Chapter 3: News of the Heart

The next morning dawned bright and clear, filled with an infectious energy that twinkled much like the stars from the night before. As sunlight streamed through the window of Usagi's room, she stirred awake, her heart fluttering at the newfound happiness she had discovered with Rei. Usagi’s gaze flickered to her bedside table, where a small bouquet of cherry blossoms sat— a gift from Rei, who had quietly collected them last night during their walk home. She picked them up and inhaled their sweet fragrance, a smile creeping onto her face as memories of their special moment flooded back to her. "I can't believe we actually did it!" she exclaimed to herself, her heart racing. The eagerness to share the news with her friends bubbled within her like a playful spring. **They have to know!** After a quick breakfast that consisted of her favorite buns and cups of steaming tea, Usagi dashed out, her mind racing with thoughts of how her friends would react. They had supported her through so many boy crushes, always smiling and listening intently, but this time, it was different; this time was real, and there was no one she wanted to share her joy with more than them. "The park," Usagi decided, her mind made up as she headed towards the local park where they often gathered after school. It was a perfect spring day, with a gentle breeze whispering through the trees and the warmth of the sun lending its embrace to everything around. As she approached the park, Usagi spotted her friends gathered in their usual spot—Amy, Minako, and Makoto engaged in friendly banter, laughter ringing through the air. With a burst of excitement, Usagi raced towards them, her heart pounding wildly in her chest as she prepared to spill her secret. “Hey, guys!” Usagi called out, her voice bright and bubbly. “Usagi!” Minako cheered, her sparkling eyes catching the excitement radiating from her best friend. “What’s with the extra pep in your step today?” Usagi couldn’t contain herself any longer; with a dramatic flourish, she announced, “I have something super important to tell you all!” Gesturing with her hands, she continued, “I’m dating Rei now! We’re officially girlfriends!” The air fell into a momentary silence, disbelief spreading across her friends’ faces before a chorus of joyful screams erupted. “No way! Really?” Makoto exclaimed, wrapping her arms around Usagi in a tight embrace. “I knew there was chemistry between you two!” Amy added, her eyes shining with happiness. “I’m so glad you finally told her!” Minako, never one to hold back her exuberance, launched into a celebratory dance. “This calls for a celebration! Karaoke night, girl’s night in, or a cooking sleepover—anything! We need to mark this occasion!” Usagi giggled, her cheeks flushed with joy. The support and excitement of her friends made her heart swell with happiness. They understood her, they celebrated her, and they were already brewing ideas for their gathering, which made her even more eager to know how Rei would feel about spending time with their group as a couple. “Yay! I can’t wait!” Usagi chirped. “I think Rei would love a night in with all of us.” Her heart hummed with excitement. She envisioned the laughter, shared stories, and moments they would all create together, flourishing in friendship and love. As the sun climbed higher in the sky, they began to brainstorm what their celebration would look like. Usagi bubbled with ideas, bouncing from one thought to another — games, snacks, and her favorite silly karaoke songs filled her mind. Meanwhile, at a nearby shrine, Rei lit incense and offered a prayer of gratitude. She hoped for many things: strength, courage, and that she and Usagi could thrive in their relationship. Her spirit glowed with the thought of meeting Usagi's friends soon and sharing their happiness together. Later that evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden light across the park, Usagi took a deep breath and texted Rei, the anticipation bubbling within her as she typed. **Can’t wait for you to meet everyone! We’ll have an amazing time! ❤️** Minutes later, her phone buzzed, and her heart skipped at Rei’s reply. **I can’t wait either! I’m so happy for us! See you soon!** With her heart feeling light, Usagi turned to her friends, her eyes shining. “Alright ladies, it’s time to plan the best girlfriend night ever!” And with that, they dove headfirst into the joyful chaos of plans, laughter, and the simplicity of friendship that was about to grow into something even more beautiful.