Patience and Affection

#26 - ❝Unexpected Reunions❞

The early morning sun streamed through the blinds of Rhiannon's office, casting long shadows across her desk. Rhiannon, the ever-busy SSG President, was engrossed in processing paperwork. Today, she was tackling the challenge of finalizing Minghao's class schedule and enrolling him in the Tourism department. The office was a reflection of her busy life—awards and certificates from academic achievements, leadership roles, and workshops adorned the walls and shelves, a testament to her relentless drive and commitment.

Minghao sat on the opposite side of Rhiannon’s desk, flipping through a pamphlet about the Tourism department. His eyes occasionally wandered to the wall, taking in the array of awards and certificates that seemed to tell the story of Rhiannon's accomplishments. He was impressed but also somewhat intimidated by the sheer volume of accolades.

“Rhiannon,” Minghao said, glancing up from the pamphlet, “you’ve really done a lot. I didn't realize how much you’ve achieved here.”

Rhiannon looked up from her computer screen, her fingers pausing over the keyboard. “It’s a mix of hard work and sometimes luck. But enough about me. Let’s focus on getting you settled into the department. We need to make sure everything is in order for your classes.”

Minghao nodded, his attention shifting back to the paperwork. Just then, the office door swung open, and Wayne and Maxwell entered. Their usual morning routine had them checking in on Rhiannon to see if she needed any help or if there was any news.

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“Hey, Rhiannon,” Wayne greeted, his tone casual. “What’s up?”

Rhiannon looked up with a smile, her gaze briefly flitting to Maxwell beside Wayne. “Oh, hi, Wayne. Maxwell. Just working on Minghao’s enrollment into the Tourism department.”

Maxwell, who had been trailing behind Wayne, froze at the sight of the person sitting across Rhiannon’s desk. His eyes widened in shock as he took in Minghao’s familiar face. “Minghao? Is that really you?”

Minghao looked up, a look of recognition dawning on his face. “Maxwell? I can’t believe it! What are you doing here?”

Maxwell’s shock quickly turned into a broad smile. “Last I heard, you were in China! What are you doing back here?”

Minghao stood up and walked around the desk, extending his hand for a handshake. “I’ve been back for a few weeks now. I’m here to study, and Rhiannon was kind enough to help me get everything sorted out. I didn’t expect to run into you today.”

Wayne watched the exchange with a curious smile, glancing between Maxwell and Minghao. “Looks like you two have quite the history.”

Maxwell and Minghao shared a quick hug before Maxwell turned to Wayne. “Minghao and I go way back. We used to be inseparable when we were kids. It’s crazy seeing him here after all these years.”

Rhiannon, sensing the genuine excitement in Maxwell’s voice, leaned back in her chair. “Well, I’m glad you two have reconnected. Minghao’s been a great addition to our university, and I’m sure you’ll be seeing more of him around.”

Minghao chuckled, looking at Maxwell with a warm smile. “I was just telling Rhiannon how impressive her achievements are. It’s great to see a familiar face here. How have you been, Maxwell?”

Maxwell shrugged, a grin still on his face. “I’ve been good. Busy with classes and everything. It’s nice to have a surprise like this, though.”

Wayne, trying to piece together the context, interjected with a friendly tone. “So, what’s the plan now? I assume Minghao will be joining us for some campus activities?”

Minghao nodded. “Yes, that’s the plan. I’m excited to get involved and catch up with everything I’ve missed.”

Rhiannon glanced at her watch and then back at the group. “We should probably wrap this up so Minghao can get oriented. I have a meeting soon, but if you two want to help Minghao settle in or show him around, feel free. It’ll be good for him to get familiar with the campus.”

Wayne’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm. “Absolutely! Maxwell and I can give you the grand tour, Minghao. It’s always more fun to explore with friends.”

Maxwell nodded in agreement. “Sounds like a plan. I’d love to catch up and show you around. It’s been too long.”

Minghao smiled, clearly appreciative of the offer. “Thanks, guys. I’m really looking forward to it.”

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As they left Rhiannon’s office, the mood was light and filled with excitement. Wayne and Maxwell led the way, with Minghao following close behind. The familiar surroundings of the campus seemed to come alive with the presence of an old friend.

Maxwell couldn’t help but reminisce about their childhood adventures, feeling a renewed sense of camaraderie with Minghao. As they walked through the bustling campus, Maxwell and Minghao exchanged stories, their laughter echoing through the hallways. Wayne, ever the supportive friend, listened in with interest, occasionally adding his own observations and comments.

The reunion was more than just a chance to catch up; it was a reminder of the connections that time and distance couldn’t erase. As they finished the tour and sat down for a quick coffee at a campus café, Maxwell reflected on how much had changed since their last meeting, but also how some things remained wonderfully the same.

The conversation flowed easily, with Minghao sharing his experiences from China and Maxwell talking about his current life and studies. Wayne, always the observer, noticed the ease with which the two friends interacted, and it warmed his heart to see Maxwell so happy.

As the afternoon sun began to dip lower in the sky, the group continued to enjoy their time together. It was clear that the reunion had rekindled an old friendship and that the bond between Maxwell and Minghao was as strong as ever. The unexpected reunion had brought a new dimension to Maxwell’s college life, one that promised to add even more depth to his journey ahead.

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