THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Chapter 9: Across the Miles

Kristel's decision to accept the Paris art program sent a ripple of excitement and anxiety through her life. She knew it would be a challenge, a test of their love and commitment, but she was determined to make it work.

She and Kyou spent every moment together in the weeks leading up to her departure. They went on long drives, reminisced about their favorite memories, and exchanged promises of eternal love. They also made plans for regular video calls, late-night texts, and surprise visits whenever possible.

The day of her departure arrived too quickly. At the airport, they clung to each other, their tears mingling with the bittersweet emotions of goodbye. Kyou whispered words of encouragement, reminding her of all the amazing experiences she was about to have.

"Don't worry," he said, his eyes sparkling with love. "I'll be here waiting for you. And I'll be counting down the days until we're reunited."

Kristel boarded the plane with a heavy heart but a determined spirit. She knew that the journey ahead would be difficult, but she was determined to make it work. She would keep Kyou close to her heart, even across the miles.

The first few weeks in Paris were a whirlwind of new experiences. Kristel immersed herself in the art scene, attending exhibitions, visiting museums, and sketching in the charming cafes. She made new friends, explored the city's hidden corners, and embraced the vibrant culture.

But even as she thrived in her new environment, she missed Kyou deeply. She longed for his laughter, his touch, his presence in her life. She spent hours on video calls, sharing stories, dreams, and anxieties. They exchanged messages throughout the day, finding solace in each other's words.

One evening, as Kristel sat in her tiny apartment, sketching the Eiffel Tower bathed in the golden glow of sunset, she felt a pang of loneliness. She missed Kyou's warmth, his strength, his unwavering support. But she also felt a sense of pride, a sense of accomplishment. She was living her dream, and she was doing it with Kyou by her side, even if he was thousands of miles away.

She picked up her phone and dialed his number. His voice, filled with love and longing, filled her with a surge of happiness.

"I miss you," she said, her voice trembling slightly.

"I miss you too," Kyou replied, his voice a balm to her soul. "But I'm so proud of you. You're doing amazing."

They talked for hours, sharing stories, dreams, and anxieties. They laughed, they cried, they reassured each other that their love was strong enough to bridge the distance.