Late Night Study Sessions

Avery yawned, rubbing the fatigue from her eyes. The dimly lit library was quiet, except for the occasional rustle of pages or whispered conversation. She highlighted a key term in her notes, the neon green standing out against the scribbled black ink.

Across from her, Julian scribbled equations on a scratch pad, his brow furrowed in concentration. His dark hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck, and Avery's gaze lingered, a familiar warmth spreading through her chest.

"Hey, Jules?" Avery whispered, nudging him with her foot.

Julian looked up, his bright blue eyes crinkling at the corners. "Hmm?"

"How's calculus coming along?"

Julian groaned. "I swear, I'll never understand derivatives."

Avery chuckled. "You will. We'll conquer it together."

Their study sessions had become a staple of their college experience. Freshman year, they'd bonded over shared struggles in their introductory courses. Now, as seniors, they'd honed their system: Avery handled literature and history, while Julian tackled math and science.

As they worked, Avery's mind wandered to the impending graduation. What came next? Would they stay in touch? The thought of separation sent a pang through her heart.

"Hey, Av?" Julian's voice broke into her reverie.

"Yeah?"

"You okay? You've been quiet."

Avery forced a smile. "Just thinking about graduation."

Julian's expression softened. "We'll figure it out, together."

Their eyes met, and Avery felt that familiar spark – a connection that transcended friendship.

*The Coffee Shop*

After a productive study session, they packed up their belongings and strolled to the campus coffee shop. The crisp evening air carried the scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass.

Inside, the aroma of roasted coffee enveloped them. Avery ordered her usual latte, while Julian opted for black coffee.

As they settled into a cozy corner, Avery pulled out her phone. "I got tickets to the spring concert!"

Julian's eyes lit up. "Who's performing?"

"The 1975!"

Julian grinned. "We're going!"

Their easy banter filled the space between them, a comforting rhythm.

*Dorm Room Conversations*

Later, back in Avery's dorm room, they lounged on her bed, laptops open. Julian helped Avery brainstorm ideas for her senior thesis, while Avery assisted Julian with his resume.

As the night deepened, conversation turned to memories: their first college party, a disastrous road trip, and late-night talks on the quad.

Avery's gaze drifted to Julian's profile. The soft light highlighted his sharp jawline and gentle smile.

"Jules?" Avery's voice barely above a whisper.

"Yeah?"

"Thanks for being my rock."

Julian's eyes locked onto hers, his expression tender. "You're mine too, Av."

The moment hung suspended, filled with unspoken emotions.

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***