One-on-One

Chapter 17: Checking In

The following days were a whirlwind of emotions for Amira. After Jordan's abrupt departure, she found herself constantly checking her phone, hoping for updates. Each buzz sent a jolt of anxiety through her, but she reminded herself that he needed space to focus on his family.

In the midst of her worry, she decided to keep busy with her photography project, but the images she captured felt empty without Jordan's presence. She missed their playful banter, the way he made her feel seen and understood.

One afternoon, as she was editing photos in her room, her phone rang. It was Jordan. Her heart raced as she answered. "Hey! How are you?"

"Hey, Amira," he replied, his voice a little strained but steady. "I just wanted to check in. Things are... tough, but we're managing."

"I'm glad to hear that. Is there anything I can do? I really want to help," she said, her concern palpable.

"Just bein' there means a lot. I appreciate you," he replied, a hint of warmth breaking through his exhaustion. "I might need some distractions, though. You got any updates on your project?"

She smiled, feeling a spark of excitement. "Actually, I do! I was thinkin' we could meet up soon so I can show you some of the photos. You really brought them to life."

"I'd like that," he said, and she could hear a slight lift in his tone. "I could use a break from all of this."

After hanging up, Amira felt a wave of relief wash over her. She knew their connection was deepening, and she couldn't wait to see him again.

Later that week, Amira met up with Imani and Tariq at the campus lounge area. The three of them were catching up when the conversation shifted to Jordan.

"Have you heard from him?" Imani asked, stirring her drink.

"Yeah, he called the other day. He's handling things, but it's been tough," Amira replied, trying to gauge their reactions.

Tariq leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful look on his face. "You think he'll be okay?"

"I hope so," Amira said, feeling the weight of concern settle in her chest. "But I just wanna be there for him. He shouldn't have to go through this alone."

Imani exchanged a glance with Tariq, and Amira noticed a flicker of something—was it concern?—between them. "You're doin' the right thing," Imani said, her voice earnest. "He needs folks like you in his corner."

Just then, they spotted Jordan walking into the the lounge. His usual casual demeanor was replaced by a slight weariness, but his eyes brightened when he saw Amira.

"Hey, there he is!" Tariq exclaimed, nudging Imani with a grin. "Our favorite photographer finally made it."

Jordan chuckled, though it didn't reach his eyes. "What's good, y'all? Thanks for waitin' for me."

Amira stood up, eager to close the distance. "How are you really doin'?"

"I'm hangin' in there," he said, his smile faint but genuine. "Just tryin' to keep everything together."

They spent the next hour talking, the atmosphere shifting as Amira introduced him to her latest photos. As she shared the stories behind each shot, Jordan's expression gradually brightened, the weight on his shoulders momentarily lifted.

In the midst of their conversation, Imani and Tariq engaged in playful banter, their chemistry evident in the way they teased each other. Amira couldn't help but notice the subtle glances they exchanged, a dynamic she found intriguing.

Jordan caught her eye as she watched them. "What's goin' on over there?" he asked, a playful smirk on his lips.

Amira laughed, trying to brush it off. "Oh, you know, just the usual—flirtin' they do."