Chapter 58: Crossed Path

Adrian and Aria returned to their family home for the final few weeks, causing Adrian's father to feel disappointed about not accompanying them on their annual summer trip.

This marked his inaugural absence, a decision driven by the intention to steer clear of a certain someone.

William Sterling voiced his dissatisfaction with Jeanne's anticipation of his presence, observing that she spent most of her time alone.

In response, he offered apologies to his parents and vowed to participate in the trip the following year.

As soon as the lie rolled off his tongue, he knew he would not be going for the summer getaway ever again.

His mother, on the other hand, was grateful for Adrian's presence. He was growing up much too fast for her liking. He would leave their nest sooner than later.

She was not looking forward to that day.

Returning to campus, Adrian was thrilled to be reunited with Aria. After a hectic day of settling into the dorm, he treated her to a late lunch at her favorite café.

***

Jeanne's heart pounded in her chest as she scanned the bustling streets of New York City, desperately searching for a restroom. The cramps in her bladder grew unbearable, causing her to quicken her pace.

She had gone to see a couple of friends at NYU and was returning home. She did not bother to find out where Adrian was residing because she knew he was still mad at her.

For the first time since they were kids, he didn’t come for the annual family summer trip.

Finally, relief flooded over her as she stumbled upon a cozy café.

Without hesitation, Jeanne hurried inside, eagerly greeting the warmth and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. A waitress directed her towards the back, where the restrooms were located.

As she made her way through the crowded tables, a familiar voice reached her ears, causing a shiver to run down her spine.

Turning her head, Jeanne's breath hitched as she caught a glimpse of Adrian, her ex-boyfriend, sitting in a corner booth. His dark hair was perfectly styled, and his eyes sparkled with an elusive charm that had still captivated her heart.

He looked more handsome than she remembered.

Beside him sat a stunning girl, her long dark curls cascading down her shoulders, framing a face that seemed effortless in its beauty.

Adrian, sitting in a corner of the café with Aria, their fingers entwined. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, but his senses were overwhelmed by a different scent, the faint fragrance of Jeanne’s perfume.

Could it be?

Perhaps not.

What were the odds?

He couldn’t ignore the scent. It was tingling the memories of their past deep within him.

Adrian’s gaze flickered around meeting Jeanne’s, a flicker of recognition lighting up in his eyes.

A barely noticeable pause passed between them, a silent acknowledgment of the turbulent history they shared. Yet, instead of rushing over to greet her, Adrian turned his attention back to the captivating girl beside him.

He clenched his jaw and ignored her presence. She had hurt him in ways words couldn’t describe, had shattered his trust by cheating on him.

His heart quickened, but he decided to feign indifference. He could see jealousy written all over her face, and part of him relished the opportunity to make her feel what she had once made him feel.

He paid extra attention to Aria, leaning in closer and flashing her an affectionate smile. Adrian played the part of the devoted Loverboy, his laughter and charm louder than ever, trying to make Jeanne feel the sting of the betrayal that had once consumed him.

Jealousy surged through Jeanne, setting off the green monster of envy that devoured her thoughts; transforming the dull ache of longing into an intense fire within her chest.

The memory of their tumultuous relationship still weighed heavily on her mind, the way they danced between passion and chaos. Seeing him with another girl made the fire of the love she had never truly let go of burn brighter.

Her heart ached with longing as she watched Adrian, unable to tear her eyes away from the scene.

He was engaged in a seemingly affectionate conversation with the girl, and the pang of jealousy cut deep. She wanted nothing more than to win him back, to recapture the love they had shared.

For a moment, her bladder seemed to ease up and the need to pee suddenly disappeared.

Emboldened by anger and desperation, Jeanne remained still. She watched as Adrian leaned closer to the dark-haired beauty, whispering something in her ear that made her giggle.

Determined to prove her worth, Jeanne straightened her posture and tossed her hair over her shoulder. With a confident stride, she made her way towards the restroom.