Yana POV
She gave Butch half of what Kiel gave her because he was also one of those who helped complete their research project. Butch hesitated at first, but she insisted, and he eventually accepted it because she knew he needed it too.
While walking on campus, she bumped into Tristan
"Hi Yan, I heard you finished our research quickly. Thank you," he expressed his gratitude.
"You're welcome, Tristan," I replied.
"Where are you headed?" he asked.
"I'm going back to the dormitory. I finished my minor subject today," she answered.
"Hmm, how about ,maybe you'd like to grab Starbucks first? I have finished my subject as well," he suggested.
""Sure, no problem, let's go," she agreed. Tristan and she are okay, as far as she knows. There are no hard feelings between them. Even though she didn't accept his romantic advances, he doesn't hold any grudges, so it's alright for her to join him as a friend.
While they were at the coffee shop, Tristan started sharing about his bad day.
"I feel like I won't be able to graduate this school year, Yana," he said sadly.When Tristan opened up, sadness reflected in his eyes.
She looked at Tristan and noticed a welling up of tears in his eyes, which he was trying to hold back. She placed her right hand on top of his two hands resting on the table; he was trembling slightly.
"Sometimes, there are challenges that come into our lives that can hinder our plans. But don't lose hope. You can overcome this Tristan okay? . If you need help or support, I'm here for you," I advised him.
"No one else knows about this, not even Kiel and Butch. I only opened up to you Yana. I hope we can keep it between us for now.
"Thank you for trusting me, and don't worry, you can rely on me that I won't disclose this. Besides, it's still early in the year, and maybe we can still save that subject." she suggested to him
"No, Yana. I failed three subjects last year. We broke up with my girlfriend last year, I was heartbroken back then, so I didn't attend my other minor subject that result to my back subject. He explained.
She felt sorry for Tristan and became concerned about him. As far as she know, Tristan's parents are quite strict, based on Butch's story, which is why Tristan became a bit of a rebellious student. He also had several girlfriends, one of which seemed serious last year, but it didn't last long as the girl eventually looked for someone else.
He smiled bitterly, then changed the topic of our conversation shortly after.
Sorry for being emotional. Anyway, maybe you'd like to come to Megi's birthday tomorrow.Include your roommate as we, who is it again?Tristan asked.
"Her name is Mitch.
"I'm not sure, Tristan. We're all quite busy at home, including my companions. We're busy students remember? and beside , we never attend events like that together.
"Yeah, Butch mentioned it, but I'm just taking a chance. But let's give it a try, I promise there won't be any liquor. for you and your group.
There will only be a few of us, and I assure you that you won't feel out of place.He assured her.
"Ahh hmm Okey alright, I'll ask them and update you. Give me your number, and I'll text you if our plan pushes through.
Sure, but I'm really hoping that you'll come.
He's keeping his hopes up.
Hmm, I'll just update you.
Despite her hesitations, she wanted to go deep down. She knew Kiel would be there, and she longed to see him. It's been a while since they last had a conversation, after our talk in my dorm last week after the project. Although they see each other often at school, all they did was exchange glances and smiles. She had been quite busy with school and her tutoring commitments as well.
After their conversation, they all went home to their respective dormitories.
"Guys, Tristan invited us to a party on Saturday. I mentioned it to Mitch and Butch.
"Yup, Tristan already told me about it. I'm okay with it. It's just a rare opportunity to relax my mind from the stress.. Butch responded.
What endeared her to this group was their aversion to partying and any negative influences. That's why she had grown close to them, as they shared similar values, such as preferring quiet evenings and avoiding the party scene.
"Yeah, I do feel like I need to unwind a bit. This first month has been unusually stressful. Maybe letting loose every now and then isn't such a bad idea. Besides, we're already in our third year and haven't had a proper party yet. And, as a bonus, Kiel will be there. He's the crush of one of us," Mitch playfully mentioned while casting a mischievous glance in her direction.
I shot an annoyed glare at Mitch in response to her comment, and a small chuckle escaped from both of them.
"Well, if you're all up for it, why not give it a shot?" I said with a hint of exasperation in my voice. "Yay, it's a party!" Butch shouted enthusiastically.
Kiel POV.
It has been a week since I had a chance to talk and have a conversation with Yana. Although we see each other at school, our interaction is limited to smiles and glances.
We are currently at Megi's dorm, as it is his birthday. As usual, it's a joyful celebration with some drinking involved, and our other friends are also joining the festivities.
Even though I would like to invite her here, I don't think she's fond of these kinds of gatherings.
Guys, we have visitors coming. They're almost here!" shouted Tristan.
After a while, someone knocked on the door, and to my surprise, it was Yana along with her roommate entering.
I froze for a moment, and suddenly, my heartbeat accelerated. I stood up from my seat, and Megi quickly entertained the new arrivals. Marlon whispered to me, "Your stalker is here." I nudged Marlon, worried that someone might overhear him.
The night was filled with joy and teasing.
"Hey Yana, Mitch, and Butch, have a drink even just one, it's my birthday after all," Megi said, playfully coaxing her three close friends.
At first, they hesitated, but eventually, they accepted the drinks.
I noticed a sudden change in Yana's face as she struggled with the taste and tried to swallow the alcohol. I couldn't help but grin at what I witnessed.
I wanted to have a conversation with her, to talk and connect, but I couldn't find the opportunity. Her friends were always around her, and whenever they weren't, Tristan would strike up a conversation with her.
If I didn't know Tristan as a guy who changes girlfriends often, I would think he has still crush on Yana.
He always seems to be looking at and sticking close to Yana.