CHAPTER 14: A Friend's Concern

The following day dawned bright and clear, the crisp morning air carrying with it a sense of anticipation. Sana, her spirits buoyed by the events of the previous day, arrived at school with a renewed sense of purpose. Beside her, Suguru walked with a thoughtful expression, his usual calm demeanor tinged with a hint of concern.

"Sana, can I talk to you for a moment?" Suguru asked, his voice gentle yet earnest.

Sana nodded, noting the seriousness in Suguru's tone. "Of course, Suguru. What's on your mind?"

As they found a quiet corner of the schoolyard, Suguru hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Sana, I couldn't help but notice... after what happened with those bullies, are you doing okay?"

Sana's heart swelled with gratitude at Suguru's concern. Despite his calm exterior, she knew that he cared deeply for her well-being, and his words touched her deeply.

"I'm okay, Suguru," Sana reassured him, offering a reassuring smile. "Thanks to Akagi, I feel safer now. He's been a true friend through it all."

Suguru nodded, his expression softening with relief. "I'm glad to hear that, Sana. But please remember, if you ever need someone to talk to or if anything else happens, I'm here for you."

Sana's heart warmed at Suguru's words, grateful for his unwavering support. "Thank you, Suguru. Your friendship means everything to me."

With a shared understanding, they resumed their journey to class, the weight of their conversation lifting as they immersed themselves in the hustle and bustle of the school day.

Throughout the day, Suguru's words lingered in Sana's mind, a reminder of the depth of their friendship and the importance of looking out for one another. As she moved from class to class, she couldn't shake the feeling of gratitude for having someone like Suguru by her side, someone who cared for her deeply and always had her back.

Later, during their lunch break, Sana sought out Akagi. Finding him sitting beneath a tree, lost in thought, she approached him with a smile.

As they sat together, enjoying the tranquility of the shaded spot beneath the tree, Sana felt a gentle breeze rustle through the leaves, carrying with it a sense of calm and camaraderie. With a soft sigh of contentment, she turned to Akagi, a playful glint in her eyes.

"Hey, Akagi, I have something to tell you," Sana began, her voice bubbling with excitement.

Akagi looked at her, curiosity piqued. "What is it, Sana? You seem like you're bursting with something."

Sana grinned mischievously, leaning in closer. "Well, you know how Suguru and I were talking earlier? He mentioned something that got me thinking..."

Akagi raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? What did he say?"

"He said that he noticed how much happier I've been lately, and he's really glad that you've been there for me," Sana explained, a warm smile spreading across her face.

Akagi's expression softened, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "That's kind of him. I'm glad I could help."

Sana nodded eagerly, her eyes shining with appreciation. "Yeah, and then he mentioned how much he values our friendship. It got me thinking about all the amazing people in my life, like you and Suguru."

Akagi's smile widened, his gaze meeting hers with warmth. "I feel the same way, Sana. I'm grateful for our friendship too."

With a sense of contentment settling over them, Sana and Akagi lapsed into a comfortable silence, enjoying each other's company as they basked in the serenity of the moment. In that quiet sanctuary beneath the tree, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of their friendship, Sana couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the bond they shared.