Chapter 11 Chapter 11 Heres a culturally adapted version that captures the complex social dynamics : Mom said Aiden took off traveling with friends right after getting his acceptance letter . Hed barely been home since . His mom kept asking about my return date though . The day I flew back , my parents picked me up at the airport in formal wear . When I woke up from my jet lagged nap in the car , we were pulling up to a luxury hotel . Still groggy , I let Mom lead me into the lobby . Thats when I saw Aiden for the first time in months . My feet stopped dead . He stood by the fountain in a perfectly tailored suit , his tall frame cutting an elegant figure . One summer had stripped away the last traces of boyhood , transforming him into exactly the man Id always imagined hed become . My emotions churned as the meeting Id avoided for so long happened without warning . Seeing my confusion , Mom whispered , Honey , its Aidens graduation celebration . We came straight here . Dad added , Since you didnt want a party , Aiden arranged to have his on your return date . Kind of a joint celebration . As if sensing us , Aiden turned , his eyes meeting mine . My heart skipped . Despite preparing myself for this moment all summer , I felt my courage wavering . Aiden started toward us , but Madison appeared , sliding her arm through his . Brooklyn ! Youre back ! Im so glad we can finally meet properly . I always saw you two together , but never got the chance to introduce myself even though we shared so many classes . Her politeness demanded a response . I managed a tight smile and a nod . Aiden looked uncomfortable . Shes nothing special , he said stiffly . Just a stubborn kid . Thought she might stay hidden in Boston forever . I stayed silent , words failing me . 14:16 Seven Years of Love , Seven Minutes af Truth 12.7 % Chapter 11 Madisons silver evening gown sparkled with every movement , making her glow . She looked perfect beside him . I glanced down at my travel outfit white tee , jeans , sneakers , messy hair looking like Id just rolled out of bed for a coffee run . Mom leaned in , whispering , I brought you a dress you can change in the powder room . I shook my head . What was the point ? This wasnt my celebration . Aiden kept watching me , his expression unreadable . Madisons eyes darted between us . An awkward silence fell . Thankfully , more guests arrived . Madison pulled Aiden away to greet them , every inch the perfect hostess . I quickly dragged Mom toward the ballroom , eager to escape . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!