Senior year felt like it dragged on forever. Serina and I had been close, but we drifted apart trying to do right by each other's futures, only reconnecting through texts after graduation.

December 31st, 2024 - I'm meeting up with her. I want to spend New Year's Eve together and finally tell her how I feel before we officially become adults.

We caught up on everything we'd missed. Even after all that time apart, it's obvious the feelings are still there.

With just minutes left until midnight, I'm gathering every ounce of courage to speak when she suddenly starts crying and beats me to it.

Guest, I need to tell you something... I decided to... study abroad..

The New Year's bells start ringing. My world tilts sideways.