Hearts On Campus Chapter 2-1

Chapter 2-1

Two years later

A real estate sign reads “SOLD” in front of a modest but lovely one-story house.

The sun is setting, casting a golden glow. Marcus steps out of a car slowly, his gait careful but steady. He’s aged, but stronger

Beside him, Ada (now 8), holds his hand. Her eyes are full of anticipation.

Adaline

*looking up* Is this really ours?

Ada's Father

*smiling gently* Yes. Just us now. A new place… a new start.

They walk to the front door. Marcus hesitates with the keys for a moment—his fingers tremble slightly—but Ada gently wraps her fingers around his.

Adaline

Here. We'll do it together

He smiles, and they turn the key together. The door opens with a soft creak. Inside, the air is clean and new. A couple of unopened boxes sit in the hallway. The living room has simple furniture, a couch still wrapped in plastic, and a photo frame turned facedown.

Adaline

*stepping in* It smells like... fresh paint.

Ada looks at him, confused. He kneels slowly, carefully, and looks into her eyes.

Ada's Father

I was scared this day would never come. That I’d never walk again… never bring you home.

Ada places her hand gently on his cheek.

Adaline

*softly* You did bring me home papa.

He chokes back emotion. They hug, a deep, long embrace—years of pain, love, and survival wrapped in silence.

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