The night felt calmer than usual. A breeze blew softly, as if enveloping the school garden where they were both sitting. A moment that is so simple, but full of meaning. Latychia and Jose had just expressed their feelings for each other, and although their hearts were full of happiness, there was a feeling of anxiety that still enveloped them. After expressing feelings, the next step is the most challenging: how to move forward together, keeping this relationship intact in the midst of all obstacles.
"Jose," Latychia called out in a soft voice, looking at Jose who was sitting beside her. "Now that we've expressed our feelings, what should we do next?"
Jose smiled and turned his head to her. "The first step is to maintain communication, Laty. I know it's not an easy thing, but we can do it."
Latychia nodded. Granted, they have been through a lot together, but this relationship still requires greater effort. In her heart, she felt a little scared, afraid that everything would not go as expected.
"I know. I'm just afraid that one day we'll change, and this feeling isn't as strong as it used to be," Latychia said, feeling a little anxious.
"There won't be such a change, Laty," Jose replied, grasping Latychia's hand gently. "We will always be there for each other, although we will face many challenges. I believe in us."
Jose's words gave him some calmness. They were young, but their feelings were so real. Latychia knows that even though there are many things they don't fully understand, they will face them together. With a calmer heart, Latychia smiled slightly.
"Thank you, Jose. I also believe in us."
That night, they talked more about their future. They exchanged hopes and dreams, imagining how they would achieve their common goals. Although the future feels far away, they feel confident that with each other's support, nothing is impossible. So many things they can achieve together.
The next day, school resumes. With a renewed spirit, the two of them started their first steps as a couple. Nothing has changed between them. They are still good friends as before, but now there is a feeling of love that binds them even tighter.
In the first lesson, they sat next to each other as usual. Nothing special, but in their hearts, everything felt different. There was unspeakable happiness, a happiness that they could only feel together.
However, in the midst of that happiness, a new question arises: how can they keep this relationship strong, even though they will grow up and face various changes in life? Latychia knows that this is not an easy journey. They must be ready to face various obstacles, both from outside and from within. But the most important thing is that the two of them have already decided to go on this journey together.
After the lesson was over, they walked together towards the school garden. The afternoon breeze felt cool, refreshing. They talked about a lot of things, from the lessons they had just learned to the lessons they had just learned.
their plans for the weekend. There was nothing special about their conversation, but it all felt more meaningful now.
When they arrived at the park, they sat on the same bench as the night before. Latychia looked at the darkening sky, feeling the calm that came after all the anxiety that had plagued her heart.
"Jose," Latychia began, "what do you think our relationship will be like?"
Jose looked at her, sighed, and said, "I don't know, Laty. But all I know is that I want to go through every step with you. Somehow later, the important thing is that we both fight together."
Latychia felt the warmth in Jose's words. Although they don't know what's coming up yet, they already have one thing for sure: they'll always be together in every step they take.
The days passed quickly. Every moment with Jose becomes more precious. They start to open up more with each other, talk more about their feelings and support each other in every way.
However, there was something still stuck in Latychia's mind. She knew that they already loved each other, but how would they deal with it when life's challenges began to come? They are still young, and their path is not easy.
One day, after they finished studying together at Latychia's house, she decided to ask Jose. "Jose, what do you think about our future? What should we do to keep this relationship strong?"
Jose thought for a moment before replying, "We must always maintain communication, Laty. That's the key to everything. And we must support each other in each of our dreams and goals."
Latychia nodded, digesting Jose's words. They both have their own dreams, and they have to support each other in order to achieve everything.
"You're right," Latychia said, "I feel calmer now. With you by my side, I'm sure we can get through anything."
They smiled at each other, feeling closer than before. Although life's challenges are bound to come, they know that as long as they continue to trust and support each other, they can face them together.
However, even though they feel stronger, there is one thing that still worries Latychia a little: their age difference. Even though it was only two years, she sometimes felt like they were in different worlds. Jose, who is already in 12th grade, will be leaving school soon, while he is still in 10th grade.
She doesn't know what will happen when Jose graduates and moves on to the next stage. Will their relationship remain the same? Will they survive even though distance and time separate them?
When Latychia conveyed her concerns to Jose, he just smiled and said, "Don't worry, Laty. No matter what happens, I'll always be there for you."
Jose's words gave a great sense of calm. Latychia knows that despite the uncertainties of the future, they will always support each other. That was enough for him.
That night, they sat together under a starry sky, thinking about their hopeful future. They know that their first steps as a couple have already begun, and whatever happens next, they will step together.
After a few weeks passed, their relationship became even stronger. Even though they were young, Latychia and Jose felt as if they had gone through a long journey together. They understand each other better, share dreams and fears, and strengthen their bond with every small step they take.
However, behind that happiness, Latychia still feels that there are great challenges that they have to face. The problem of distance became more apparent as the school year drew closer to the final exam for Jose. Whenever they talked about the future, the image of what would happen after Jose graduated always haunted his mind.
"Jose, are you sure we can continue like this?" asked Latychia one night, as they sat on the school park bench.
Jose looked at her with a gentle smile. "Of course. Nothing can stand in our way, Laty. We will continue to maintain this relationship, no matter what."
Although Jose's words comforted her heart, Latychia still felt doubtful. They both knew that the biggest challenge would come when they parted ways in the future. Latychia still has to finish her schooling, while Jose will continue to university. That distance can be a separator, and even though they promise to stay together, no one knows how they will feel when time passes.
"Then, how do we deal with it?" asked Latychia again, feeling uneasy. "I'm scared, Jose. I'm afraid we're changing."
Jose grasped Latychia's hand gently. "I know you're worried, Laty. But I believe we can get through it all. As long as we remain honest and open with each other, nothing can separate us."
Latychia looked into Jose's eyes, feeling the sincerity in his words. She wanted to believe, but the fear of the separation still bothered her. Although she knew that they would have to fight together, uncertainty about the future often came to her mind.
Pada saat yang sama, Latychia merasa sangat bersyukur memiliki Jose di sisinya. Mereka telah tumbuh bersama, melewati berbagai ujian, dan kini menghadapi tantangan baru dalam hubungan mereka. Meskipun banyak yang harus mereka perjuangkan, mereka tidak sendirian. Mereka saling menguatkan.
In the days that followed, they continued to spend time together. They make the most of every moment they have, whether it's learning together, talking about their dreams, or just enjoying each other in simplicity. Latychia feels that every second they spend together is precious, and she wants to enjoy these moments while she can.
However, even though the two of them tried to keep their relationship strong, the world around them was constantly changing. Time ticks on, and even though the two want to stay together, they know that there are things they have to prepare. Jose must think about the final exam that will determine his future, while Latychia must focus on school and his own future.
"Laty, we have to be ready for the changes that are coming," Jose said one day, as they were sitting under a large tree in the park. "But I'm sure, if we work together, we can get through it."
Latychia looked at Jose attentively. "I know, Jose. But sometimes I feel afraid of losing you. All of this feels so fast. We are still young, and there are many things we have not experienced."
Jose smiled and put his arm around Latychia's shoulder. "We are still young, indeed. But we have time to make a lot of memories together. And I promise, I won't go far from you. We will always fight together."
Jose's words made Latychia feel calmer. Although he still felt anxious about the future, he knew that as long as they supported each other, they could face whatever came their way.
The days passed, and the final exam was approaching. Jose begins to focus on his preparations, while Latychia also begins to think about the upcoming exams. They are both busy with their respective routines, yet they always take the time to talk to each other, support each other.
Their evenings are often spent studying together or just sitting and talking about their dreams in the future. They talk about the university they want to go to, the career they want to build, and everything they want to achieve. Although they knew that their journey was still long, they felt confident that as long as they walked together, nothing was impossible.
"Laty, what do you want to achieve in the future?" asked Jose one night, as they were sitting at their study desk.
Latychia smiled, thinking for a moment before answering. "I want to be an architect. I want to design beautiful buildings, create something useful for others. I want to make this world better."
Jose looked at her proudly. "I know you can achieve it, Laty. You have everything you need for it."
Latychia smiled happily. Jose's words gave him extra encouragement. Although she knows that this journey will not be easy, she feels confident that with the support of her loved ones, anything can be achieved.
At the same time, Latychia also begins to reflect on her relationship with Jose. They have spent a lot of time together, and even though they face many challenges, they always find a way to stay strong. However, Latychia knows that life is not always easy, and new challenges are bound to come.
What will they do when the world around them changes?
That night, as they sat by the lake, Latychia decided to ask Jose. "Jose, how are we going to maintain this relationship if we are separated someday?"
Jose turned to him and smiled, although there was warmth in his gaze, he knew that the question was important. "Laty, I don't know what will happen in the future. But I know one thing—I'll never let you go. We will continue to fight together, no matter what happens."
Those words made Latychia's heart feel calmer. Although she still felt anxious, she knew that as long as they continued to love and support each other, they could get through whatever came their way.
The two of them sat still for a while, staring at the sky that was starting to darken. They know that the future is still full of uncertainty, but one thing is for sure: they will always be there for each other. With that, they continue their journey, facing challenges and celebrating every little victory that comes with their love.
Although they have made a lot of progress in their relationship, Latychia and Jose still feel that they should be more prepared for the future. Even though they love each other, they know that separation over time is inevitable. As Jose enters the final stages of high school and Latychia gets closer to the middle school graduation exam, they feel there is a need to prepare for their relationship in a more mature way. Not only emotionally, but also with planning about what will happen after they graduate and how to continue their relationship to a more serious level.
A few weeks before Jose's final exam, they were both busy with their increasingly busy routines. Latychia also began to feel great pressure ahead of the exam that would determine hes graduation from junior high school. Although they always try to spend time together, the two of them see each other less and less due to each other's busyness.
However, in the midst of that busyness, Jose always takes the time to support Latychia. Whenever they met, she always reminded Latychia not to be overwhelmed by tests and to always believe in her abilities.
"Laty, you can definitely pass that exam. I believe you will graduate with the best grades," Jose said confidently.
Latychia smiled and nodded. "I hope so. But sometimes I feel like I'm not ready enough."
Jose gently grabbed Latychia's hand. "You're more than enough. Remember, we've been through a lot together. Nothing can stand in our way."
Jose's words meant a lot to Latychia. Althoughs he felt depressed, Jose's support made her feel calmer. They continue to encourage each other, talk about the future, and plan for life after the exam.
One night, after studying together at Latychia's house, they sat together on the terrace of the house, enjoying the cool night air. Latychia stared at the stars in the sky, feeling a rare sense of peace after days full of anxiety.
"Jose, I'm still thinking about the future," Latychia said quietly. "About us."
Jose turned his head, listening carefully. "What are you thinking, Laty?"
"Can we really survive, even though we'll part ways later?" asked Latychia, her voice a little anxious.
Jose was silent for a moment, thinking. "I don't know what's going to happen, Laty. We cannot predict the future. But what I do know is that we will always try, and we will always fight together. No one knows how life will turn, but as long as we love and support each other, we will always have each other."
Latychia felt a deep sense of relief hearing Jose's words. Although she knew that the future remained full of uncertainty, there was an overwhelming peace of mind knowing that the two of them were ready to fight together. Their love is not something that time or distance can destroy. Even though they have to deal with a lot of changes, they will still strive to keep their relationship strong.
That night, they talked more about their future plans. Latychia wants to go to high school and then college, while Jose also has dreams of going to college and pursuing the career of his dreams. They talk about the places they want to visit, the experiences they want to experience, and all the things they want to accomplish together.
However, behind the conversation, there was an unavoidable worry. Although they have plans and dreams, they know that their world will change when Jose graduates and Latychia still has to continue her education. Distance can be challenging, and even though they love each other, they can't ignore the fact that the future will be full of uncertainties.
However, they both agreed not to think too much about things that have not happened yet. They know that no matter what happens, they have to appreciate every moment that exists. And for now, they just wanted to enjoy their togetherness.
The days continued to pass, and the exam was getting closer. For Jose, the final exam is not only an academic exam, but also an emotional exam. He had to face the fact that after this, he would step into the world that different. So many things are about to change in her life, and although she feels ready for it, there is a sense of loss that is hard to express.
However, he knew that he was not alone. Latychia is always by he's side, providing non-stop support. The two of them continue to encourage each other, trying to make memories together before the future takes them on different paths.
When the final exam arrived, the two of them lived those days with great enthusiasm. Although there was anxiety in each other's hearts, they knew that they had done their best. Latychia gave everything she could, while Jose also struggled to achieve the goals he had set.
The days of the exam passed quickly, and even though they felt tired and tense, they knew that this was a big step towards their future. After the exam was over, they felt a little relieved, but they also realized that they still had a long way to go.
The following days were filled with time together. They celebrate Jose's graduation, talk about the future, and plan what they will do next. Although they knew that change was coming, they both felt ready to face it, together.
On Jose's graduation day, Latychia watched her best friend stand on stage, receiving awards and congratulations. Although there was a little anxiety in her heart, she felt proud of the achievements that Jose had achieved. They have been through a lot together, and now, even though their world is about to change, they know that their love is still strong.
When the event was over, Jose approached Latychia and grabbed her hand. "This is just the beginning, Laty. We have a longer way to go."
Latychia smiled and held Jose's hand tightly. "I know, Jose. I will never leave you."
The two of them stood there, staring at each other confidently, ready to face whatever was coming. They know that their future is uncertain, but one thing is for sure: they will always fight together, facing every challenge with unwavering love.
That night, after the emotional conversation they had in the park, Latychia felt lighter. All the feelings buried in her heart were finally revealed with words that came out so naturally. No more tension or anxiety eating away at him. He felt, for the first time, that he and Jose were completely in tune.
However, even though Latychia's heart felt calmer, there was still a big question in her mind that bothered her. What's next? What will happen to their relationship after this? Everything still feels new, even though they have been together for quite some time. They are now more than just friends, but their love journey has only just begun.
Meanwhile, Jose also felt not much different. He felt very relieved after expressing he's feelings to Latychia, but there was also confusion he felt. This was a big step they took together, and although he felt happy, there was a small fear that haunted him. Afraid that their relationship could not last, afraid that there were obstacles that they could not overcome together. He realized that feelings of love alone were not enough to keep them together.
In the morning after that heartfelt night, they met at school as usual. Although they had already expressed their feelings, the day felt different. There is an invisible, yet remaining, tension between them. Latychia and Jose are trying to continue their routine, but it's hard to dismiss the fact that their relationship has now changed.
They walked together to the classroom as usual, but the feeling was no longer the same. Latychia feels closer to Jose, getting to know more about her side that may not have been revealed in the past. She feels that the world now seems brighter with Jose's presence, but on the other hand, he also feels that their world is now more complicated.
"Laty, don't you feel weird?" asked Jose, turning his gaze towards Latychia.
Latychia smiled faintly. "Yes, a little. But I also felt calmer. Like a weight lifted from my shoulders."
"Yes, I feel that way too," Jose replied, nodding slowly. "I don't know what to do next, but I think we can get through it together."
Latychia nodded, feeling the sincerity in Jose's words. Although full of confusion, she felt confident that together, they could find a way.
From that day on, they began to live their days in different ways. Each moment feels more precious, but new challenges begin to arise. They not only have to deal with their feelings for each other, but also deal with the world around them who don't always approve of their relationship.
Although their relationship grew closer and supported each other, small things began to emerge that tested the power of their love. One of them is the reaction from their friends. Denzel, Jeremy, and Alvin, Jose's close friends, begin to notice the changes that have occurred to Jose. They noticed that he was often daydreaming and looked happier than usual, but also looked a little depressed.
One afternoon, while they were gathering in the school cafeteria, Denzel decided to ask Jose directly.
"Bro, what's wrong with you? You don't look like you're normal. Too many smiles lately," Denzel said in a slightly seductive tone.
Jose laughed awkwardly, trying to avoid the question, but couldn't completely hide the smile on his face. "It's okay, it's just... Some things have changed lately."
Jeremy, who was sitting next to Denzel, added, "Oh, so you're dating, huh? I think I can feel it. You've never looked like that before."
Jose just smiled, feeling a little clumsy but couldn't hide the happiness he felt. "Yes, maybe," he replied briefly.
Denzel leaned his body closer, placing his hand on Jose's shoulder. "Let's dong, spill the tea, bro. Who is that lucky?"
Jose couldn't help but laugh. "You already know who, right? Latychia."
Alvin, who had just joined the conversation, said, "Wow, seriously? You guys have... Yes, you know, dating?"
Jose nodded slowly. "Yes, we ended up being honest about our feelings."
Denzel and Jeremy exchanged glances. "So, this is it, bro? All this time, we thought you were just busy studying and not thinking about love. It turns out that you already have someone special?"
"Yes, this is just getting started," Jose replied, a little hesitant, but his smile still expanded. "But this is somewhat... It's weird, I don't know what to do next."
Alvin shook his head, but with an understanding look. "Don't worry, bro. We support you. Our task now is not only to study, but also to keep your relationship running smoothly."
Jose was relieved to hear the support from his friends. He knew that this relationship was not just about the two of them, but also how their environment was receptive to the change. If their friends can support them, it will be easier for them to face all the challenges that exist.
However, even though he's friends accept their relationship, the more difficult thing comes from within the two of them. They now have to face the reality that their relationship has to keep going despite the many obstacles out there. Latychia, though very happy with their relationship, feels anxious about how this relationship will develop. She knew that her time with Jose at school would not be forever.
They will part ways when Latychia moves up to 10th grade and Jose will graduate next year. That feeling bothered Latychia a lot. She didn't know if this relationship would last, or if their feelings would fade when they had to go about their lives after graduating from school.
On the other hand, Jose also felt the same way. He tries to hide his worries so as not to burden Latychia, but he knows that their relationship will be tested over time. How will they maintain their relationship even if they are no longer in the same school? Will they be able to continue to support and trust each other?
One night, as they sat on a park bench after studying together, Latychia finally expressed her concerns.
"Jose, I don't know why, but I'm worried about our future," she said in a soft voice. "We're going to graduate from school later, and I don't know if our relationship will last. We're going to be separate, and we don't know what's going to happen."
Jose looked at Latychia with an understanding gaze. He sighed and said, "I'm worried too, Laty. But we can't live with just worry. All we can do is continue to try to maintain this relationship, to continue to support each other and trust each other."
Latychia grasped Jose's hand, feeling the calmness that came from that touch. "I want our relationship to stay strong, Jose. I want us to stay together, no matter what happens."
Jose smiled, holding Latychia's hand tighter. "Me too, Laty. We're going to face all the challenges together, okay?"
Latychia nodded, feeling the warmth in her heart. Although the worry still existed, she felt stronger after hearing Jose's words. They may not know what the future holds, but they know one thing for sure: they want to keep walking together.
-To Be Continue-