Adrian returned to campus a day before classes resumed.
The campus was nearly empty. Most students wouldn't be back until tomorrow. The quiet was eerie after the chaos of Thanksgiving at home.
His dorm room was exactly as he'd left it. Bed still unmade from his rushed packing. Desk still cluttered with pre-break work. Dante's side still empty—bed bare, desk clear, closet vacant.
Adrian unpacked slowly. Putting away clothes. Organizing textbooks. Trying not to think about the fact that in about an hour, he'd see Dante for the first time since they'd said they loved each other.
His phone buzzed. Dante.
Dante: Back on campus. You?
Adrian's heart jumped.
Adrian: Yeah. Just got here. Unpacking.
Dante: Want to meet for dinner?
Adrian: Yes. Where?
Dante: Dining hall at 6?
Adrian checked the time. 4:47 PM. Just over an hour.
Adrian: Perfect. See you there.
Dante: Can't wait.
Adrian set down his phone and immediately spiraled.
