Johann and Selena have been inseparable since childhood, a friendship that has only deepened now that they're attending the same university in Manila. Johann, with her boundless ambition and determination, dreams of making her mark in journalism, chasing stories that can make a difference. She is a force of nature, tireless and driven-but behind her fierce exterior, she hides insecurities that sometimes threaten to pull her under. Selena, gentle and introverted, is content with a quieter life, yet her loyalty to Johann knows no bounds. While she often mirrors Johann's choices and follows in her ambitious footsteps, she begins to question if she's losing herself in her best friend's shadow.
As they navigate the highs and lows of university life together, each begins to face their own vulnerabilities. Johann battles with self-doubt and the looming threat of burnout, while Selena struggles to embrace her identity and independence. But somewhere in the familiar glances and shared laughter, they each sense a deeper connection-a feeling neither of them dares to name.
Follow Johann and Selena as they confront their weaknesses, exploring the line between friendship and something more. In a journey filled with late-night study sessions, heartfelt conversations, and unspoken feelings, both must decide what they truly mean to each other. Will they find the courage to be honest with themselves, or will their fears keep them apart?
As Claire aims to leave her oppressive stepfamily behind, she befriends Zion. Will he be her ticket to freedom or a distraction in achieving her dreams?
*****
Claire Olsen has had a crush on Zion Petrakis since the first time she laid eyes on him, but he never noticed, instead only having eyes on the school's it girl, Maddie Jennings. Knowing she couldn't compete with Maddie, Claire hid her feelings for Zion, satisfied with admiring him from afar. However, when a series of events led Claire closer to Zion, her feelings for him grew from infatuation to love. And despite fighting hard to keep her feelings contained by distancing herself from Zion, he was determined to show her that he's earned a spot in her life.
[[word count: 100,000-150,000 words]]