Time flowed like a gentle river. Christmas arrived, transforming the college into a snow-dusted wonderland. The students built a grand Christmas tree in the dormitory courtyard, and a mysterious "Santa" left gifts for everyone;an elegant pen holder for Ariana, a sturdy wristwatch for Kian. đŠ
The holiday month was a peaceful interlude, a precious pocket of time where their world consisted of long walks through frost-kissed landscapes and the quiet comfort of each other's company. It was a season of simple, unadulterated joy.
Finally, the campus buzzed back to life. The first day of their second year dawned, bringing the return of old friends and the eager faces of new students. The air crackled with a familiar tension as everyone crowded around the notice boards, their fates pinned to the grades displayed there.
Ariana fought her way to the Business department board, while Kian navigated the crowd at Architecture. When they found each other afterward, they spoke in unison: "How are your results?"
"You tell me first," Kian insisted.
Ariana took a breath, then recited her grades with a mix of pride and relief: "Financial Accounting, A+. Management Accounting, A-. Macroeconomics, A+. Banking Concepts, A. Business Law, A."
"Great!" Kian's smile was genuine, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. đ
"Now it's your turn," Ariana prompted gently.
He listed them off, his tone flat: "History & Theory of Architecture, A-. Structures & Engineering, A. Practical Training, A-. Landscaping, B+. Urban Designing, A."
"There they are," he finished, bracing himself. đ
Ariana tilted her head, concerned. "Why did you say that so unhappily? I'm so happy that we both made it to the second year!"
"I thought you'd scold me," he admitted, looking down. "My results are lower than yours."
"Why would I ever scold you?" she said, her voice soft but firm. "Besides your studies, you're also dedicated to sports and other activities. Your life is balanced, Kian. That's something to be proud of." đ
The weight seemed to lift from his shoulders. "It's 8 am. The second-year orientation starts at 9, right?"
"Yes," Ariana said, linking her arm with his. "Let's get a quick snack and then head to the main hall."
They spent the next five hours in the hall, immersed in lectures that mapped out the year ahead. When it was over, they headed straight to the cafeteria, their stomachs growling, and shared a hearty meal. With no more obligations for the day, they said their goodbyes as the sun set, painting the sky in hues of gold and violet.
Back in her now-bustling dormitory, Ariana sat on her bed, the voices of her returned roommates a comforting hum around her. "The new academic year starts tomorrow," she thought, a determined smile gracing her lips. "I need to do well." This year felt different, brighter. They were no longer just surviving; they were building a future, together. đ