Taylor hurried across the courtyard, her bag slung over her shoulder, still replaying the lavatory confrontation in her mind. She spotted Chris waiting for her near the benches, arms crossed casually, though his eyes were sharp and alert.
"Hey," she greeted softly, slipping her hand into his.
Chris's gaze softened the moment he saw her. "Hey. You okay? Did they… bother you again?"
Taylor shook her head. "No… I handled it. I told them exactly what I feel. About you."
Chris's lips curved into a small, satisfied smile. "Good. Because no one gets to mess with you. Not on my watch."
Taylor laughed lightly, the tension of the morning easing. "You're way too protective."
"I know," he said, shrugging, but there was pride in his tone. "And I'm not changing."
They walked together through the campus, hand in hand, enjoying the quiet moment. After a pause, Taylor looked up at him, a hint of hesitation in her voice. "Chris… vacation is coming soon. I'm going back to Jer Town to see my mom."
Chris stopped walking, his brows lifting in surprise. "Oh… okay. How long will you be gone?"
"A week, maybe two," Taylor said softly, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I wanted to tell you, so you don't worry."
Chris's lips curved into a teasing grin, the usual sparkle returning to his eyes. "You know… I don't really have anything planned for vacation." He paused dramatically, then leaned slightly closer and whispered, "So… I think I'd like to meet the mother of the most beautiful woman I know."
Taylor's cheeks flushed bright red, and she swatted him lightly on the arm, laughing nervously. "You're impossible!"
Chris grinned, his hand squeezing hers gently. "I know. But I also know you love it."
Taylor shook her head, still smiling, but her heart raced at his words. "Maybe… a little," she admitted softly.
Chris's smile softened, and he leaned closer, resting his forehead against hers. "Just promise me one thing," he whispered. "Even if you're far away, don't forget… I'm yours."
Taylor nodded, her eyes shining. "I promise. And I know you're mine."
They continued walking to class, side by side, their hands still intertwined. The upcoming vacation felt less daunting now, knowing they had each other — and a teasing, playful love that would survive distance and rumors alike.
And as they reached the college gates, Chris let out a small, satisfied sigh. "You know… vacation or not, I'm going to make sure the rest of this week is unforgettable."
Taylor laughed, her heart full. "You really are impossible, Chris Bennett."
"And you love it," he teased, winking as they disappeared into the bustling campus.