AMARA’S POV

“Starting now, I’ll protect you. I won’t ever leave you, Amara...”

Those words kept replaying in my mind. I smiled faintly, remembering the day my life was in danger — the same day my friendship with Sebastian and Kolin began.

Thinking about everything that happened, I still don’t know how I managed to overcome it all. For a while, I developed a phobia and became wary of people, especially when it came to making new friends. But because of Sebastian and Kolin, I gradually recovered. I found myself again and started anew.

Maybe I’m just bored right now. I’ve finished all my assignments, so my mind keeps wandering.

Then, I felt someone tug at my shirt. I looked up, startled, and saw Jazz standing beside me, holding something out with a puzzled look.

“Stop daydreaming, Amara,” he said.

I raised an eyebrow at him as he handed me a bottle of water, which I didn’t take right away.

“Here, it’s for you,” he added, probably noticing my confused expression.

“Huh? Who’s it from?” I asked curiously.

“Who else? It’s from your hot and handsome boyfriend,” he said teasingly, biting his lip.

I winced at his words. Boyfriend? I don’t even have one . What is this guy talking about?

I wasn’t sure if I heard him right because of the noise around us, but I didn’t want to ask him to repeat it. I might draw attention, and gossip spreads fast around here. I pouted and leaned closer to him.

“The last time I checked, I don’t have a boyfriend,” I said, rolling my eyes.

“What about your Sebastian, then? Hmm?” he teased, waving his hand in front of my face unnecessarily.

I froze at his words. I didn’t know why, but my heart suddenly pounded faster when I heard that name.

“Seb?” I whispered, almost inaudibly.

“Yeah! There he is!” Jazz pointed outside.

I followed his gaze — and there he was. Seb’s serious eyes softened into a smile when he saw me. I raised my hand in greeting, and he arched a brow before smiling back.

I gestured for him to wait, and he nodded. Then, I suddenly remembered my phone — the message I had ignored earlier.

From: Seb

“I’m heading to your room.”

So that’s what the text was about. I quickly hid my phone and turned my attention back to Jazz.

“Jason, Seb is my friend. My best friend,” I clarified. How many times did I have to tell him that?

He made a face and looked around nervously.

“Shh! Jazz, call me Jazz,” he said softly but firmly. He really hated being called by his real name.

His real name is Jason, but even though he’s male, he embraces his feminine side. Thankfully, his parents fully accepted him — and so did Kolin and I.

“You started it,” I said. “Now look what’s happening.”

“Everything starts that way. People say it’s just friendship, but in the end, they always end up falling for each other,” he teased.

“Jazz, Seb and I are just friends, okay?”

“Whatever. Then why does he only talk to you? What about the rest of us girls?” he asked, pouting and flipping his short hair dramatically.

“I don’t know, why don’t you ask him yourself?” I replied.

He shook his head quickly. “No way, he’d probably punch me. I’m not brave enough for that, girl.”

I laughed at his response, pulling out my phone to text Seb to wait for me outside.

As soon as the bell rang, I hurried outside.

“Hi,” he greeted me.

When I got close, he leaned in and kissed me on the cheek. My heart skipped a beat, and warmth spread across my face. I was used to his affectionate gestures, but lately, they made me feel different.

“Hi. Why are you here? Didn’t you have class earlier?” I asked, trying to hide my flustered expression.

“I wanted to see you. We had a free period anyway,” he said casually.

“But we’ll see each other later. You shouldn’t waste your time waiting for me,” I said.

“It’s fine, Amara. I told you, I wanted to see you,” he replied seriously, his tone soft but intense.

I felt my face heat up again. To ease the tension, I suggested, “Let’s go to the garden?”

He nodded, and I walked ahead. I could feel him following, and soon he was beside me, his arm slipping naturally around my waist. I glanced down, embarrassed by the curious stares around us.

Who wouldn’t look? Sebastian Laqueza walking with a girl—his arm around her waist—was enough to draw attention. We probably looked like a couple.

“So, are we having lunch together later?” Seb asked as we reached the garden.

“Oh, I forgot to tell you—I’m having lunch with Kolin,” I said apologetically.

He smiled slightly. “It’s okay, I understand. You two need to catch up sometimes.”

I knew he’d take it well. We hadn’t seen Kolin for weeks because of our busy schedules, and finals were coming up.

“Why didn’t you bring her with you?” I asked.

“I told her I was going to see you. She just grinned—I guess because she already knew you had plans,” he said, shaking his head.

I chuckled. “You really don’t know your cousin well. She loves teasing you.”

“Yeah, that little brat,” he said, smiling.

Suddenly, I remembered something and gasped. “Oh! Grandma asked me to give you this.” I handed him a paper bag, slightly crumpled from my bag.

“What’s this?” he asked, eyeing it curiously.

“Cookies! Grandma baked them for you. Just for you—she didn’t give me any,” I said, half-joking.

“Then we’ll share,” he said, taking the cookies from me.

“I’ll thank Grandma later,” he added, breaking off a cookie and holding it near my lips.

I knew what he wanted. Without hesitation, I opened my mouth.

“Why are you so messy when you eat?” he teased, raising a brow but smiling.

I took the cookie from him. “I’ll finish it, thanks,” I said.

He grabbed another cookie for himself, and as he chewed, I caught myself staring. My throat went dry, and I quickly looked away.

‘What are you doing, Amara?’ I scolded myself silently.

“I—I think I should go. Our next class is about to start,” I said quickly, avoiding his gaze.

“Alright. I’ll call you later,” he replied.

I nodded and walked away without looking back.

Instead of going straight to class, I went to the restroom first. I immediately checked my reflection in the mirror and froze. My cheeks were flushed, and my face felt unusually warm.

I bit my lip. I shouldn't feel this way.

But every time he did those little things, kissed my cheek, wrapped his arm around me, or looked at me that way—I couldn’t help it. For three years, I’d buried these feelings, convincing myself they were nothing. Because I knew the truth: he was my friend.

“What am I going to do?” I muttered, staring at my reflection.

Then, a voice spoke behind me.

“I didn’t know you had a habit of talking to yourself when you’re alone.”

I almost rolled my eyes when I saw who it was.

“Is it a crime to talk to myself?” I asked innocently, though sarcasm laced my tone.

She stepped closer and stood beside me. We both looked at our reflections in the mirror.

“You look crazy,” she said flatly.

“It’s fine. Just don’t mind me,” I replied, trying to ignore her.

I thought she'd stay quiet for a while,

but I was wrong.

“Stay away from Sebastian, Amara.”

Her voice was cold, firm, and full of something I couldn’t quite name.

I looked at her, and her expression was unwavering, with a hint of desperation in her eyes.

“And why would I do that?” I asked, annoyed.

“Because I’m telling you to. You’re not stupid, you know exactly what I mean,” she said, her calm demeanor giving way to frustration. Her voice was almost a shout, and her words were laced with insult.

“Who are you to order me around? Seb is my friend, and I won’t stay away from him. If you want him, tell him yourself,” I snapped.

What right did she have to order me around and insult me?

“I can’t!” she shouted, voice trembling with emotion. “I can’t, because you’re always with him! I don’t exist to him because all he ever sees is you!”

I froze. I opened my mouth to retort but closed it again, unsure of what to say. Should I correct her or just let her feel what she felt?

“I need to go,” I said finally, turning toward the door.

But before I could leave, she grabbed my arm.

“Wait, we’re not done yet.”

“Let go of me, Claire. My class is about to start,” I said, trying to pull free.

“I won’t. Promise me you’ll stay away from him first, then I’ll let you go,” she said desperately.

That was the last straw.

“If you like him that much, then tell him. Be honest,” I said, yanking my arm away.

I bit my lip, regretting my words. I shouldn't have said that.

“Why don’t you tell that to yourself, too? I know you like him, Amara,” she shot back, her tone cutting but steady.

“Maybe the one who should be honest here is you.”

I stared straight into her eyes. She wanted a fight, and I wasn’t about to back down. She pushed me to

say these words.

“What if I say yes? But I know my limitations weell, Claire.” I said quietly but firmly.

I turned toward the door and added, “Sorry— but I’m not as desperate as you are.”

AMARA’S POV

INSTEAD of going back to the room, I went straight to the girls’ locker room.

It was almost time, so I was sure no one would be there anymore.

"She's right."

Tears started to pool in the corners of my eyes.

Claire was right.

If there was anyone who needed to be honest between the two of us, it should be me.

“N-no, I shouldn’t feel this way about him. H-he’s my friend,” I said, shaking my head.

I held onto my locker, trying to gather some strength. My knees felt weak, and I almost collapsed onto the cement floor.

I shifted my position so that my back was against the locker. Feeling completely drained, I slowly slid down and sat on the floor.

And then—I cried my heart out.

“WHERE have you been? Jazz told me you didn’t take your last subject,” Kolin greeted as soon as I reached the door.

She met me right there, and behind her stood Jazz, flashing me a peace sign. I took the bag from her hand that she had been carrying for me.

“Sorry, I was just worried, so I told her,” Jazz said apologetically.

“It’s fine. Thank you, by the way,” I said, grateful that she carried my bag.

“Is there a problem, Amara?” Kolin asked as they walked beside me, matching my pace.

“N-nothing,” I replied quickly, avoiding her gaze.

“Nothing? Then why are your eyes red? Did you and Seb fight?”

I stopped walking. I looked at the two of them before taking a deep breath.

“No, we didn’t fight,” I said softly.

“Then why did you cry?” she asked, her tone teasing but full of concern.

“I didn’t cry. I was just sleeping,” I lied. It was the only way to stop Kolin from asking more questions.

“Don’t lie to me, Amara. I know you. I know when something’s wrong, so just tell me.”

I sighed inwardly. How I wish Kolin could be more like Jazz—quiet and understanding. Jazz might be gay, but unlike others who love to gossip, he’s the calm type, especially in moments like this.

“Nothing, really. Come on, I just want to go home,” I said.

Kolin rolled her eyes. “Fine. But when you’re ready to talk, just call me, okay? I’m only one call away.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Those are song lyrics, Kolin.”

“For now, take care of yourself. Seb will definitely notice if something’s wrong,” she reminded, her eyes lingering on me. Just one look, and she already understood. When she smiled, I finally felt a bit of relief, and a small smile formed on my lips too.

“I’ll make up a story, okay? Just go with the flow,” I said.

She nodded her head. Jazz did too, even though he clearly had no idea what was happening. I knew it wasn’t fair—he’s my friend too—but someday, I’ll tell him everything I’ve been hiding.

“Okay—speaking of my cousin, here he comes.”

I turned to where she was looking and froze when my eyes met Seb’s. Instinctively, I bowed my head, unable to hold his gaze.

I followed his gaze. I lowered my eyes the moment Seb met mine.

"Did you cry?" he asked, crouching slightly to see the face I was trying so hard to hide.

"I told you, he’d notice," Kolin murmured.

Thank goodness it didn’t seem to reach her cousin’s ears.

"I—just sneezed," I lied, looking away.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw him nod. I didn’t expect that. Wouldn’t he question me? Just… nod?

And why did that hurt? Was it because it felt like he didn’t care? Shouldn’t I feel relieved that he didn’t ask why I had cried? But he was the reason behind my tears—the reason my heart ached the way it did.

Frustrated with myself, I grabbed my phone. I dialed our driver’s number. I just wanted to go home.

"I can’t reach our driver," I muttered.

"Why are you calling him?" Seb asked.

I ignored him and continued dialing.

"Because their driver is supposed to pick her up," Kolin answered.

"I thought you were coming with us?" Seb stopped walking and looked at me.

Even without looking at him, I knew his eyebrows were knit together in a single line.

"Oh, right… c-could we maybe do it next time instead?" I asked hesitantly. I didn’t look at him as I said it. I even bit my lips unconsciously.

"But we already made an agreement. You’ll join Kolin for lunch and… okay, fine," he finally relented.

Hearing that, I lifted my gaze toward him. But somehow, what I saw on his face didn’t match his words.

"What a waste… such a waste of everything Aunt cooked. And it’s so delicious too," Kolin said, emphasizing every word.

I felt a pang of guilt at her words. Aunt really had put effort into cooking.

"Fine, I’ll go," I finally agreed.

I heaved a sigh. It was embarrassing to admit, but I was just going to have dinner and then head home immediately.

"Really? Okay, we’ll go ahead then. Bye!" Kolin waved as she pulled Jazz along, who had been silent until now.

Jazz didn’t resist at all. I just laughed, realizing what was happening. He completely lost himself, dazed, all because of Seb. How could I have forgotten he had a crush on him? No wonder he always acted like this whenever I was with Seb—silent and dreamy-eyed.

"Wait, Jazz! Kolin!" I shouted after them, even as they were already far ahead.

As we started walking again, I noticed his stern, serious expression and the way his gaze seemed sharp, almost piercing.

"Why are you so quiet?" I asked Seb, unable to stand the expression on his face any longer.

But he didn’t answer. He didn’t even look at me.

"Hey! Come on, I already said I’ll go with you." I stopped walking and stood in front of him. I tiptoed a little and held his face, forcing him to look at me.

Why has he been ignoring me and just staring like that?

"So stop sulking, okay?" I said, though our lips were only inches apart.

It felt awkward—the color of his lips was so red, so tempting. I swallowed hard, and I knew he noticed. Embarrassed, I quickly let go of him.

Why am I being so flirty these past few days? Why do I notice so many things about him? Even his breathing feels… attractive!?

"I'm not sulking. I'm fine," he said in a low, husky voice.

Wait—no. I shouldn’t give in to temptation. He’s my best friend. I know how I feel about him, and I should also know my limits.

Get your senses back, Amara!

I cleared my throat. "Oh, come on, just admit you’re sulking," I teased, poking his side.

I wanted to poke closer to his abs, but… maybe not.

"Kate…" he said my name.

My hand froze in midair. There was a warning in his tone.

Even though I wanted to tease him more, I couldn’t. He only needed to say my name once, and I already knew what it meant—especially when he called me Kate. It meant he was serious. And when Seb is serious, you’d better be serious too. That’s just the kind of person he is.

"Alright, alright. I’ll be quiet," I said softly, like an obedient lamb.

I looked down, but quickly lifted my gaze when he reached out his hand toward me. I stared at him in confusion.

"Hold my hand," he said in that deep, calm voice.

I smiled and, without hesitation, intertwined my fingers with his.

"Let’s go," he said gently, flashing that perfect smile of his.

We started walking again, our hands intertwined, fingers fitting perfectly together.

AMARA'S POV

"Before we head to your house, can we make a stop somewhere?" I asked Sebastian.

I looked at him to see if he’d agree. I needed to buy something that Aunt Romina would surely like.

"Where? Why?" he said curtly.

"At the flower shop. Can we?" I looked at him with pleading eyes. I hoped it would work—after all, I rarely get a chance to use my puppy eyes.

"Buying flowers for Aunt Romina?" Kolin, who was in the backseat, leaned forward.

"Yes… hopefully," I replied, keeping it short.

I glanced at Seb again. "Is that okay?" I asked once more. If he said no, it would be fine. I understood him—maybe he was tired, and I didn’t want to trouble him. I just needed to do this, so I could at least give his mother something.

I smiled when he nodded. He started the car, but before looking at the road, he turned to look at me—making me wonder why.

"YOU think she’ll like it?" I asked, pointing at the flowers and seedlings I had bought. Aunt Romina loved flowers. She had a garden at the back of their mansion, which she cared for herself. That’s why I got her sunflower seeds I hadn’t seen any in her garden. And the fresh flowers? I was sure she’d put them in vases to decorate the house.

"Did you like them?" Seb asked in return. I raised an eyebrow at him.

Just then, the shop florist arrived with the flowers I had ordered. She greeted us with a wide smile.

"Of course, sir. Ma’am will love them—they’re from you," she said. She even glanced at me, teasingly.

My cheeks suddenly flamed, and I felt my embarrassment rising.

"Ah, no—I’ll buy them. I have someone I want to give them to," I stammered.

Even with the air conditioning in the shop, I could feel myself starting to sweat.

"Oh, sorry! I just thought Sir was buying them, ma’am. I really thought you two were a couple," the shop assistant said, looking apologetic.

She probably assumed that because Seb had mentioned which flowers I wanted for Aunt Romina. She must have thought he was buying them for me.

"It’s okay. Really, no need to apologize," I said softly.

"Exactly. Even I might think you two were a couple if I weren’t his cousin," Kolin added, smirking.

I almost forgot she was even there. She was too busy scrolling on her phone to make a sound or be bothered.

"How much for all of these?" Seb asked, already holding the flowers before they were even paid for.

"I’ll be the one to pay, Seb," I said firmly.

He froze, hand pausing over his credit card. I glared at him, and when our eyes met, he just shrugged—clearly surrendering.

---

"OH, it’s so nice to see you again, darling," Aunt Romina said.

She had actually been waiting at the main door when Kolin called to say we were almost there. She walked toward me and hugged me tightly. Seb’s arm, which had been around my waist, fell away. I hugged Aunt Romina back.

"Me t—" I couldn’t finish my words because Seb spoke first.

"It’s only been a week since Amara came here, Mom. Just one week," he said.

I was used to Aunt Romina. Every time I visited her house, she always reacted this way. To her, a single week felt like a year or more. But that’s what I loved about her. I knew she genuinely cared for me.

"Yes, Aunt. Let’s not get too exaggerated," Kolin added.

Aunt Romina merely frowned at him. She straightened herself elegantly and pointed her fingers at Seb and Kolin. She was about to say something but took a deep breath instead, choosing not to continue.

"Come with me, darling. I want you to help me prepare the food," she said softly.

I felt a surge of happiness at her words. I was about to step away from Seb when she spoke again.

"Mom..."

We paused. Aunt shot Seb a quick, sharp look.

"We’re just going to the kitchen, Sebastian. We’ll be back soon," she said, raising her eyebrow at her son.

I thought Seb would finally stay quiet, but he smirked and spoke again.

"Will that take you too long, Mom?" His question almost made me laugh.

It was as if he was asking where we were going, even though we were only heading to the kitchen. I wanted to say something but held back—I wanted to see Seb’s reaction. He seemed a little annoyed, though I wasn’t sure why.

"Just a moment, Sebastian. You need to learn to wait," Aunt said, her tone serious this time.

Everything went silent. Even Kolin stayed quietly by Seb’s side.

"Of course. I can wait, Mom," he replied.

My breath caught when his eyes met mine after he said those words.

"Come here, darling. I want you to taste what I’m cooking."

I quickly went to Aunt Romina. She handed me a spoonful of soup. I blew on it before sipping, then lifted my hand and gave her a thumbs up.

"This garlic butter steak is delicious… It's Seb’s favorite."

"Yes, darling. You really know my son well," she said warmly.

"I just learned it from Kolin. We’ve been friends for three years, but I feel like there’s still so much I don’t know about Seb… I want to know him better." I smiled shyly.

"Don’t worry, hija. I’m here. So if you want to know anything about Sebastian, just ask me." Aunt patted my shoulder as she spoke.

"Thank you, Aunt," I said softly.

"You know, when the day comes that Seb gets married, I hope his wife can cook—especially his favorite food."

She looked at me with a sparkle in her eyes. I didn’t know why, but I forced a smile. I almost wanted to lightly hit myself for blushing.

I straightened up and tried to speak confidently. "I think Seb will find someone like you, Aunt. Someone who knows how to cook and also manage the household."

Aunt Romina turned off the stove before looking at me fully.

"You can cook too, right? And Sebastian told me you help your house helpers with chores," she said at length.

I was taken aback. It was normal for Seb to mention my help at home to his mom, since we were friends… but somehow, it felt different coming from her.

Aunt Romina didn’t look away until I answered.

"Y-Yes," I stammered.

I looked down and fiddled with my hands. I didn’t know where this conversation with Aunt Romina was leading. I felt nervous.

"You’re just like me, darling. We’re kind of alike."

Her words made me stop fidgeting with my hands.

"Mom."

I instantly lifted my head at Seb’s voice.

"You really can’t wait. Alright, darling, go join Sebastian. We’re almost done here."

"Okay, Aunt."

But before I could step toward Seb, Aunt Romina spoke again. "Please bring this shrimp and chicken salad to the table," she said, smiling.

I took the shrimp while handing the chicken salad to Seb.

"Thank you," I murmured as I sat down.

Seb had pulled out the chair for me.

Just as I settled, Aunt Romina arrived, holding the plate of garlic butter steak she had just cooked.

I felt Seb rise. He took the bowl from Aunt Romina and placed it himself on the table.

"Are you going to sleep here, darling?"

"Ah… I didn’t bring any clothes," I answered.

I didn’t want to say yes, and I didn’t want to say no either. I didn’t want her to expect that I would stay here. So I chose the safest answer.

"You have some in my closet. You left them here last time."

My head snapped toward Seb. I was shocked. There was no hesitation on his face—only seriousness. I immediately glanced at his mother. Out of the four of us, she was the one most likely to misinterpret Seb’s words.

"H-how?" Aunt Romina asked, wide-eyed.

I couldn’t tell if it was surprise, excitement, or something else in her expression.

I felt shy and cleared my throat before explaining. "I showered in Seb’s room last time I was here," I clarified.

"Oh, I thought… maybe something would happen," she said in a disappointed tone.

"Mom," Seb warned her.

"I’m just kidding, son. I’m sorry, darling. I just really want to have a grandchild already."

"I understand, Aunt." I said, avoiding everyone’s gaze.

The truth was, I felt so self-conscious. My cheeks burned as if I had a fever.

"When are you going to give me a grandchild, Sebastian? I’m bored at home. Your father won’t let me work," she complained.

Sebastian put down his utensils. "I told you, Mom, there’s a right time for that. I’m just waiting for her to be ready."

I froze mid-bite at his words. I pretended to be interested in their new topic.

'I’m just waiting for her to be ready.' It was only a few words, but why did it affect me like this? He didn’t say a name—just her.

"Really? So, who’s this lucky girl?" Aunt Romina asked excitedly.

"Do I know her, Sebastian?" Kolin joined the conversation this time, curious. I didn’t respond.

He just shrugged, ignoring them. He was about to start eating again when he looked at me and smiled. I couldn’t smile back. My heart felt like it was being squeezed. I felt pain I couldn’t explain.

He’s liked someone for a long time…