After the confession, Ken didn't dare to show his face in front of Noel. He couldn't handle the weight of rejection.
Meanwhile, Alex, who had been pushing Ken toward Noel, ended up getting beaten for his meddling."Ken, it's already been a week… you should talk to him," Alex said, fanning himself as he tried to cool down.
Ken glared. "Well, it was your damn idea to make me confess. I wasn't ready for that."Alex sped up the fanning, forcing a smile. "Okay, okay. But… I'm starving. Can we grab something to eat?"Ken sighed, eyes cast down. "Well… I guess I'm hungry too."
The two of them walked toward the store to buy snacks. But as they reached the corner—
"Ken, can we talk?"
Ken froze when a familiar hand grabbed his wrist from behind. He knew that voice. His chest tightened.
Noel stood there, his expression unreadable. "Ken, can we…?"Alex caught the tension instantly. He gave Ken a small wave, silently excusing himself and leaving the two alone.
Ken swallowed hard. "Well, I think yo—""First, hear me out." Noel's voice cut sharp, but his eyes softened.
He took a deep breath before speaking again."I thought about what you said… for a long time. I wasn't even open to the idea of dating someone. You're so cool, Ken—you're good at studies, at everything. But me? I have to work hard for every little thing—studies, sports, all of it. If I get into college… and if you still feel the same about me then…" Noel paused, eyes locking on Ken's. "…maybe we can be together."
Ken's eyes widened, his chest filling with warmth he tried to hide. He was trembling, but happy.
"Then work hard," Ken managed, trying to suppress his excitement. "And let me know if you need anything."
Noel gave a small nod, his face unreadable."And Ken… I want us to be what we were before the match."
Ken blinked. "Like what?"
"Not too close…" Noel said, his voice quiet. "…but not strangers either."