Chapter 11:

He walked home with a wide grin, determined and motivated to study harder and to comfort Jaselle at times when she is down.

He reached home and placed his bag down while smiling like a fool and went into the shower. Even after his shower, he kept thinking about the scene earlier on. The image of their hug continued to show up seconds after seconds in his head like an automated machine. Still, he can't help himself and continued smiling as he sat on his bed.

"Hold on, Jaselle mentioned that I am just a good friend to her right? That means she doesn't think of me as someone more than a friend?" He thought suddenly. Shocked by the sudden realisation, he jumped out of his bed and went to sit at his study table. He took a pen and a piece of paper and started jotting down some things he had in mind. "She blushed earlier on, did she? She was embarrassed, that's why she ran into her house after giving me a hug... I see.. That's how it works..." Jason thought for a long time in order to come up with this conclusion.

Next day came by as the sun slowly rose over the horizons, shining over the city. As usual, Jason waited for Jaselle outside her door to go to school together. He waited and waited, only to find out that he waited in vain and was almost late. He rushed off at the speed of lightning and arrived at school just before the gates closed. He entered the classroom only to find Jaselle talking to her friends cheerfully, as if nothing had happened.

He walked over to her and made their greetings and asked her why she left her house so early without informing him. The answer Jason got was seemingly valid and he did not pursue further. He walked over to his seat and settled down a little before the flag raising ceremony. Class started soon after and the class got slightly excited as the teachers told interesting stories. Recess came and many students rushed out of the class, ready to get food as quickly as possible. Jason waited for Jaselle to come out to have a talk with her.

"Hey Jaselle, could we... maybe have a talk? I need to talk to you about something..." Jason scratched his head and asked this question awkwardly. Jaselle was quick to agree and they walked off to the bench area.

"About yesterday... What does it mean that I am your good friend? I know we're good friends already and the hug...? What do you mean"

"I...I.. just meant what it literally meant. It's a thank you hug... You know, like an appreciation sort of... hug?"

"Hmm... If it were an appreciation hug, why did you run off into your house blushing and looking embarrassed? Is there something else that I should know of?"

"I... I...."

(awkward silence)

"Looks like you can't comment about your actions, huh.. Why don't I make a guess?" Jason gave a suspicious look at Jaselle.

" I'll say it, don't make any silly guesses that makes this situation even more awkward. The truth is that... actually... I... I... have... wanted to say this for a long time. Since pre school, I have wanted to say this. I have actually liked you for a really long time." Jaselle ran off immediately after that, blushing immensely at that.