(This is actually my very first time trying to write a romantic story. I've always enjoyed reading different kinds of tales, but stepping into the world of gentle feelings, small moments, and the slow warmth between characters feels completely new to me. I don't know if I'll capture it perfectly, but I want to try—because romance has a kind of magic that makes ordinary days feel brighter. So, if you're reading this, thank you for joining me on this experiment of the heart.)
Morning sunlight spilled across the vast grounds of Natlan Academy, painting the glass-walled buildings and wide courtyards in a soft golden glow. The air was filled with the scent of hibiscus and frangipani, carried by a gentle breeze. Students streamed in from every direction—laughing, chatting, their voices mixing into one great tide of sound. Holographic textbooks flickered with glowing glyphs, and hoverboards whooshed past the walkways. Energy, noise, and excitement—it was everywhere.
Kinich stood at the front gate, gripping the straps of his backpack tightly. His gaze swept over the crowd, and a familiar unease rose in his chest. Too many faces. Too many voices. He wasn't used to this kind of chaos. Out in the open plains or in the quiet of the forest, he could breathe freely. Here, it felt like being swept into a storm.
"Why does school have to be so overwhelming?" he muttered under his breath.
"Because that's what makes it fun, silly!"
A cheerful voice cut through the noise. Kachina bounced into view, her hair catching the sunlight like sparks of fire. With a grin wide enough to brighten the whole courtyard, she said, "Come on! You can't hide in the corner all the time. Let's look around before class starts!"
Before Kinich could answer, another voice called out from the crowd—this one breathless but familiar.
"Kinich! Wait for me!"
Mualani stumbled her way through the sea of students, arms full of heavy books and a flickering tablet threatening to slip from her grasp. She finally stopped in front of him, out of breath but smiling, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Wow… this campus is huge. And so crowded!"
She nearly tripped over her own feet, but Kinich reacted instinctively, steadying her with one hand. "Careful," he said softly. "It's easy to get lost here."
"T-thank you…" Mualani's smile bloomed, warm and gentle as morning light. She adjusted her glasses nervously, but her gaze lingered on his. "Maybe… you could show me around a little?"
"Uh… maybe." Kinich scratched the back of his neck, his cheeks heating faintly. He wasn't used to people asking him things so openly, but the brightness in her eyes made it hard to say no.
Kachina hopped between them with a sly grin. "See? I told you two would end up in the same study group!"
Not far away, Xilonen leaned casually against a tall tree, notebook in hand. She watched the little scene with quiet amusement, the corners of her lips curling in a soft smile. Something small—but sweet—was beginning to spark between them.
The school bell rang, its chime carrying through the courtyard. Kinich slung his bag higher on his shoulder, while Marani hugged her books closer. Side by side, they walked toward the classrooms. Their shoulders brushed now and then, light and fleeting, yet leaving behind a warmth that neither of them could put into words.
The first day had only just begun.