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Feeling grateful for the bond I was already forming with Jenna, I allowed her to lead me into a new place. Despite being a freshman college student at twenty-six years old, I was excited to embrace the connections and experiences of college life. As the evening drew to a close, Jenna and I returned to our dorm.
Jenna flopped down on her bed and shot me a curious glance. "So, what did you think about Dylan? You know, his room is just down the hall from ours.”
I smiled, remembering our conversation from earlier. "He seemed like a nice guy. Smart, funny, and easy to talk to."
She bit her lip, hesitating for a moment before asking, "Do you think he's cute or something? I mean….”
I raised an eyebrow and teased her, "Why? Are you developing a little crush on him?"
Jenna's cheeks flushed a soft pink. "Maybe a little. But I wouldn't even know where to start if I wanted him to ask me out."
I leaned over, resting my chin on my hand. "Well, what have you tried so far?"
Jenna let out a small sigh. "Honestly, not much. I tried some subtle flirting and dropping hints, but I don't think he caught on."
I grinned. "Sometimes, being direct is the way to go. Just go for it and ask him out. What's the worst that could happen?"
Her eyes widened, considering my suggestion. "Really? You think I should?"
I nodded with confidence. "Absolutely! Life is too short to wonder 'what if.' Just take the leap and see where it leads."
Jenna's smile returned, a spark of excitement in her eyes. "You're right. I'm going to do it. Thanks for the advice, Court."
I grinned back. "Anytime, Jen. That's what friends are for.”
Thankful that Daddy had paid for a two-bedroom dorm apartment and the privacy it afforded, I sat on my bed and called Brad.
"Hey, Courtney! How was your first day of classes?" Brad asked, his voice warm and familiar.
"It was good, actually. I met some interesting people, and the classes seem challenging, but in a good way," I replied. "I even have this design project I'm really excited about. We have to create a unique logo for an imaginary business using the concepts we learned in class."
"Oh, that sounds interesting. I bet you'll come up with something amazing," Brad encouraged, his voice filled with confidence in my abilities.
During our conversation, I sensed his sensual tone. Despite the physical distance, we still had a strong connection.
"So, have you made any new friends yet?" Brad teased playfully.
"Of course," I replied, chuckling. "My roommate Jenna is really cool, and I've met some nice people in my classes. But it's not the same without you guys."
There was a brief pause before Brad spoke, his voice low and filled with longing. "I miss you too, Courtney. It's been too quiet around here without you."
I felt a shiver of desire run through me at the sound of his voice. "Well, I'll be sure to visit during breaks, so you won't have to miss me for too long."
“I’ll hold you to that," he replied, his voice softening. "Take care of yourself, Courtney. And don't forget to have some fun while you're there."
"I promise, Brad," I assured him, feeling a bittersweet ache in my chest as he disconnected the call.
I changed into my comfortable pajamas and climbed into bed, the events of the day swirling through my mind. As I lay there, I realized even though I was surrounded by new friends and copious opportunities, there was a part of me that felt incomplete without Brad nearby. But for now, I would have to make do with our late-night conversations and the promise of future visits. With a sigh, I closed my eyes and allowed the memory of Brad's warm voice to lull me to sleep.
ChapterTwo
Brad
I turnedoff my alarm clock, still groggy from sleep. Memories of my Yosemite trip with Courtney three months ago flooded my mind, feeling simultaneously distant, like it was yesterday and a lifetime ago. I stretched my arms above my head, trying to shake off the feeling of sadness that always seemed to accompany thoughts of Courtney's absence.
I sighed and got up, raking my hands through my tousled hair. "Time to focus on the present," I muttered to myself.
As I made my way to the kitchen to brew a cup of coffee, I glanced out the window and saw that the sun was just starting to rise over the city. I felt a sudden urge to go for a run and clear my head, to let the cool morning air wash away the heaviness that seemed to cling to me lately.
