Love in the Depths of Time (GL) - Chapter 19

On the journey of youth, Carol and Lucy reconnected through their shared involvement in a club. In working together, they built a deep friendship, supporting each other as they grew. Their story continues, filled with endless possibilities.

Time moved forward, and the atmosphere in the high school changed as they entered their second year. Carol and Lucy, once distant friends who had drifted apart, now met again at a new starting point. Their relationship seemed to return to the past, yet it was different—marked by a newfound maturity and depth.

Through close cooperation in club activities, Carol finally realized that their previous separation was not just due to personality differences. Unknowingly, Lucy had come to hold a significant place in her heart. This feeling was like a budding sprout in spring—small and unnoticed at first, but growing steadily over time until it became impossible to ignore.

Lucy’s presence made Carol’s world bigger. Her intelligence, independence, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of her dreams deeply moved Carol. She realized that her admiration for Lucy had gone beyond ordinary friendship—it was a deep emotional connection. This feeling made her feel empty whenever Lucy wasn’t around, as if her heart had already been filled by her.

Carol confided in her best friends, Yang and Leah. One sunny afternoon, they sat in a quiet corner of the school, and Carol softly shared her confusion and newfound realization. Yang and Leah listened attentively, their eyes full of concern.

Leah gently held Carol’s hand and said warmly, “Carol, emotions can be complicated but also simple. Your heart won’t lie to you. If Lucy makes you feel happy and secure, then be brave and go after what you want.” Yang nodded in agreement and added, “We’re always here for you, no matter what decision you make.”

Tears glistened in Carol’s eyes as she tightly embraced her two friends, filled with gratitude. Their encouragement was like a guiding light in the darkness, illuminating her path forward.

Time passed quickly, and soon they were in their second year. The campus still felt familiar, yet it carried a new energy. The coursework became more challenging, and the academic pressure increased, but Carol and Lucy both worked hard toward their dreams.

Their relationship seemed to return to the past, yet it was different. They still ran into each other on campus, exchanging smiles and greetings, but now there was an unspoken understanding between them. Though they no longer spent every moment together, they always reached out when the other needed support.

The second-year club activities became even more dynamic. The Medical Club and the Finance Club were both preparing new projects. By chance, the two clubs collaborated on a public welfare project aimed at educating teenagers in the community about health and financial literacy.

As key members of their respective clubs, Carol and Lucy were once again assigned to coordinate and manage the project. When they met in the clubroom, a flicker of surprise flashed in their eyes before they quickly regained composure. Lucy smiled and greeted, “Carol, long time no see.” Carol smiled back, “Yeah, Lucy, we meet again.” They sat down together and began discussing the project details.

Unlike their previous collaboration, they were no longer inexperienced newcomers. Carol had gained a solid grasp of medical knowledge, while Lucy had deepened her understanding of finance. Their discussions sparked new ideas, and their teamwork grew even stronger.

As the project progressed, their synergy became more evident. Carol handled health education, while Lucy managed financial literacy sessions. Together, they designed engaging presentations using real-life examples to help teenagers understand and absorb the information easily.

At the event, Carol and Lucy worked seamlessly—one explaining health topics, the other discussing financial concepts. Their lively interactions energized the audience, and the teenagers listened with great interest. As they exchanged smiles, they both felt a sense of accomplishment.

Sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the schoolyard. In the stands, Carol sat with Yang, discussing the romance in the novel *Summer’s Desire*, but Yang noticed that Carol’s gaze remained fixed on Lucy.

Lucy was playing basketball with a group of boys. Her movements were swift and agile. Though not particularly tall, every jump and sprint were full of power and determination. Sweat trickled down her forehead, quickly evaporating in the sunlight. Her damp hair clung to her forehead, making her look a bit messy yet strikingly cool.

“Carol, look at Lucy playing! She’s so cool!” Yang said excitedly, eyes shining as she watched Lucy.

Carol nodded, speaking softly, “Yeah, she’s loved basketball since she was little. Seeing her play always makes me happy.”

Yang turned to observe Carol’s expression closely. She noticed not only admiration in Carol’s eyes but also an almost imperceptible tenderness and affection. A knowing smile formed on Yang’s lips.

“Carol, you haven’t confessed yet, have you?” Yang teased, her voice playful.

Carol’s face instantly turned red. She waved her hands in panic, “I haven’t found the right moment yet.”

Yang smirked. “Oh? You should hurry. Lucy is different now, and have you noticed? When she plays basketball or gives speeches, a lot of students admire her.”

Carol lowered her head, avoiding Yang’s gaze. Her fingers nervously fidgeted with the hem of her shirt. She knew Yang was right. Her feelings for Lucy had long surpassed simple friendship. But…

“Yang, stop guessing.” Carol tried to sound casual, but her voice trembled slightly.

Yang leaned in closer and whispered, “Carol, I think Lucy sees you as special too. Have you noticed how her eyes light up whenever she sees you? She always seeks you out, sharing her joys and sorrows with you.”

Carol’s heart skipped a beat. She looked up, her eyes filled with uncertainty and hope. “Do you really think so?”

Yang nodded confidently. “I trust my instincts. You’ve been close for so many years—wouldn’t it be wonderful if your relationship could go a step further?”

Carol fell silent. Her heart burned with emotions, yet a thin veil of uncertainty clouded her vision, making it hard to see the road ahead. She knew Yang was right—her feelings for Lucy had been buried deep for too long. But she was afraid. Afraid of facing them, afraid of losing what they already had.

“Yang, I don’t know… I’m scared…” Carol’s voice grew smaller, disappearing into the wind.

Yang gently patted Carol’s shoulder and said softly, “Carol, everyone fears love. But Lucy is worth it. You’re both amazing and kind. If you can be together, you’ll be happy.”

Carol looked up, determination flickering in her eyes. “You’re right. I can’t just let this go. I’ll try to face my feelings. Even if things don’t turn out the way I hope, at least I won’t regret it.”

Yang beamed and hugged her tightly. “That’s the spirit! No matter what happens, I’ll always support you. Now, go make your move!”

Carol nodded, feeling a newfound courage and strength. This was only the beginning, but she was ready to step forward into her own future.