Canvas Of love

Chapter 1: Fresh Start

Chapter 1: Fresh Start

The crisp autumn air greeted Alex as he stepped onto the campus of Lakeside University, a place bustling with the energy of new beginnings. With his striking white hair and piercing blue eyes, Alex was hard to miss. He had transferred to Lakeside for a fresh start, leaving behind a past he was eager to forget.

As he made his way to his first class, Alex couldn't help but notice the beauty of the campus. The trees were ablaze with hues of red and gold, and the scent of fallen leaves filled the air. He felt a sense of hope stir within him, a feeling he hadn't experienced in a long time.

Entering the lecture hall, his eyes were drawn to a figure at the front of the room. It was Mark, a student with light brown hair and a mix of green and blue eyes. Mark was known for his kindness and artistic talent, a reputation that had piqued Alex's interest.

"Excuse me, is this seat taken?" Alex asked, gesturing to the empty seat beside Mark.

Mark looked up, startled, and shook his head. "No, it's free. Feel free to sit."

"Thanks," Alex said, taking the seat. "I'm Alex, by the way."

"Mark," Mark replied, offering a shy smile.

They fell into an easy conversation, discussing their classes and interests. When Alex mentioned his love for art, Mark's eyes lit up.

"You're an artist too?" Mark asked, a hint of excitement in his voice.

"Yeah, I paint mostly," Alex replied. "What about you?"

"I love painting too," Mark said. "I'm actually part of an art club on campus. You should join us sometime."

Alex hesitated. "I'm not sure if I'm good enough."

"Trust me, you'll fit right in," Mark reassured him. "We're a friendly bunch."

After class, Alex decided to take Mark up on his offer and accompanied him to the art club meeting. As they worked on a collaborative painting, Alex felt a sense of belonging he hadn't felt in a long time.

"This is amazing," Mark said, stepping back to admire their work. "You're really talented, Alex."

"Thanks, Mark," Alex replied, a warm feeling spreading through him. "I'm glad I joined the club."

As they cleaned up and prepared to leave, Alex knew that his decision to come to Lakeside had been the right one. He was excited to see where this new chapter in his life would take him, grateful for the unexpected friendship that had blossomed between him and Mark.

Over the next few weeks, Alex and Mark became inseparable. They would study together in the library, discussing their favorite artists and exchanging ideas for their next paintings. Alex admired Mark's talent and gentle nature, feeling a connection that went beyond friendship.

One evening, as they sat on the grassy campus lawn, Alex opened up to Mark about his past.

"I used to paint a lot when I was younger," Alex began, his voice soft. "But I stopped after... after something happened."

Mark listened attentively, offering a comforting presence. "You don't have to tell me if you're not ready."

"No, it's okay," Alex said, taking a deep breath. "My parents... they didn't approve of my art. They wanted me to pursue a 'real' career. So, I stopped painting to please them."

"I'm sorry, Alex," Mark said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "But I'm glad you're painting again. You're too talented to let that go to waste."

Alex smiled, grateful for Mark's understanding. In that moment, he knew that Lakeside was where he was meant to be, surrounded by friends who accepted him for who he was.

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