Coby & Alex [REWRITTEN] | OC

Chapter 8

(Tw: alcohol use, verbal harassment, mild language)

*2 ½ years ago*

Alex sits on the hood of his old car, the setting sun casting a warm glow over him. Next to him, his girlfriend of the past few years sits in silence, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her jacket. The peaceful evening contrasts sharply with the tension in the air.

"So, what are the plans for the future?" She finally asks, her voice steady with a touch if hesitation.

He shifts uncomfortably, trying to find the right words. "I thought we'd figure it out together," Alex says. "But now that everything's getting so real, I'm not sure how we'll make it work."

Briar looks down, her gaze fixed on the ground. "I've been accepted into my dream university," she reveals. "But sadly it is on the other side of the country... It's an incredible opportunity, but... it means leaving everything behind. Including you."

The words hit Alex like a heavy blow. Fighting with his feelings of confusion and uncertainty, he says. "I'm happy for you. You deserve this. But I've been feeling so lost lately. I'm not sure where I fit into all this."

Gently, she places her hand on his. "I've noticed you've been distant," her voice soft. "Maybe it's not just the distance between us that is causing this. I've felt something missing too. I thought it was just me, but maybe..."

Alex meets her gaze, revealing a mix of sorrow and realisation. "I've been trying to understand my feelings. It's like I've been searching for something I can't quite grasp."

"It's okay to be unsure," Briar responds. "Sometimes love isn't enough when life pulls us in different directions... should we... take a step back and figure out what we really want?"

Alex smiles, small tears forming in his eyes. "Let's make the most of these two weeks before you move."

The decision to focus on their remaining time together leads them to embrace each moment fully. They revisit favourite cafes, stroll through familiar parks, and spend quiet evenings reminiscing. Each experience is a bittersweet blend of affection and the awareness of their limited time together. They capture moments with photographs, discuss their dreams and fears, and create lasting memories that will sustain them as they part ways.

As their departure approaches, the gravity of their situation becomes ever-present, but their shared moments bring comfort and warmth. They laugh over old inside jokes, enjoy heartfelt conversations, and support each other. Briar's excitement about her new adventure contrasts with Alex's uncertainty, yet their time together provides them both with a sense of closure.

On the morning of Briar's departure, they drive to the airport, the journey marked by unspoken thoughts and the weight of impending separation. At the terminal, they linger by the check-in counter, savouring their final moments.

When the final boarding announcement echoes through the terminal, they find a quiet corner to say their goodbyes. Briar's eyes well with tears as she says, "I know I shouldn't do this, but just one last time." Without waiting for a reply, she steps closer and kisses him—a tender, lingering farewell that blends sorrow and love.

As they part, both are visibly emotional. "We can't keep holding on to what we used to be," Briar says softly, wiping her tears. "It's time to move on, but I hope we can stay friends."

Alex nods, tears in his eyes. "That's for the best. I want us to be there for each other, even as friends."

Their final embrace is tight, an effort to hold onto the moment. The finality of their parting is softened by the promise of ongoing support and friendship.