Unfinished feelings

Chapter Four: Fading Distance

Amelia didn't know when it started, but she found herself waiting for his messages. Every night, she told herself she wouldn't think about him, yet every morning, she woke up hoping to see his name on her screen.

She wasn't sure what they were anymore—friends? Ex-lovers trying to mend what was broken? Or just two lost souls clinging to memories?

One evening, Julian called. Amelia hesitated before answering.

"Hey," his voice was gentle, almost careful.

"Hey," she whispered back, staring at the fading sunset outside her window.

A short silence followed before he spoke again. "How was your day?"

She sighed, rubbing her temple. "Busy. Assignments, campus, life… It's exhausting."

"I can imagine." His voice was warm, soothing in a way she hadn't realized she missed. "I wish I could take the stress away."

A bitter smile formed on her lips. "You were part of my stress, Julian."

"I know," he admitted, and for once, there was no defensiveness in his tone. "I wish I could undo everything that hurt you."

Amelia closed her eyes. If only it were that easy.

"I don't know if we can go back to what we were," she said softly.

"I'm not asking you to," Julian replied. "I just want to be here… however you'll have me."

Something inside her wavered. It wasn't a grand promise. It wasn't begging. It was just honesty.

For the first time in a long while, the distance between them didn't feel so heavy.