The Goodbye That Never Was

-Character Introduction

₁ Layla

Age: 17

Personality: Warm, caring, and protective of those she loves.

Appearance: Long brown hair, soft brown eyes, delicate but strong.

Background: From a well-off family, her background provides her with a comfortable life, though she is humble.

₂ Naomi

Age: 17

Personality: Quiet, independent, and reserved but caring.

Appearance: Short brown hair, green eyes, sharp features.

Background: Comes from a family with modest means, valuing hard work and independence.

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-Chapter 1: Sweet Moments

Layla sat next to Naomi on the familiar park bench, her eyes watching the petals fall to the ground as a gentle breeze blew through the air. The sun was slowly setting, casting a soft light on Naomi's face, accentuating her sweet and adorable features. Layla felt warmth in her heart, a sense of peace that she never wanted to change.

"Naomi," Layla spoke up, her voice soft but slightly hesitant. "Were you happy today?"

Naomi turned to look at Layla, her eyes bright and clear. "Of course! You know, as long as you're by my side, everything feels joyful."

Layla smiled, her heart suddenly racing a little faster. She was used to this feeling, the presence of Naomi in her life. It was as if everything around them faded when Naomi was by her side.

"Really?" Layla chuckled lightly. "Then I guess I'll try to be with you more."

Naomi squinted at her, silently studying Layla. "You say that, and it makes me happy. But haven't we always been together?"

Layla lowered her gaze, her hands clasped tightly together, wanting to say something but not knowing where to start. She could feel the bond between them, but she didn't realize that she was hiding something important that would change everything.

"Yeah, that's true," Layla replied, her voice a little shaky. "We've always been like this."

The two sat in silence for a moment, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Layla looked at Naomi, and her heart was filled with an indescribable warmth, a feeling she never wanted to lose. She hadn't yet thought about the changes ahead, unaware that she would soon face the hardest decision of her life. In this moment, everything felt perfect, and that was enough.

Naomi gently rested her head on Layla's shoulder, her eyes half-closed. "You're the best friend I've ever had."

Layla felt her heart ache slightly, but she only smiled, saying nothing more. She wanted to hold onto moments like this. Nothing could change between them, at least not for now.

The days passed by in a gentle, almost dreamlike rhythm. Layla and Naomi continued their routine-always together, always with a shared smile. Even in the simplest moments, like walking down the street or sitting in their favorite café, they felt the warmth between them. It was a kind of peace Layla had never known before, and she cherished it deeply.

One afternoon, they were walking along the lakeside, the sun casting a golden hue on the water. Naomi had her arm looped through Layla's, her head resting lightly on Layla's shoulder. They didn't need to say anything. The comfortable silence between them spoke louder than words ever could.

"Layla," Naomi whispered, her voice soft like a melody. "Do you ever think about... what will happen next?"

Layla paused for a moment, looking at Naomi with a small smile. "Next?"

"Yeah," Naomi replied, her fingers gently tracing the fabric of Layla's sleeve. "You know, the future. What happens when we're not... here anymore?"

Layla's heart skipped a beat, but she didn't want to worry Naomi. "I think we'll always be together," she said, her tone light and reassuring, though deep inside, she wasn't so sure anymore.

Naomi smiled up at her, her eyes full of trust and affection. "I hope so."

They continued walking, side by side, their footsteps in sync. There was something undeniably special about these moments-something Layla couldn't put into words. It was a bond that was growing, evolving, but neither of them could recognize the quiet changes just yet.

As they reached a small bench by the lake, Naomi sat down, pulling Layla gently beside her. The breeze tousled their hair, and for a moment, everything seemed perfect. Naomi leaned her head against Layla's shoulder, closing her eyes as if to savor the moment.

"I think I could stay like this forever," Naomi murmured.

Layla's smile softened as she kissed the top of Naomi's head, her heart swelling with an emotion she couldn't quite define. "We can stay like this for as long as you want."

They sat there for what felt like hours, watching the sun dip lower and lower in the sky, sharing a quiet understanding that spoke volumes. Their bond was simple, yet profound. Nothing had to be said to make it real.

And in that moment, Layla knew that whatever the future held, she would always carry these precious memories with her.