CZARINA

UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER

Seraphina's POV

The sun shone brightly overhead, its golden rays illuminating the path as I pedaled my bike toward school. A brisk wind grazed my skin, invigorating me and adding to my sense of freedom.

Today felt different; I didn’t sense anyone watching me, which lifted my spirits and made me feel almost weightless.

Upon arriving, I parked my bike in my usual spot and headed inside the school. However, as I walked through the bustling hallway, that familiar sensation crept back—someone was watching me. I glanced over my shoulder, but the corridor was empty.
Ugh, whatever, I thought, dismissing the feeling as I made my way to my locker to stow my belongings.

Just as I was about to open my locker, I felt a tall shadow loom over me. I turned to find a strikingly familiar figure standing there, his presence commanding and slightly intimidating.

Wait, why does he look so familiar? I pondered, lost in thought. I must have stared a moment too long because a deep, gravelly voice jolted me back to reality.

“Hey, we meet again,” he said, a hint of recognition dancing in his eyes.
“Again?” I whispered, confusion washing over me.
“Yeah, it’s me from the convenience store,” he replied, as if he could read my thoughts.
“Oh right! So, you’re the new student here,” I said, attempting to sound friendly despite my racing heart.

I couldn’t believe he had enrolled at my school; he had occupied my mind since our brief encounter yesterday.
“Yeah, I’m in grade 11,” he said, his voice rich and smooth. Three years older than me, I noted, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.

“Well, I’m in grade 8,” I replied, forcing a smile, my heart racing at the prospect of getting to know him better.
“Um, I’m gonna get to class then,” I said, trying to cut the conversation short because the nerves were bubbling up inside me.

Just as I turned to leave, I felt a pair of strong hands wrap around my arm.
“I’m Mors, see you later, angel,” he said, his tone charming and playful as he emphasized the word “angel.”
“A-alright,” I stuttered, surprised by the sudden intimacy of his touch.

As the bell rang, I quickly shoved my things into my bag and made a beeline for the cafeteria, eager to process what had just happened.

“Seraphina! I saw you with a guy earlier. Who was that?” my friend Serene asked, her curiosity piqued as I joined her at our usual table.

“Well, he’s a guy I met yesterday at the convenience store not far from my house,” I replied, trying to maintain a straight face despite the fluttering in my stomach.

We chatted for a while about school and our plans for the weekend when suddenly, Serene’s attention shifted. “Hey, that guy earlier—he’s coming over!” she exclaimed, pointing across the cafeteria.

I turned around, my heart racing at the sight of him striding toward us with purpose.“Angel...” he said, his voice smooth like honey.
He extended his hand, offering me the same flavor of ice cream I had chosen yesterday.I took it, momentarily speechless.

“Wh-what’s this for?” I managed to ask, my cheeks warming under his gaze.
“It’s just a little something to brighten your day,” he said, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
“I remembered you liked this flavor.”

My heart swelled at the thoughtfulness behind his gesture. “Thank you, that’s really sweet,” I replied, trying to keep my composure while my mind raced with a mix of excitement and disbelief.

Serene watched the exchange with wide eyes, clearly impressed. “So, are you two like... friends now?” she asked, a teasing lilt in her voice.
“Just getting to know each other,” Mors replied, his gaze never leaving mine.
“I hope that’s okay.”
“Definitely,” I said, feeling a rush of warmth as I met his eyes.

As we chatted, the world around us faded into a blur. I felt an undeniable connection forming, a spark that ignited my curiosity and excitement. The cafeteria buzzed with noise, but in that moment, it was just the three of us—Serene, Mors, and me—lost in our own little bubble.

“Let’s hang out again soon,” Mors suggested, his tone casual yet sincere. “Maybe we can grab that coffee we talked about?” I nodded, my heart racing at the thought.

“I’d like that,” I replied, a smile spreading across my face. As he walked away, I turned to Serene, who was practically bouncing in her seat.
“You have to tell me everything! What just happened?” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. I couldn’t help but laugh, feeling lighter than air. “I don’t know! But I think something really great is starting.”