Feel Pretty

ten(Odell)

The next morning, I awoke to find the bracelet Eli had given me still on my wrist. I'd worn it to bed, unable to part with it. Its cool, smooth metal felt oddly comforting against my skin. I couldn't help but trace the small star-shaped charm, the one that Eli had said was a reminder of the light within me.

After a quick shower, I slipped into my usual light-colored hoodie and high jeans, though today I felt a bit different. The bracelet, paired with Eli's kind words, seemed to give me a tiny boost of confidence I hadn't felt in a long time.

I headed to the campus café, where I'd planned to meet up with Eli and Tanner. The café buzzed with students and the comforting aroma of coffee. As I approached the usual table, I spotted Eli already there, talking animatedly with Tanner.

"Hey, guys," I greeted as I took a seat.

Eli's face lit up as he saw me. "Hey, Odell! How's the bracelet treating you?"

"It's good," I said, feeling a slight warmth in my cheeks. "Thanks again, Eli. It's... really nice."

Tanner glanced at the bracelet and raised an eyebrow. "So, did Eli have to fight a dragon to get that for you, or what?"

Eli snorted, rolling his eyes. "Oh please, Tanner. It was just a little gift. No dragons involved."

I chuckled, feeling more at ease. "I appreciate it, really. It's been... a good reminder."

"So, any plans for today?" Eli asked, leaning forward with interest. "Anything fun or exciting?"

I shook my head. "Not really. Just the usual classes and maybe catching up on some reading."

"Sounds like a plan," Tanner said, giving me an encouraging smile. "If you need a study buddy or someone to hang out with, just let us know."

Eli nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and if you want to do something fun, we could always hit up that new pizza place downtown. They've got this crazy pizza with pineapple and jalapeños that's worth trying."

Tanner wrinkled his nose. "Ugh, that sounds... adventurous. But I'm in if you are, Odell."

I laughed. "Sure, why not? I could use a break from studying."

The conversation shifted to various topics—campus life, upcoming exams, and random funny anecdotes. Eli seemed determined to keep the mood light, his jokes and laughter infectious. It was nice, being surrounded by friends who genuinely cared.

As the café filled with the midday rush, Eli suddenly leaned in closer, his voice lowering conspiratorially. "Hey, Odell, I was thinking... How about a little surprise for later? Something to shake things up."

I raised an eyebrow. "What kind of surprise?"

Eli's eyes twinkled with mischief. "You'll see. Just trust me."

Tanner, catching Eli's playful tone, grinned. "You know Eli. When he says 'surprise,' it's usually something memorable."

I chuckled, feeling a sense of anticipation. "Alright, I'm in. What do you have planned?"

Eli just winked at me. "You'll find out soon enough."

As we finished up and headed our separate ways, I felt a mix of curiosity and excitement. Eli's efforts to make me feel better were having an effect. The bracelet, his kind words, and now this mysterious surprise—everything seemed to be making a difference.

The day moved on in its usual pace, but I found myself looking forward to whatever Eli had planned. For the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of excitement. It was strange, but in a good way.

Later that evening, as I made my way to the designated meeting spot Eli had mentioned, I felt a flutter of nervous anticipation. Whatever Eli had in mind, I hoped it would be as positive as the little surprise he'd already given me.