Chasing Tomorrow

chapter 30

Raya had blossomed into an exceptional student, her professors often commending her for her dedication and intellect. She had also built a close-knit group of friends, including Elena and James, who had become her family away from home.

One evening, as Raya was wrapping up a study session in her dorm, Elena barged in.
"Guess what!" Elena said, eyes sparkling with excitement.
"What?" Raya asked, barely looking up from her notes.
"There's a medical seminar next week. Big names in the field will be there, and it's happening here in New York!"
Raya's interest piqued. "And?"
"And... our college is hosting it! You have to attend."
Raya hesitated. "I'm not sure. I’ve got so much on my plate."
"Come on, Raya. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!" Elena persisted.

Raya finally relented. She had no idea that this seminar would change everything.

Jake had also made strides in his engineering career. He had recently been selected for an international internship program, which included a week-long conference in New York. When his parents told him about the opportunity, he was hesitant at first. The city held too many memories of Raya.

But his father’s words lingered: “Sometimes, life gives you a second chance, son. Take it.”

So, Jake packed his bags and boarded the plane, his heart a mix of excitement and unease.

The seminar was a grand affair. The auditorium buzzed with energy as students and professionals gathered to exchange ideas. Raya sat in the front row, furiously taking notes as a renowned doctor discussed groundbreaking research. She was so engrossed that she didn’t notice someone walk in and take a seat a few rows behind her.

Jake scanned the room, feeling out of place among the sea of medical professionals. He was here to attend a tech presentation scheduled later in the day. As his eyes wandered, they landed on a familiar figure. His breath caught in his throat.

“Raya…” he whispered to himself.

For a moment, he thought he was imagining her. But no, it was her. The way she tucked her hair behind her ear, the slight tilt of her head as she listened intently—it was unmistakable. His heart raced.

After the session ended, Raya gathered her belongings and headed toward the exit. Jake followed her, his mind racing. What would he say? Would she even want to see him?

“Raya,” he called out, his voice shaky.

She froze, her heart skipping a beat. Slowly, she turned around, and there he was. For a moment, time seemed to stand still.

“Jake?” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

He took a hesitant step forward. “I...I didn’t know you’d be here.”

“Neither did I,” she replied, her eyes searching his.

They stood there in silence, the weight of two years hanging between them.

“Can we talk?” Jake finally asked.

Raya hesitated but nodded. They found a quiet corner in the lobby.

“You’ve changed,” Jake said, his eyes scanning her face.

“So have you,” Raya replied, her tone guarded.

“I’ve missed you,” he admitted. “Every single day.”

“Jake…” she began, but he cut her off.

“No, let me say this. I know I messed up. I should’ve fought harder for you. I should’ve been there. But I never stopped loving you, Raya. Not for a second.”