Crossing Paths

Chapter 11: See You Soon

**Kate's POV**

The last day of my visit arrived too quickly. As the morning sun streamed through the windows, Alex and I woke up together, the weight of the impending goodbye hanging over us. We spent the morning lazily, enjoying each other's company and trying to prolong our time together. But eventually, the reality of my departure set in.

"Do we have to go to the airport so soon?" I half-joked, brushing a strand of hair from Alex's face.

She smiled softly, her eyes reflecting the same reluctance I felt. "Unfortunately, yes. But we still have a bit of time."

We got dressed and packed my things, sharing quiet moments and stolen kisses. It felt bittersweet—so much love and connection, but also an undercurrent of tension from the previous night. We both knew we needed to talk about Sam and the future, but neither of us wanted to cloud these last moments with heavy conversations.

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**Alex's POV**

After a quick breakfast, we decided to take a walk around campus, one last chance for me to show Kate the places that had become familiar to me. As we strolled, holding hands, I couldn't help but feel the weight of the words unsaid. I wanted to assure Kate, to make her feel secure in our relationship, but I also knew that the conversation about Sam and the band would be complicated.

"Alex, do you think..." Kate started, then paused, biting her lip. "Do you think we'll be okay? With the distance and everything?"

I stopped walking, turning to face her. "I think we will," I said, trying to sound confident. "It won't be easy, but we're strong enough to handle it. And I'll make sure to keep you involved in my life, even if it's through a screen."

She nodded, her eyes bright with emotion. "I want that too. I just... I worry sometimes. About you and Sam, and how close you're getting."

I took a deep breath, choosing my words carefully. "Kate, I promise you, there's nothing going on with Sam. She's a friend, and the band is important to me, but not as important as you are. It's kinda scary how nothing is more important than you, not even basketball. If it ever makes you uncomfortable, I'll put some distance there."

Kate smiled, though it was tinged with sadness. "Thank you. I just needed to hear that and I trust you."

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**Kate's POV**

We continued our walk, eventually finding a quiet bench near the basketball courts. It was a beautiful spot, and I felt a pang of regret knowing I would be leaving soon. As we sat, Alex wrapped an arm around me, and we watched a few students playing a pickup game.

"You know," she said, breaking the silence, "I'm really going to miss you. This week has been... perfect, despite everything."

I leaned into her, feeling the warmth of her body. "I'm going to miss you too. But we'll make it work, right?"

"Absolutely," she said firmly. "We'll FaceTime every chance we get, and I'll come visit you in Iowa when I can."

As the time for my flight approached, we headed back to Alex's apartment to grab my bags. Jessica was waiting for us, ready to drive us to the airport. The car ride was filled with light chatter, but the underlying sadness was palpable.

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**Alex's POV**

At the airport, the three of us stood together, trying to keep the mood light. But as the final boarding call for Kate's flight was announced, the reality hit us all. Jessica gave Kate a quick hug, then stepped back to give us some privacy.

"I'm going to miss you so much," Kate whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

I pulled her into a tight hug, not wanting to let go. "I'll miss you too. More than you know."

We kissed, a soft, lingering goodbye that felt like a promise and a plea all at once. As Kate walked away, I felt a mix of emotions—love, longing, and a hint of fear about what the future might hold.

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**Kate's POV**

As I boarded the plane and took my seat, I looked out the window, trying to keep my emotions in check. This visit had been everything I hoped for and more, but it also left me with so many questions. About us, about the distance, and about how we would navigate the challenges ahead.

But one thing I was certain of: I loved Alex. And I was willing to fight for our relationship, no matter how hard it might get. As the plane took off, I closed my eyes, holding onto the memories of this week and the hope that we would come out stronger on the other side.