The Time Weaver

Part 3 - Something from the Past

Everything seemed to be falling into place. I was back on track, determined to ace my exams and secure my spot in my dream college for post-graduation. The campus buzzed with its usual energy, and hanging out with my girls felt like a rejuvenating energy after weeks of intense study sessions.

During our break, we headed to the bustling cafeteria, our laughter echoing off the walls. Amidst the chaos of trays clattering and students chatting, fate decided to throw me a curveball.

As I reached for a napkin, my elbow collided with a soda can, sending a small tidal wave of cola splashing onto an unsuspecting guy nearby. Panic surged through me as I turned to see who I had doused, and there he was-the campus heartthrob, once my love, was standing with a surprised expression and a now-damp shirt.

"Oh my god, I'm so sorry!" I exclaimed, mortified. "I didn't see you there!"

"It's alright," he replied, flashing a friendly smile despite his soaked attire. "No harm done."

That voice. It felt surreal. It was my favorite thing in the whole universe. But how could that same voice break me? How could this happen? There are many guys on campus. Why did I have to spill the coke on him? Is fate repeating itself? If I remember clearly, our first meeting wasn't like this; it was very casual. He was Nicola's senior in school, and we happened to know each other. He was really famous, known as the biggest heartthrob on campus. We texted, talked, and fell for each other. But this time, it was different. Why the hell is this happening now? I had been very careful these last few days. I thought I succeeded in not meeting him. But... now...!

I noticed the teasing glances exchanged among his friends nearby. In the past, this situation would have led to playful banter or even a flirtatious exchange. But things were different now. I was cautious, guarded against repeating past mistakes.

"Um, I should go," I stammered, suddenly feeling exposed under his gaze.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Eric asked, genuine concern in his voice.

"Yeah, I'm fine," I assured him hastily, before practically sprinting away to the safety of my friends.

Back at our table, Jess immediately pounced on me with curious eyes. "Care to explain what just happened there, Hazel?"

"It was nothing," I replied too quickly, avoiding eye contact.

Jess raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Uh-huh, sure. I saw some serious 'sparkling effects' in your eyes there."

I scoffed, incredulous. "Sparkling effects? Jess, I was terrified! You know how awkward those situations can be."

She leaned in closer, her tone teasing. "Come on, Hazel. Don't tell me you're not affected by seeing Mr. Campus Heartthrob up close and personal again."

I rolled my eyes, but inwardly, my thoughts raced. What if he remembered our past? Would he try to rekindle things, or was this just another game to him? The wounds from our previous encounters were still raw, and I wasn't eager to reopen them.

"What are you even saying?" I deflected, feeling defensive. "I was just embarrassed, that's all."

Jess chuckled knowingly, but thankfully dropped the subject. "Alright, let's get back to enjoying our break."

"Yeah," I muttered, my mind still racing with questions and doubts.

As we returned to our animated conversation, I couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that history might be repeating itself. But this time, I vowed to stay cautious, to protect my heart and my dreams from any unexpected twists and turns that campus life-and fate-might throw my way.