Elise stared at her acceptance letter, her hands trembling slightly. College was finally happening. A new chapter awaited her, one that promised independence, challenges, and opportunities—but also uncertainty. She couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Packing her belongings, Elise carefully placed each item into her suitcase, her mind drifting between the past she remembered and the future she could only imagine. The memories of her parents, lost in 2013, were never far, and sometimes she felt their absence like a shadow following her. But she reminded herself that this new beginning was hers to shape.
Her cousin Anastasia, on the other hand, could hardly contain her excitement. "Elise, can you imagine it? College! Your first day in a new world! We have to celebrate properly!" she exclaimed, bouncing around the room as she helped Elise arrange her things. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and despite the nerves in her own chest, Elise couldn't help but smile.
That evening, the family gathered for a small celebration. The dining table was adorned with fresh flowers, a few candles, and the delicious aroma of their favorite dishes. Laughter filled the room as neighbors and relatives joined in, congratulating Elise and sharing stories of their own college days. Anastasia barely sat still, constantly chattering about the dorms, the classes, and the people Elise might meet.
"You have to promise me one thing," Anastasia said between bites of her food. "You'll make the most of every moment. Don't stay holed up in your room. College is supposed to be fun!"
Elise laughed softly. "I'll try," she replied, her thoughts drifting. She was grateful for the warmth and love surrounding her, but an uneasy feeling lingered—something she couldn't quite name.
Meanwhile, miles away, Davon sat quietly in his room, his thoughts consumed with Elise. He had been trying to find her for months, ever since he realized she had been sent away for college. Memories of their past, hazy yet vivid, filled his mind. Her laughter, her gentle voice, the way she seemed to light up even the dullest moments—it all reminded him why he couldn't give up.
He had no idea if she remembered him, and the thought gnawed at him. But he refused to let that stop him. He was determined to find her, to ensure that when they met again, their paths would cross for a reason. Every plan, every small step, was measured and deliberate.
Back at home, Elise went to bed that night, exhausted but content. She didn't know that in the quiet corners of the world, someone was thinking of her just as intensely as she was thinking of her future. And though their reunion had yet to happen, fate had begun its quiet work, weaving the threads of their lives closer together, preparing them for the moment when memories would awaken and hearts would remember what time had hidden.