It had been a few weeks since the festival, but Anaya still felt a flutter every time she saw Kian. The initial excitement of confessions and the first kiss had settled into something warm and comforting—a gentle, steady kind of happiness she hadn't expected.
Walking to art class, sketchbook in hand, she spotted Kian waiting by the gate. He smiled when he saw her, waving casually.
"Hey," he called. "Ready for art class?"
"Yeah," Anaya replied, smiling back. She noticed the way he carried his guitar case effortlessly, the same way he always seemed confident yet approachable.
During class, they sat together, quietly sharing ideas and sketches. Kian leaned over her desk at one point, pointing at a line she had drawn. "Try shading this part a bit darker. It'll make the light pop more."
Anaya bit her lip, trying not to blush. "Thanks… I didn't think about that."
Kian shrugged, grinning. "I like seeing your work. It's… fun to collaborate with you."
The day passed with easy conversation, shared laughter, and small gestures—a brush of fingers, a shared smile, a glance that lasted a little too long. Every interaction, no matter how ordinary, felt significant to both of them.
At lunch, Rhea plopped down beside them. "So, lovebirds, are you planning anything for the weekend?"
Anaya groaned softly. "Rhea! Stop it!"
Kian chuckled, but his eyes sparkled with amusement. "We were actually thinking of drawing together at the park. Want to come?"
Rhea jumped up. "Me? Of course! I'll be your official third-wheel cheerleader." She laughed, nudging Anaya. "See? Life's perfect when you're together."
Anaya smiled, feeling a warmth in her chest she couldn't quite explain. It really is perfect…
After lunch, they walked through the quiet school garden. Kian carried her sketchbook for a few steps, then handed it back. Their fingers brushed, and this time, neither of them pulled away.
"Do you think… this is how it's supposed to feel?" Anaya asked softly.
Kian looked at her, a tender smile spreading across his face. "Yeah… calm, exciting, and a little bit magical. Just like this."
They laughed quietly together, watching the sunlight glint off the trees. It wasn't a festival performance, or a song, or a big confession—it was simply them, enjoying the comfort of being together and discovering how sweet life could feel when shared with someone who truly sees you.