Stephen became part of her days without announcement.
They spoke often—about small things, about school, about life beyond the barracks. Their conversations were easy, unforced, untouched by expectation. Stephen never asked too much. Never assumed ownership. Never treated her silence like something he needed to fix.
She liked that.
They were headed to the same university, though neither of them said much about it. Tiana kept her admission hidden, tucked away like a fragile secret meant only for her parents and siblings. Stephen spoke of school with excitement. She listened and smiled, saying little.
Some truths needed time.
The day before Joshua was to return to school, he called her.
They met at the same familiar spot in the barracks—the place where promises had once felt eternal. Joshua looked tired, distracted, restless. He complained first, as if routine demanded it.
"You've been busy the whole time I've been home," he said.
"Are you avoiding me?"
Tiana met his eyes calmly.
"No, Joshua. I've really been busy. Honestly. Why would I be avoiding you?"
He studied her for a moment, then laughed it off.
"Alright. I know you love me."
Something shifted inside her.
Yes, her mind answered softly.
That was before.
She smiled anyway. A small, practiced smile.
"Hm… yesh," she said, followed by a light, empty laugh.
Satisfied, Joshua moved on to the real reason he had called.
"I'm leaving tomorrow," he said.
"I'm stranded. I've gathered all my money for some things but it's not enough. Can you help me?"
Once upon a time, she would have panicked.
Once upon a time, she would have borrowed, begged, sacrificed.
But this time, she breathed.
"Oh, Joshua, my love," she said gently, "that's bad. I wish I could help you. You know I would do anything for you. But honestly, I don't have any money with me right now."
The words tasted strange.
Liberating.
Joshua blinked, surprised for only a second.
"It's fine," he said confidently.
"I know you'll find it for me. That's why I love you."
He stood, already done with the conversation.
"I'll call you tomorrow once I get to school."
And just like that, he left.
Tiana watched him walk away, her heart steady.
"Wow," she whispered to herself.
"Well played."
She turned and went home.
She would not be fooled again.