**Chapter 8: Challenges and Misunderstandings**

As the days went by, Oliver and Liliana's relationship continued to blossom, but they couldn't escape the scrutiny of their friends and family. Some people questioned their age difference, while others worried about their compatibility. Liliana's friends, in particular, were divided about Oliver. Emma and Sofia were thrilled to see Liliana happy, but Jake was more skeptical. "You're a junior, Oliver," Jake said, his voice laced with concern. "Liliana's just a sophomore. Are you sure you're ready for this?" Oliver bristled at Jake's implication, but he tried to remain calm. "I'm not just looking for a casual fling, Jake," he said, his voice firm but respectful. "I care about Liliana, and I'm willing to make this work." Liliana, who had been quietly observing the conversation, stepped in to defend Oliver. "Hey, guys, let's not make this about age or grades," she said, her voice sweet but firm. "Oliver and I connect on a deep level, and that's what matters." Despite Liliana's words, the doubts lingered. Oliver's friends, too, had concerns about Liliana. Some of them thought she was too young, too inexperienced, or too...different. They didn't understand why Oliver was so drawn to her. One evening, as Oliver and Liliana were walking across campus, they ran into Oliver's friend, Hamish. Hamish was a tall, lanky guy with a quick wit and a sharp tongue. "Oliver, mate, I've been meaning to talk to you about Liliana," Hamish said, his voice low and conspiratorial. "She's lovely, don't get me wrong, but she's not exactly...your usual type, is she?" Oliver's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in annoyance. "What do you mean, not my usual type?" he asked, his voice tight. Hamish shrugged, his expression nonchalant. "Well, you're usually into the tall, blonde, Nordic type, and Liliana's...not that." Oliver scowled, his face reddening with anger. "You're not exactly known for your tact, Hamish," he said, his voice cold. Liliana, sensing the tension, stepped in to diffuse the situation. "Hey, guys, let's not make this about me or Oliver's preferences," she said, her voice soft and soothing. "We're happy together, and that's all that matters." As they continued walking, Oliver's arm wrapped around Liliana's shoulders, she felt a sense of gratitude towards him. He was standing up for her, defending her against the doubts and criticisms of others. But despite their love and commitment to each other, challenges and misunderstandings continued to arise. Oliver's parents, in particular, were worried about the age difference between their son and Liliana. "Oliver, we just want what's best for you," his mother said, her voice laced with concern. "We don't want you to get hurt." Oliver sighed, his frustration evident. "Mum, Dad, I know what I'm doing," he said, his voice firm. "I love Liliana, and I'm willing to make this work." As the days turned into weeks, Oliver and Liliana faced more obstacles, but they continued to communicate openly, their love and trust in each other growing stronger with each passing day. One evening, as they sat on Oliver's couch, watching the sunset through the window, Liliana turned to him, her eyes shining with tears. "I'm scared, Oliver," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm scared of what others think, of what might happen." Oliver pulled her close, his arms wrapping around her like a warm, protective shield. "I'm scared too, Liliana," he said, his voice low and husky. "But I'm more scared of losing you. I love you, and I'll do whatever it takes to make this work." As they kissed, the challenges and misunderstandings of the world outside receded, leaving only the two of them, lost in their own little bubble of desire and passion.