Just Colleagues

25. Epilogue

It has been a month after I ended my internship with Ward, and it has been a month ever since I left the OBX. It was nothing short of difficult, leaving the pogues and, especially, the Cameron residence.

I've missed hanging out at the Chateau, those lazy afternoons spent lounging on the worn-out couches, talking about everything and nothing. I missed chilling on the HMS Pogue, the boat trips that always seemed to lead to new adventures, laughter echoing across the water. And I even missed the night we spent egging and TPing Andy's house, the thrill of rebellion and the bond of shared secrets.

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Flashback:

"Promise you'll visit us at USC," I said trying not to cry. I looked around at my friends, my family, feeling the weight of the moment.

John B nodded, his arm wrapped around Sarah. "Of course we will," he assured us. "Especially me. I can't go too long without seeing Sarah."

Sarah smiled, leaning into him. "And I'll be visiting the OBX whenever I can," she added. "It's not goodbye forever., remember?"

Kie chimed in, her eyes tearing up from the scene. "I've already checked the flight schedules. I'll be there as much as possible. Plus, we need to see how USC compares to our adventures here."

Pope, ever the pragmatist, grinned. "I've got some time saved up at work. I'll make sure to take off and visit. It's not like I can stay away from you guys for too long."

JJ, lounging back with his usual carefree demeanor, raised an imaginary beer in a toast. "To new adventures and old friendships," he said. "We'll make it work, no matter where we are."

As we exchanged our farewells, Ward Cameron approached me, his usual stern demeanor softened. "You did an outstanding job this summer, Briar," he said, placing a hand on my shoulder. "I'm proud of the work you put in. You've got a bright future ahead."

"Thank you, Mr. Cameron," I replied, my voice thick with emotion. "I appreciate everything you and your family have done for me."

Ward nodded. "You're always welcome back, Briar. Remember that."

I gave him a heartfelt smile, feeling the significance of his words. "I will, sir. Thank you."

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As the sun beats down on us, Sarah and I haul our boxes and suitcases up the steps of our new off-campus house. It's the Saturday of move-in weekend, and I'm about to start a fresh new year as a college Junior.

"Whew, this is heavy," Sarah, finally a Sophomore, grunts as she lugs a box of kitchen supplies up the stairs.

I laugh, sweat beading on my forehead as I follow suit with another box. "Tell me about it. Who knew we had so much stuff?"

Just as we're about to make another trip to the car, a familiar rumble fills the air, and I turn to see Rafe, Topper, and Kelce pulling up in a move-in truck.

As Rafe's truck pulls up, my heart leaps with excitement. I rush over to him, barely able to contain my excitement. With a squeal, I jump into his arms, wrapping my legs around his waist and planting a kiss on his lips.

"I've missed you so much, Bri Bri," He exclaims, burying his face in my neck.

I chuckle, his arms tightening around me. "I've missed you too, Rafe."

Sarah chimes in, her voice teasing. "Boo hoo, wah-wah, Rafe you've been off visiting Fran every week since her internship ended. It's not like she got drafted to the war without notice of when you were gonna see her next."

I laugh, releasing Rafe to give Kelce and Topper hugs as they join us. Once the greetings are done, the boys set to work unloading our furniture from the truck, leaving Rafe and me a moment to catch up.

"It took the boys and I a while," Rafe says, his expression soft as he looks at me. "But our move-in went smoothly. Kelce, Top's, and I's house is just down the street from yours and Sarah's."

A warmth spreads through me at his words. "That's perfect. We'll practically be neighbors."

He nods, a grin spreading across his face. "Yeah, it's gonna be great spending college with my girlfriend by my side."

I smile back. "I love you," I say softly.

"I love you too, Bri."