Before It Sinks In (Revised)

39

After the incident on their vacation, Bright can't take Freen out of his mind. He kept thinking about her past and how he can help her get over it. But as the Mayor's son, he had a lot of responsibilities occupying his time. But as soon as he heard of Freen's growing bond with Prim, and the knowledge that the girl has feelings for the older, he felt threatened, deciding to make a move. Bright's feelings for Freen is nothing but honest and pure, but he had always kept his feelings to himself, respecting her boundaries and never pushing too hard. However, now that he saw how much Prim valued the girl too and finding a new potential rival in Heidi, he couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy and determination to win Freen's heart.

One sunny afternoon, Bright approached Freen as she was tending to her garden. He flashed his most charming smile and began to strike up a conversation. "Freen, I've noticed you've been spending a lot of time with Prim lately. She's a lovely girl, isn't she?"

Freen, ever polite, smiled and nodded. "Yes, she is. Prim has been a wonderful friend to me, and I'm grateful for her presence in my life."

Bright couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment, but he pressed on. "I can see that she cares for you deeply. But you know, Freen, I've cared about you for a long time too. I've admired your strength and resilience as well as your kindness. And I don't want to be too forward, but I want you to know that I have grown feelings for you that is beyond friendship."

Freen looked at Bright, her heart torn. She appreciated his sincerity and had always thought of him as a good person. However, her past and her complicated feelings made her hesitant to jump into a new relationship. She decided to be honest with him. "Bright, you've been a great friend to me as well, and I value our friendship. But I'm still healing from a painful past, and I need time to figure out my own feelings."

Bright nodded, a determined glint in his eyes. "Freen, I understand. I'll give you all the time you need. Just know that I'll be here, patiently waiting, ready to support you in any way I can."

-----

Over the following days and weeks, Bright continued to be a steadfast presence in Freen's life. He helped her with her garden, accompanied her on walks, and was there whenever she needed someone to talk to. While Freen remained unsure about her romantic feelings, she couldn't deny the warmth and comfort she found in Bright's friendship.

As they spend more time together, Bright's feelings for Freen grew stronger. He couldn't bear to see her still burdened by the pain of her past. He knew he had to show her that he could love and treat her better than anyone else, including Prim. One evening, under the soft glow of the setting sun, Bright decided to have a heartfelt conversation with Freen.

They sat on a bench overlooking the village, a place they often retreated to when they needed to talk. Bright took a deep breath and began, "Freen, I may not know how much you've been through, but I hate seeing you carry that pain. I want you to know that I care about you deeply, and that no matter what happens, you'll always have me."

Freen turned her gaze towards him, her eyes filled with a mix of emotions. "Thank you, Bright."

Bright smiled. "I know you have a lot of reasons to have hesitations on loving again, but I want you to consider this: I've watched you blossom into a stronger and more resilient person since you came here. I've seen your capacity to love, not just in the way you care for Prim, but in the way you've welcomed me into your life. And I want you to know that no matter what your choice would be, in the future, I will accept it wholeheartedly."

Freen remained silent, her heart conflicted.

"I can't promise to erase your past," Bright continued, "but I can promise to be there for you every step of the way. I'll support you, cherish you, and show you what it means to be truly loved. You don't have to carry your pain alone anymore, Freen."

Tears welled up in Freen's eyes as she listened to Bright's heartfelt words. She had never doubted his sincerity, but hearing him express his feelings so openly touched her deeply. She realized that he wasn't just asking for a chance; he was offering her the opportunity to let go of her past and embrace a brighter future.

-----

As time passed, Freen's heart began to slowly mend, thanks in part to both Prim's unwavering support and Bright's genuine affection. She realized that she was fortunate to have such caring people in her life, people who were willing to stand by her side no matter what.

Freen believes that she cannot be any more lucky, having the two by her side. They made her feel genuine care and love that is beyond her imagination. Though was honestly torn about the situation, but she believes that whatever decision she will make, she would be surrounded by people who truly cared for her well-being.