CHAPTER 9: Things We Don't Say

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Chapter 9: Things We Don't Say

Calvin & Daisy

The week had become a quiet rhythm—shared glances, slow smiles, unspoken truths slipping into soft silences. But with midterms approaching, pressure hovered like fog.

Daisy was curled on a library sofa with her notes. Calvin joined her, setting down a coffee.

"You're late," she said, without looking up.

"I know," he replied. "But I brought peace offerings."

She accepted the cup with a faint smile.

"I read your journal," she said quietly.

He stilled. "And?"

"I didn't know how much you held back."

"I didn't know I could share it until you."

There it was again—that careful unfolding. Slow. Earnest.

She leaned into his shoulder. "Don't disappear on me."

"I won't."

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Lina & Marcus

Lina didn't expect to see Marcus again. But when she showed up at the campus café and found him reading the same book she loved, she laughed.

"That's my favorite novel."

Marcus looked up. "Then you've got good taste."

They sat together. One hour became three.

"You and Daisy," he said, "you've been through some things."

"So have you and Calvin."

They both nodded. Two anchors holding up ships too proud to ask for help.

"You're not like I expected," she said.

"I get that a lot."

She smiled. "So do I."

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Later That Night — Daisy

At home, Daisy stared at the photo of her parents on her desk. Her mother's smile. Her father's stiff posture.

The silence of their marriage had taught her that love could survive on duty—but not thrive.

Calvin was offering something else. Something fragile. Something real.

She picked up her phone.

> "I want to see you tomorrow. Not for the project. Just… us."

She hit send. Her heart pounded.

But a second later, Calvin replied.

> "I was hoping you'd say that."

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