Sweet Rivalry : From Bitter Enemies To Sweet Lovers (BXB)

36- New Journey

The calendar on the wall marked the approaching exam season. Neo and Charles felt a surge of excitement and anxiety as they realized this was their last year of post graduation.

They knew they had to study hard and ace their tests, but they also knew they had each other for support and encouragement. They made a pact to help each other with any difficulties they encountered in their courses, and to reward themselves with some quality time whenever they could.

They studied whenever they got a chance even in the bakery. The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries filled the air, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They would sit at a corner table, surrounded by books and notes, and occasionally glance at each other with a smile or a wink.

Sometimes they would share a bite of a croissant or a sip of coffee, and whisper sweet things in each other's ears. Their romance was still alive and strong, despite the academic pressure.

At night, they would cuddle in bed, feeling each other's warmth and heartbeat. They would talk about their dreams and plans for the future, and kiss each other softly until they fell asleep.

In the morning, they would wake up with a hug and a kiss, and get ready for another day of studying and loving.

Rei, was also preparing for the exams. She decided to join Neo at the bakery one day, hoping to get some tips and insights from him. She was surprised to see Neo sitting at the counter with a dreamy look on his face. Neo was not paying attention to the books in front of him, but to the boy who had captured his heart. He was sneaking at Charles from the window.

He was imagining all the things he wanted to do with Charles later that day, like going for a walk in the park, watching a movie, or making love. He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn't notice Rei approaching him.

Rei asked, tapping him on the shoulder.

Rei: Hey, Neo, what are you doing?

Neo snapped out of his fantasy and looked at Rei with a startled expression.

Neo: Oh, hey, Rei. I was just...studying.

He said, trying to sound casual.

Rei raised an eyebrow and looked at Charles, who was smiling sheepishly.

Rei: Sure, you were. Studying what? How to make out with your boyfriend?

She teased Neo.

Neo felt his cheeks turn red and tried to change the subject.

Rei: So, what are you studying for?

Rei shook her head and laughed.

Rei: Nice try, Neo. But you can't fool me. I know you're head over heels for Charles. And I don't blame you. He's a catch. But you have to focus on your exams, too. They're important, you know.

Neo nodded and sighed.

Neo: I know, I know. You're right. I should study more. But it's hard to concentrate when he's around. He's so distracting. And so irresistible.

Rei smiled and patted him on the back.

Rei: I get it, Neo. I really do. But you have to find a balance. You can't let your love life interfere with your studies. You have to be smart and responsible. You have to prioritize. You have to...

Rei continued to lecture Neo, but Neo was not listening. He was looking at Charles again, who was blowing him a kiss.

He felt a surge of love and desire, and decided to ignore Rei's advice. He leaned over the table and sent a flying kiss to Charles passionately, making Rei roll her eyes and shake her head.

Rei said, sarcastically.

Rei: Or you can do that, Whatever works for you.

............

No wonder the day before the exam both were stressed. They were lost in love rather than being lost in books.

Charles: Nevermind let's just crack it. We cannot cover the whole syllabus in a single night.

Neo: I FCKIN HATE EXAMS!!!

Neo burst it out as he pulled out his hair. Charles reminded him,

Charles: It's okay we are almost done. It's the last time let's go through with this together.

Neo: I can't wait to live with you after graduation.

Charles: Are we going to live with each other after this??? You mean it??

Neo looked at him. Charles was looking like a dog moving his tail excitedly. He smiled and continued,

Neo: I was thinking about this for a while. We should live together now. Practically you are always here at my house. Also, It's already been a month since we started dating. After getting the degree let's start looking out for a house.

Charles: WHY WAIT!? I'll get on it right now.

Neo: No wayyyy!!! First focus on the exam. We will talk about it later.

But Charles was not going to stop thinking about these things. He was so happy that his happiness was visible from his eyes and actions. His heart was bouncing internally.

After studying till 2:30 Am they became tired. Their eyes were filled with weariness. They just wanted to take a good night's sleep. But they have to wake up early in the morning tomorrow for the exam. The good thing was it was going to be the last exam of their academic life. But it was just the beginning of life's exam. This wasn't the end this was the start of them to get into the actual adult life.

From dating to settling down together they had a long way to go.

Now they were going to have lots of responsibility. Not just of themselves but of another person in their life.

They cuddled one another on the sofa and closed their eyes. They acknowledged their duties and responsibilities for each other and was prepared for that after tomorrow.

Suddenly, Charles opened his eyes as if he was reminded by something,

Charles: Shit!! I need you to meet my parents before we move in together.

Neo: omg!!!! Did you have to tell this to me right now???? How am I supposed to sleep now??? You fckin ruined my sleep.

Charles: Sorry - sorry! It suddenly appeared in my mind. Let's not think too much and get to sleep. We have a lot to do tomorrow.

With hmm Neo went back to sleep but some questions about Charles family were running inside his head. Charles never talked much about them.