After the peaceful family trip, both Aria and Ethan returned to their homes for the rest of the short holidays. University life suddenly felt far away, replaced by the warmth of home-cooked meals, familiar smells, and the comfort of being with their parents again.
Aria's Home
Aria's mother pulled her into a tight hug the moment she stepped through the door.
"Finally! My daughter is home," her mom said, kissing her forehead.
Aria laughed. "Mom, it's just been a few months…"
"A few months too long," her dad added, smiling as he took her bag.
For the next few hours, Aria helped her mother in the kitchen, telling her stories about the university fest, her new friends, and even how busy her design projects were. Her parents listened with sparkling eyes, proud of how much their daughter was growing.
That night, the three of them sat on the terrace, wrapped in blankets, sipping warm tea under the quiet sky.
"So, Aria," her father said gently, "your mother told me you're thinking about starting your own design company someday."
Aria blinked, a little surprised. "Um… yes. I mean… I want to. Someday."
Her mother smiled, placing a hand over hers. "We believe you can. You've always been creative."
Her father nodded. "And you'll make something big—something that's yours."
Aria's chest warmed. The confidence in their voices felt like a reassurance she didn't know she needed.
Later that night, after her parents went inside, Aria sat alone on the terrace, looking up at the stars. She pulled out her phone and texted Ethan.
Aria:
I'm home. My parents want me to start a design company someday. They believe in me.
His reply came instantly.
Ethan:
They should. You're talented. And I'll support your company too… in the future.
Her cheeks warmed as she smiled at the screen.
---
Ethan's Home
At Ethan's house, things were just as warm.
The moment he entered, his mother cupped his face.
"Look at you—you've lost weight! Are you eating properly?"
"Mom!" Ethan groaned, laughing as his father chuckled from behind.
"Let him breathe, dear."
But his mother wasn't listening. She pulled him inside, made him sit on the couch, and brought him his favourite snacks as if he hadn't eaten in days.
Later that evening, Ethan and his parents sat in the living room, talking about the trip, university life, and future plans.
"So," his father asked, leaning forward, "you're serious about starting your own company?"
Ethan nodded. "Yes. I've been studying business because I want to build something of my own. Something big.
"And…" he hesitated slightly, "…I want it to connect with the company Aria wants to start."
His mother raised an eyebrow with a teasing smile. "Aria again?"
"Mom," Ethan muttered, embarrassed.
His father laughed warmly. "If your dreams match, that's a good thing, son."
"You have our support," his mom added. "Whatever you build, we'll be proud."
Ethan felt a strange sense of peace settle in his chest. The reassurance he didn't know he needed.
Later at night, he stood near the window of his room, watching the silent street, and texted Aria.
Ethan:
My parents support my company idea too. And they know about yours.
Aria:
And… they're okay with future collaboration?
Ethan:
More than okay.
Aria:
Feels like everything is falling into place…
Ethan:
It is. We'll make our dreams real. Together.
Ethan's fingers paused on the last word, but he didn't delete it.
---
The Next Morning
Both families decided to spend the morning together while still in the same town. They met for breakfast at a small café near the riverside.
Aria and Ethan sat beside each other, their parents chatting happily, unaware of the quiet glances passing between the two.
Aria nudged him under the table.
"You look tired."
He smirked. "Didn't sleep. Too many things in my mind."
"Like what?"
He looked at her softly.
"Like you. And our future."
Her heartbeat skipped. She quickly looked down at her plate, flustered.
Their mothers exchanged knowing smiles while their fathers discussed work and life.
For the rest of the day, both families walked near the riverside, visited a viewpoint, and clicked pictures together. Ethan kept Aria close—sometimes walking beside her, sometimes quietly fixing her scarf when the wind blew too strongly. Aria teased him, laughed with him, and felt her heart settle into something warm and safe.
It didn't feel like two families together.
It felt like one.
---
Evening Before Returning to University
Both families dropped Ethan and Aria back to their dorm gate. Before leaving, Aria hugged her parents tightly.
"Take care of yourself," her mother whispered.
Ethan's father ruffled his hair. "Make us proud, son."
As the cars drove away, Aria and Ethan stood side-by-side, watching the taillights disappear.
Aria sighed softly. "I'll miss home."
Ethan nodded. "Me too."
Then he turned to her.
"But at least university won't feel empty… because you're here."
Her cheeks warmed. She nudged his shoulder lightly.
"Stop saying things like that."
He only smirked. "Why? It's true."
They walked toward the dorms together, their steps matching naturally.
Holidays had ended.
But the warmth of home, the shared dreams, and the silent promises now lived in their hearts—stronger than before.