The autumn chill had finally given way to a softer, more forgiving breeze, and as dusk settled over campus, I found myself walking slowly along the tree-lined pathway. I wasn’t sure what had led me to wander in solitude that evening, maybe it was the residual hope from yesterday’s breakthrough, or maybe it was the persistent ache of uncertainty that I couldn’t ignore. In any case, fate seemed to have other plans, because as I turned a corner near the campus garden, I saw Ethan waiting by a quiet bench, looking thoughtfully at the fading light.
His presence made my heart flutter and tighten at the same time. I hesitated for a moment, then approached him. “Hey,” I said softly, unsure if my voice betrayed more than I intended.
He looked up and offered a gentle smile. “Hey, Ava. It’s a beaut
