Love 101

Chapter 14

Story 4- College Love

Sheila woke up with much anticipation on a beautiful Saturday morning. She had made an oath to stay positive in The Lord and to remain focused on her studies. She was a senior in college who had no time for parties, relationships, or off days. The past three years were a challenge.

Sheila believed that God was truly working things out for her good. However, her college peers around her were not the best examples. Sheila found herself standing firm on her faith, her love of God, and her Christian walk to those around her who were party animals. Nevertheless, she reminded herself daily that God wanted her to be his light. Her faith in God could change the atmosphere.

She was extremely overjoyed that she did not have classes today. She could enjoy the day, the scenery, and some alone time with God. She walked outside and inhaled the morning air praising God for the day. Sheila left her dorm room and took a stroll to the park. God's creation seemed to be at its very best. She took a seat on the bench for a quick minute to only hear the words of an unexpected stranger. Sheila turned to see a handsome young man even though she hated to admit it. He passed a huge grin her way which made her blush. His dark brown eyes seemed to lock hers into position. Sheila took a deep breath in and thought "Lord, why did this guy have to intrude on our day?"

"Hi," Sheila muttered under her breath. "I'm Johnathan," he said. Sheila ignored him because she was not in the mood for casual conversation. However, it did not work. "I've seen you around campus," he said enthusiastically. Sheila sighed and thought this guy was not getting the picture so she would have to change her strategy. Ignoring his gorgeous eyes Sheila said, "Who are you? I could be talking to a stalker or maniac" she said sternly. "Not at all," he laughed. Even his laugh is beautiful, Sheila thought. Please get up and go you don't have time for this. She heard her conscience beat at her. But she just couldn't move. "I'm a senior like you. I'm majoring in architecture. Also, I'm on the basketball team." Sheila needed an escape. She got up and said, "It was nice meeting you Johnathan but I'm not ready to disclose my life story today. Take care." He smiled. Why was he smiling so much? Sheila turned her back only to hear her name. "Goodbye Sheila, see you around," he said.

She wanted to turn around and find out why this stranger knew her name but did not give in and walked away. Back at the dorm Kayla, Sheila's roommate chatted with Sheila about the night before. "Hey Sheila I wished you had come to the party last night, '' Kayla declared. "Why? You know that's not my thing," Sheila said. "I am sure God would not have punished you, "Kayla teased. Well, a guy was asking about you?" Kayla continued.

Sheila looked puzzled. A guy she thought. This was a shock. "Who?" Sheila asked out of curiosity. "Johnathan, one of Keith's friends," Kayla said with delight.

Sheila's mouth dropped. Was this the same guy at the park? Kayla saw her questioning look and asked "Do you know him?" she asked. Kayla stared at Sheila with questioning eyes and asked what she was hiding. Sheila told her about her encounter with Johnathan at the park.

Kayla grinned from ear to ear. "Sheila, you don't remember this guy, do you?" she continued. Kayla went on and told Sheila how Johnathan comes into the coffee shop where she works daily. She also reminded Sheila about a party she dragged her to a couple of months back where he asked her to dance and she declined. Sheila finally remembered that she avoided the guy the entire night and told him she was not interested.

Kayla laughed as she saw Sheila recalling the events in her head. "Sheila, he is really into you, Kayla said. "Why?" Sheila said out loud. "Come on Sheila, you are beautiful, a nerd but cute," Kayla teased. Sheila threw a pillow at Kayla. Kayla caught it and laughed.

Sheila went to work that evening at the coffee shop thinking about her mystery guy. A smile curled on her lips and she muttered a breath prayer in her head "God, I need you on this one." She looked up from the cash register only to come face to face with Johnathan. Sheila would not give him the satisfaction of knowing she was smiling at him.