Chapter 4: A Typical Day in Dallas, Texas. Paranormal Adventure Thriller Web Novel - 'The Forbidden Haunts: A Dare into the Darkness'

Chapter 4: A Typical Day in Dallas, Texas

Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains of Alan and Adib’s small apartment in Texas, casting a warm glow as Alan rolled out of bed. Stifling a yawn, he glanced at the clock. “Looks like another busy day ahead,” he muttered, stretching. 

“Morning, sleepyhead!” Adib chirped from the kitchen, the smell of coffee wafting toward Alan. “Coffee’s ready if you want it!”

“Awesome, thanks! I need all the caffeine I can get.” Alan grabbed a mug and poured himself a generous helping before glancing over the planner on the table filled with classes and work schedules. 

After breakfast, they headed out for their classes, the campus bustling with energy. “Today’s lecture on algorithm design should be interesting,” Alan said, nudging his backpack. 

“Yeah, and don’t forget the lab session this afternoon,” Adib reminded him. “We might get a sneak peek into some actual programming concepts.”

“True! I’m actually looking forward to it.” 

Classes passed in a blur of lectures and discussions, with moments sprinkled in for study breaks. After their final class, they both headed to their part-time jobs at Akib, a cozy café popular among students. 

As they served customers and crafted specialty drinks, Alan felt a sense of camaraderie. “Who knew making coffee could be this fun?” he chuckled, pushing a cup toward Adib.

“Right? Plus, we get paid for it!” Adib quipped, wiping down the counter. “Speaking of which, payday’s tomorrow. Can’t wait to see how much I racked up.”

Alan smiled. “Same here. A little extra cash means I can finally treat us to that barbecue joint we’ve been eyeing.”

“Now you’re talking!” Adib said with enthusiasm. “Consider it a celebration for surviving our 9 months in Texas!”

That evening, they checked their salary slips after work, the excitement bubbling over as they saw their earnings. “Not too shabby!” Alan grinned. “This will definitely help with expenses.”

“I could get used to this,” Adib said, practically dancing with joy. “Let’s call Ava later and tell her about our successes!”

“Absolutely,” Alan agreed, heart, swelling with anticipation at the thought of speaking with her again.

After settling down at home and feeling the exhaustion of the day wash over him, Alan picked up his phone and dialed Ava’s number. As it rang, he felt a flutter of nerves, but the familiarity of her voice was exactly what he needed.

“Hey, Alan!” Ava answered, her tone brightening his evening.

“Hey, Ava! You busy?” he asked, leaning back on the couch.

“Not really, just studying,” she replied, a hint of warmth in her voice. “How’s Texas treating you?”

“It’s good! Adib and I just got our salaries today. We’re celebrating a little. How about you?”

“Oh, that’s so great! I’m really happy for you two,” Ava said, genuine enthusiasm spilling into her words. “I have my exams coming up, though. Stressful times ahead!”

Alan nodded, even though she couldn’t see him. “When do they start?”

“Well, I have my first exam on March 10, and it goes until the 20th. Then there’s a lab test right after,” she explained. “It’s going to be hectic, but I’m managing.”

“I know you’ll do great,” Alan reassured her, feeling the connection between them deepen even over the distance. “Just remember to take breaks and breathe, alright?”

“Thanks, Alan. I really appreciate your support,” Ava replied, her voice warm and soft. “What about you? How’s the studying going?”

“It’s going, but I’m more excited about spending some time with you when you can visit. I want to show you around Texas!” he said, keeping his tone light yet sincere.

“I’d love that,” Ava said, her voice lilting. “Once exams are over, I’ll definitely look into it. Maybe I can surprise you!”

“I like surprises,” Alan replied, his heart racing. “Just make sure you keep your phone on because I’ll probably be checking on you right after your exams.”

Ava laughed softly. “Deal! I want to hear your cheerleading from across the states.”

“Always your biggest fan,” Alan said, warmth spreading in him. “Honestly, you motivate me more than you realize.”

“Aw, Alan. You’re making it hard for me not to blush!” Ava teased, a delighted laugh escaping her.

Their banter flowed easily, taking on a romantic tone that wrapped around them like a cozy blanket. “Ava, I really do miss you,” Alan said, the weight of his feelings surfacing, tugging at his heart.

“I miss you too,” she replied, sincerity washing over her words. “The distance isn’t easy for either of us.”

“Once your exams are done, let’s make a plan,” Alan said, feeling hopeful. “In the meantime, let’s keep cheering each other on from afar.”

“Agreed! We can do this.” Ava’s voice radiated strength, filling him with love and determination.

Just as they were settling into a comfortable silence, Adib burst into the room, excitement lighting up his face. “Hey! You wanna grab dinner at that café down the street?”

Alan turned his head, seeing Adib’s eager form. “Oh, uh… yeah, sounds good!”

“Perfect! Ava, I’ll catch you later, okay? We’re going out to eat!” Alan said, feeling slightly guilty for cutting the call short but knowing he would call her again later.

“Enjoy! Talk soon!” Ava said, and they hung up.

“Dinner time!” Adib shouted, throwing on his jacket and heading towards the door. “You’ll love this place. Let’s celebrate with some of their famous burgers!”

“Absolutely! I’m starving,” Alan replied, following Adib into the night.

As they walked the vibrant streets of Texas, lights twinkling against the dusk sky, Alan felt the thrill of their life settling in. They had their challenges, and their romantic entanglements, but moments like these were what he cherished most—simple, normal days filled with laughter, friendship, and the promise of adventures yet to come.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3: https://storylinespectrum.blogspot.com/2025/03/chapter-3-ghost-town-in-california.html

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