It had been ten years of life living here. My questions always remained unanswered, and my grandma used to know many things before. She used to be able to walk, but now she can barely stand without falling over. She tells me exciting things, but it comes and goes. Sometimes she'll slip something randomly, and then she'll say, 'What the heck are you talking about? I haven't said that!' She doesn't say those words exactly, but those words are pretty close. I don't know if something is wrong with her memory of events that have to do with me. Or if it is something else completely, something very sinister.

I'll have to say that I'm glad that she does not know about me. What if there is something dangerous about me? Maybe what I would not want to know about—something that no one would like to know about. I always wondered about that, but I needed to find my grandma's notebook. It apparently had family secrets. I saw it in a memory that I had. It was the key to everything.

"Belaflora, I have a gift for you. I just remembered that I did not give it to you." Nonna Margherita said. She went over to the counter and came back over to me. She was placing a private school admission paper on my lap. I was confused by this since I had been home-schooled all my life. The thought of going to a real school never even crossed my mind. Actually, I'm lying. There have been many instances when I have wanted to go, but my grandma said that it was unsafe outside of the forest. There were hazardous beings in every corner of the world far from the cosiness and safeness of our home. She told me those things about the dangers of humans. Not only humans but also people who can use magic. Dark and evil magic, magic that could steal someone else's.

"Nonna Margherita, you are not serious, right? You've told me about the outside world. About how dangerous it is and that I shouldn't leave because of that." I exclaimed, but I couldn't show her my excitement.

She giggled and said, "When I am not serious. I saw you that one day and many other days travelling at night. I may be wrong, but you do try to leave me. So you can find and go to your parent's home. Where your parents come from? Hoping that you will see them again. I also know you made human friends."

"I'm sorry. I never wanted to hurt you. I especially don't want to leave you alone. Ever. Sometimes I wonder if I could find my parents and tell them. That I didn't do anything wrong, I thought I could convince them. Then they would listen to my apology and forgive me." I told her.

"Hold on. How do you know this? No matter how I cannot lie to you. It's true, and I won't deny it." I sighed, ashamed of what I had done for not listening to my grandma and hiding it.

"I'm friends with the forest and the creatures in it. It tells me everything. It tells me what goes on in it as well." Nonna declared.

"Well, I'm so sorry. I'll not do it again. I will follow your rules and never go out again. Please do not be mad." I murmured.

"Bela, there is simply nothing for you to be sorry about. I am not mad. I'm just a bit surprised that you had the bravery to go out like that at night. So who am I to stop you from being outside." She reassured me.

"Wow, thank you. Why this sudden change of me being outside?" I asked.

"I'll tell you there are reasons why, one. There's a cute boy you meet every now and then he seems like a good kid. Second, I trust that you can behave on your own, you know things from right and wrong. The most important reason is that I never wanted you to feel like you were trapped here. That you could not go anywhere to meet anyone because I've spent all my life feeling that way. I chose to stay separate from people, but I can't force that on you." Nonna explained and she was carrying guilt in her voice.

"Nonna, I'm completely fine with you. I never feel like I'm alone, not when I have you." I was lying about not ever wanting to leave, but I was telling the truth about wanting to stay with my grandmother. I couldn't possibly leave her alone.

"No, you are not. I can see it in the way you act. You want to be with people your age. People other than me, I can completely understand that." She sighed.

"You're wrong, I love being here with you. Also, a cute boy what does boy mean? What are you talking about? Have you ever seen him? When did you see him?" I wondered.

"I saw him in the streams of the water, so what's his name?" Nonna asked me.

"Alastair Cisneros, that's his name." I blushed; it was embarrassing to tell her about who I liked. I don't know if he likes me, but we are technically dating. Even though I don't exactly know what that means. Never mind that I looked at the admission paper; it said 'Waysu Boulevard Private School,' costing $47,490 yearly. Oh my, was it expensive because that is a large number, it was something that I didn't think we could afford to pay. Couldn't she have chosen a cheaper one? At least a school that was close to the forest, since I have never heard of this school before. It sounds strangely familiar though.

"Nonna. How are we going to afford this?" I asked worriedly. Then I was glad. It meant I would not have to leave her. I don't know if she'll be able to live on her own.

"You don't need to worry about anything. All you have to do is go there and be a good student, study as well as you can, and make friends. But when you do go there, promise you will not forget about me?" My Nonna requested

"What are you talking about? I could never forget you. Will you forget about me?" I questioned her, but I knew what the answer would be.

Nonna smiled and said, "Never, my little forest princess, never." She rode away but then she said something I did not expect, "I'm going to bed. I don't know if you'll get a wink of sleep after all this excitement. Bela, you should as well, it's getting quite dark, but I'm betting my five cents that you will sneak out tonight. Whenever you do, I'm lying awake worried about you."

"How did you figure out that I'm leaving? There is no need to worry, but you caught me. I was going to, but it's because I have to tell my friends the good news. I guess I can't lie to you. I should not have." I answered.

"It is fine. You told me the truth. From now on, tell me when you go. Go on now. You can go, but always carry magic when you do go," Nonna advised.

"I do, I always do." I fibbed, I never did have it, but I could not worry her any further.

"Be safe, Bela sweetheart and be back soon." she calmly replied.

"I won't be away too long. You can go to sleep," I said, and she nodded as I walked out the door and on our horse which was probably a unicorn. Since she used to have a horn on her head. Her name was Hivella. My friend and I named her. Her name is part Japanese and part Italian.

The two words "Hitomi" and "Cavella" combined together make her name. We thought it was creative at the time, but we still love it many years later. It's been ten years since that day when I ran into the forest. I did not only meet one person that day, I met two. It was an accident, but I am certain it was destiny. The first one was my grandma. Then the second one was someone I met named Izumi Hanalei, who became my best friend from that day on.

FLASHBACK (Ten Years Ago)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Izumi found me crying on the tree while she was playing hide and seek with her twin brother.

"A human? A human girl crying?" Izumi asked. She was shocked to find a human when all she ever saw were magical creatures and animals. She lived not far from the forest that I lived in and she was very close to me. Her being this close right now which means probably her house is close also.

Her reaction to me made me laugh a little, and I asked, "Have you never seen a human before?"

"Hmph, of course, I have! Not here. Where were you hiding all this time? Ms, you are a stranger, but people living in forests are friends you haven't met." she stated. "Just like alllll the animals that live in this forest are."

"I'm Belaflora. That's my name if you wanted to know. I don't know what the meaning of friends is, but it sounds nice." I quietly mumbled.

"What a beautiful name, it is quite lovely. You don't know what friendship is? Wow, where have you been living? Under a rock is my guess or just by this tree, Belaflora-san?" Izumi teased.

"No, not under a rock. I've been living in a forest. I just started living here. I ran away because my parents left me here with a strange woman. She said she is my grandmother but I have never seen her before." I explained while starting to tear up again.

"Aww, you don't have to cry! How strange it is. If she's your grandmother you should go to her. She must be looking EVERYWHERE for you." Izumi remarked, coming even more close to me and wiping my tears. Then she hugged me and I felt a little better.

"How do you know she's looking for me? Also, she is odd because she lives in a forest, and because she reminds me of my little sister. Something bad happened to her. It is pretty weird." I told her about what happened, even though I myself did not know exactly what did happen.

"Your little sister? What happened to her?" asked Izumi.

"She died, and nobody knows why. She was really sick, and the doctors couldn't help her. She was not going to live anymore, they said that and now I am here. The doctors had no idea what happened to her as much as we did not know." I said. That is what I always heard happening. Even though I didn't know much about the words the doctors said, I wanted to start crying again. I missed Fiorenza so much; I did not realise how much until I thought about her. When I don't believe it, then I feel better. So I can keep my emotions in.

"How interesting. That must have been so sad for your family." She stammered while trying to make me feel better.

"Not interesting at all. It was sad for my parents and me. They said I did something to her. At least they think that I did. Except it is not true. I would never do anything to her. I loved her so much." I sighed.

Izumi shrugged and then there was a shout from a boy's voice that I did not recognize. "Izumi! Are you here?"

"Oh shiz balls, my brother is going to find me." Izumi gasped, then she looked at me, bowed, and said, "A hui hou. Aloha Belaflora-san!" she piped excitedly, wandering away quickly and out of sight. I called her and said, "Where are you going? What's your name?" Then I heard some giant, heavy footsteps coming. So I did the smartest thing I could think of. I closed my eyes and pretended to be asleep. Hoping they would not see I was living and walk away. I felt the ground tremble as they got close to me and picked me up. It was as if there were antlers that had lifted me.

Izumi had long gone into the forest without an answer, leaving me alone in this dark spooky forest, but I knew in my heart that I was going to meet her again and become best friends. I knew that we would be best friends for the rest of our lives.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

PRESENT DAY

"Are you ready, girl?" I asked Hivella, so then she neighed like a horse. From nowhere did she look like She had eight legs. She looked like a Pegasus because of her wings but also like a unicorn, I'm saying unicorn, but I don't know if I can say it. Also kind of like a griffon. Some vile creature had cut off her horn a decade ago. This occurred around the time that I came. So all the magic she had was gone. She was no longer magical and had a scar on her head. It was the place where the horn had been ripped off. But she could still fly, I think that maybe she still has some magic in her.

Neither my grandma nor I have gotten a clue about who did it. She suspects that humans did it, but that would not be possible since we have never been close to a human soul. I mean, I have, but my friends would not have done it. I wanted revenge so badly, but my grandma has taught me that. Even if I did somehow get revenge, it was not going to get her horn back, nor will her magic. That is something that we can't control. Getting revenge is a bad idea in any situation. This is one of the many reasons I'm supposed to stay away from humans. They can be extremely dangerous, but I'm glad that I've met nice ones.

I jumped on her back, and we flew away from the house into the forest. The day I met Izumi, she didn't tell me her name but for some reason. I already knew what her name was. Maybe because I heard someone shout it that day. Or maybe it was my instincts. I asked her, but she never told me, but my mind told me that her name was Izumi. I also knew where to find her each day. It was a lake called Fernium Lake, which you had to cross to get to the forest where I live. I could hear her as clearly as day playing there whenever I went outside.

I noticed that lately, Hivella was getting thirsty for water more. She usually did not even need that much. But these days that I take her out, she needs more and more. So I could feel her already wanting water. I slowed my pace and landed near the lake, where I went to get water for Hivella. This lake was quite large, and I had to cross over the lake to go where Izumi was. Izumi has this incredible swimming pace, it makes me sad that I'm scared to even touch the water.

There is another way I would have to climb giant boulders, and I do not have the skill that Izumi and Itsuki do. They could climb a mountain if they wanted to. I would fall into the water if I even attempted to do it. Then, see this is another thing of me not knowing how to swim. So I would drown if I fell in. So because of my fear of that. I rode Hivella across every time I wanted to reach there, but Hivella was slow when her energy was low so it would take quite a while for me to go across.

She was definitely not going to have enough energy to cross so I had to find a way to cross. There was no way. So just when all hope was lost. My knight in shining armour came on his horse and said, "You need a hand, my lady," he trotted towards me and when he came. He leapt off and came to kiss me, before he did I pushed him away. I don't want my first kiss just here. So I am waiting for the most perfect time, the most magical time.

"Alastair, what are you doing here? My grandma already knows about us. I'm not sure I want anyone else to know that we are. Sorry, what even are we? You said we could date, but I've only eaten dates. Or have dates on my calendar. How do we date?" I asked him and wondered about us.

Alastair flashed a charming smile, his eyes shimmering with affection, as he tenderly took my hands in his. "Oh, Belaflora you are so adorable, you never fail to amaze me with your profound and curious questions. You've got this incredible way of getting to the core of things without saying much, and it's one of the many reasons I'm head over heels in love with you."

He paused, his voice softening with genuine emotion. "When it comes to what we are, it's not about following some script or conforming to a societal definition. We're more than that. We're like poetry in motion, the lyrics to each other's favourite song. We're a love story waiting to be written, filled with chapters of laughter, adventure, and all the ups and downs that come with being teenagers in love."

"Ali, you can't say you love me without even showing me you do. We've only been together for just a few months. No one knows about us. We met when we were just kids. I don't know...." I slowly mumbled.

Alastair's gaze held mine, his words carrying a sincerity that tugged at my heartstrings. "I believe in us, Belaflora. I believe in the depth of our connection and the way we understand each other on a level that goes beyond words. Our relationship isn't about labels or fancy titles—it's about the way your presence lights up my world and the way we inspire each other to be the best versions of ourselves."

He leaned in, brushing his lips against my forehead, his voice whispering sweetly. "As for others knowing about us, we can keep our love story a secret for now if that's what you want. It's like having our own little bubble, an intimate space just for the two of us. But whenever you're ready to let the world in on our magic, I'll be right there beside you, proud and excited to show everyone how incredible you are."

His words melted my heart, his teenage charm intertwined with a maturity that always leaves me breathless. Alastair had a way of speaking romantically, effortlessly blending poetic flair with genuine emotions. It was like he had mastered the art of love at such a young age. As we stood there, his warmth enveloping me, I couldn't help but feel lucky to have found someone who could express his feelings so eloquently even when I couldn't. Alastair was a teenage dreamer, a hopeless romantic, and I cherished every word he spoke, knowing that our love story was destined to be extraordinary.

"As much as I wanted to go with you, I needed to cross the lake. Izumi is waiting for me. I called her through the wind and she must've heard me by now." I told him not wanting to keep her waiting.

"I just wanted to show you something. It won't take very long." Alastair's voice twinkled mischievously as he whispered, "How about I show you what a date with a touch of magic looks like?" With a swift motion, he reached into his pocket and produced a small velvet pouch. Opening it, he revealed an array of colourful powders and tiny enchanted trinkets. "Belaflora, I've got something truly enchanting planned for you."

I hesitated for a moment, my heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Alastair's eyes sparkled with love, his gaze filled with unspoken words. It was as if the universe had aligned, urging me to take a leap of faith. With a shy smile, I closed the distance between them, my hand finding its place within his. The touch ignited a cascade of warmth that flowed through my veins, erasing any doubts that lingered within me. This was a moment meant to be cherished, a chance to explore the magic of love.

We embarked on a journey through the meandering paths of a nearby forest, the scent of nature mingling with the promise of something magical. With each step, the familiar surroundings transformed before my very eyes. The air became alive with vibrant colours and the soft hum of fluttering wings. With a wave of his hand and his fingers gliding produced a burst of colourful flowers sprouting from the ground, their petals dancing in harmonious rhythm.

The forest parted, revealing a hidden lakeside oasis, where a picnic blanket adorned with delicate patterns was spread beneath a towering oak tree. The gentle breeze rustled the leaves, creating a melody of whispers as we approached the enchanting scene. Alastair gestured with a flourish, and the picnic basket materialized, filled with delectable treats and refreshing drinks. 

The scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the aroma of ripe fruits, tantalising my senses. It was as if he had plucked a dream from the depths of my imagination and brought it to life. We settled down on the blanket, the beauty of nature embracing us. The tranquil waters of the lake mirrored the vibrant colours of the sky, creating a breathtaking tableau. As we indulged in our picnic feast, Alastair's eyes gleamed with joy, his magic adding an air of whimsy and enchantment to our shared moment.

But the magic didn't stop there. Alastair's hands moved gracefully, conjuring wisps of shimmering light that took the form of delicate butterflies. They danced around us, their wings aglow with a soft ethereal radiance, as if they had sprung to life from the pages of a fairy tale.

As we savoured the magical ambience, Alastair poured sparkling, effervescent nectar into crystal goblets, the liquid shimmering like stardust. We clink our glasses, savouring the sweet taste of the unknown, feeling the sparks of excitement mingling with the tender moments we shared. In that moment, surrounded by the wonders of Alastair's illusions, I realised that his magic extended far beyond the realm of enchantments and tricks. It was a manifestation of his love, a way for him to create an extraordinary experience, tailored just for us.

We laughed and talked, our voices blending with the symphony of nature. I couldn't help but be in awe of the boy before me—the illusionist who had captivated my heart with more than just his magic. He had shown me the beauty of the unseen, the wonder of possibility, and the joy of sharing an extraordinary connection. Under the moonlit sky, in the embrace of nature's enchantment, we wove memories that felt as timeless as the stars. And as the night unfolded, I knew that the magic between us was real, transcending illusions and revealing a love that was destined to be extraordinary.

The evening wore on and the moon reached its zenith, a hush settled over the enchanted setting. The air crackled with anticipation as if the magic that surrounded stopped breathing, wanting to stop in motion, waiting for the perfect moment to unfold. Alastair's gaze met mine, his eyes were full of tenderness and a longing for him to finally be with me. Really be with me. Slowly, he reached out, his hand cupping my cheek with a feather-light touch. The world around us seemed to fade into a blur, leaving only the two of us in this ethereal realm of wonder. In that fleeting second, time stood still. The twinkling butterflies fluttered in suspended animation, and the petals of the enchanted flowers froze mid-air. It was as if the entire universe held its breath, fully aware of the significance of this milestone. With a gentle tug, Alastair drew me closer, his lips hovering just inches away from mine.

His voice had a nervousness that I had never seen or heard before and anticipation for the moment that we were both waiting for, he spoke softly. "Belaflora," and whispered, his eyes locked with mine, "there's something I've been meaning to tell you. Being with you feels like discovering a whole new world, a world where magic and love intertwine." His words hung in the air, suspended between us, as the intensity of the moment enveloped us both.

My heartbeat quickened, my breath hitching in my chest. The raw vulnerability in his voice stirred something within me, igniting a spark of courage. I leaned in, my lips barely brushing against his, a delicate connection that sent a rush of warmth through my veins. It was as if nature itself celebrated our joining, and our souls intertwined in a passionate embrace. The magic that flowed through us was like stardust, shimmering with every beat of our hearts.

In that single, electrifying moment, our hearts danced in perfect harmony, and the world around us seemed to burst with a merger of colours and sensations. Our souls felt like they were dancing in a young love and undeniable connection to each other. As our lips moved in a seamless dance, I felt myself getting lost in the embrace of emotions I had long kept hidden. The enchantment of the moment enveloped me, creating a memory that would forever be etched in my heart. I revelled in the intoxicating blend of sweetness and warmth, savouring the pure magic of our shared affection.

The gentle pressure of our lips deepened the kiss as if we were merging our essences through this tender exchange. An orchestration of emotions played out within us—a crescendo of longing, curiosity, and affection. When we finally parted, our breaths mingled, and a smile played upon Alastair's lips, mirroring the joy that was captured in my eyes. It was a smile that spoke volumes, a silent affirmation of the connection we had discovered. The moment had unfolded naturally, untainted by grandiose declarations, and it was all the more beautiful for it.

It was a smile that spoke of a thousand secrets and whispered promises. "Belaflora," he whispered, his voice filled with awe, "you've unlocked a new chapter in my magic. You've made my heart soar higher than the stars themselves." At that moment, we knew that this kiss was more than just a symbol of affection. It was a confirmation of the love we had nurtured, that had risen above the expectations of reality. And as we held each other beneath the moonlit sky, we took in the magic of our love, knowing that our journey had only just begun.

I had fallen asleep, so I didn't realize he was taking me to my home. Where he slept beside me keeping me safe from the outside world. As the morning rose I awoke with Alastair beside me and I was happy that he was still here.

He woke up and he said something that shook me but I couldn't say those three words back. Those three simple words. "Bela, I love you so much. It's just that I feel like you care too much about what everyone else wants. Do you love me the same way you want to find answers to your problems?" He asked me and that pushed me to be deep in thought if I really did.

I blushed and smiled, feeling pressured by Alastair's words. "You're right. I do care about you, Alastair. I enjoy being with you too. Although, being in love takes time. I want to figure out everything. Before I can fall in love with anyone." I answered.

Alastair nodded, his expression filled with warmth. "That's all that matters, Belaflora. You do care about everything and everyone but most of the time you forget to care about yourself. I know that eventually, you'll learn to love me too, just like how much I immensely love you. How much I always have."

"Yeah, you're right, you're always right." I sighed because I couldn't say those simple words. Yet they are not simple for me at all. It's just that I don't exactly understand my feelings about him. I like him a lot but love is still something far away. It's something I don't want to open myself up to. I don't know when or ever.

"We forgot to visit your friends, I know how to go quickly." He reminded me and I'm glad that he did.

"There are your friends too you know," I replied playfully.

"I don't think they like me or maybe they are just scared of me. I have a plan to get there real quick," He remarked while he smirked. I smiled at the thought of Izumi not liking someone, but maybe they are scared of him.

Curiosity sparked within me as Alastair explained his plan. I was relieved that he was not too upset. Alastair always had a way of making things clearer and more comfortable for me. It was one of the reasons why I liked him so much and that's why I don't feel like hurting him. "Now, about crossing the lake," Alastair continued, his tone thoughtful. "I have an idea. Do you trust me?" I looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and kindness reflected in them. "Yes, I trust you, Alastair," I tried to reply without hesitation.

He grinned, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Good. Hold on tight." With that, Alastair extended his hand towards me. I took it, and in an instant, we were both enveloped in a shimmering glow. The world around us blurred, and the next thing I knew, we were standing on a small, ethereal bridge that appeared out of thin air, spanning across the lake.

I gasped, marvelling at the magical sight before me. The bridge seemed to be made of pure moonlight in the morning, radiating a soft, silver glow. It swayed gently as if dancing to an otherworldly melody. "Wow, Alastair, this is incredible!" I exclaimed, my eyes wide with wonder. Alastair chuckled, his hand still holding mine. "I thought you might like it. I learned this spell specifically for you, Belaflora. It allows us to walk in the moonlight. Even in the morning, rays of moonlight exist."

We began walking across the bridge, our footsteps light and ethereal. The water beneath us shimmered with a thousand colours, reflecting the moonlight above. The moonlight we were on, was like it wasn't there yet we could still walk on it. It was as if we were walking through a dream. As we reached the other side of the lake, the bridge dissolved behind us, leaving no trace behind. Alastair and I stood together, gazing at each other, our hearts filled with joy and anticipation. "Thank you, Alastair," I whispered, with gratitude.

"You always make everything feel magical. You help me do all these things with ease, you're so wonderful." He smiled warmly, his gaze never leaving mine. "It's because you bring magic into my life, Florie. Being with you feels like stepping into a world where anything is possible." Touched by his words, I leaned in and allowed our lips to meet in a soft, gentle kiss. At that moment, the world around us seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of us and the world just did not exist. After we broke the kiss, I pulled back slightly, a playful twinkle in my eyes. 

"Don't call me that it's too childish but Alastair, I suppose this means we're officially dating now?" He chuckled, his hand reaching up to brush a strand of hair behind my ear.

"I think calling you Florie is adorable and I suppose it does. I couldn't be happier." Just as we were about to continue our conversation, we heard familiar voices approaching in the distance. As we glided across the calm waters of the lake, Alastair and I talked about our day and the things that had happened since we last saw each other. There was a lot to talk about. He listened attentively as I shared the news of my upcoming enrolment in 'Waysu Boulevard Private School', and he expressed his excitement for me.

"I'm so proud of you, Belaflora. Going to school will be a new adventure, and I have no doubt that you'll thrive there," Alastair said, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

I couldn't help but feel all the emotions in the world but excitement and nervousness about attending a real school for the first time. They were my most significant. It was a change from my sheltered life in the forest, but even if I don't trust myself to be alone like this. I believe that I could handle whatever comes my way.

As we reached the other side of the lake, Alastair helped me out of the last bit of bridge of moonlight, and we found ourselves in a familiar clearing where Izumi and Itsuki often stayed. I felt a surge of anticipation, eager to share the news of my upcoming enrollment with my friends.

Izumi and Itsuki were already there. When they noticed us, they paused and greeted us with warm smiles. "Belaflora-san! Alastair-kun! What brings you here? Well, we knew you were coming. I just didn't know why or why you guys are together." Izumi exclaimed, her eyes shining with curiosity.

"We waited for you last night but you didn't come, I guess it got pretty late so we had to leave. Izumi was whining to go home," Itsuki complained while Izumi made an angry face at him. Only at him and he just shrugged but looked kind of scared.

"Yes sorry about that. I have something exciting to share with all of you," I said, unable to contain my enthusiasm. "My grandma has enrolled me in Waysu Boulevard Private School!"

Celsian's eyes widened in surprise and happiness, and a hint of disappointment flickered across his face. Especially since he saw me arrive with Alastair. It was no secret that he harboured feelings for me. Well for the longest time, it was a secret except I realised this only recently. Even though I was already in a relationship with Alastair. He didn't know that we were dating anyone. However, he quickly masked his emotions and put on a friendly smile.

"That's amazing, Belaflora! I'm sure you'll do great in school," Celsian said, his voice tinged with pain. I was sure he was sad because at school I won't be with him.

Izumi, always the curious one, bombarded me with questions about the school, my classes, and where I was going to be staying. I answered her queries as best I could, excitedly describing the prospect of learning new things and making friends outside of the forest.

I couldn't help but feel incredibly grateful for Izumi and Celsian, my absolute besties. They've become my everything, always there to support me in this wild world. My life used to be so lonely and uncertain, but now they're like my ride-or-die crew. Actually, that's a phrase Izumi taught me. They've totally become a part of my life, bringing so much understanding and a sense of belonging. Honestly, having them around has transformed my life from boring to epic, filled with non-stop laughter, comfort, and support. They're like a second family to me, accepting me for who I am, no matter what. My heart is overflowing with gratitude for the incredible friendship we share.

With the sun beginning to set, we decided to head back to our respective homes. Alastair offered to accompany me on the journey, and we bid farewell to Izumi and Celsian. I called for Hivella and she came which means that she got her rest and could take us home.

Overwhelmed by a surge of contentment and gratitude, a warm and fuzzy feeling washed over me as Hivella gracefully soared through the sky, carrying us back to the edge of the forest. The day had been filled with joy, love, and the anticipation of new adventures. Alastair held my hand tightly as we glided through the air, the wind brushing against our faces. I nestled closer to him, feeling safe and protected in his presence. The forest beneath us transformed into a mirage of greens and browns, a reminder of the beauty that surrounded us.

As Hivella descended, we landed gently near the outskirts of the forest. This is where I lived. The other side has a beach, but I've never been there before. I am allowed but the ocean scares me, I have no idea what lives in it. Alastair and I smiled at each other, silently communicating the unspoken bond that had formed between us. Though we hadn't yet defined our relationship properly to the world, we were getting a step closer to being closer together, and we both felt deep within our hearts the love that I'm supposed to feel. "I'm so grateful to have you in my life, Alastair," I whispered, my voice filled with sincerity.

Alastair smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting the love he felt. "And I'm grateful for you, Belaflora. You've brought so much light and happiness into my world."

We stood there, embracing the serenity of the forest, for a few moments longer. The sounds of nature enveloped us, and I closed my eyes, taking in the sounds of chirping birds that made a sweet comforting melody, the rustling leaves that made their own song, and the distant whispers of the wind. Whispers of destiny that I need to go on, it tells me this every day.

"I'll see you later, Florie," he smirked while riding his horse away. I was confident and excited about what is to come in the future. But of course, I was still terrified of the thought of being surrounded by new things and people. Today is my last day in the forest and the next day my life starts. It is time to live my life, without anyone telling me how to.