Chapter 5: The Presentation and a Glimmer of Hope

The day of the English presentation arrived, and Jay was a bundle of nerves. Not just because he had to speak in front of the class, but because he had to do it alongside Yuri.

After their awkward coffee date, Jay had tried to put some distance between them, but it was hard, especially with the presentation looming.

He’d spent the last few days rehearsing his lines, trying to memorize every quote and analyze every theme.

He was determined to do well, not just for his grade, but for himself. He wanted to prove that he was more than just the quiet kid who sat in the back of the class.

When they arrived in class, Yuri gave Jay a reassuring smile.

“Don’t worry,” he said.

“We’ve got this.”

Jay managed a weak smile in return. He was still feeling hurt and confused by Yuri’s comments about Sarah, but he couldn’t deny that they worked well together.

They had spent hours discussing the novel, debating its themes, and even coming up with some creative visual aids.

As they waited for their turn, Jay’s anxiety grew. He could feel his palms sweating and his heart pounding in his chest. He glanced at Yuri, who seemed calm and collected, and felt a pang of envy.

How could he be so relaxed?

Finally, Mr. Dela Cruz called their names. Jay took a deep breath and walked to the front of the class, Yuri by his side.

They began their presentation, and Jay was surprised by how smoothly things went. They had practiced so much that the words flowed naturally, and they played off each other perfectly.

Jay found himself getting caught up in the story, forgetting his nerves and actually enjoying himself.

Yuri was a natural presenter. He was charismatic and engaging, captivating the audience with his enthusiasm.

But what surprised Jay the most was how supportive he was. He’d give Jay encouraging glances, nod at his points, and even add little comments that enhanced Jay’s arguments.

There was a moment during the presentation when Jay stumbled over a quote. He froze, his mind blank.

He could feel his cheeks burning and his anxiety rising.

But then, Yuri stepped in. He smoothly picked up where Jay had left off, paraphrasing the quote and seamlessly transitioning back to their presentation.

Jay was grateful, and he shot Yuri a thankful look.

As they finished their presentation, the class erupted in applause. Mr. Dela Cruz praised their insightful analysis and their dynamic presentation style. Jay felt a wave of relief and pride wash over him. They had done it. They had actually done it.

After class, Yuri turned to Jay, his eyes sparkling.

“We nailed it!” he exclaimed.

Jay grinned. “Yeah, we did,” he said, feeling a surge of happiness.

“Your analysis of the symbolism was spot on,” Yuri added.

“I was really impressed.”

Jay blushed.

“Thanks,” he mumbled.

“You were great too.”

“We make a good team,” Yuri said, his gaze lingering on Jay’s.

Jay’s heart skipped a beat. He couldn’t help but notice the way Yuri was looking at him, a hint of something… more… in his eyes.

“Yeah,” Jay agreed, his voice barely a whisper. “We do.”

For a moment, they just stood there, gazing at each other. The air between them crackled with unspoken emotions.

Jay felt a flicker of hope ignite within him. Maybe, just maybe, Yuri’s feelings for him weren't just friendly. Maybe there was something more there after all. But as quickly as the hope appeared, it vanished. Yuri blinked, and the moment was gone.

“We should celebrate,” Yuri said,

his voice back to its usual cheerful tone.

“Want to grab some burgers later?”

“Sure,” Jay replied,

trying to hide his disappointment. He told himself not to read too much into it. It was just Yuri being friendly, as always. But deep down, a tiny voice whispered that maybe, just maybe, this was a sign.

Maybe Yuri was starting to see him in a new light. And maybe, just maybe, there was a chance for them after all.

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