Lines We Cross

Chapter 42

~ July to October ~

July's heat settled over New York like a heavy blanket, thickening the air and adding a layer of haze to the city's bustling energy. For YN, the summer was filled with back-to-back meetings, late-night conference calls, and the ever-present hum of Sterling family obligations. Despite the grind, she felt a strange satisfaction, like she was finally stepping into something significant, albeit reluctantly.

One evening, after a particularly draining meeting, YN sat in the back of a towncar, staring out at the city lights blurring past. She pulled out her phone, scrolling absently until a message from Elizabeth appeared.

How are you holding up?

The question was simple, but YN could feel the concern behind it. A small smile touched her lips as she thought of a response.

Surviving. New York's keeping me on my toes.

Moments later, Lizzie replied

That's my girl. Just don't let it eat you alive.

The warmth in those words reminded YN of the stability Elizabeth had become, even through the distance. But the reality of their situation weighed on her. Meeting up wasn't an option now, not with her father's eyes everywhere, making her more cautious than ever.

Trying not to. Missing home, though.

Lizzie replied soon after,

Whenever you need a reminder of home, I'm just a text away.

YN leaned back, letting the comfort of Lizzie's words settle over her. The city roared on outside, but in that moment, she felt a quiet, grounding peace.

———

As July turned to August, YN found herself back in New Haven for a brief time. Maya and Nina had dragged her out for a night on the town, insisting she needed a break from her Sterling duties. The three of them ended up in a trendy rooftop bar, laughter and music wrapping around them like a familiar embrace.

Maya nudged YN, her eyes sparkling mischievously as she took a sip of her drink. "You seem... lighter," she teased, leaning in. "So, who's got you all glowy? Someone new?"

YN rolled her eyes, though a blush crept onto her cheeks. "Technically, no one new..."

Nina's eyebrows shot up, immediately catching on. "Hold on... Elizabeth!"

YN let out a small laugh, then nodded. "Yeah, it's Elizabeth. We're keeping it... quiet. Just texts and calls here and there, not wanting to risk anything."

Maya's eyes softened as she looked at YN. "So, it's... working?"

YN smiled, her gaze dropping to her drink. "It's good. We're both trying to grow, in a sense. But just knowing she's there—it helps a lot."

Nina grinned, nudging her shoulder. "Well, just glad you're happy. You deserve it."

They fell into a comfortable silence, sipping their drinks as the city sprawled out beneath them, lights twinkling against the dark sky.

"You know," Maya said, voice softening, "you deserve this, YN. To be happy. Not just for your family, but for yourself."

YN looked at her friends, gratitude swelling in her chest. "I'm trying," she said. "But it's hard to let go of what everyone else wants for me."

Nina reached over, squeezing her hand. "One step at a time, yeah?"

YN nodded, feeling the weight of her friends' support. They didn't need to understand everything—just knowing they were there was enough.

———

In early September, YN's workload intensified, with school deadlines looming and her family's expectations pressing heavier than ever. The late-night conversations with Lizzie were her lifeline. Sometimes, after a grueling day, she'd call Lizzie just to hear her voice, letting the familiar cadence soothe her.

One night, as she sat in her room, she dialed Lizzie's number without thinking.

"Hey," Lizzie's voice came through, warm and familiar. "How's my favorite workaholic?"

YN chuckled, running a hand through her hair. "Exhausted, mostly. Missing... well, everything."

Lizzie was quiet for a moment, and then her tone softened. "You're doing great, you know that? I know this isn't easy, but you're handling it all like you were born for it."

YN felt her throat tighten, Lizzie's words catching her off guard. "Sometimes I just... I don't know if I can keep up," she admitted, her voice barely a whisper.

Lizzie's response was immediate, reassuring. "You're stronger than you think. And I'm here, no matter what."

The words wrapped around YN like a protective shield, a reminder that no matter how far apart they were, they were still connected. She closed her eyes, letting Lizzie's voice settle the storm within her.

———

October arrived, bringing the cool bite of autumn. For YN, the change in season brought a renewed sense of purpose, even as her family's demands weighed heavily on her shoulders.

One evening, after another long day of meetings, YN returned to her New Haven home, pouring herself a glass of wine as she sat by the window, watching the city lights blink to life.

Her phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen. It was a message from Lizzie,

How's New Haven treating you?

YN's heart swelled, but she quickly reminded herself of their situation. Meeting up wasn't an option, not yet.

Better now that you're checking in.

They texted for a while, the conversation flowing effortlessly, as if they were back in each other's arms. Lizzie told her about her own classes, and YN found herself smiling at the familiar ease of their connection.

As she sat there, watching the city lights flicker against the night, she allowed herself to imagine a future where they didn't have to be so careful, where they could be together without fear or hesitation.

For now, it was enough.

_____________
930 words