Chapter 6

My college life was still bustling and fulfilling.

The only difference was that Liam wasn't the one I discussed projects with anymore, nor was he the one I shared meals with.

Sarah looked confused. "Aren't you and Liam from the same town? How come you two aren't closer?"

I couldn't help but chuckle. "Who says people from the same place have to be close?"

Liam had come to me with a project once, asking to discuss it together, but I'd turned him down.

He probably hadn't been rejected like that ever in his life.

He just stood there, completely stunned, before finally asking,

"Chloe, did I do something wrong? Why do I feel like you've been avoiding me?"

I met his gaze, a slight, almost strained smile on my face. "No, not at all. I'm just genuinely swamped with work, no time for anything else."

I saw the faint disappointment in his eyes, but it was quickly overshadowed by Ashley's appearance.

For a while, everyone around us was buzzing about them.

"Heard the most stunning girl from the Arts Department is chasing Liam."

"Honestly, they look perfect together. A gorgeous guy and a beautiful girl, totally made for each other."

"I heard Liam said yes to Ashley! They're officially an item!"

The news of the Arts Department's queen bee finally getting the brilliant student managed to dilute some of the sadness that came with impending graduation.

While everyone else was hustling, focused on their futures, Liam decided to drop out of college and leave town with Ashley.

I couldn't help but recall what I'd overheard in the restroom in my past life.

A part of me was actually curious to see just how far he’d go for this relationship *this time*.

But I guess, from now on, being so far away, I wouldn't hear much about it anyway.