"Wei, come on, you need to help me," Luca claimed, shaking him back and forth.

"No, lemme finish this game," Wei whined as he tried moving his body to shake Luca off of him. His eyes glued to the screen as he maneuvered his character to fend off his virtual enemy.

With a determined grin, Luca leaned even closer to Wei and covered Wei's eyes, blocking his view. The sudden loss of visibility sent Wei's character into a tailspin, and he let out an exasperated yelp.

"Luca, you little...!" Wei's protest trailed off into a laugh as he tried to pry Luca's hands away from his eyes. It was a futile attempt as Luca's grip remained firm.

"Give it up, Wei," Luca teased. "This is way more important than your video game."

With a dramatic sigh, Wei finally conceded defeat. He set aside the controller, turning his attention to Luca. "Alright, alright, you win. What's this urgent mission of ours?"

Luca released his grip on Wei's eyes and sat back with a triumphant grin. "Finally, I thought I'd have to resort to more drastic measures."

"Okay, spill it. What's so important that you had to interrupt my gaming?" Wei chuckled, his playful annoyance giving way to curiosity.

"College applications," Luca stated as he waved his phone.

"College applications?" Wei raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise in his expression. "Isn't it a bit too early?"

Luca leaned in closer, lowering his voice as if sharing a secret. "Not really. Early submission is close by and you know how competitive it is out there. Plus, my parents have been on my case about it."

Wei nodded in understanding. "Fair enough. So, what's the plan?"

With a mischievous grin, Luca handed Wei his phone. "I've found the perfect college for us, Wei. It's got everything we've ever dreamed of—great programs, a beautiful campus, and even a renowned video game club. I mean, we could both get in, right?"

Wei scrolled through the page, his eyes scanning the details of the college Luca had suggested. As he read about the renowned programs and the vibrant campus life, a smile crept across his face.

"You know, this place does sound pretty amazing," Wei admitted, still scrolling through the information. "And if they have a video game club, that's a definite bonus."

Luca chuckled, clearly pleased with Wei's response. "Right? I knew you'd be on board. Plus, imagine all the new games we could try if we're part of that club."

Wei nodded, his excitement growing. "Yeah, and we could even compete in local gaming tournaments together. It sounds like a blast."

As Wei and Luca delved deeper into their shared vision of college life, their enthusiasm was infectious. The more they talked about the possibilities and adventures that awaited them, the more excited they became.

"Imagine us rooming together," Wei mused, a playful grin on his face. "Late-night gaming sessions and pizza parties every weekend."

Luca laughed, nodding in agreement. "That sounds like the dream. And we'd be unstoppable in any video game tournament. No one could defeat us."

Their laughter filled the room as they allowed their imaginations to run wild. It was a moment of pure friendship and boundless optimism, a snapshot of their high school days when they believed that anything was possible.

But as the night wore on and their conversation gradually shifted to more serious topics like scholarships and deadlines, they couldn't ignore the reality of the future looming ahead. College was just around the corner, and with it came the uncertainty of what lay beyond.

"We're really at the point where we have to start thinking about our futures," Wei sighed, leaning back in his chair.

Luca nodded in understanding, his expression mirroring Wei's mixed emotions.

"I know, but at least we'll be together."

Wei hummed, "You're right, Luca."

Luca woke up with a start.

He hasn't dreamt of Wei for a while. He thought he put that behind him when they parted ways.

Luca glanced at his clock, before scrambling to get off his bed, falling during the process.

"Four thirty? Seriously?" Luca grumbled, throwing off his blanket and swinging his legs over the edge of the bed.

His feet met the cold floor, and he shivered slightly. His heart was beating really hard, signifying the effect of trying to force his body to wake up at once.

With haste, Luca began to dress, grabbing his neatly pressed shirt and tie from the chair where he had laid them out the night before. He fumbled with the buttons, the dim light from his bedside lamp providing just enough illumination.

As he finished fastening his tie, Luca glanced around the room, searching for his notepad and the script he had prepared for the morning news broadcast. He spotted them on his desk and hurried over to collect them.

With everything in hand, Luca dashed to the bathroom to freshen up, splashing cold water on his face to banish the lingering drowsiness. The mirror revealed a disheveled version of himself, but he didn't have time for vanity.

Rushing back to his room, Luca grabbed his suit jacket and checked his appearance one last time, making sure his tie was straight and his hair was presentable.

Luca made his way to the kitchen. The apartment's kitchen was compact but well-equipped, with a small dining table. The small dining table was cluttered with newspapers and notes, an ongoing research that piqued Luca's curiosity.

He opened his fridge to grab a can of a strawberry flavor energy drink.

He also reached towards the cabinet above the sink to grab a couple of his medications.

With the energy drink in hand and medications taken, Luca felt the rush of alertness beginning to replace the remnants of drowsiness.

As he sipped on his energy drink, Luca couldn't help but think about the long day ahead. It was his first day back at work.

Still rattled by the events of Friday, he couldn't help but wonder if he would be able to deliver his segment properly.

The shock from that day still lingered in his mind.

With a final look at his watch, Luca knew it was time to leave.

He grabbed his briefcase, ensuring that he had all the necessary scripts and documents neatly organized inside. He locked his doors and made his way to the garage where his bike was happily waiting for him.

Luca's thoughts remained tangled in a web of memories as he strode towards the garage, his steps heavy with the weight of his return to work.

The bike's presence offered a sliver of comfort in the midst of his jumbled emotions.

The predawn darkness wrapped around him like a cloak, and the chilly air nipped at his skin. It felt surreal to be back in this routine, like he had stepped into a different reality altogether.

A stark difference with being home in City B with his family.

With a sigh, Luca mounted his bike and revved the engine, the familiar roar breaking the stillness of the early morning. As he navigated through the quiet streets, he couldn't shake the lingering unease from his dreams.

The memory of Friday.

Seeing Wei after so long.

Time had sculpted him into a more mature and confident version of the person Luca had known in high school.

That undeniable attraction Luca felt toward him was a reminder of the connection they had once shared.

Gone were the days of Wei's boyish charm; now he exuded charisma and self-assuredness that drew Luca in like a magnet.

That night, Luca took in as much as he could of Wei.

Luca couldn't help but be drawn to these subtle transformations: the way Wei's hair cascaded across his forehead and the hint of stubble that once graced his jawline. It was a visual metamorphosis that left Luca both intrigued and breathless.

Wei had clearly become more fit and toned, suggesting a commitment to physical fitness or something akin to it.

As he had been checking out Wei, Wei had been doing the same to Luca.

The newsroom buzzed with activity as Luca made his way to his desk, the clatter of keyboards and the murmur of conversations creating a familiar background symphony.

As he settled into his chair and reviewed the scripts for the morning broadcast, he couldn't help but think about Wei.

Who wouldn't think about their first love after seeing them for so long.

Wei and Luca were supposed to be a match made in heaven according to everyone around them and then it all just broke.

"Dae Luca!" called out a familiar voice, breaking Luca from his reverie.

Luca swiveled his chair around to find his colleague, Ieon Leila, hurrying towards him. He rose from his seat and warmly embraced her.

"Ieon Leila," Luca greeted with a smile.

"I keep telling you to call me Eirah. We're close, are we not?" she chided, a playful glint in her eye.

Luca chuckled softly before shaking his head. "How would your husband feel, Ieon?"

"Her husband feels just fine with this," Leila's husband, Ain Omar, chimed in as he appeared behind her.

"Ain Omar," Luca greeted with a nod, acknowledging the man's presence.

"How was your vacation? It felt so weird going live with the substitute anchor. I mean nothing wrong but it's not the same familiarity you know?" Leila asked.

Luca thought back to his short vacation to visit his family, a faint smile playing on his lips as he began to recount the details of his vacation.

"It wasn't much to be honest. I went back home to spend time with my family and help my mom with her shop. I immediately joined the company the moment I finished my internship and my degree. I realized I've barely had the chance to spend quality time with my family in the past couple of years."

He paused for a moment, his eyes distant as he recalled the moments he had cherished during his vacation.

"It was great to see everyone again, catch up on life, and, of course, lend a hand at my mom's shop. Sometimes, it's these simple, meaningful moments that make you appreciate what truly matters."

"Your mom owns a shop, Dae? You never told me this before," Leila nudged Luca with curiosity.

Luca chuckled and shook his head. "It's a small stationery shop. My mom has a passion for making paper crafts. It got pretty busy lately because my sister's university placed a significant order for their upcoming festival."

"The Pion University Anniversary festival, right?" Ain Omar, who had been listening attentively, chimed in.

Luca nodded.

"It was a beautiful festival. I will show you pictures a bit later. It's almost time for our segment, Ieon," Luca promised as he glanced at the clock.

"You have to show them," Leila agreed as she ran back to her desk to gather everything she needs.

Luca couldn't help but feel grateful for the support and camaraderie of his colleagues. They were like a second family to him, especially during moments of transition and change.

As the minutes ticked away, Luca and Leila prepared for their segment. They reviewed their scripts, adjusted their microphones, and ensured that everything was in order.

Their makeup was done ensuring that they look spotless with the amount of cameras facing their way.

When the red "On Air" light illuminated, Luca and Leila seamlessly slipped into their roles as news anchors.

Luca, with a calm and authoritative tone, began, "Good morning, City D. I am Luca, and alongside me is my esteemed colleague, Leila. Today, we bring you the latest updates on events both near and far."

Luca began, "Good morning, City D. I am Luca Chantasri, and alongside me is my esteemed colleague, Leila Malik. Today, we bring you the latest updates on events both near and far."

Leila continued, "Our top story today takes us to the heart of the city, where an unexpected discovery has left residents astonished. Luca, tell us more about it."

Luca nodded and turned to the camera. "Certainly, Leila. In a truly remarkable turn of events, construction workers stumbled upon a hidden time capsule buried beneath the foundation of an old building. Inside, they found a treasure trove of artifacts and letters from over a century ago. This unexpected find has sparked great excitement among historians and locals alike."

Leila leaned in, her eyes filled with curiosity. "It's amazing how history can resurface in the most unexpected places, Luca. And speaking of the unexpected, we have some heartwarming news to share as well."

Luca flashed a warm smile. "That's right, Leila. In the midst of life's challenges, there are always stories that remind us of the goodness in humanity. We have an inspiring tale of a community coming together to help a local animal shelter facing financial difficulties."

The segment continued with Luca and Leila seamlessly transitioning between stories, sharing updates on everything from city politics to heartwarming human-interest pieces.

Their on-air chemistry and genuine passion for journalism shone through, captivating their viewers and keeping them informed.

After thebroadcast, satisfied smiles were exchanged, and they briefly celebrated the segment's success. These moments reminded Luca of his love for the job and his colleagues.

As they wrapped up their conversation, Luca's thoughts once again drifted back to Wei.

He wondered how Wei's life had unfolded since high school. Had he pursued his dreams, found new passions, or perhaps even started a family?

With a deep breath, Luca pushed aside those thoughts. It was time to focus on the present and the path he had chosen.

As the day continued on, stories unfolded and deadlines loomed. Luca's journalistic instincts kicked into high gear, as he seamlessly moved from one task to another.

Lunchtime arrived, a brief respite in the hectic day. Luca grabbed a sandwich from the breakroom and joined Leila at their usual table.

Leila noticed Luca's distracted expression. "You seem distracted, Dae. You were distracted the entire time except for when we went on air. Is everything alright?"

Luca hesitated which Leila noticed. His hand repeatedly tapping all this fingers on the table.

"Dae, you know I'm here right," Leila reassured, placing her hand on top of his.

Luca appreciated Leila's concern. He took a deep breath and looked into her caring eyes.

"It's just... I ran into someone unexpected this weekend."

"Someone important?"

Luca nodded slowly, his thoughts returning to Wei and the encounter.

"Yeah, someone I haven't seen in years. It's left me with a lot to think about."

"You can tell me about it, you know? I won't judge."

"I... don't know what to talk about. It was just a shock to me," Luca drifted off, his eyes looking at somewhere faraway.

Leila gave him a reassuring smile and kept her hand on his. "Take your time, Dae. Whenever you're ready, I'm here to listen."

Luca nodded as he ate through his sandwich.

A wave of gratitude washed through Luca. Luca was grateful for having a colleague like Leila. Besides being his inline senior, she has been helping since he started college.

As the day continued, Luca couldn't shake the lingering thoughts of Wei. The memories from their high school days resurfaced, as did the unanswered questions about what had transpired between them.

When the workday ended, Luca found himself back at his apartment, the familiar surroundings providing a sense of comfort. Yet, his mind was far from settled.

As he was making dinner, he thought about how Lucy must have known about Wei. Wei was her department advisor.

His phone then rang a familiar tune.

Knowing it's his editor, he washed his hands, wiped them dry, and then answered the call.

"Ieon Sarah, is there something urgent?" Luca asked the moment he answered the phone.

Luca, I have an assignment for you," Ieon Sarah's voice carried a hint of excitement. "There's a buzz in the art scene here in City B, and I want you to cover it."

Luca's interest piqued. He loved stories that delved into the local art and culture scene. "What's the assignment?"

"It's an artist," Sarah began. "An artist who has been creating quite a stir with their work. Their latest collection is garnering attention not just locally, but nationally."

Luca leaned against his kitchen counter, his curiosity growing. "That sounds intriguing. Who's the artist?"

"The artist is quite reclusive," Sarah explained. "But I've managed to secure an exclusive interview for you. You'll have the chance to meet them in person."

A surge of excitement coursed through Luca. "That's fantastic, Sarah. When do I meet them?"

"Tomorrow morning at 10 AM. The location is a studio downtown. I'll send you the address," Sarah replied. "This could be a big break for your career, Luca."

After the call ended, Luca's mind raced. An exclusive interview with a reclusive artist was a significant opportunity. He quickly jotted down the details and set a reminder for the meeting.

Looking through the information, Luca decided to research more about the artist VIA.

Like Sarah said, they were a very reclusive artist. There was barely any information except for the amount of artwork Luca had found.

The evening passed in a blur of preparation. Luca researched the artist, pouring over articles and reviews of their work. The anticipation of the interview filled him with a sense of purpose.

The next morning, Luca arrived at the artist's studio right after he finished his segment of the news. A member of the artist's team greeted him and led inside.

As he entered the studio, Luca's gaze fell upon a captivating collection of art. The pieces were a blend of colors, emotions, and memories, each telling a unique story.

The studio was an oasis of creativity, bathed in soft, diffused light that accentuated the vivid colors of the artworks. Luca felt like he had stepped into a realm where time and space converged in a tapestry of emotions.

"Welcome," said a voice and Luca turned to face the artist. The artist's face was obscured by a mask but Luca recognized instantly the eyes and the birthmark.

Wei's younger brother Kai.

Kai has indeed grown up too. 6 years can make a huge change. Gone was the baby fat and squeaky voice from puberty, but a fine looking man.

"Hello," Luca gave a warm smile as he held out his hand, "I am Luca Chantasri. I will be interviewing for channel 4."

Kai shook Luca's hand with a firm grip, his eyes holding a hint of familiarity.

Kai shook Luca's hand with a firm grip, his eyes holding a hint of recognition. "Hello, Luca. If it's alright with you, I'd prefer to go with VIA."

Luca nodded in agreement. "Of course, VIA it is."

Luca started to set up the camera and microphone equipment. It wasn't much as this was a rushed interview and a short one as is.

The interview began, with Luca and Kai discussing the inspiration behind the artworks and the artist's creative process. Luca was captivated by Kai's insights, each answer revealing a layer of the artist's psyche.

"Your work seems to explore themes of memory and nostalgia," Luca observed. "Can you tell me more about that?"

Kai's masked face remained impassive, but his eyes revealed a depth of emotion. "Memory is a powerful force," he replied. "It shapes our identity and connects us to our past. Nostalgia, in particular, has a way of evoking powerful emotions and transporting us to different times."

Luca nodded, his curiosity piqued. "And what about the use of masks in your art? It's a recurring motif in your work."

Kai's voice held a hint of mystery. "Masks represent the duality of human nature. We wear masks to conceal our true selves, to protect our vulnerabilities. But beneath the mask, there is always a hidden truth, waiting to be revealed."

The interview continued, with Kai sharing his thoughts on the role of art in society and the impact of the past on the present. Each question and answer unveiled a new layer of the artist's philosophy, leaving Luca with a sense of awe.

As they wrapped up the interview, Luca began packing away his equipment. The encounter had left him with a whirlwind of emotions, a blend of nostalgia and fascination.

Then Kai's voice broke the silence. "You know who I am," he stated, his tone carrying a hint of expectation.

Luca looked up from his sitting position, meeting Kai's gaze. "You're VIA," he flatly stated, his warm smile disappearing the moment the camera stopped rolling.

Kai's frustration was palpable.

"I was able to recognize you right away. Why haven't you done the same?" he asked, his tone tinged with impatience.

Luca chuckled softly, his voice carrying a note of amusement. "If I stopped to recognize every fan, I'd never get any work done. Besides, you've changed a lot in six years."

Kai protested, "Taya, I'm not a fan."

Luca's smile softened, and he ruffled Kai's hair affectionately. "That mask seems unnecessary now, Dae Kai."

Kai's sheepish grin revealed a sense of vulnerability. He ran a hand through his hair, attempting to regain some semblance of composure. "I had to be mysterious."

They stood in the studio, the weight of their unspoken words and shared memories hanging in the air. Time had transformed them both, but the connection they once shared remained as strong as ever.

Luca checked the time and made a decision. "It's time for me to leave. I have other appointments to get to."

Kai nodded in understanding, a sense of regret flickering in his eyes. "I understand. Let me walk you out."

Luca headed towards the door where a figure blocked it.

"Taya? You're late," Kai's pout could be heard through his voice.

Wei was blocking the doorway, staring right into Luca's soul.

Luca felt a sudden pang of unease as he faced Wei's penetrating gaze. It hasn't been a full week since he's seen Wei.

"I got held up at work," Wei replied to Kai, his eyes never leaving Luca's.

Luca shifted uncomfortably under Wei's intense scrutiny. The tension in the room was palpable, and he could feel the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air.

"Would you mind moving?" Luca asked once he cleared his throat. The first time he has ever spoken to Wei in 6 years.

Wei's gaze remained fixed on Luca for a moment longer before he finally stepped aside, allowing Luca to pass. The encounter left Luca with a knot of anxiety in his stomach as he made his way towards the exit.

Kai followed closely behind, clearly aware of the tension between Luca and Wei. "Taya," he began, "there's something you should know."

Luca turned to face Kai, his curiosity piqued. "What is it?"

Kai hesitated for a moment before speaking in a hushed tone. "T'Wei... he's been searching for you, Taya. He never stopped."

Luca felt a rush of mixed emotions. He had deliberately distanced himself from Wei six years ago, and he had thought that part of his life was behind him.

"There's no use searching for something that ended a long time ago," Luca sighed.

"Are you sure about that? Even I don't understand why you guys broke up. It couldn't have been from a simple misunderstanding right?"

"It's complicated, Kai," Luca replied, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "Sometimes things just don't work out, no matter how much you want them to."

Kai nodded understandingly, his expression sympathetic. "I get that, Taya. I hope you have a safe trip."

"Take care," Luca said as he marched towards his bike.

"Taya, can we exchange numbers?" Kai called out as Luca was putting on his helmet.

Luca paused for a moment, considering Kai's request. It was unexpected, but there was a sincerity in Kai's eyes that made him rethink his initial hesitation. He reached into his pocket, pulled out his phone, and exchanged numbers with Kai.

"Alright, Kai. Just in case you need anything," Luca said with a faint smile, trying to put aside the uneasy feeling that Wei's presence had stirred up.

Kai nodded appreciatively. "Thanks, Taya. You be safe out there."

With a final nod, Luca revved the engine of his motorcycle and rode out into the busy streets of downtown, leaving behind the memories and emotions that had resurfaced.

The city bustled around him as he navigated through the maze of traffic, his mind now focused on the task ahead.

Kai University, where he was scheduled to hold a lecture for a group of eager journalism students, awaited him.

He might be a recent undergrad but he was also doing his masters and this was necessary for one of the classes.

Entering the lecture hall, Luca was greeted by the eager faces of the journalism students, a diverse group with a hunger for knowledge. He saw in them the same curiosity and passion he once had.

With a confident stride, Luca began his lecture on global media, drawing upon his own experiences and research.

"In today's rapidly changing media landscape," he began, "we find ourselves at the crossroads of an unprecedented global shift."

He emphasized the impact of globalization on television, radio, and emerging media, highlighting the profound implications of transnational satellite communication.

"As future journalists and media professionals," Luca continued, "you'll be navigating a world where borders are increasingly blurred, and information flows freely across continents."

The lecture delved into the challenges and opportunities presented by international coproduction, urging students to consider the nuances of collaborating on a global scale.

"Global media isn't just about broadcasting content worldwide," Luca explained. "It's about understanding the diverse perspectives and developmental differences that shape media consumption."

He encouraged the students to critically analyze program genres and styles within the context of language, culture, and regional disparities.

"Whether you're covering news, producing documentaries, or creating entertainment content," Luca emphasized, "cultural sensitivity and a global perspective will be your most valuable assets."

Throughout the lecture, Luca wove in real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the changing patterns in distribution to a global market.

"As journalists," he concluded, "you have the power to shape narratives, challenge stereotypes, and foster cross-cultural understanding. In this era of global media, your role is more important than ever."

The students listened intently, scribbling notes and engaging in thoughtful discussions, ready to embark on their own journeys in the dynamic world of global media.

As Luca's lecture continued, he delved deeper into the practical aspects of navigating the global media landscape. He discussed the role of technology in shaping the industry, emphasizing how digital platforms and social media had revolutionized the dissemination of information.

"The rise of digital media has not only democratized content creation but also posed new challenges," Luca pointed out. "You'll need to be adaptable and tech-savvy to thrive in this fast-paced environment."

He encouraged the students to stay updated with the latest media technologies, as being proficient in various digital tools would be invaluable in their careers.

Luca also stressed the importance of ethical reporting in a global context. "With the power to reach a global audience comes a great responsibility," he said. "Integrity and accuracy must always be at the forefront of your work."

The lecture then turned to the ever-evolving media consumption habits of audiences around the world. Luca discussed the significance of audience analysis, emphasizing that understanding diverse demographics and cultural preferences was essential for creating content that resonated on a global scale.

"To succeed," Luca advised, "you must be culturally literate and empathetic, able to see the world from multiple perspectives."

He shared anecdotes from his own experiences as a journalist, highlighting how his ability to connect with people from different backgrounds had enriched his storytelling.

As the lecture drew to a close, Luca opened the floor to questions and discussion. The students eagerly raised inquiries about cross-cultural reporting, the impact of social media on news dissemination, and strategies for building a global media career.

Luca fielded their questions with patience and insight, providing practical advice and sharing anecdotes that brought the theoretical concepts to life.

In the end, Luca left the students with a parting thought: "In this era of global media, you have the potential to not only inform but also inspire change. Embrace the diversity of our world, and let it fuel your passion for storytelling."

The students left the lecture hall with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to embark on their own journeys in global media armed with the knowledge and inspiration Luca had provided.

After the lecture had concluded, as Luca began to gather his notes and materials, he noticed a group of young women waiting patiently near the lectern. Their faces held expressions of curiosity and determination, and it was clear they had questions on their minds.

With a warm smile, Luca approached them. "Hello there," he greeted them. "I'm glad you stayed back. How can I help you?"

"Professor," one of them began, "your experiences in global journalism are so impressive. Can you share a specific story that had a profound impact on you?"

Luca leaned forward, eager to connect with these budding journalists. "Certainly," he replied. "One story that left a lasting impact on me was when I covered a refugee crisis in Country B. It was heart-wrenching to witness the suffering, but it also underscored the importance of journalism in shedding light on such issues. My reporting contributed to increased humanitarian aid, and it reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling."

Another student, her hand raised, asked, "How do you handle situations where you may be in danger while reporting in conflict zones or volatile regions?"

Luca nodded, acknowledging the inherent risks of his profession. "Safety is paramount," he emphasized. "I always work with experienced fixers and colleagues who know the local terrain. Additionally, we undergo safety training and carry essential equipment. But the most crucial aspect is to maintain good communication with your team and be prepared for unexpected situations."

Their questions ranged from the technical aspects of journalism to personal anecdotes. One student asked, "How do you approach building trust with sources, especially in cultures that might be wary of the media?"

Luca appreciated their curiosity. "Trust is the foundation of journalism," he explained. "I spend time getting to know my sources, listening to their stories, and respecting their concerns. It's crucial to be transparent about my intentions and to follow through on promises, such as protecting their identities when necessary."

Another student veered into a lighter topic. "We heard you're quite the adventurer outside of journalism. Any memorable travel experiences you'd like to share?"

Luca chuckled, shifting gears. "Travel has been a passion of mine. One of my most memorable experiences was trekking through the Amazon rainforest.

It was challenging, but the biodiversity and connection to nature were awe-inspiring. Traveling has taught me to appreciate the diversity of our world."

As the conversation continued, Luca found himself engaged in a lively exchange of ideas and experiences. The students' questions ranged from the ethics of reporting to the impact of social media on journalism.

Their time with Luca had left the students inspired and motivated. They thanked him for his insights and bid him farewell, each carrying a piece of wisdom from a seasoned journalist on their path to becoming storytellers of their own.

As the last student departed, Luca felt a sense of fulfillment wash over him. The exchange had been invigorating, a reminder of why he was so passionate about his work as a journalist and educator.

With a contented smile, Luca gathered his belongings and made his way to the exit of the university building. The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the campus.

The journey back home awaited him, a quiet ride on his motorcycle through the city's dimly lit streets.

As he revved the engine and merged into the flow of traffic, Luca's thoughts lingered on the events unfolded today. He hadn't expected to meet Kai and see Wei again.

The city lights passed by in a blur, a symphony of colors and motion. Luca felt a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that he had played a small part in shaping the next generation of storytellers.

When he finally arrived home, the familiar comfort of his surroundings enveloped him. The soft glow of his desk lamp illuminated a cluttered but cherished workspace, adorned with mementos from his own journalistic adventures.

With a sigh of contentment, Luca settled into his chair and opened his laptop. There were stories to be written, deadlines to meet, and a world that constantly craved the truth.

As he began typing, Luca couldn't help but smile, knowing that he was exactly where he was meant to be—among the stories, the questions, and the unending pursuit of knowledge that defined his life as a journalist.