The next morning, Racheal felt lighter than she had in weeks. Last night's moments with Declan played in her mind like a soft melody, warming her chest and steadying her thoughts.
She was sipping tea in the hostel lounge, enjoying the rare quiet, when the door swung open with a burst of energy.
"Racheal!" Erica's voice rang out, full of life. She practically bounced toward her friend, eyes sparkling. "There you are! I've been looking for you everywhere. You're glowing!"
Racheal laughed softly, warmth blooming inside her. "Morning, Erica. I'm fine… really."
Erica plopped down beside her, still radiating that unstoppable energy. "I can tell," she said knowingly. "So… tell me everything. Did he finally stop being mysterious? Did you two…?"
Racheal blushed, letting out a small laugh. "Erica! Not here in the lounge. People will talk."
Erica leaned closer, lowering her voice, but her grin was mischievous. "You're glowing anyway, so clearly something's changed. Come on, spill!"
Racheal shook her head, smiling despite herself. "It's… complicated. But you already know that."
"I do," Erica replied softly, her expression shifting to something more serious. "And I'm glad. You deserve this, Racheal. Finally, someone who sees you… really sees you. And not just plays games."
Racheal's chest tightened. She realized how much she had missed having a friend like Erica—someone who didn't judge, didn't tease harshly, just offered honest support. "Thank you… Erica. I don't know what I'd do without you sometimes."
Erica waved her hand dismissively, though her smile softened. "Nonsense. I've got your back. Always. And besides, I told you long ago—you're unstoppable when you stop doubting yourself."
Racheal laughed softly, feeling lighter than she had in months. "Unstoppable, huh?"
"Exactly," Erica said, eyes sparkling with confidence. "Now, tell me—what's next? Any plans with Mister Mysterious over there?"
Racheal's lips curved into a small smile. "We'll see… one step at a time."
Erica leaned back, pretending to be serious, and wagged her finger at Racheal. "Listen, I don't care how strong, independent, or mysterious you think you are. If anyone hurts you, they're going to have to answer to me."
Racheal laughed, shaking her head. "You've always been dramatic."
"Dramatic?" Erica gasped, mock offense on her face. "I'm protective! There's a difference."
They shared a laugh, and for a moment, the room seemed brighter. Racheal's thoughts wandered, reflecting on the past weeks—the misunderstandings, the rumors, the games people had played—but she no longer felt the weight of them pressing down. She had Declan, yes, but she also had Erica, the friend who anchored her.
Just then, a stray pillow rolled off the nearby couch and bumped against Racheal's foot. She glanced at it and chuckled. "See? Even the lounge is conspiring to cheer me up."
Erica raised an eyebrow. "Conspiring, huh? Maybe the universe knows you're finally happy."
Racheal nodded, smiling softly. "Maybe it does."
Erica nudged her gently. "Just promise me one thing. No running away. Not from Declan, not from me, and definitely not from yourself."
Racheal's chest swelled. "I promise," she said quietly, and for the first time in a long time, she truly believed it.
They lingered in the lounge, talking and laughing, savoring the simplicity of friendship. Outside, the world carried on, with whispers and rumors and all the challenges waiting, but in that small corner of the hostel, Racheal felt safe, seen, and truly alive.
And with Erica by her side, she knew she could face anything