When North meet South

~ 70. Packing and Andrija's emotions ~

~ 26.02.2024. ~

Author's pov:

*As the days passed, the reality of Teodora's impending move to Norway settled in not only for her but also for her friends and professors. The news had spread throughout the school, and whispers of farewell conversations echoed in the hallways. In the midst of packing and saying goodbye to familiar faces, Teodora found herself on an emotional rollercoaster. Each day brought a mix of excitement for the new adventure awaiting her in Trondheim and a pang of sadness at the thought of leaving behind the life she had known in Serbia. Her friends rallied around her, offering words of encouragement and support as they helped her pack boxes and navigate the bittersweet emotions that accompanied such a significant life change.*

Ana: (sorting through clothes) Do you really need all these sweaters? It's not like Norway's going to be that cold!

Teodora: (chuckling) You never know! Besides, I'll need to stay warm in the Scandinavian winter.

Kate: (folding clothes) I still can't believe you're leaving, Teddy. It's going to be so weird without you.

Teodora: (wistfully) It's going to be weird for me too, Kate. But I promise to keep in touch and visit whenever I can.

*As Teodora's friends helped her sort through her belongings, the topic of her previous moves came up naturally in conversation.*

Ana: (placing a stack of books in a box) You know, sis, you've moved so many times already. I'm sure this won't be any different for you.

Teodora: (nodding) Yeah, you're right. I've gotten used to it by now, but it's still a big change.

Kate: (optimistically) Exactly! You've always managed to adapt and make the best of every situation. Norway will be no different.

Teodora: (pausing to fold a sweater) I guess you're right. But it's still a bit daunting, you know? Everything will be so different, especially the language.

Andrea: (placing a hand on Teodora's shoulder) Don't worry, bestie. You're a quick learner. You'll pick up Norwegian in no time!

*Teodora smiled appreciatively at her friends' words of encouragement, grateful for their unwavering support during this transitional period in her life. Despite her apprehensions, their confidence in her abilities bolstered her resolve to embrace this new chapter with an open heart and mind.*

~ 27.02.2024. ~

*The next day dawned, marking the beginning of Teodora's regular school routine. As she walked through the familiar halls, she couldn't shake the awareness that these routine steps would soon be replaced by a new school, new faces, and an entirely different environment. Entering the classroom, Teodora took her usual seat, surrounded by the friends who had become an integral part of her life. The conversation buzzed around her, a mix of laughter, discussions about assignments, and plans for the upcoming weekend. *

Ana: (excitedly) Sis, did you finish packing everything?

Teodora: (nodding) Almost there. It's strange to think that this time next week, I'll be in Norway.

Kate: (supportively) It's a big change, but we know you'll handle it like a champ.

Andrea: (curious) Have you started learning some basic Norwegian phrases?

Teodora: (grinning) Oh, absolutely. 

*The banter continued, a mix of lightheartedness and underlying emotions. Teodora appreciated the distraction her friends provided, but beneath the surface, there was a shared understanding that things were changing. As the school day unfolded, Teodora couldn't help but feel a twinge of nostalgia for the routine she was soon leaving behind.*

--Skip time--

*School ended. Teodora stepped out of the classroom, her mind already drifting to the tasks she had to complete that afternoon. However, her thoughts were interrupted by Andrija's presence, standing patiently near the doorway. The sight of him sent a flutter of nervous excitement through her, memories of her ex long-standing crush resurfacing as she met his gaze.*

Andrija: Hey, Teodora. Can we talk for a few minutes? Alone?

*Teodora's heart skipped a beat at his request, her cheeks flushing slightly as she nodded in agreement.*

Teodora: Sure, Andrija. Let's go for a walk.

*She bid farewell to Anna and Kate, briefly explaining that she needed to speak with Andrija, before joining him outside the classroom. As they walked towards the park, Teodora's mind raced with anticipation, wondering what Andrija wanted to discuss.*

Andrija: Teodora, I've been meaning to talk to you for a while now. I hope you don't mind.

Teodora: Of course not, Andrija. What's on your mind?

*Andrija's expression was a mix of apprehension and determination as he gathered his thoughts, his words tumbling out in a rush as he confessed his feelings for her.*

Andrija: Teodora, I've realized something over the past few months. I've known for a few months that you like me, but... I think... I'm in love with you. I really, really like you.. I know it's a lot to take in, especially with everything going on with your move to Norway, but I couldn't keep it to myself any longer.

*Teodora's breath caught in her throat at his confession, her mind whirling with a mix of emotions. She was touched by his honesty and vulnerability, but also conflicted by the timing of his revelation.*

Teodora: Andrija, I... I don't know what to say. I appreciate your honesty.. But... The distance is big and simple..

*Andrija interrupted her in the sentence itself*

Andrija: I understand. I'm sorry for springing this on you, especially with your upcoming move. I just needed to tell you how I feel.

*Teodora's heart ached with old sympathy for Andrija, knowing that she couldn't reciprocate his feelings. She searched for the right words to console him, offering reassurance amidst the bittersweetness of the moment.*

Teodora: Andrija, please don't apologize. You're incredibly brave for opening up to me like this. You'll find someone who's right for you, someone who can give you the love and happiness you deserve.

*Andrija's gaze softened at her words, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips.*

Andrija: Thank you Dora. You're always so kind. I just... I couldn't keep my feelings hidden any longer.

*Dora...Dora...That rang a few times in my head. We are in the same French class. I mean, we are both going in the lessons. He is not in the department with me, but he is in the French because the whole school learns German and in the second year is just 19 of us and we made just one class. All in all, nickname Dora.. That's what he always called me when he was sick, when he felt sad and when he needed help...*

*Their conversation lingered in the air. As they walked, Teodora couldn't shake the weight of Andrija's confession, the echoes of his unrequited feelings resonating within her. As they walked back to school, Teodora couldn't shake the weight of Andrija's confession, the echoes of his unrequited feelings resonating within her.*