do you want to do after graduation?" asked Jose, resting his chin in his hand.

Latychia thought for a moment. "I want to be a writer. I love writing stories and hope to publish them someday." There was warmth in his voice as he talked about his dream.

"Wow, that's amazing! I'm going to be your biggest fan!" Jose said, and Latychia couldn't help but smile.

After a few weeks passed, Latychia and Jose grew closer. They are starting to schedule more time to meet, both at school and outside. At each turn, they share their dreams, past stories, and even the fears they face. Latychia felt that she could share everything with Jose, and it was a very precious feeling.

However, in the midst of that happiness, Latychia also felt a burden in her heart. He fears that this relationship will change their friendship. One day, he decides to talk to Luna, his best friend who understands best.

"Luna, I feel confused. I like Jose, but I'm afraid that if I express my feelings, everything will change," Latychia complained as they sat in the park.

"Laty, sometimes we have to take risks to get happiness. If you feel like this is love, talk to her. You've known each other for a long time, and if he really is your best friend, he will surely understand," Luna replied wisely.

Luna's suggestion made Latychia ponder. Is it true that he has to express his feelings? He also decided to take the time to think about the decision.

Day after day, Latychia tried not to think too much about it. However, the moment he saw Jose smiling and laughing, his heart pounded again. He had to find a way to express his feelings.

One day, as they were walking home from school, Latychia gathered her courage. "Jose, there's something I want to talk about," he said quietly.

"Just talk, Laty. I listened," Jose replied, looking serious.

"When we were together, I felt very happy. I... I just want to know what you feel about us," Latychia said slowly.

Jose was silent for a moment, his eyes pondering. "I feel comfortable with you. You are an amazing friend. I want us to always be like this," he replied, but there was no clarity about his feelings.

Latychia felt a little disappointed, but she didn't want to give up. He knew that he had to be brave. "But Jose... I also feel like there's more than just friends. I like you, more than just a friend. I just want you to know that" he said, his voice trembling.

Jose's face was shocked, but then he smiled. "Laty, I also feel the same way. I'm just afraid to say it. But now I'm relieved that you've revealed it."

Hearing that, Latychia's heart trembled with happiness. "So... What does this mean?" he asked, hoping.

"It means that we can try to be more than just friends. I want to get to know you more deeply and have a more serious relationship," Jose replied, making Latychia feel excited.

They continued on their way home, talking about their plans for the future. Latychia felt as if a heavy weight had been lifted from her shoulders. He felt lighter and more hopeful. That moment became a turning point in their relationship.

After that beautiful moment, Latychia and Jose's relationship grew closer. They spend more time together and share small meaningful moments. In each class, they help each other. Latychia couldn't stop smiling every time Jose gave her attention.

Week after week passed, and their relationship grew stronger. Latychia begins to feel more comfortable with her feelings and becomes more and more daring to show her affection to Jose. They often spend time together in the park, chatting under the tree where they first express their feelings.

One afternoon, as the sun was setting, Latychia invited Jose to go to the park again. "Jose, let's go to the place where we first talked about our feelings," he invited, smiling meaningfully.

Upon arrival at the park, they sat under the tree, recalling the beautiful moments they had gone through. "Remember when we first expressed our feelings?" asked Latychia, looking into Jose's hopeful face.

"Yes, it was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. I'm glad we got to this point," Jose replied sincerely.

Latychia was happy to hear it. "I hope we can continue to be together and face everything that comes our way. I don't want to lose you, Jose," he said, sincerely.

"Don't worry, Laty. I promise I will always be there for you. We'll go through it all together," Jose replied, grasping Latychia's hand gently.

They sat in silence, enjoying the moment. Everything feels perfect. Against the background of the golden orange sky, Latychia felt as if this world belonged to them.

They talked about each other's dreams and how they could support each other.

- TO BE CONTINUED-