1.

The atmosphere of the house became quieter after they had both gone home. Now, there's only me and my uncle at home. I have kept Chika's gift in the warehouse because it is too dusty. Earlier, I asked Uncle whether he had eaten or not and he said he had. So, now, I have nothing to do but watch TV. There is no homework from school because we just finished Mid-Terms. This is a little boring.

Then, my uncle sits beside me. "They're gone, huh? It turns out that this house can be crowded too” Said Uncle.

I agreed and responded, “Haha, yeah. It was pretty fun. Chika and Arkan tasted my cooking and they really liked it. Chika also gave me a present, although it still can't be used”.

"Hahaha. But, yeah, they're good friends”

"True. They're my best friends. There has never been someone like them in my life before” I said while looking at the TV which is broadcasting an animated children's cartoon.

“… Take care of your friendship. Especially, the boy. What was his name just now?” Said Uncle.

Arkan? Why did he put him in a priority?

“Arkan. It's impolite, you know” I said while turning my gaze to Uncle sharply.

"Haha, yeah, sorry". Uncle continued, "I've only met him once so I can't really say much, but, even if it's only for a short time, I know that the boy really values you as a friend".

…

A friend, huh?

"Yes. He's been really nice to me. I don't know why, but, he was the first person I opened my heart to and told about the times before moving here. And since then, my life has started to get better, like a miracle” I explained. My heart felt a strange feeling and immense relief.

…

"In that case, I better go home. It's quite late at night. Your aunt might scold me if she left alone at home” He said while standing up.

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I answered simply, "Yeah, of course".

I escort Uncle to the front of the house and give each other goodbye while watching his sedan drive slowly. The atmosphere in front of the house is very quiet, exactly the same as inside.

Ah, I want them to visit again.

2.

I didn't use my bicycle which function is to ride on because I'm currently walking with someone. Even if we don't get along, I'd better walk at the same pace as her. Therefore, I just lead my bicycle and walk on my own two feet. The person walking beside me also seemed to have something to say.

Well, although I also have a lot of questions for this girl.

Therefore, I take the initiative to start first. “Hey. Has Hana told you everything?”

She answers in a slightly stiff tone as if unsure of the answer. “Y-yeah, I guess”

"Did she tell you when she first met me?".

"Hah? No?" She said in denial.

“Hana and I first met a week before Final exams last time. We both met in a strange place, the forest. I thought it was strange, why a girl like Hana could be in the forest, apparently the reason she got lost was chasing a cat. Very stupid".

“Pfft, seriously?!” Chika suddenly laughed. Then she says, “You told me a lot of questions but it seems you weren't lying. That's really Hana. But, wait, why are you telling me this?”.

"Who knows? Maybe I just wanted to annoy you. The fact that I've been friends with Hana way longer than you”.

"You…".

As long as we walk, a few turns from the T-junction that we passed, countless street lights shone on us. We both continue to walk towards our respective goals, and it just so happened that it is still the same way.

“Hana's uncle's story earlier, that's what happened before Hana moved to this city. You should have been told by Hana too".

“Yeah, that story really makes my blood boil. I can't believe Hana went through all that. Well, I guess I have no right to say that, huh?” Chika said while looking down.

She's… really changed.

"You've changed, haven't you? Your concern for Hana proves that” I said. Didn't mean to cheer her up, but I guess I did anyway.

"Haha, right, huh?".

"Today we are not as usual. Let's mention our moments of us having the same thoughts today, taking turns” I continued, “Hana who is wearing an apron is so freaking cute”.

"Hana's cooking is too good".

“Uncle Hana is strict, but kind” I said.

"Is he? I don't think he's too strict. He's really nice, though".

And, “The people who bullied Hana are bastards” We both said together.

"That includes you, idiot" I said insulting Chika.

“Oh, shut up. It's no more" She defended herself.

The two of us then stopped between the two turns. This is where our paths differ.

"In that case, I'll pass here" Chika said while facing herself to me.

"Yes" I answered briefly.

Chika walked first and disappeared from my sight. If that's the case, I'll go home too, okay?

That night, I was scolded by my mother. In fact, even if I have school, it's still after the exam. There's no homework to be done. But, my mother still scolds me.