Campus Turmoil

"But I never knew disaster would strike so suddenly, without any warning. My mother..." She choked up, unsure if sharing this would seem foolish. 

"Don't be afraid. If it's too painful, you don't have to continue," he whispered, kissing her pale cheek, offering her strength. 

He was already aware of her circumstances, perhaps fate intended for their paths to cross again, to settle past grievances.

She sighed deeply in her heart, leaning on his shoulder, closing her eyes without saying more. 

Her mind wandered through days of carefree joy and those of despair and helplessness. 

The night was quiet, the air thin. 

Her tears froze on her small face, leaving her feeling empty inside. 

Memories surged like tides, her longing turned to pus, an incurable toxin in her heart.