At First Sight: A Love That Couldn't Last

Chapter 16: A Growing Bond and Shared Secrets

The next morning, Tiara returned to the hostel, feeling an odd mix of emotions. She felt connected to Robin, but something still tugged at her, something she couldn’t explain. As she sat on her bed, her phone buzzed, and a message from Ryan popped up.

Ryan: “Good morning! How’s your day going?”

Tiara smiled, her fingers hovering over the screen before she typed a reply. Talking to Ryan had become her guilty pleasure, a part of her day she looked forward to even though she knew she should keep her focus on Robin. But there was something about Ryan—something light, easy, and effortless.

Tiara: “Hey! Just got back to the hostel. How about you?”

They slipped into conversation with the usual banter, sharing small details about their classes and funny stories from campus. As they talked, Tiara learned that they were both from the same city, though their neighborhoods were miles apart. It felt like a discovery that brought them even closer, as if they shared an unspoken connection.

Over the next few weeks, their messages grew longer, each conversation deepening the bond between them. Sometimes, Tiara would catch herself waiting for his text with an eagerness that surprised her. Ryan would share stories about his family, his dreams, and the things he loved to do back home, and she found herself drawn into his world.

One evening, after a particularly tiring day, Ryan sent her a photo—a plate of homemade pasta with fresh vegetables and herbs. Underneath the picture, he’d written: “Tried cooking in my hostel room! Wish I could share this with you.”

Tiara laughed, touched by the simple gesture. She replied instantly.

Tiara: “Looks delicious! I didn’t know you could cook!”

Ryan: “Just trying. I’d love to hear what you think, though. If you’re free, I’ll bring you some tomorrow.”

True to his word, the next evening, Ryan sent over a small container of pasta with a note, “For my favorite foodie.” Tiara smiled, savoring the rich flavors, and decided she’d return the gesture. She spent the next evening preparing a simple meal—a warm, homemade soup—and sent it to him with a handwritten note of her own: “For the best chef I know.”

Their exchanges grew into a secret language between them, small gestures that strengthened their bond without anyone knowing. Each time Ryan brought over food or Tiara sent something in return, she felt a warmth that couldn’t be explained by friendship alone. She knew her feelings for him were deepening, though she tried to convince herself it was just a friendly connection.

But every evening, as they shared their thoughts, their laughter, and little surprises, Tiara’s heart found comfort in this growing connection. She told herself it was harmless, yet her excitement at seeing his name light up her screen spoke volumes. And with every message, every meal shared, her feelings for Ryan became harder to ignore.