Spring 13
My eyes fluttered open as I looked at my clock. 6:15 AM. Today was the flower festival! I felt my cheeks redden as I thought of my conversation yesterday with Clara. When she told me that she'd always accept my invitations to festivals. I really hoped that was an indication that she felt the same way I do!
Maybe I should let her how I feel today? Today's festival is a bit romantic! It would be perfect! I just need to summon up the courage!
I grabbed a dark rose pink button down shirt and a pair of pearl white trousers. I quickly combed my hair and placed an ascot cap of a similar color to my shirt on my head to hide my curls. I quickly slipped on my shoes and hurried out of the door towards the academy to meet up with everyone at around 6:45!
Orland, Leann, Sera, and Serena were already there waiting; dressed in pink as well. The flower festival was the very rare occasion where the guys would wear pink in some way. Leann looked over, noticing me.
"Oh! Good morning, Leonel!" She exclaimed as I rushed over towards them.
"Ah, hey! I-is Clara here yet?" I asked as Leann shook her head.
"No, she's not yet." Leann answered.
"Roy and Cammy aren't here either." Serena said with a shrug as I looked over and blinked.
"Ah, but Roy and Cammy are usually the last ones to arrive." I stated as Serena blushed, her eyes widened slightly. Sera grabbed her sister's hand.
"You do have a point, Leonel." Sera said before looking over. She elbowed her sister, causing Serena to turn towards the path that led to the farmhouse. I noticed Serena's face becoming pink as I looked over at Clara.
I couldn't understand why Serena was blushing. Clara's outfit looked nice and it wasn't like the dress she wore the other day. I felt my cheeks flush as I remembered being able to see down her dress. I'm lucky the shirt I have on is pretty long to hide the impurity that would be visible under my belt.
"Good morning, Clara!" Leann chirped.
"Morning!" Clara exclaimed, embracing her cousin. Leann giggled.
"You seem excited this morning, Clara." Leann said as Clara nodded her head.
"You know I love festivals!" Clara exclaimed. She looked towards me, grabbing my hand, and leading me towards the cherry tree. I noticed Serena's face held a look of sorrow as her sister grabbed her hand, giving her a small, comforting smile.
"Wow, you're overly excited, Clara." I began, glancing back over at the twins for a split second before turning my attention back towards my best friend.
"Are you still bothered from yesterday?" I asked in concern as Clara shook her head.
"Oh! No! I mean, I am, but it's not as bad today as it was yesterday!" she replied, as I nodded.
"Oh, okay! Well, if you ever need an ear, I'll lend you one!" I exclaimed as she looked over at me with a smile.
Tell her! You'll feel better if you tell her!
I inhaled deeply.
"Ah, h-hey?" I began, this was it! I just have to say, Clara, I love you! I inhaled again.
"W-what's it like being fifteen?" I asked. Stupid! That wasn't telling her how you feel!
"What's it like? It doesn't feel much different from being fourteen." She replied, lightly shrugging her shoulders. I blushed, I had to think of something!
"Really?" I asked, as she nodded. Gotta think of something else!
"I just wanted to know because you're different now." I replied. Could I use this to my advantage?
"Is different okay?" she asked. My cheeks flushed. Yes! Maybe I could use this! I nodded.
"Different is great." I said. Why am I procrastinating? Dad told me I should tell her before it's too late!
But…what if she doesn't like you back? The voice in my head began, You'll never be able to show your face around Alvarna! You'll have to change your name! Move away! You'll never be able to see Clara again!
"Hey, Leonel?" Clara began as I looked over at her with a 'Hm?' Maybe she'll say that she likes me?
"Your birthday is coming up! Is there anything special that you want for your birthday?" She asked as I blushed.
I want you to be my girlfriend! That would be the best birthday present ever!
"I dunno." I replied. Ugh! Yes you do!
"You mean you really don't know?" Clara asked. Was she on to me?
"Nope. I guess just a simple surprise. Y-you can surprise me if you want!" I exclaimed.
"I'll do just that." she said with a giggle, looking back up again at the raining cherry blossom petals. I started to silently pray that she'll return my feelings in some way on my birthday.