A TWIST OF FATE

CHAPTER 2 : COLD FRONT

Chapter 2: Cold Fronts

The second trimester began with a buzz of excitement. The campus was alive with the chatter of students reuniting after the holiday, and I found myself swept up in the energy. Yet, amid the laughter and camaraderie, I felt a nagging uncertainty. Nex was still a presence in my life, and despite my best efforts to keep my distance, I couldn't shake the feeling that our paths were destined to cross.

In the first weeks of the trimester, I clung to my routine. I focused on my studies, surrounded by friends who supported me. Yet, whenever I caught sight of Nex, a familiar flutter would return, causing me to glance away quickly. He was friendly with everyone, his laughter echoing through the hallways, but I couldn't bring myself to engage him beyond the necessary pleasantries.

One afternoon, I found myself in the library, poring over textbooks. I had carved out a small fortress of books and papers, hoping to shield myself from distractions. But then I heard it—the unmistakable sound of Nex's voice. He was animated, chatting with a group of students nearby. My heart raced, and I instinctively pulled my books closer, pretending to be engrossed in my reading.

I couldn't help but steal glances at him. He was leaning against a bookshelf, his easy smile captivating everyone around him. I felt a pang of longing mixed with frustration. Why was it so hard to ignore him? Why did I feel this pull toward someone who was clearly just being friendly? As the days passed, I noticed a shift in our interactions. Nex would occasionally look my way, and I could see a flicker of curiosity in his eyes. I wondered if he sensed my discomfort or if he was simply trying to gauge my mood. I was careful to maintain my cold facade, responding to his greetings with polite nods while keeping my distance.

It was on a rainy afternoon that everything changed. I had sought refuge in a small cafe on campus, trying to escape the gloomy weather and the whirlwind of thoughts in my mind. I sat alone at a table, sipping my coffee, when I heard the familiar sound of laughter approaching. Nex and a couple of friends entered, shaking off the rain like playful children.

I felt a surge of panic as they made their way to the counter. I had hoped to remain unnoticed, but fate had other plans. Nex spotted me and waved enthusiastically. "Hey! Mind if we join you?"

Before I could respond, he and his friends had settled at my table, their energy filling the space. I forced a smile, my heart racing as I tried to maintain my composure. The conversation flowed easily, and I found myself caught in the rhythm of their banter.

Nex turned to me, genuinely interested. "So, what are you working on?"

"Just some readings for class," I replied, trying to sound casual.

"Sounds thrilling!" he joked, and the others laughed.

I couldn't help but chuckle, despite my initial discomfort. The warmth in his eyes made it hard to resist engaging further. But as the minutes ticked by, I felt the weight of my feelings pressing down on me. I was acutely aware of the invisible walls I had built, and I was terrified of what might happen if they crumbled.

As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, I noticed Nex stealing glances at me, as if trying to gauge my reactions. I felt exposed, my walls trembling under his scrutiny. I kept my responses short, hoping to convey my disinterest, but part of me longed to connect.

When his friends eventually left to grab more coffee, Nex remained behind. The atmosphere shifted, and I felt the tension between us grow.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his tone suddenly serious.

I hesitated, caught off guard by his concern. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... busy with school."

He nodded, but I could see the doubt in his eyes. "You seem a bit distant lately. I hope I haven't done anything to make you uncomfortable."