Shizu and I have known each other since second grade. Back when we were kids, we used to talk about how, once we grew up, we’d date the most handsome boys we could find. Our wish was fulfilled when we reached high school.

   “Look at what Hiro-kun just sent me,” Shizu showed me the picture of her boyfriend next to a horse.

   “You’re lucky your boyfriend still finds the time to text,” I said. “Mine’s busy with exams.”

   “At least Naoto’s trying to get into university like everybody else,” Shizu said. “Hiro-kun’s set on helping on his grandfather’s ranch after graduation. And I’m afraid of horses. What if he starts thinking I’m not a good match for him and dumps me?”

   “I doubt that would happen,” I said. “Hiroto loves you to death, unlike that cold boyfriend of mine.”

   Since Shizu comes from a good family, with parents who still love each other, she puts pressure on herself to want the same for her future. My situation is different. Since my parents are divorced, I have my own insecurities—being apart from my boyfriend would have been torturous if Shizu hadn’t invited me to hang out. Sharing our worries and complaining about our boyfriends helped.

   “Thanks, Rei, for listening to me,” Shizu said. “You’re the only one I ever feel like talking to about this.”

   “Well, our boys do drive us crazy, but we still love them, don’t we?” I said. “Once they’re back, let’s go on a double date.”

   It will be fine. As long as we have each other, even though our lives aren’t always perfect, we’ll be just fine. I know we will.