Ava hurried to get ready for school, knowing she was already running late. She moved quietly, careful not to wake her parents,
who were still fast asleep. Before stepping out, she whispered softly, "I'm leaving for school," and gently closed the door behind her.
The morning air was crisp, and the streets were quiet as she walked along the footpath toward the bus stop. She stood there, waiting patiently, Watching as the city slowly came to life.
After about five minutes, the bus finally arrived. Without wasting a second, she stepped in and made her way to the last seatâher favorite spot, where she and Michelle always sat together.
Michelle adored the window seat, and Ava was happy sitting anywhere, as long as they were together.
As the bus pulled up to Michelleâs stop, Ava spotted her standing there with her mother, waiting patiently.
The moment Michelle saw Ava, her face lit up with excitement.
"Hey, Ava! Wait up! Did you save me a seat?"
she called out, waving enthusiastically.
Ava grinned. "Of course, I did!"
Michelle sighed in relief as she climbed onto the bus. "You're the best! I donât know what Iâd do without you."
Ava chuckled. "Well, lucky for you, youâll never have to find out!"
As the bus continued its journey, the two girls laughed, talked, and shared stories about their weekend.
The ride to school had always been their favorite part of the dayâit was their time, uninterrupted by school rules or assignments.
When they finally reached school, they stepped off the bus together, walking side by side as they made their way inside.
Michelle nudged Ava playfully. "Come on, slowpoke! Letâs get to class before we get into trouble."
Ava giggled. "Relax! The teacher loves us⦠or at least, you."
They rushed down the hall, dodging groups of students, and as soon as they reached their classroom, they shouted in unison,
"The last bench is reserved for Ava and Michelle only!"
Their laughter echoed in the room as they plopped down into their usual seats.
Ava turned to Michelle and watched her for a moment, a soft smile playing on her lips. There was something special about Michelleâsomething comforting. She always knew how to make Ava feel safe, like she truly belonged.
Taking a deep breath, Ava hesitated before speaking. Then, in a quiet yet sincere voice, she said,
"Michelle⦠I never want to lose you. You're my best friend, and I mean it. No matter what happens, weâll always be together, right?"
Michelle looked at her, eyes filled with warmth, and without saying a word, she pulled Ava into a tight hug.
"Oh, come on, Ava! Youâre stuck with me forever. Best friends for life!" she said with a laugh.
Ava smiled, feeling an overwhelming sense of happiness.
"Best friends for life,"Â Â she echoed, knowing deep down that no matter where life took them, she and Michelle would always have each other.
As the bell rang, Michelle grabbed Avaâs hand. "Now letâs go before the teacher actually throws us out!"
Hand in hand, they ran towards their next class, still laughing, their bond stronger than ever.
And just like that, another beautiful day of friendship began .