...
The university campus was serene, its usual bustle replaced by an air of focused determination.
With only a few days left until exams, students were huddled in libraries, study groups, and quiet corners, pouring over notes and textbooks.
Ruby sat in the library, surrounded by stacks of books and scribbled notes.
She took a deep breath, feeling a mix of anxiety and determination. She'd worked hard for this moment, and she was ready to give it her all.
As she reviewed her notes, Ruby's mind began to wander. She thought about her goals, her dreams, and the possibilities that lay ahead.
She felt a sense of calm wash over her, knowing that she'd done everything she could to prepare.
The silence of the library was almost palpable, punctuated only by the occasional rustle of pages or soft murmurs of conversation. Ruby felt a sense of solidarity with her fellow students, all of whom were working towards their own goals.
As Ruby pored over her notes, she felt a gentle tap on her shoulder.
She turned to see Ava, her friend and study partner, smiling warmly.
"Hey, girl! How's it going?" Ava asked, nodding towards Ruby's stack of books.
Ruby smiled back, feeling a surge of gratitude for her friend's support. "Just trying to cram in as much as I can," she replied. "You know how it is."
Ava nodded sympathetically. "I do. But you've got this, Ruby."
Together, they chatted quietly, discussing last-minute study tips and sharing words of encouragement.
As they chatted, Ava pulled out her phone and glanced at the time. "Hey, we should probably head back to my place soon. Vida is making dinner, and she wants us home early."
Ruby nodded, packing up her notes and books. "Sounds great, I'm starving!"
As they walked out of the library, the evening sun cast a warm glow over the campus.
The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant chirping of birds.
As they walked, the warm sunlight danced across their faces, and the gentle breeze rustled their hair.
Ruby felt a sense of relief wash over her, grateful for the break from studying.
Approaching Ava's house, the aroma of cooking wafted through the air, making Ruby's stomach growl with anticipation.
Ava smiled, noticing her friend's reaction. "Vida's cooking is the best, isn't it?"
When they entered the house, Vida greeted them with warm smiles and a hearty welcome.
"Girls, I'm so glad you're home. Dinner is almost ready. Why don't you freshen up and meet me in the dining room?"
As they sat down for dinner, Vida beamed with excitement. "Girls, I have some news to share. I'm pregnant!"
Ruby's eyes widened in surprise, and Ava squealed with delight. "We're going to be aunties!" Ava exclaimed.
Ruby felt a mix of emotions; joy for Vida, but also a hint of nostalgia while remembering the times Vida had been like a mother to her during her stay.
Vida noticed Ruby's expression and reached out to touch her hand.
"Hey, sweetie, I'm so glad you're here to share this moment with us."
The dinner table erupted in chatter and congratulations. Ruby smiled, feeling grateful for the warmth and love surrounding her.
The evening unfolded with Ruby feeling more at ease with herself, the news of Vida's pregnancy had brought a sense of joy and celebration to the table. Ava and Vida chatted excitedly about baby names, nursery decor, and all the milestones ahead.
Ruby listened intently. She thought about her own family, her parents, "did they ever care about her?"
She felt grateful for the love and support Vida had shown her while staying.
As dinner came to a close, Vida smiled at Ruby. "You know, sweetie, you're like family to us.
I want you to be a part of this little one's life too."
Ruby's heart swelled with emotion. She felt seen and loved, and she knew she'd always cherish this moment.
Meanwhile Liam couldn't shake the image of Ruby's sparkling eyes as she talked about art.
Her passion was infectious, and he found himself wanting to know more about her creative world.
He thought about how different she was from Ivy, who always seemed to blend into the background.
Despite their differences, Liam felt drawn to Ruby's confidence and energy.
He wondered what it would be like to explore the city with her, to see the way she interacted with strangers, and to hear her thoughts on everything from art to music.
As he sat in his favorite café, sipping his coffee and staring out the window, Liam's mind wandered to the possibility of running into Ruby again.
He smiled to himself, feeling a sense of anticipation.
...
Ruby walked out of Ava's house, needing some fresh air.
Earlier Mark came home, and she felt it was nice to give the Jensen family space to celebrate the good news without feeling out of place.
She felt happy for Ava's family, but it also brought up emotions.
As she strolled through the neighborhood, Ruby found herself at a cozy café, where she decided to grab a cup of coffee and collect her thoughts.
She sat down at a small table by the window, watching people pass by outside.
Just as she was sipping her coffee, Ruby noticed a familiar face across the room – Liam, the guy she'd met briefly at the charity gala.
He was staring out the window, lost in thought, and hadn't noticed her yet.
As Ruby sat there, she couldn't help but notice the way Liam's eyes seemed to be gazing into the distance, his mind preoccupied with thoughts.
She wondered what he might be thinking about, and whether he'd even notice her sitting there.
Just as Ruby was about to look away, Liam's eyes suddenly focused on her, and a hint of recognition crossed his face.
He smiled, and Ruby felt a flutter in her chest as he got up from his seat and walked towards her.
"Ruby, right?" Liam asked, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We met at the charity gala. What brings you here?"
Ruby smiled back, feeling a sense of surprise and pleasure at the unexpected encounter.
"Just grabbing a cup of coffee and clearing my head," she replied.
Liam nodded, taking a seat across from her. "I know the feeling. Sometimes I need to get out of my own space and people-watch."
As they chatted, Ruby found herself feeling more at ease with Liam. She enjoyed his company, and his questions were thoughtful and engaging...