Love in the time of grades Second Semester

Chapter 5: A Study Session to Remember

Midterms were approaching fast, and the stress on campus was palpable. Carla, Mark, and I decided to meet at my apartment for a study session, hoping a change of scenery would help us focus.

“Wow, Junno,” Carla said as she stepped into my place, taking in the neatly arranged furniture and the faint aroma of coffee. “Your apartment is so cozy. No wonder you’re always relaxed.”

Mark plopped onto my couch, dropping his bag at his feet. “Okay, Mr. Host, where’s the coffee?”

I laughed, heading to the kitchen. “Coming right up. Make yourselves comfortable.”

---

We spent the next few hours reviewing notes, testing each other with flashcards, and laughing at Mark’s ridiculous attempts to turn every question into a joke.

“Okay, next question,” Carla said, flipping through her notebook. “What’s the key difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?”

Mark grinned. “Intrinsic is when you study because you love it. Extrinsic is when you study because you’re scared of failing and disappointing your parents.”

Carla groaned. “Close enough. Junno, your turn.”

“Intrinsic motivation comes from internal satisfaction, while extrinsic motivation relies on external rewards or pressures,” I answered, earning a nod of approval from Carla.

---

As the evening wore on, we took a break to enjoy some snacks. That’s when Carla decided to bring up the elephant in the room.

“So, Junno,” she began, a sly grin on her face, “any juicy updates with JM?”

I rolled my eyes, but Mark leaned in eagerly. “Yeah, come on. Spill.”

I hesitated, knowing they wouldn’t let it go. “Okay, fine. Remember the trip to Vigan?”

Carla’s eyes widened. “Oh my gosh, you mean the trip trip?”

“Yeah,” I said, feeling my cheeks heat up.

Mark practically choked on his soda. “Wait, are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

“I didn’t mean to blurt it out,” I admitted, burying my face in my hands. “But yes, we had... a moment.”

Carla squealed. “Junno! That’s amazing! I mean, we kind of suspected, but hearing it confirmed is a whole different thing.”

Mark shook his head in disbelief. “Man, you’re living a real-life romance novel. I’m jealous.”

Their reactions made me laugh, and soon the three of us were in fits of giggles, the stress of midterms momentarily forgotten.

---

After they left, I texted JM to share the day’s events.

Junno: Carla and Mark know about Vigan. They went wild when I told them.
JM: Did they take it well?
Junno: They were surprisingly supportive. I think they’ve been rooting for us this whole time.
JM: Good to know we have allies. How are you feeling about everything?
Junno: Honestly? Grateful. For them, for you, for us. It feels like things are falling into place.
JM: They are, Junno. And I’m so proud of you for handling everything so well.

His words filled me with a sense of peace. No matter what challenges lay ahead, I knew I wasn’t facing them alone.