Hearts in Bloom

Chapter 19

Tobias took a deep breath as he stepped onto the university campus, his suitcase rolling beside him. The sprawling lawns, the laughter of students, and the vibrant energy of the campus felt exhilarating and overwhelming all at once. He had made a promise to himself—a vow that this time, he wouldn’t let insecurities cloud his feelings for Aria. Jaxon, always his faithful companion, walked beside him, a supportive grin plastered on his face.

“Can you believe we’re finally here?” Jaxon exclaimed, looking around in awe. “This place is incredible! It’s like a whole new world.”

Tobias nodded, but his thoughts were elsewhere.

On the other hand, Aria and Mia stood near the entrance of their dorm, excitement glimmering in Mia’s eyes while Aria seemed pensive. Mia turned to Aria with an eager smile. “We should go pick them up! I can’t wait to see them again!”

Aria hesitated, her heart sinking at the thought of facing him. The memories of last year flooded back—moments of laughter, promises made, and the silence that followed. She shook her head. “I can’t, Mia. Just tell them I’m busy with something important.”

Mia frowned, sensing the tension. “But Aria, it’s been so long! Don’t you want to see them?”

Aria looked away, fighting against the well of emotions rising within her. “I do want to see them, but... I can’t face him right now. Not after everything. If they ask, just tell them that I'm busy with something important and can't come now.”

Reluctantly, Mia nodded, feeling the weight of her friend’s heartache. “Okay, I’ll go alone. But don’t shut him out forever Aria.”

As Mia approached the gate alone, she spotted Tobias and Jaxon. They exchanged excited hugs, the warmth of their reunion filling the air. But as they pulled back, Tobias's smile faded. His gaze swept around, searching for Aria.

“Where’s Aria?” he asked, an edge of concern lacing his voice.

"Yeah where is she?"Jaxon said noticing that Aria wasn't here.

Mia hesitated, feeling the weight of her friend’s secret. “She’s... um... she’s caught up with something important,” she replied, avoiding eye contact.

Tobias’s brow furrowed, and he could sense something was off. “Mia, your lie isn't very convincing. Just tell me the truth.”

After a moment of silence, Mia looked up at both of them and sighed, realizing she couldn’t keep it from him. “Okay, fine. Aria didn’t come because she’s angry, hurt and sad. She doesn't want to see you Tobias. You broke your promise last year, and it’s been hard for her to forgive you.”

The words struck Tobias like a cold slap. Jaxon stepped forward, patting Tobias on the shoulder. “Well, bro,” Jaxon said with a confident grin, “You know what you have to do now. Go make things right. Chase your girl.”

Mia raised her eyebrows, surprised at Jaxon’s words. "Wait, what?'

Jaxon pulled Mia away and winked at Tobias before distracting Mia and saying, "I heard that the food here is the best. Come on let's go to the cafeteria. Im starving." And then they both headed to the cafeteria.

As Tobias picked up his luggage, he felt a rush of adrenaline. He made his way forward, hoping to find Aria, his heart pounding with every step.

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Aria sat on a bench beneath a large oak tree, her thoughts swirling in confusion. She kept her eyes closed tightly, feeling a mixture of emotions—sadness, anger, and a dull ache in her heart. Just as she was lost in her thoughts, a guy she barely knew approached with an overconfident smile.