The sun was dipping low, painting the sky with soft gold as the farewell music echoed through Kokoro Art & Science College.
Aiyumi stood near the art block, surrounded by canvases filled with the memories of her journey — laughter, failures, and friendships that became her safe space.
Mei, the gentle and cheerful one, rushed toward her, holding two cups of bubble tea. "Here! Our last college drink together. We can't graduate without a toast!"
Riya laughed, flipping her hair confidently. "Trust Mei to turn even farewells into snacks."
Aiyumi smiled, her eyes softening. "You two are impossible."
They sat under the cherry blossom tree — the same spot where they'd shared secrets, cried over heartbreaks, and laughed until their stomachs hurt.
Mei leaned her head on Aiyumi's shoulder. "Remember the first day you came here? You barely spoke two words."
Riya added with a teasing grin, "And now look at you — class topper, art club leader, and everyone's inspiration."
Aiyumi chuckled, her heart heavy. "Because of you both. You stayed when I didn't even believe in myself."
There was silence for a moment — the kind filled with unspoken gratitude.
Then Riya pulled them both into a tight hug. "Promise me… even if life gets crazy, we'll never stop being us."
Aiyumi smiled through her tears. "That's one promise I'll never break."
As the farewell song played in the distance, the three girls walked hand in hand through the college gate, petals falling like blessings around them.
"It's not the end," Aiyumi whispered.
"It's just another beginning."