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"I know. And I'm so proud of you. You're going to do great things, Courtney. So, have you definitely decided on studying graphic design?" Brad asked, his curiosity piqued.
I nodded, my excitement for the new chapter in my life evident. "Yeah, I've always been passionate about art and design, and I think graphic design is the perfect way to combine that with a practical career, even though I ended up working for you guys at Rosedale as an executive assistant."
"What do you like most about the idea of being a graphic designer?" he inquired, genuinely interested in my thoughts.
"Well, I love the idea of creating visuals that can tell a story or convey a message. I think it's a powerful form of communication. Plus, I'm really drawn to the idea of working with different media, experimenting with colors and typography, and finding new ways to express ideas," I explained.
Brad nodded thoughtfully. "That sounds amazing. I can definitely see you doing that, Courtney. You've always had an incredible eye for detail and a unique perspective on things."
"Thanks, Brad," I said, touched by his support. "What about you? Any plans for your future that you're excited about?"
He hesitated for a moment before answering. "Well, I've been thinking about going back to school too, maybe getting my master's degree in computer science. You know how much I love writing code and designing software, and I'd like to do something that adds value to Rosedale Technology.”
I expressed a feeling of unity over our similar aspirations and smiled. "Brad, that sounds like a great fit for you."
He returned the smile, appearing optimistic. "Yes, I would appreciate that. So far, it’s only a dream.”
The rest of the hike seemed to fly by, and before we knew it, we had reached Nevada Falls. The view was even more spectacular than we had imagined. But exhaustion forced us to find a flat rock near the top of the falls, and we sat down, our legs dangling over the edge.
"We need to eat," Brad mentioned, pulling a couple of granola bars from his backpack. He handed one to me with a smile. "Here you go, hiking buddy."
"Thanks," I said, grinning back at him as I took the granola bar. We happily munched on them, savoring each bite and enjoying the serenity of the moment.
As we sat there, our eyes locked, and I felt a sudden urge to confess my growing feelings for him. The words hung heavy in my throat, but before I could utter them, Brad spoke up.
"Courtney, this trip has been unforgettable," he said, his voice tender and filled with emotion. "I can't help but feel that we've found something special together."
I felt my heart swell at his words, and I knew it was time to share my own feelings. "Brad, I couldn't agree more. I never expected to find someone like you on this journey. You've become more than just a friend to me."
His eyes shone with happiness, and he leaned in, closing the distance between us. Our lips met in a sweet, tender kiss that felt like the culmination of all the emotions we'd experienced on our adventure.
When we finally pulled apart, I rested my head on his shoulder, feeling the warmth of his body against mine. "No matter where our paths take us, Brad, I'll always keep our Yosemite camping trip close to my heart.”
He wrapped his arm around me, drawing me closer. "I feel the same way, Courtney. And who knows? Maybe fate will find a way to bring us back together, no matter where we end up."
As the sun dipped behind the horizon, painting the sky with a breathtaking array of colors, I couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Our future might be uncertain, but the connection we'd formed was something that could never be broken. And maybe, just maybe, fate would lead us back to each other in pursuit of our dreams and the friendship that had blossomed between us.
Returning to the campground, we fired up the camp stove and used the last of our supplies to fix a scrumptious meal. Then, once our sleeping bags were combined, we climbed in, our bodies pressed against each other, sharing warmth and comfort. I rested my head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. His arms wrapped around me protectively, and I felt an overwhelming sense of safety and belonging.
"Brad," I whispered, the words catching in my throat. "You know, we haven't spoken about the Rosedale case because this vacation was meant to be a relief from all the stress. But I just wanted to say that I hope everything goes well when Agent Carter and the FBI question that Alexander Steele guy. Maybe he'll shed some light on the mystery and help you figure out who's behind everything."
Brad's arms tightened around me, and I could feel the gratitude in his embrace. "Thank you, Courtney," he murmured. "Your support means the world to me, and I'm so grateful that we've been able to share this time together, away from all the chaos. You've made this trip unforgettable."
Our lips met in a slow, tender kiss, the warmth of the fire and the intimacy of the moment igniting a passion that had been building. We nestled close, our bodies gracefully entwining as if completing a long-awaited dance. The sounds of the campground were hushed, and the enveloping darkness embraced us as we tenderly melded together.
ChapterOne
Courtney
Two Months Later
"Excuse me!Could you please assist me in locating classroom 302-C?" I inquired, displaying my class schedule and indicating the room number to the aide.
My heart raced with anticipation as I navigated the unfamiliar hall of the University of Wyoming, eager to dive into the next chapter of my life. After leaving Brad and my friends in San Diego, I was determined to make the most of this opportunity back home in Wyoming and prove to myself that I could thrive on my own.
"Is that Innovative Design Principles? If it is, it's been moved to 441-A," the aide replied.
As I continued to the relocated classroom, I noticed a girl standing nearby, her brows furrowed in confusion as she glanced at her class schedule. Despite our shared predicament, her striking appearance caught my eye—she had long, wavy blonde hair and eyes that seemed to hold a secret, mischievous glint. Little did I know that this small detour would ultimately lead me to Jenna, my new roommate that I had only met a few hours ago.
