Chapter 5

Yoko

The morning light poured through my window, nudging me awake. I blinked at the ceiling, the gentle warmth urging me out of bed. Glancing at my phone, I saw that I'd beaten my alarm—small victories. At least today, I wouldn't have to rush to class.

Stretching my limbs lazily, I sat up and smiled at the familiar sound of paws padding across the floor. Ham, my ever-loyal companion, bounded over, tail wagging furiously, nudging me with his soft snout.

"Good morning, Ham," I greeted him, scratching behind his ears. His happy eyes made the early hour feel worth it.

After a few moments of play, I wandered into the bathroom, starting my morning ritual: brushing my teeth, washing my face, then applying a light layer of moisturiser and sunscreen. The routine was automatic, but today felt different.

My gaze drifted to the box of contact lenses on the counter. Should I? The thought of Faye seeing me in a new light made my heart skip a beat. I imagined her noticing the subtle change, maybe even...

Without overthinking, I popped the lenses in like a pro, feeling a quiet thrill. Grabbing a comb, I smoothed my hair, every stroke an unspoken preparation for the day ahead.

Back in my room, I picked out a pair of fitted denim jeans and a soft beige sweater. The cool weather was waning, and I wanted to savour it before the relentless sun returned. A final touch of my favourite perfume, and I was ready.

As I headed downstairs, a quiet excitement simmered beneath the surface—like something significant was waiting just beyond the day's horizon.

As I prepared my usual morning coffee, I found myself leaning against the kitchen counter, phone in hand. Absentmindedly, I refreshed the Instagram chat, my eyes lingering on last night's conversation with Faye. A small smirk crept onto my face, and my heart quickened just remembering our playful exchange.

"No good morning text," I muttered softly, a hint of disappointment settling in. What was I expecting, really? Faye wasn't the type to send those messages first—not to me, at least. I should know better than to let my hopes rise.

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. "Get a grip," I whispered, as if reminding my heart of the reality would make it easier.

Just then, a notification buzzed. My eyes darted to the screen, a flicker of hope igniting. When I saw the name, a smile broke through, and I felt a small, unexpected lift. Maybe today wasn't so ordinary after all.

Dad

Hey there sweetheart, I'm coming home this weekend!

A smile spread across my face as I quickly typed a reply, warmth filling my heart.

Yoko

Finally, Dad! I've missed you so much. I have work this weekend, but let's have dinner together!

Dad

I'd love that. I'm about to take off soon, have a great day in school kiddo.

I couldn't stop smiling, feeling a growing excitement. Between the coffee hangout with Becky and now dinner with Dad, this weekend was shaping up to be something special.

Yoko

Safe flight Dad. Love you! x.

After sliding my phone into my back pocket, I rinsed out my coffee mug, the warm water swirling with the last drops of caffeine. Placing it on the drying rack, I walked over to refill Ham's water bowl, the sound of splashing water filling the quiet kitchen. He padded over, tail wagging in gratitude, his eyes following my every move.

Glancing at the clock on the wall, I made sure I was still on schedule. No time to linger—classes wouldn't wait.

"I'm leaving now, Ham! Be good, buddy." I crouched down, ruffling his soft fur one last time before standing up and grabbing my bag. He watched me with big, hopeful eyes as I headed out the door.

Sliding into the car, I settled into the driver's seat, the leather cool against my back. As I pulled out of the driveway, the hum of the engine filled the cabin. I rolled down the window, letting the crisp morning air sweep in, carrying with it the scent of dew-drenched grass and faint hints of blooming jasmine. The cool breeze caressed my face, sending a shiver of freshness through me.

A small smile formed on my lips. I softly hummed the melody of my favourite song, the familiar tune blending with the gentle whoosh of the wind. For a moment, everything felt calm and perfectly in place—just me, the road, and the promise of a new day.

Once I parked in the school lot, my eyes instinctively scanned the area, searching for that familiar presence. There she was—Faye. My heart quickened, a small smile curling at the corners of my lips before I even realised it.

She stood out effortlessly, her fitted black trousers hugging her frame, paired with a sleek black shirt with the top button left undone. Her long, silky brown hair cascaded over her shoulders, catching the soft morning light as it swayed with each confident stride. Sunglasses perched gracefully on her nose, adding an air of mystery that only heightened her allure.

Leaning against my car, I found myself mesmerised, unable to look away. There was something captivating about how she carried herself, a quiet elegance in every step, every movement. It amazed me how she could turn the simplest outfit into something extraordinary, her presence commanding attention without even trying.

As she walked across the parking lot, the world seemed to slow down for a moment. Each step felt deliberate, and I watched, almost in a trance, until she disappeared into the hallway, seamlessly blending into the throng of students.

I exhaled, realising I'd been holding my breath. A soft sigh escaped me, and I shook my head slightly, snapping back to reality. What was I doing? Caught gawking at her again. Yet, I couldn't help it. There was something about Faye that always left me feeling a little breathless.

As I strolled through the hallway, I spotted Big and Ink walking in together, grinning as they caught my eye.

"Morning, you two," I greeted, flashing them a smile. "You look way too energised for this early."

Ink rolled her eyes playfully. "Oh, nothing makes me happier than knowing today's the shortest day of the week!" She shot me an excited look. "We're thinking of heading out after class. You in?"

"Where to?" I tilted my head, curious. True, our schedule was lighter today, but that also meant no English Lit... and no Faye. A slight pang hit me at the thought.

"Arcade first, to blow off some steam," Big suggested, his eyes lighting up. "Then maybe catch a movie."

"Sounds perfect!" I grinned. "I could definitely use a break. Is Marissa coming too?"

"Of course I am!" Marissa's voice chimed in from behind, filled with excitement. "Wherever there's fun, you'll find me!"

"There you are," I said, turning to her. "Honestly, I thought you'd be late again."

She shot back with mock offence. "Hey! I'm not always late, you know."

Big smirked, arms crossed. "Yeah, sure. Out of five days, how many were you actually on time?"

"Late Queen strikes again," Ink teased, earning a laugh from all of us.

Marissa and Big launched into a playful back-and-forth, trading light-hearted jabs while Ink and I just shook our heads, chuckling at their antics.

"On the bright side," Ink interjected, "we've got P.E. today. Finally, something fun!"

I groaned dramatically. "Ugh, why does school give us just one fun day?"

Ink shrugged, flashing a knowing smile.

Big nudged us towards the classrooms. "C'mon, let's get through this. We'll meet up later for P.E.!"

We split up, heading to our first lessons. Mine was Chemistry. Big and Marissa had English Lit—lucky them, they'd get to see Faye.

Mr Anderson's voice droned on, a steady hum as he went over our homework and launched into the day's lesson. But his words barely registered; my thoughts had already wandered, drifting toward Faye again.

I stared out the window, the world outside a blur as I imagined her in the English Lit classroom. What was she teaching Big and Marissa right now? Were we covering the same material? Was she reading aloud with that same captivating tone she used with me yesterday, or was she cool and distant, her voice as cold and indifferent as her gaze could sometimes be?

The classroom noise faded to a distant murmur. In its place, I heard her voice—soft, confident, filling the silence of my mind. I could almost see her, standing at the front, her presence commanding yet graceful. She spoke with such ease, but with me... it was different. There was a tenderness in her tone, a warmth that lingered in the quiet moments we shared.

I closed my eyes briefly, remembering the way our eyes would meet across the room, those fleeting glances that felt like whispered secrets. The memory of her face, so close to mine, sent a flush of heat through me, my heart picking up pace, every beat like a whispered confession.

A smile tugged at my lips as I stared outside, the sun warming one side of my face while a soft breeze carried a hint of coolness. The contrast felt like her—fiery and soft, distant and close, all at once.

Words began to form in my mind, a quiet inspiration washing over me. Thoughts of her always had this effect, stirring something deep and unspoken within me.

"An ivory tower, distant and proud, 

Guarded by steel gates and shadows, cold yet alluring.

Within its heights resides an elegant princess—

A vision of grace, untouchable yet captivating.

From afar, I stood, breath stolen, heart caught,

Drawn by the tower's beauty, yet it was her—always her.

Curiosity pulled me closer, step by trembling step,

Until I found myself at the base of this towering dream.

Through sunlit windows, I glimpsed her—

A fleeting glance, our eyes locking, time suspended.

In that moment, the world stilled;

She stood like a secret waiting to be discovered, 

Unaware she was the treasure guarded within.

I reached out, hands gently against the cold iron bars,

Desiring, aching to be closer—to touch the untouchable.

But reality held me back, a soft whisper of caution.

My heart raced, soul yearning for the warmth within those walls,

For the light that danced behind guarded glass.

I stood there, awed, breathless—not by the tower's grandeur,

But by the elegance within.

The princess, radiant, distant—

The most beautiful secret I've ever known."

As the words flowed in my mind, I scribbled them hurriedly in the corner of my notebook, hoping to refine them later when time allowed.

The rest of the class passed by like the soft breeze I'd felt earlier—gone before I could grasp it. Walking through the hallway, I felt a strange alertness, my eyes drifting from one classroom to the next, each glance more intrusive than the last.

My heart knew exactly what it was searching for—Faye. My steps slowed as I neared her classroom, my eyes shyly cast downward, then darting up in quick, secretive peeks.

There she was. Seated at her desk, her long hair cascading over her shoulders, eyes focused on the papers in front of her. My breath caught. It was as if my presence stirred something—her head lifted, eyes meeting mine through the crowd.

In that fleeting moment, everything else dissolved. The chatter, the footsteps—they all faded, leaving just the two of us suspended in time.

A soft smile curved on her lips, a silent "hey you," before she returned to her work, her focus shifting back. My heart fluttered, and I forced myself to keep walking, feeling the world slowly rush back in.

The chatter grew louder, the hallway busier. I pressed on toward my next class, carrying the memory of her smile like a secret only I knew.

The morning passed by in a blur, and soon I found myself heading to the track and field changing area where my friends waited. Grabbing my gear, I slipped into the bathroom, changing quickly into my exercise attire and tying my hair up into a ponytail.

As we walked out to the open track, Ink kept casting glances my way, her eyes narrowing in curiosity. The longer it went on, the more it gnawed at my patience.

"What is it, Ink? You keep staring at me like I've grown a second head." I finally asked, glancing over at her.

"Something's... different," she muttered, brows furrowed. Her eyes squinted, as if trying to zoom in on my face. "I can't quite put my finger on it."

A flicker of hope sparked in me. Maybe she noticed... But then she shook her head, still puzzled.

"Wait, you're just noticing this now?" I tried to hide my surprise. Someone as close to me as Ink should have picked up on it immediately.

"No, I mean, I noticed something was off since this morning. I just... couldn't figure it out." Her words hit harder than I expected, like a gentle blow carrying more weight than intended. I let out a soft sigh, disappointment settling in. If Ink couldn't even see the difference... how would Faye?

"I'm wearing contact lenses today," I admitted, the words slipping out, laced with quiet defeat.

"Ahh, that's it!" She finally lit up, the mystery solved. But the satisfaction in her voice didn't reach me.

I tried to push the thoughts away, focusing on the teacher's instructions about the fitness test. We'd be running laps around the track, timing ourselves. But my mind fought back, drifting stubbornly to thoughts of Faye.

Would she notice? Would she care? Or was all of this just an effort slipping through my fingers, unseen and unacknowledged?

I shook my head, trying to silence the nagging ache inside. The sun warmed the track beneath my feet, but it couldn't thaw the chill of doubt settling in my heart.

Marissa groaned, her voice dripping with frustration as we trudged towards the track. "It's so hot, why do we have to run? Can someone please just defy the teacher and let me off the hook?"

Big grinned, clearly unfazed by the heat. "Not for me. I love running," he said, his excitement practically radiating off him as he reached the track first. Without missing a beat, he began doing some quick stretches, the rest of us reluctantly following suit, though our movements were sluggish.

"Come on, look alive, you girls!" Big called, his voice full of enthusiasm. "Running is great for the body, you know. It clears your mind and melts away stress!"

"You know what would really melt away my stress?" Ink retorted with a dramatic sigh. "A nice, long nap in my comfy bed, not baking under this hot, miserable sun!"

I couldn't help but chuckle at Ink's over-the-top complaint. She was as much the spoiled child as ever, always opting for comfort over anything resembling effort.

Big didn't seem to care about our complaints. He gave us a quick wave and shot off, already sprinting ahead. "Whatever, you guys keep your own pace. I'm off!"

I watched him zoom down the track, his back shrinking in the distance as he rounded the curve, feeling a mix of admiration and disbelief.

"How energetic can he be?" I muttered to myself, shaking my head.

Ink groaned in response, but I grabbed her arm and nudged Marissa forward. "Come on, let's at least jog. We're not getting out of this."

Reluctantly, we started to jog, our pace slow and lethargic compared to Big's speedy strides. The sun beat down on us, and with every step, I couldn't help but wish for a cool breeze—or even better, Big's boundless energy to rub off on us. But for now, I was stuck with Ink and Marissa, complaining and dragging our feet through the heat.

By the time the lesson wrapped up, Big was already cooled down and lounging, casually waiting for us. He watched as the three of us trudged across the final lap, panting heavily, our feet dragging like we were carrying weights.

"That wasn't too bad, huh?" Big remarked, his voice light, as if the run had been nothing more than a casual stroll in the park.

We finally came to a stop, breathless and gasping for air. I waved weakly at him, but no words came out, just heavy, labored breaths. I bent forward, hands resting on my knees, desperate for some relief.

"Yoko, don't do that," Big said quickly, his tone surprisingly professional. "You'll just make it worse. Stand up straight and look up. Deep breath in."

I followed his instructions without hesitation. At that moment, I'd have done anything to stop the burning in my lungs.

And just like that, I felt better.

I exhaled with a sigh of relief. "G-god. I don't feel any less stressed at all," I muttered, frustration creeping into my voice. Big chuckled at my response.

"Wow, Yoko," he said, clearly amused. "You're the only one who actually listens to me." His smile widened, and he gave me a thumbs-up, clearly appreciating my effort.

I shook my head, a grin tugging at the corners of my mouth. "Never again, Big," I said with mock seriousness. "I'm not putting any more effort into running. I'd rather do something else." I waved him off before turning towards the changing room.

The others stayed on the field, stretching and cooling down, but I was beyond that. All I could think about was the cool relief of a shower to wash away the sticky sweat clinging to me. The thought alone quickened my steps as I hurried to the changing room.

The moment the cold water cascaded over my skin, a wave of relief swept through me. I lathered up quickly, the cool sensation soothing both my body and my mind. The heat from the run faded away, replaced by a refreshing calm. By the time I rinsed off, I felt lighter, my mood lifted, and my face no longer flushed from exertion.

I dried off and changed back into my morning clothes, stepping out of the cubicle. As I faced the mirror, my eyes traced my reflection, lingering on my face. My thoughts drifted to Faye once again. Should I take out my contact lenses? Would it even matter to her? Maybe I should go back to wearing my glasses—perhaps then, she might notice me again.

Before I could dwell further, the door swung open, and Ink and Marissa bustled in, their groans and the sharp scent of sweat filling the air. I jumped slightly, jolted out of my reverie.

"Oh, Yoko, why do you look so surprised?" Marissa asked, catching my startled expression.

I shook my head quickly, shoving my things into my bag. "Nothing. I'll see you guys after school!" I called, already making my way to the door.

"Bye..." Marissa's voice trailed off as I slipped out, leaving the humid room behind.

Walking down the hallway, I scolded myself silently. I really need to stop thinking about Faye. 

She'd consumed my thoughts all day, like a song on repeat, impossible to shake. Lost in my musings, I barely noticed my surroundings until a warm hand suddenly wrapped around my wrist, pulling me through a door.

A surprised yelp escaped my lips, my heart leaping. Then, as my eyes met hers, the pounding in my chest softened—but only a little.

It was Faye.

Her hand still gripped my wrist, firm yet gentle, her touch radiating a possessive warmth. Her eyes, different today—intense, searching—held something I couldn't quite place, yet deeply understood. Reaching past me, she closed the door, locking it with a soft click.

Silence enveloped us. No distant chatter, no rustling paper. Just our steady, rhythmic breathing, each exhale reverberating in the stillness. My heart hammered so loudly I wondered if she could hear it.

"Yoko," she whispered, my name soft on her lips, laced with something more than casual classroom conversation. Her gaze swept over my face, eyes lingering, exploring. Then, her lips curved slightly. "You look different."

It felt as though a thousand butterflies took flight in my stomach. A chaotic, fluttering warmth spread through me. I could only nod, my cheeks heating.

"You're not wearing your glasses... Can you see?" She tilted her head slightly, her eyes never leaving mine.

"Y-yes," I stammered, barely managing the word. Anything more might betray the storm inside me.

A small, knowing smile played at the corners of her mouth. "You look beautiful."

Her words hit like a tidal wave, overwhelming my heart with a rush of feelings.

Could she hear how loudly it pounded? Surely, she could. My face burned, and I pressed my lips together, managing a small, shy smile. "Thank you."

Time seemed to slow. Only when she released my wrist did I realise she'd still been holding me. Lost in her gaze, I hadn't noticed. She leaned casually against the teacher's desk, creating a small but charged distance between us.

"So, how's your poem coming along?" she asked.

For a moment, I blinked, trying to recall what she meant. Her words floated around my head, lost in the haze.

Noticing my confusion, she snorted softly. "The masterpiece you promised me last night? Forgotten already?"

Her teasing tone jolted my memory. "Oh, that." I cleared my throat, forcing my thoughts into order. "I'm still working on it. I'll finish it tonight and show you tomorrow."

She pushed away from the desk and moved closer—much closer. I instinctively backed up until my back pressed against the cool door. She didn't stop, closing the space between us. Her arms came up, hands resting on either side of me, trapping me. The mischievous glint in her eyes sent shivers through me.

Her scent filled the air—different today, lighter, with a hint of bergamot. Every time I breathed it in, I felt lost, hypnotised. Her face inched closer, eyes locked onto mine. My gaze flickered to her lips, the distance between us dwindling. My heart raced faster, anticipation building with every heartbeat. Was she going to—

Click.

I jumped as the door unlocked. Her hand lingered on the latch, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. "Don't miss your lesson," she said softly, stepping back. "See you tomorrow, Yoko."

I stood frozen, heart thundering, trying to process what had just happened. The tension between us—undeniable, electric—wasn't something I could explain. It wasn't fear or discomfort. It was... something else.

I nodded, my voice barely a whisper. "See you t-tomorrow, Faye."

As her name left my lips, her smile widened, lighting up her face. If such a simple gesture could make her this happy, I'd gladly do it every day just to see that smile. It made my heart swell in a way nothing else did.

Turning away, I walked out, my mind a haze, heart still fluttering.

Why didn't I lean in? Why didn't I kiss her? You know you wanted to, Yoko. 

I scolded myself silently. My subconscious finally laid bare the truth I'd been avoiding: I'd fallen for her. Deeply. Completely. My fingers grazed my lips, imagining what it would feel like if they'd met hers.

I shook my head, trying to clear it. Just one more class... One more lesson before I could escape these overwhelming feelings.

As the final school bell echoed through the corridors, students hurriedly packed their bags, eager to escape the confines of the classroom and dive into their after-school plans.

I strolled casually to my car, leaning against the hood as I waited for my friends to arrive. Tilting my head slightly upward, I closed my eyes, letting the late afternoon sun wash over me—warm and gentle, a far cry from its midday intensity.

"Why are you acting like you're in a music video?" Ink's voice cut through the peaceful moment, a teasing lilt in her tone.

I rolled my eyes, smirking as I glanced at her. "I'm not. Just soaking up some vitamins for the skin," I shrugged, then opened the car door, motioning for them to hop in. "Where are we headed, ladies?" I asked, slipping into my role as the designated driver.

"The Megamall in the next town," Big replied, sliding into the back seat. She deftly set up the route on the GPS, the device springing to life with directions.

"Alright, sit tight," I said, grinning as I glanced at my friends through the rearview mirror. Their smiles were infectious, filling the car with an unspoken energy.

At that moment, a wave of gratitude washed over me. There was something special about these simple, shared experiences—more than just the daily routine of school and home. It was about the bond we shared, the memories we created, and the joy of being surrounded by people who truly cared.