The Trouble With Love: An Age Gap Romance (The Forbidden Love 1)

Austin: It’s called humans. It’s what happens when you leave your dorm room after studying nonstop.

Austin: So… have you recovered from last night?

A smile escapes me, the heat rising in my cheeks soon following. Thankfully, the seat beside me is empty. I stare out the window, reminiscing about last night. It started with flirtatious banter, then led to our clothes coming off and a very happy ending. Something we resort to of late since we were miles apart.

Me: If I weren’t on a train with strangers, I’d say round two?

Austin: You’re killing me…

Austin: Have you thought more about Thanksgiving?

Taking a deep breath, I don’t want to take too long to answer but also don’t want to offend Austin, given my plans with my family, something I hope he’ll understand.

Me: I have, and you know that I miss you, but I really need to see my family. Maybe you could drive here one weekend? It’s only five hours away.

I wait for a response, but it doesn’t come. This separation thing has been harder than expected, and although having sex bonded us in a way, it also drives a wedge between us at times. Physically missing someone is hard, and I’d be a fool to think we can go on like this for the next seven years. Austin has needs the girls at John Hopkins can easily fulfill. But even then, I choose not to end things, once again letting our relationship go through the motions to stand the test of time—separation.

The train pulls up into Grand Central Station. As soon as I exit, the city’s hustle and bustle greet me along with the fall breeze. Dressed in my jeans and wearing my long camel-colored coat, I chose to wear my Chucks, knowing I’ll be walking around the city, and the last thing I need is blistered feet.

The familiar blond-haired boy waves at me from across the exit. I run toward him, practically throwing myself at him in desperation.

“I missed you,” I mumble into his chest, holding onto him tightly.

“Missed you, too, Harley Quinn.” Andy chuckles while bringing up my long-lost nickname from when we were kids. I’d forgotten all about it and how they often referred to me as Harley Quinn because of my crazy shenanigans. Thankfully, I have outgrown this reckless behavior which should warrant scrapping the nickname for good.

I peel myself away from him, placing my hands on his shoulders. “How long do I have you for?”

“Four hours, then I’ve got a class.”

“You’re such a nerd,” I joke while grinning. “Have you been behaving?”

“Hmm…” He rubs his chin, and only now, I notice the slight stubble of the beard he’s growing. “Let’s walk and talk. Hot dogs for lunch?”

“Sure, lead the way.”

We exit on 42nd Street and head toward Bryant Park, stopping briefly to grab a hot dog and soda. Andy talks about campus life, his classes, his quirky roommate, and the group he hangs out with. We both immersed ourselves into college life, realizing just how much we have changed in only this short time.

“So, tell me what’s happening with the ladies?”

Andy shuffles his feet, looking uncomfortable.

“Why the face?” I ask, curious as to his change of expression. “It’s not like I asked you to swallow poison.”

“I… um,” he stammers, scratching the back of his neck. “I’ve dated a few girls but nothing serious.”

“Dated a few girls? That was fast. It’s only been two months. Are you sure you’re studying?”

“Coll

ege girls are different… they are, how shall I put it?”

“Loose?”

Andy chuckles, biting into his hot dog. “I guess you could say that.”

“Argh,” I grunt, slumping into my chair. “Why is everyone having the time of their lives, and I’m arguing with a boyfriend over a text?”

“What’s the problem now?”