In the bustling city of Edinburgh, July 1988 was a momentous time for Emma and Dexter. As episode 1 of One Day unfolded, their graduation party was in full swing, filled with laughter, jubilation, and the promise of futures yet to be written.
Dexter, a magnetic presence among the female crowd, reigned supreme as one of the school's most handsome lads. Emma, on the other hand, was renowned for her intellectual prowess and consistent academic excellence, standing tall among her peers as a beacon of intelligence.
Fate intervened in the form of their mutual friend, Cal, arranging a charming and unexpected encounter between the two. Emma and Dexter had often caught glimpses of each other around the school halls, but neither had mustered the courage to strike up a conversation.
Now, over shared drinks and a mutual appreciation for the art of poetry and its masters, they found themselves drawn to each other in a way that was both unexpected and irresistible. Their conversation flowed easily, and they discovered a shared passion for life and literature that deepened their connection.
However, the evening was bittersweet, as they both knew that this was their graduation night and soon they would be heading their separate ways, potentially never to cross paths again. The realization of their impending separation hung heavily in the air, adding a poignant note to their otherwise joyful celebration.
Dex yearns to achieve fame and embark on a journey that traverses the globe, whereas Emma aspires to accomplish something that will ultimately transform the world. In this fleeting moment, both individuals realize that they should have greeted each other with a warm hello. As the evening unfolds, they spend a cozy night entwined in kisses and engaging in profound conversations about their cherished memories and regrets.
As the sun rises the next morning, Dex attempts to depart without disturbing Emma's slumber, but his efforts are unsuccessful. He explains that he must meet his parents and cannot linger any longer. Nevertheless, he assures Emma that he intends to leave a note, apologizing for his hasty departure. However, Dex's heart changes, and he decides to postpone his meeting with his parents, opting to spend a few precious hours with Emma instead.
Dex, Emma, and Tilly gather for a scrumptious breakfast, filled with laughter and lively conversation. Tilly, eager to know the truth, struggles to hold her curiosity as she wonders whether the pair spent the night together. Over breakfast, Emma discovers that despite residing in Edinburgh for four years, Dex has never scaled the storied Arthur's Seat. Tilly eagerly suggests a picnic, but after gauging the atmosphere, she gracefully opts to give Dex and Emma some privacy and allows them to enjoy the outing without her.
Tilly mentions that her guinea pig is eagerly awaiting its meal, eager for the attention and nourishment only she can provide. Meanwhile, at the start of the evening, Dex wonders aloud to Emma why she refuses to share his bed. Could it be a matter of religious beliefs? Emma swiftly dismisses this idea, clarifying that God plays no role in her decision.
As the night progresses, Dex finds himself with a bit of free time and invites Emma to join him for a drink at his apartment. However, their plans are abruptly interrupted when Dex spots his parents outside his home. His parents extend a friendly invitation to Emma to join them for a drink, but she politely declines and takes her leave.
Determined not to let the evening end without a way to reconnect, Dex chases Emma down the street, nearly a whole block away. He pleads with her for her phone number, hoping they can stay in touch and perhaps meet up again when their paths cross in the future. Emma doesn't hesitate and quickly scribbles down her number for him, bringing a satisfying conclusion to their evening encounter.
