Chapter 32: Morning Light

The world emerged slowly from the haze of dreams, enveloped in a cocoon of warmth and the gentle rhythm of steady breaths.

Sapphire stirred beneath the velvety embrace of a blanket, her cheek nestled against the inviting curve of Yuqi’s shoulder. The soft, melodic pulse of her mate’s heartbeat resonated in her ear, wrapping her in a profound sense of comfort that felt entirely new. She felt safe. Wanted. Cherished.

The heady scent of Yuqi—inviting, rich, and undeniably hers—flooded Sapphire’s senses, igniting a flutter in her chest. It was desire, yes, but not the frantic kind. This was something deeper, an instinctual connection that surged within her. Bonded.

A soft smile crept across her lips as she barely cracked her eyes open, shifting just enough to catch a glimpse of Yuqi’s serene sleeping face. Even beneath the gentle veil of slumber, Yuqi resembled a dream—a vision of ethereal beauty. Her hair cascaded like dark silk, tousled and wild, while her long lashes lay like delicate shadows against her porcelain cheeks. Her lips, slightly parted in tranquil breaths, drew Sapphire in, filling her with warmth and tenderness. Sapphire couldn’t resist reaching up to brush a wayward strand of hair from Yuqi’s forehead, her fingers gliding over soft skin with utmost reverence.

That gentle caress was enough to stir Yuqi from her dreams.

Her eyes fluttered open, slowly adjusting from the depths of sleep before locking onto Sapphire’s gaze. The moment their eyes met, a wave of understanding passed between them, both girls smiling widely as if sharing a secret that needed no words.

They leaned in, foreheads touching for a brief heartbeat, the world around them fading into oblivion. Slowly, their lips met in a sweet, lingering kiss—unhurried and filled with an exquisite tenderness. It was a wordless promise, an exchange of warmth and affection that enveloped them more completely than any blanket ever could.

Then—

A series of polite knocks disrupted their cocoon of intimacy.

The door creaked open with a soft groan.

“Girls, it’s time to get up and get ready for school,” Julia’s voice rang out, echoing through the room and startling them both with its abruptness.

Yuqi flinched, her head bumping against the wall with a soft thud. “Ow—”

Sapphire gasped in surprise, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson as she scrambled to sit up, desperately trying to tame her tousled hair. Yuqi groaned softly, rubbing the back of her head as color rushed to her cheeks, mirroring Sapphire's embarrassment.

Julia raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in her eyes as her expression hovered between playful and maternal. “Sapphire, sweetheart, you can use the bathroom first. I’d like a quick word with Yuqi before breakfast.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Sapphire murmured, her voice barely above a whisper as she averted her gaze, warmth flooding her cheeks. She felt the heat of embarrassment wash over her like a gentle tide. With a mix of trepidation and urgency, she reached for a few of Yuqi's clothes draped carelessly over the chair, their fabric soft beneath her fingers. Taking a deep breath, she moved quietly toward the hallway, each step deliberate as she sought refuge from the moment.

Yuqi gave her a fleeting, apologetic glance, and Sapphire managed a tiny grin in return before slipping out the door, heart racing with lingering emotions as she stepped into the outside world.

Julia rested a hand gently on Yuqi’s back, her voice soft and soothing as though she were trying to weave a protective cocoon around them. “You’ve both been through so much,” she murmured, her tone laden with empathy. “I just want you to remember to take things slow. Not because I doubt your strength, but because healing—especially when it involves matters of the heart—requires patience and tender care.”

Yuqi nodded, her throat tight with unspoken emotions. “All I want is to protect her,” she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper, yet filled with fierce determination.

“And you are,” Julia replied, her lips curving into a gentle smile that radiated warmth. “But don’t forget to allow her the space to protect you, too.”

Those words struck a deep chord within Yuqi, resonating like the soft chime of distant bells in her heart. She took a steadying breath, feeling the weight of Julia’s advice settle deep within her, soothing yet profound.

With a graceful rise, Julia stood, her presence somehow commanding yet serene. “Alright, time to move before Sapphire thinks I’m giving you the infamous talk,” she said, a glimmer of mischief dancing in her eyes.

Yuqi blinked, a flicker of confusion crossing her features. “Wait… that wasn’t the talk?”

Julia arched an eyebrow, her smirk playful and knowing as she sauntered toward the door. “Oh, sweetheart. If I ever give you the talk, believe me—you’ll know.”

With that, she slipped into the hallway like a whisper, leaving Yuqi groaning into her pillow, a mix of embarrassment and amusement washing over her as she processed the unexpected exchange.

Sapphire stood in front of the mirror, her fingers delicately adjusting the oversized sleeves of a soft lavender hoodie that draped gracefully over her arms. The snug, faded jeans hugged her curves comfortably, each frayed edge telling a story of countless adventures and cherished memories. The air was thick with the familiar, comforting scent of Yuqi, wrapping around her like a warm cocoon, making the ensemble feel like a protective layer of armor.

Leaning casually against the doorframe, Yuqi brished her vibrant blue hair back with a graceful motion, a spark of admiration glimmering in her eyes as she watched Sapphire prepare. “You look stunning in my clothes,” she remarked with a playful half-smile. “Dangerously stunning, actually.”

Sapphire responded with a shy smile, her cheeks warming slightly as she smoothed the fabric of the hoodie over her belly. “Today is all about comfort over style. I’m still feeling a little sore, you know.”

Concern etched itself onto Yuqi’s features as she stepped closer, her hand gently resting on the small of Sapphire’s back, sending a calming wave through her. “How bad is the discomfort?”

“It’s not unbearable,” Sapphire replied, her voice barely above a whisper. “Just… tender. It feels as if I’ve been stretched too thin, or like my mana is buzzing in all the wrong places. I don’t think sprinting to class is in the cards today.”

Yuqi nodded, her expression softening with empathy as she bit the inside of her cheek, a gesture revealing her concern. “Are you certain you’re up for going?”

Sapphire turned fully to face her, placing her hands tenderly on Yuqi’s hips, grounding both of them in the moment. “If you’re by my side, I can manage anything. Besides, I can’t hide away forever.”

“I know,” Yuqi murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. She tucked a wayward strand of blue hair behind Sapphire's ear with gentle fingers. “But I still can’t help but feel terrible for what happened.”

“You didn’t do anything wrong,” Sapphire said firmly yet lovingly, her gaze steady. “We both consented; we just didn’t foresee the consequences. And you were the one who put a stop to it when it got too intense.”

Yuqi exhaled slowly, resting her forehead against Sapphire’s for a precious moment, absorbing the warmth between them. “Still, I’m keeping the crown locked away until I’m certain it’s safe. That thing won’t touch either of us again without answers first.”

A small, reassuring smile graced Sapphire's lips as she leaned in and placed a brief, tender kiss on Yuqi’s mouth. “Absolutely agreed.”

They lingered in their intimate bubble of support for a heartbeat longer, the air around them thick with unspoken promises. Finally, Yuqi pulled back, a soft sigh escaping her lips as she reached for her well-worn backpack, its fabric frayed yet familiar—a testament to the journeys they had shared.

“Alright,” she declared, a fierce determination glimmering in her eyes, bright and unwavering like a beacon in the dark. “Let’s face the day together. We’ll get through this.”

Sapphire intertwined her fingers with Yuqi’s, savoring the warmth that radiated from their embrace, a surge of strength and comfort flowing between them. “Always,” she replied, her voice steady and resolute, echoing the unbreakable bond they had forged through trials and triumphs.

They descended the staircase together, the gentle creaking of the wooden steps accompanying their descent, just as Kelly finished tucking a crunchy granola bar into her stylish tote bag. Her heels clicked rhythmically against the polished floor, creating a bright symphony of sound as she met them at the door. She was a vision of effortless composure, clad in a chic school outfit that likely took over an hour to meticulously assemble, though she would steadfastly deny any notion of fussiness.

“Ready to go?” she asked, expertly shoving the granola bar into her bag. Her gaze flickered over to Sapphire, who appeared to be moving a touch slower than usual, a slight furrow of concern crossing her brow.

Yuqi shifted her bag, rolling her shoulders back before gently reaching for Sapphire’s hand once more. “We’re walking,” she reassured softly. “No rush at all.”

Sapphire offered a grateful smile, though her posture remained a bit stiff, as lingering aches danced in her body, reminding her of the previous day’s trials.

Stepping outside, they were greeted by a mild morning, with the sun casting elongated shadows that stretched across the sidewalk like sleepy giants. The air was filled with the sweet melodies of chirping birds flitting among the lush trees lining the street as they began their stroll. Yuqi stayed close to Sapphire’s side, wrapping an arm around her waist, offering a steady and comforting embrace. Kelly moved ahead, initially humming a cheerful tune, but gradually adjusted her pace to keep in step with them.

The world around them fell into a peaceful silence, a serene moment that was eventually interrupted by Kelly’s sudden snort of laughter.

Yuqi blinked in surprise, tilting her head in curiosity. “What’s so funny?” she inquired, her brow arching.

Kelly flashed a mischievous smirk, glancing back over her shoulder. “Remember a few months ago when you were pondering why none of the cheerleaders piqued your interest?”

A deep flush crept across Yuqi’s cheeks. “Oh god… yes, I remember well.”

Kelly’s grin widened, delight twinkling in her eyes. “I think it’s safe to say you figured out exactly why that was.”

Sapphire, who had been contentedly stepping alongside Yuqi, turned her head slowly, her blue eyes sparkling like polished sapphires—curious, not with jealousy, but with a hint of intrigue. “Which cheerleaders?”

Yuqi coughed softly, a wave of nervousness washing over her.

With a casual flick of her hand, Kelly assured her, “Sapphire, you have nothing to worry about. She wasn’t crushing on any of them. She just… didn’t feel anything. She knew she liked girls, but none sparked the flame. Not until you came along.”

Sapphire continued to scrutinize Yuqi, her expression slightly skeptical. Yet, in a moment of soft vulnerability, she buried her face affectionately into Yuqi’s neck and pressed a tender kiss just below her jawline. “Good,” she murmured, her voice warm and filled with a sense of possession. “You’re mine.”

Yuqi chuckled, warmth flooding through her cheeks as she pressed a gentle kiss to Sapphire’s temple. “Of course, my darling. And you are mine.”

They shared a brief, hushed moment of intimacy right there on the sidewalk, fingers intertwined like interwoven vines, moving in step as if destined to do so.

Kelly groaned dramatically, rolling her eyes in playful exasperation. “Okay, Your Majesties, can we dial down the lovey-dovey stuff before I start gagging?”

Yuqi stuck her tongue out teasingly, a playful glint in her eye. “No. Never.”

Sapphire laughed, the sound delicate and soft, yet radiant with joy despite the lingering fatigue that threaded through her voice.

The three of them continued on their way, lighthearted banter and teasing flowing between them like a gentle breeze, as they approached the school gates—stronger together, facing whatever challenges the day might unveil.

They arrived at the front steps of the school just as the last stragglers hurried inside to escape the impending bell. The courtyard buzzed with the hum of morning chatter, punctuated by the rhythmic squeak of sneakers against the pavement and the sharp clang of lockers slamming shut within the building's welcoming embrace.

Yuqi was steadying Sapphire, her arm wrapped reassuringly around her waist, when Sapphire darted a glance at her, her innocent smile radiating mischief. In a tone that was perfectly nonchalant—yet loud enough for the handful of students milling nearby—she announced, “Your pillows were so comfortable to sleep on last night.”

Yuqi's eyes widened in shock, and an electric jolt of surprise coursed through her. Her entire body tensed, and instinctively, she brought her arm across her chest in a protective manner, a deep blush creeping up her cheeks. “Sapphire!” she hissed, her voice laced with a blend of embarrassment and disbelief.

Just ahead of them, Kelly froze, her mouth agape in astonishment. “Oh my god,” she breathed, her eyes wide in disbelief.

Sapphire, unfazed by the commotion she'd caused, simply giggled, a sound light and carefree. “What? I’m just claiming my territory,” she declared, a playful glint dancing in her eyes.

Yuqi let out a soft groan, dragging her hand down her face in a mixture of exasperation and amusement. “You’re going to get me expelled,” she muttered under her breath, though the corners of her mouth betrayed her with an involuntary twitch.

Turning to face them, Kelly raised an eyebrow, her expression one of mock seriousness. “You two are dangerous together,” she warned, a teasing edge to her voice.

“Tell me about it,” Yuqi replied, rolling her eyes as they stepped into the bustling hallway, vibrant with the energy of students bustling to their classes.

Yet, despite the banter swirling around them, the warmth of Sapphire’s hand in hers never wavered, and even as the teasing continued, Yuqi couldn’t suppress the smile blooming on her lips.

As the front doors swung closed behind them, a familiar wave of fluorescent lights flickered to life, illuminating the bustling hallway filled with the cacophony of locker clatter and overlapping conversations. The corridor teemed with students weaving their way to first period, yet Yuqi barely registered the crowded scene around her. Her attention was captivated by Sapphire—the warmth of their intertwined fingers radiated a comforting connection, and the playful echo of that pillow comment playfully ricocheted through her thoughts.

Unfortunately, what was meant to be a private moment was now a public spectacle.

A cluster of sophomores brushed past, their hushed whispers swirling like mischievous breezes. One girl stifled a giggle, while another pointed—far from discreetly—right at Yuqi and Sapphire as they strolled by, intertwining their fates amid the tide of youthful chatter.

“Oh my god,” one girl murmured to her friend, just loud enough for Yuqi to catch, “did you hear what she said about pillows this morning?”

Yuqi felt a wave of frustration wash over her—of course someone had overheard. It seemed like news had spread through the courtyard like wildfire.

But Sapphire appeared unfazed. She walked beside Yuqi with quiet confidence, exuding a sense of pride that made her glow. Each curious gaze and whispered comment rolled off her like water off a duck’s back. With a small, inviting smile, she dared anyone to voice their thoughts aloud.

When they reached the main hallway, where their lockers awaited with their familiar metallic scent, Yuqi reluctantly slowed, a flicker of apprehension crossing her face.

“I guess this is where we part ways,” she said softly, her thumb brushing along Sapphire’s hand, a gentle reminder of their connection.

Sapphire nodded, her eyes shimmering with warmth. “I’ll see you at lunch.”

Before she could turn away, Yuqi leaned in slightly, a playful smile dancing across her lips. “I’m glad you like my pillows.”

Sapphire’s eyes widened for a moment before delight bubbled up inside her, spilling forth in a quiet giggle that she quickly tried to suppress with her hand.

“You’re terrible,” she whispered, her grin stretching from ear to ear.

Yuqi returned the grin with equal fervor. “You started it.”

They leaned in just enough to exchange a chaste kiss, their lips meeting softly in a fleeting moment of tenderness, each breath laced with unspoken promises and burgeoning affection.

As they finally parted, Yuqi turned to make her way toward her locker, a warm flush blooming in her cheeks. She could hear the soft murmurings of whispers as she passed by clusters of students, some filled with amusement, others fueled by curiosity—but in that moment, she couldn’t bring herself to care.

Whispers were bound to spread like wildfire.

In the dimly lit hallway, Sapphire had leaned in, her lips brushing against hers with a gentle urgency that sent a thrill coursing through her veins.

Yuqi practically floated down the hallway, her heart alight with the lingering warmth of Sapphire’s gentle kiss. It was as if she had shed the weight of the world, leaving behind all worries and uncertainties. The infectious melody of Sapphire's soft giggle echoed in her mind, enveloping her in a blissful haze. At that moment, nothing else mattered; her mate had dared to kiss her openly, bold and unashamed, and the thrill of it sent delightful shivers down her spine.

As she stepped into the girls’ locker room, the familiar cacophony greeted her: the sharp clang of lockers slamming open, the rhythmic squeaking of sneakers on the polished floor, and the overlapping chatter of voices mingling like a vibrant tapestry. But Yuqi moved through it all like a serene river, barely registering the chaos. Calmly, she hummed a soft tune, her spirit buoyant, as she approached her locker and began to change.

Peeling off her hoodie, she stretched, revealing the toned curves of her chest and flat stomach that glimmered subtly beneath her fitted gym shirt. It wasn’t a deliberate showcase—Yuqi had never been shy about her appearance. However, for the first time, she sensed eyes lingering on her, a curious awareness of the attention she commanded.

Kelly, leaning casually against the edge of a nearby bench, couldn’t help but notice the shift in energy. Her keen gaze scanned the room, picking up on the hushed whispers and sidelong glances exchanged among the other girls. There was an invisible current in the atmosphere; one girl caught between Yuqi’s effortless beauty and her own reflection in the mirror, while another nervously rustled her hair, tugging down her shirt to appear more put together.

Oblivious to the admiration swirling around her, Yuqi continued her routine, blissfully anchored to the radiant moment she shared with Sapphire. She briefly glanced at her phone, checking the time, then slipped it into her bag with a satisfied sigh.

Kelly sauntered over, arms folded and an amused smirk playing at the corners of her lips. “You do realize that the other girls are checking you out, right?”

Yuqi blinked in confusion. “What? Why on earth would they be doing that?”

With a playful tilt of her head, Kelly gestured towards the back row of lockers, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “You’re practically radiating, you know. That kiss? Trust me, it didn’t slip by unnoticed. And with that jab Sapphire made, the whole place is buzzing with comparisons.”

Yuqi arched an eyebrow, a skeptical expression creasing her forehead. “Wait, they’re staring because of what Sapphire said?” As the realization dawned on her, her hands instinctively flew up to cover her chest, a mixture of surprise and embarrassment flooding her features.

“It’s not just that, Yuqi. You’ve always looked incredible, but now? Now they’re really taking notice,” she said, her voice filled with genuine awe.

With a dramatic groan, Yuqi rolled her eyes, a playful exasperation etched across her features. The corners of her lips twitched, as if holding back a smile. “I didn’t sign up for any of this,” she replied, her tone teasing yet sincere, glancing around as if the attention were almost too much to bear.

Kelly chuckled, her laughter light and infectious. “Too late for that. You’re on everyone’s radar now.”

With a decisive slam, Yuqi shut her locker and shook her head, a half-hearted grin tugging at her lips. “Can we get through gym class without feeling like we have a spotlight on us?”

“No promises,” Kelly replied, flashing a teasing grin. “But don’t worry, I’ll walk right beside you, just so they know you’re taken.”

Yuqi couldn’t help but snort at her sister’s antics. “You’re the absolute worst.”

“Only because I’m the best big sister ever,” Kelly replied, nudging Yuqi playfully.

Together, they ventured into the gym, the low hum of chatter swirling behind them like a whisper of intrigue. Yuqi didn’t dare glance back, but Kelly did, catching a few more lingering stares before the door swung shut, sealing their entrance into a new chapter of attention and unforeseen possibilities.

Gym class wasn’t as soothing as Yuqi had envisioned.

As she attempted to immerse herself in the warmups, every stretch felt tangled in the lingering echo of Sapphire’s lips grazing hers. The sound of her laughter, a sweet melody that danced in the hallway, replayed in Yuqi’s mind. Even amid the rhythmic thud of feet against the gym floor and the scent of sweat-soaked air, she sensed it—the weight of glances, the intensity of lingering gazes. Some girls watched her with a mixture of curiosity and admiration when they thought her focus was elsewhere.

Initially, she dismissed it, dismissing the notion that she was anything more than a girl in gym gear, not one to solicit attention. But with the way Sapphire had boldly claimed her as if announcing a secret to the world—and the whispers that flitted through the halls after that playful pillow comment—everything felt amplified, raw.

With each rep of jumping jacks, she caught sight of a cluster of girls in the mirror, their whispers blending into a hum of intrigue, their eyes flitting between her and their own reflections, as if comparing. Heat ignited in her cheeks, not solely a byproduct of exertion, but something far more complex.

Her mind drifted back to that sunlit day by her backyard pool. She had felt the warmth radiating off the water where she swam with Kelly, laughter spilling from their lips like the splashes that surrounded them. Then, the sudden arrival of some friends had shattered their moment of freedom, their jaws dropping at the sight of her in a bikini. The teasing from Kelly had lingered long after, but Yuqi remembered feeling exposed, vulnerable—unprepared for that level of attention.

In her previous life as David, she too had gazed at girls with similar curiosity, albeit with a hesitant admiration rather than any intent to flirt. Those quiet, appreciative looks had felt innocent then. Now, as she found herself on the receiving end, she carried a newfound understanding, a mix of flattery and discomfort swirling within her.

But she was acutely aware of the source of this attention—it wasn't merely the hallway kiss. It was Sapphire’s voice, vibrant and commanding, her playful yet assertive comment about pillows inadvertently sending ripples through the school like a provocative shout. It was a declaration—a fun, flirty way of marking her territory that sent a crystal-clear message:

Yuqi was taken.

And now, all eyes were on her.

Yet, Yuqi couldn’t begrudge Sapphire for it. In truth, being the subject of those glances made her feel radiant—claimed, cherished, loved in a way that transcended mere words. No one had ever spoken about her like that, with such unabashed adoration.

So instead of shrinking beneath the weight of the attention, Yuqi stood a little taller, letting the blush fade from her cheeks and summoning her inner strength. She refused to let the stares and murmurs define her.

Let them look.

She already knew where her heart belonged.

As she moved through the exercises, the only one occupying her thoughts was Sapphire—the way her eyes dazzled like precious gems, filled with mischief and warmth, and the way her lips curled into that enchanting smile that made the world fade into the background. In that moment, it was clear: she was unapologetically hers.

By the time the lunch bell echoed through the halls, Yuqi was more than ready to catch a glimpse of her once more. She practically flew out of her last class, skillfully weaving between students who seemed to move in slow motion, her heart racing with an urgency fueled by excitement rather than mere hunger.

As she stepped into the bustling cafeteria, the familiar cacophony of voices and laughter enveloped her, but her attention was already peeled for a particular presence. She scanned the sea of faces like a hawk, her senses heightened not just for visual recognition but for that unmistakable allure—an intoxicating blend of scents that was uniquely Sapphire.

It hit her like a warm wave before she even spotted her: the enchanting aroma of freshwater mingling with spices and a subtle hint of warmth. That scent alone ignited a smile on Yuqi’s face as she made her way to their usual table, where the midday chaos swirled around them.

Kelly was already seated, engaged in animated conversation with Kara and a couple of other classmates. She looked up as Yuqi approached, a teasing glint in her eye as she raised an eyebrow, her playful smirk betraying the fun she was having. “You really are whipped,” she quipped, nudging her tray over to make room for Yuqi, delightfully unbothered by the playful jibe. “You practically sprinted from class.”

Yuqi grinned from ear to ear, no hint of shame in her expression. “Guilty,” she admitted, her heart still racing, but this time from the joy of being close to the one who captivated her spirit.

She barely had time to get comfortable at the table before her gaze drifted to the far end of the bustling lunch line, where Sapphire stood out like a precious gem amidst the crowd. Clad in a soft, light purple sweatshirt that seemed to complement her radiant skin, she paired it with well-worn jeans that hinted at a relaxed charm. As their eyes met from across the room, Sapphire's striking sapphire-blue irises shimmered with warmth, reflecting the laughter and camaraderie around them.

Unable to contain the joy bubbling inside her, Yuqi raised her hand in a cheerful wave, a broad smile spreading across her face like the morning sun breaking through clouds.

Sapphire's face lit up in response, her smile bright and genuine, and she quickened her pace, her sneakers softly scuffing the floor as she made her way to Yuqi. When she finally reached the table, Yuqi rose to greet her enthusiastically, wrapping an arm around Sapphire’s shoulders with a careful yet affectionate touch.

“Hey,” Yuqi murmured softly, her voice filled with concern. “How are you feeling?”

Sapphire leaned into her embrace, drawing comfort from the warmth. “Still sore, but walking’s easier now,” she replied, her voice a mixture of resilience and relief.

They settled into their seats, shoulders brushing against one another like old friends reassuring each other, as the others greeted Sapphire with casual hellos and playful, knowing smirks.

“Can I just say,” Kara began, her fingers deftly twisting the cap off her drink, “the way you two look at each other is simply… disgustingly cute.” Her eyes sparkled with mischief.

Kelly leaned in with a teasing smirk. “Oh, you missed a show earlier. There was hand-holding, sweet forehead kisses, and this dreamy sigh that could melt even the coldest heart.”

Yuqi rolled her eyes, but a hint of satisfaction danced in her expression. “You’re just jealous, admit it.”

Sapphire playfully nudged her. “Let them be jealous. It’s their loss.”

As they dug into their meals, conversation swirled around them, filled with the latest school gossip and weekend plans. Yet Yuqi found her focus drifting, captivated instead by Sapphire—the way her smile lit up her face, the soft laugh that bubbled up like a refreshing stream, and the gentle sweep of her hair, which fell playfully over one eye like a curtain veiling a secret.

A soft buzz broke through Yuqi’s daydream. She glanced at her phone resting on the table.

Sapphire: I missed you.

With a flutter of joy in her chest, Yuqi quickly typed back, her fingers dancing over the screen.

Yuqi: I never stop missing you.

In that moment, they didn’t need grand gestures or elaborate declarations. Just being together like this, entwined in the warmth of friendship and laughter, was more than enough for both of them.