It was a quiet night, and Tiara lay in bed, scrolling through her phone. She had just finished a late-night call with Robin, who had been busy preparing for exams and family matters. Their conversation had felt more routine than usual, but she tried to shake off the feeling that something was missing. They said their goodbyes, and as she set her phone down, Tiara opened Instagram to pass the time, looking through her feed to unwind.
Just then, a notification popped up on her screen—a follow request from Ryan. She hesitated, her mind recalling the fleeting moments she’d noticed him in class and, of course, the program. She had always been aware of him, though she never quite understood why. Ryan was the new student everyone was talking about, and though he seemed quiet, his eyes held a certain curiosity every time they met hers.
Curious, Tiara accepted the request and found herself clicking on his profile. His photos were a mix of travel pictures, candid moments with friends, and a few shots of the college campus. Each photo gave a small glimpse into his life, and she found herself drawn in, scrolling down further until she was startled by a message notification.
Ryan: “Hey, didn’t expect you’d be up this late.”
She smiled, finding his timing amusing.
Tiara: “You’re up too, aren’t you? Guess we’re both night owls.”
Ryan’s response came almost instantly.
Ryan: “Guilty as charged. I’m usually up late anyway, but today’s different.”
She tilted her head, intrigued. “Different?”
There was a slight pause before he replied, almost as if he were debating saying something more.
Ryan: “It’s my birthday.”
A flash of surprise crossed Tiara’s face. She hadn’t expected that. And then, an uncharacteristic warmth spread through her as she typed her next message.
Tiara: “Wait, it’s really your birthday? Happy Birthday, Ryan! How old are you turning?”
Ryan: “Thanks, Tiara. Twenty-one now.”
Tiara grinned, suddenly feeling like she had stumbled upon a hidden part of him. There was something about sharing a quiet, personal moment with someone, especially at a time when the rest of the world seemed to be asleep.
Tiara: “Any plans to celebrate?”
Ryan: “Not really. Just… here, I guess.”
They continued chatting, slipping easily into conversation, with topics that ranged from college assignments to favorite movies and places they hoped to travel one day. As the minutes turned into hours, Tiara found herself forgetting the time, completely engrossed in their chat. She felt like she was getting to know someone new in a way she hadn’t experienced in a long time.
It was as if the night wrapped around them, creating a world that existed solely within the glow of their screens. Ryan shared stories of his travels and family, his dreams, and his reasons for coming to this college. Tiara told him about her dance practice, her family traditions, and the memories she held close from her childhood. Their exchanges were light, but with each message, Tiara felt herself leaning closer into the conversation, intrigued by his depth.
By the time she glanced at the clock, it was nearly four in the morning.
Tiara: “Oh my god, I didn’t realize how late it got. We’ve been talking for hours!”
Ryan: “Guess we both lost track of time,” he replied, adding a laughing emoji. “But honestly, this has been the best part of my day. Thanks, Tiara.”
A warm smile crossed her face. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d connected with someone so easily. Ryan felt like a breath of fresh air, and she found herself wondering about him even after she closed the chat.
Tiara: “Well, glad to be part of your birthday, even if it was by accident. Get some rest, okay?”
Ryan: “Will do. Goodnight, Tiara.”
As she finally set her phone aside and pulled her blanket up, Tiara realized that tonight had changed something within her, even if only a little. She didn’t know where her connection with Ryan would lead, but she couldn’t deny the excitement that buzzed under her skin.
And as she closed her eyes, one thought lingered in her mind—the night of Ryan’s birthday would be a memory she’d carry forward, even if it was hidden between midnight chats and sleepy confessions.
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At First Sight: A Love That Couldn't Last
Short StoryIn the heart of a bustling medical college, Tiara, a bright and ambitious first-year student, meets Robin, a charming senior whose confidence captivates her from the moment they lock eyes. What starts as an innocent introduction on a professor's bir...
