CHAPTER EIGHTY TWO : CROSSING BOUNDARIES.

They decided to take a stroll around the campus, the soft glow of streetlights casting a warm ambiance. As they walked side by side, the tension between them eased, replaced by a comfortable companionship.

"So, what's going on, Mad?" Jake finally broke the silence. Madeline sighed, "It's just... I've been feeling disconnected. Daniel is so far away, and it feels like we're in different worlds. I miss the simplicity of how things used to be." Jake listened attentively, understanding the weight of Madeline's words. "I get it, Mad. College can be overwhelming, and distance, well, it's never easy. But you're not alone in this. We're all figuring things out." Madeline looked at Jake, a mix of gratitude and guilt in her eyes. "I appreciate you being here, Jake. But I don't want to burden you with my problems." He chuckled, "Mad, you're not a burden. Friends support each other through the ups and downs. You'd do the same for me." As they continued their stroll, Madeline found herself opening