At First Sight: A Love That Couldn't Last

Chapter 17: Hidden Affections and Quiet Realizations

As the days passed, Tiara found herself looking forward to her chats with Ryan more than she expected. Their exchanges were light and filled with laughter, a refreshing escape from the pressures of her studies and the complexities of her relationship with Robin. But deep down, she sensed her feelings were no longer simply friendly, even if she wasn't quite ready to admit it.

One evening, Tiara was sitting at her desk, buried in notes, when her phone buzzed. It was Ryan.

Ryan: "Studying hard?"

Tiara: "Trying to! But I swear, these notes are impossible. Why is everything in med school so complicated?"

Ryan: "Need a study break? I have something that might help."

Intrigued, she waited, and soon after, a picture came through-a box of homemade brownies, still warm and perfectly gooey. She laughed, her mouth watering just looking at them.

Tiara: "Are you trying to bribe me? Because it's working."

A few minutes later, there was a knock on her hostel door. Surprised, she opened it to find a small package waiting for her, with a note taped to the top: For the best study buddy. Tiara's heart skipped a beat. She quickly brought the box inside, savoring the warm, chocolatey treat while thinking about how thoughtful Ryan was.

Later that night, as they exchanged messages, Tiara felt herself opening up to him in ways she hadn't with anyone else. She shared her worries about her exams, her insecurities, and even her small, everyday frustrations. Ryan listened, his replies thoughtful and supportive, and for the first time, she felt truly understood. She realized that she hadn't just found a friend in Ryan; she had found someone who genuinely cared about her and who made her feel seen.

One evening, as they talked, Ryan sent a message that lingered with her longer than he probably intended.

Ryan: "I'm glad we've gotten so close, Tiara. Honestly, you're... special to me."

The simple words made her heart race. She could feel the weight behind them, and for a moment, she didn't know how to respond. She typed out several replies, deleting each one before finally settling on something simple.

Tiara: "You're special to me too, Ryan."

But the words didn't fully capture the depth of her feelings. She couldn't shake the thought that, in some hidden part of her heart, she was starting to care for Ryan in ways that went beyond friendship. The idea thrilled and scared her all at once.

As she lay in bed that night, Tiara thought about Robin. They had shared so much together, and she had always assumed he was her future. But as she drifted into sleep, thoughts of Ryan filled her mind, leaving her to wonder if her heart was beginning to lead her in a different direction.