Chapter 27: Distance and Determination

Chapter 27: Distance and Determination

Maya adjusted her backpack as she stepped onto the college campus that would be her home for the summer. The environmental program was everything she had dreamed of—intensive, inspiring, and filled with like-minded students who were just as passionate about climate activism as she was. Every day was a new challenge, from fieldwork in the scorching sun to long debates on policy and conservation. She thrived in the environment, but every night, exhaustion settling in, she found herself reaching for her phone, scrolling through texts from Liam, re-reading their conversations, and staring at the time difference between them.

Liam, back home, had thrown himself into his music. The open mic night had given him confidence, and with Ethan's help, he started booking small gigs at cafés and local events. His online presence grew, and music producers had even reached out, interested in hearing more of his work. But no matter how busy he got, his mind always drifted back to Maya.

They talked every night, even when Maya was drained from a long day or when Liam was buzzing from the thrill of performing. But as much as they reassured each other that everything was fine, they both felt the strain of the distance. The calls were their lifeline, but sometimes, even words didn't feel like enough.