Chapter 5 DATE

"Anyway, let's talk about something." she fix her chair and sat in front of me. "What is it?" I smiled at her. "I wanted to do this for a long time. This has been a dream of mine and I want to share it with you." she said, "For the past years, I've written a novel called the sea of hope. I wanted to publish it, Iris, but I don't know how."

"Wow, Max! That's amazing," I said with excitement, "I didn't know you were such a talented writer. I'm sure your novel is great." "Thank you, Iris," she smiled. "As for the publishing, have you tried submitting it to publishing houses or literary agents?" I asked. "No, I haven't," she said. "Well, why don't you start there? You can also look into self-publishing options. The important thing is to get your work out there and make it accessible to readers." I encouraged her. "You can do it, Max. I believe in you."

"That's great, Iris! I'm so happy that you're excited about this. Let's make a plan and work on it together." Max said, with a big smile on her face. "I think we can start by researching publishers and literary agents who may be interested in our project. And of course, we need to make sure the book is in its best form before submitting it."

I couldn't help but be excited for my best friends.

She has a great talent and it's amazing that she has written a novel.

We went to class together, and while we were walking, talking about our plans my phone lit up. someone messaged me. It was Felix

"Hi, Iris. I was just wondering if you're free this weekend. I was thinking maybe we could go out and have some coffee or something," his message read.

I forced myself not to smile while reading the message but I couldn't help but feel butterflies. "what are you smiling about, iris?" max asks me. She grabbed my phone, and read the message. She was giggling now.

We both laughed and continued to walk to class, chatting about our future plans and the possibilities of my new relationship with Felix. Despite the ups and downs, I was grateful for my best friend, Max, who was always there for me and supported me in everything I did as well.

"Great! Can't wait to see you," Felix replied. I felt excited but also nervous at the same time. I've never been on a date before, but I'm sure it'll be a fun experience with Felix.

The whole week i've been feeling nervous. I was thinking about what I should wear, what should I act in front of him.

" It's normal to feel nervous in situations like this, but try to relax and be yourself. Remember that Felix likes you for who you are, so there's no need to put on an act. Just be confident and enjoy the moment. The most important thing is to have fun and make memories together." Max advised me.

"I don't think he likes me that much," I told Max. "why would he invite you immediately," max scoffed

"Trust me, Iris, he likes you. Just be yourself and have fun," Max said, trying to reassure me. "Thanks, Max. I needed that," I replied, feeling a bit better.

I took a deep breath and took out the dress Isla lent me. "This is gorgeous," I said as I wear the blue dress. Isla put light make-up on me, "It's good that you're feeling well now, Isla." Max told her.

"Thanks, guys. I'm feeling a lot better now. And you look beautiful, Iris," Isla added with a smile. The three of us were getting ready for my date with Felix. We were all excited for me and were giving me their full support. It felt good to have such amazing friends who always have my back.

I went on my own to the cafe shop. I was really feeling nervous that my hands were shaking.

I took a deep breath and walked inside. Felix was already there, waiting for me. He stood up and greeted me with a smile, "Hi Iris, you look beautiful." he complimented. I felt my cheeks blush, "Thank you," I replied. We sat down and ordered our drinks.

"You look gorgeous as well, Felix." I compliment him as well. "Thank you, Iris." Felix replied, with a blush. "I'm glad you like the place. It's my favorite coffee shop."

"How was the band?" I asked him to open a conversation.

"It was good, we had a lot of fun performing. But it's even better now that I get to spend time with you," Felix replied with a smile. I almost choked at what he said and almost laughed.

"Red told me you were supposed to be with him when we met the first time at the coffee shop,"

Felix chuckled, "Well, Red has a habit of taking things into his own hands. But I'm glad I met you."

"also, red told me you like me." I said, almost whispering to him.

Felix looked at me, his eyes seemed surprised. "Red said that?" he asked, then paused for a moment before continuing, "Well, I do like you Iris. I have liked you since the day I saw you at the concert."

"You were also the first person that caught my attention at the concert," i laughed at him.

"Really?" Felix's eyes lit up, "I was so nervous about going to that concert and then I saw you, and I knew I had to talk to you even for just a minute. I'm glad I finally got the chance to."

We talked about their coming gigs and about each other.

It was a good conversation, and I felt comfortable talking to Felix. He was funny, and he had a great sense of humor. As we talked, I realized that I was also attracted to him. We talked about our favorite music, movies, and books. We even discovered that we had similar interests. The time flew by, and before we knew it, it was already evening. We exchanged numbers and said our goodbyes. I felt happy and content after our date, and I couldn't wait to see him again.

I guessed we're not talking through social media now.

He walked me home after.

It was a great evening and I felt like we had a good connection. Before I went inside, Felix gave me a hug and said, "I'm glad we finally got to talk. I really enjoyed our conversation and I hope we can do this again soon." I smiled and thanked him, feeling grateful for the opportunity to get to know him better.