Chapter 2.5: Akari's Dreams.
A swell of happiness made my chest feel like it would burst. I clutched my hands together over the small red and white ball and held it close to my chest. An elderly gentleman with silver hair and a broad moustache smiled at me.
"You deserve it, Dawn," he remarked, nodding gently. "I will miss your hard work as my assistant, but you can visit after the school year is over."
A small tear ran down my cheek as I nodded enthusiastically. "Of course, Professor. I can't thank you enough for this opportunity-," my words were cut short as the door to the lab opened.
Two boys hovered in the doorway – one taller with dark hair and eyes, and the other his opposite with a fair complexion. They both grinned at me excitedly, and I could tell we were friends.
"Come on, Dawn," the blonde one called into the lab, laughing heartily. "We're off to Victory Road!"
I nodded, enthusiam growing. "I'm coming."
I passed the other boy on my way out through the door, and my gaze was drawn to his dark eyes, the colour of deep slate. He smiled gently at me, and looked so familiar my heart began to ache.
"I've missed you," he said gently.
I leaned forward, half of me reluctant and the other naturally inclined. His smile widened, and he took my hand in his, lifting it to his lips.
"Let's go," he whispered.
It was just us, and it was right. It was comfort, and safety.
It was home.