Iris and Liam took part in an outdoor experience program during their summer break at Colorado School of Mines. Excitement bubbled within Iris at the news of a horseback riding event planned at a ranch in Colorado Springs, her hometown. Memories of riding with her brothers as a child flooded back, and her heart raced with a thrill she hadn't felt in ages.
Liam, on the other hand, looked a bit anxious as he prepared for his ride. Noticing his nervousness, Iris approached him with a reassuring smile. "Liam, don't worry! Horses are really friendly. I'll show you how it's done!"
With confidence, Iris mounted a horse and took a lap around the area, her bright laughter dancing on the wind and spreading joy among their friends. Liam watched in awe. "You ride really well!" he complimented, feeling his own nerves start to ease.
Soon after, Liam gathered his courage to ride as well, but it was clear he was struggling; it was his first time. Iris cheered him on, saying, "Liam, take it slow! Breathe with the horse!" Her encouragement helped him relax, and gradually, he began to gain confidence.
They rode side by side, with Iris sharing her excitement about riding and the beauty of nature. Liam listened intently, soaking in her words.
"I'm really happy to be with you," Liam said, and Iris responded with a bright smile.
"Me too! I love being out here in nature together!"
In that moment, Iris realized that her relationship with Liam was special. They exchanged warm glances, and the horseback riding experience deepened their friendship.
As the experience came to an end, Liam turned to Iris and said, "Can we do other activities together next time? I always enjoy the time I spend with you."
Iris replied cheerfully, "Of course! What do you want to do next...?"
That day's horseback riding adventure became a cherished memory for both of them, marking the beginning of their hearts drawing closer together.
***
"It's almost the end of the break, Iris," Betty said, feeling a deep emptiness as the day for Iris to return to the dorm approached.
"All your brothers have gone to the city, and now it's just Dad and me left..."
"If only Adele were here..." The words escaped Betty's lips before she realized it.
"What? Who are you talking about?" Iris asked, curiosity sparkling in her eyes.
"Oh... just a friend of Mom's," Betty stammered, trailing off. Fortunately, Iris comforted her as if nothing was amiss.
"I'll call you every day! I'll try not to make plans with friends on weekends so I can spend time with you. I love you, Mom!"
Betty thought, 'What would I have done if I had to live with my stoic sons without Iris?' and recalled Adele.
'Don't worry, Adele! Iris is bright and kind, just like you. Talking with her makes me feel like I'm back in high school with you.'
***
When the new semester began and Iris returned to school, she was busy preparing for a group biology project. With her bright and lively personality, she easily connected with her friends, but Liam was quiet and introverted, the complete opposite of Iris.
"Liam, we're on the same team! This is going to be a fun project!" Iris said with a big smile.
Liam nodded slightly, looking a bit flustered. "Yeah... me too," he replied.
As they worked together, Iris found herself captivated by Liam's unique perspective and deep thoughts. She began to develop a fondness for him, often noticing him reading books or conducting experiments alone.
***
One day, Iris accidentally spilled some materials during an experiment.
"Oops! I'm so sorry, everyone!" she exclaimed, flustered. Liam reassured her, saying, "It's okay; mistakes happen to everyone." His gentle words made Iris feel much better.
Liam felt increasingly drawn to Iris's energy and passion, while Iris was enchanted by Liam's quiet and thoughtful demeanor, so different from her brothers.
As the project neared its end, Iris turned to Liam and said, "I think we've become friends now! Want to go see a movie together next weekend?"
Liam's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? I wanted to go too!" he replied, a smile spreading across his face.