The Time Weaver

Part 7 - Bound by Fate

The next morning, I walked into my literature class, hoping for a moment of peace. But as soon as I stepped through the door, I saw Eric. He was already there, his eyes instantly finding mine. My heart skipped a beat, and I tried to look away, but his gaze held me captive.

He approached me with a tentative smile. "Hey, Hazel. Mind if I sit next to you today?"

I swallowed hard, my heart racing. "Sure," I managed to reply, trying to keep my voice steady.

As Eric settled into the seat beside me, I couldn't help but question my own sanity. Why did he have this effect on me? He had treated me so poorly in the past, yet now, with each encounter during my time traveling, he seemed different—more genuine, more caring. But I couldn't let myself fall for him again. I had to stay strong.

Class began, and Mr. Kim started his lecture on classic novels. Eric leaned over, his voice low. 

"So, Hazel, what's your favorite book?"I glanced at him, wary of his sudden interest. 

"It's hard to pick just one. I guess it depends on my mood."

He nodded thoughtfully. "I get that. I'm really into anything with a good mystery or a deep emotional story."

His genuine curiosity made my heart ache. This version of Eric was so different from the one I remembered. Before I could dwell on it, he interrupted my thoughts.

"Hey, can I borrow a pen?" he asked.

"Sure," I said, reaching into my bag. As I handed him the pen, our fingers brushed, sending a jolt of electricity through me. I pulled my hand back quickly, hoping he didn't notice the flush creeping up my cheeks.

"Thanks," he said with a smile that made my heart flutter.

I tried to focus on Mr. Kim's lecture, but I could feel Eric's eyes on me every now and then. Each glance made my heart race, and I couldn't help but wonder why he was so interested in me now. What had changed?

Near the end of the class, Mr. Kim announced our next assignment. 

"For this project, you'll be writing a personal review about any novel's character. You'll work in pairs, and I've already assigned the partners."

He began reading off names, and I held my breath, hoping I wouldn't be paired with Eric. "Hazel and Eric," Mr. Kim said, sealing my fate.

Eric turned to me with a triumphant grin. "Looks like we're partners."

I forced a smile, my mind reeling. "Yeah, looks like it."

As class ended, Eric caught up to me in the hallway. "So, when do you want to meet to start on the assignment?" he asked, his tone eager.

I sighed, feeling trapped. "I guess we can meet after classes today. The library?"

"Perfect," he said. "I'll see you then."

I walked away, my mind a whirlwind of emotions. No matter how hard I tried to avoid him, fate seemed determined to throw us together. I couldn't understand why this was happening. Why couldn't I just escape him and the painful memories he brought with him?That afternoon, I made my way to the library, my heart heavy with apprehension. Eric was already there, waiting at a table with a stack of books. 

As I approached, he looked up and smiled, making my heart flutter despite my resolve."Hey," he said softly. "Thanks for coming."

I nodded, taking a seat across from him. "Let's just get this done."

Eric studied me for a moment, then sighed. "Hazel, I know you're not happy about this, but can we at least try to work together without all this tension?"

I looked away, my emotions threatening to overwhelm me. "It's not that simple, Eric."

"Then explain it to me," he said, his voice pleading. "I want to understand."

I met his gaze, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. It was hard to reconcile this version of Eric with the one who had hurt me so deeply. But I knew I couldn't let my guard down. Not yet.

"Let's just focus on the assignment," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

Eric nodded, a look of determination crossing his face. "Alright. But I'm not giving up, Hazel. I want to get to know you better.

"As we worked on the assignment, Eric's questions were gentle, probing. He wanted to know my favorite books, my thoughts on various characters, and even my dreams for the future. Despite my initial resistance, I found myself opening up, bit by bit. By the end of the session, I was emotionally exhausted. As I gathered my things, Eric reached out, touching my arm gently. "Thank you for today. I know this isn't easy for you." he said.

I nodded, feeling a lump in my throat. "See you in class tomorrow."

As I walked away, I couldn't shake the feeling that something significant was happening between us. Eric's determination to break through my defenses was both frustrating and endearing. I just hoped I could keep my emotions in check long enough to figure out what he truly wanted—and what I was willing to give.