A month later
Leila stood just outside the main entrance of the university building, shifting her weight from one foot to the other as she glanced down at her phone. The campus was already bustling with activity, students milling about, some chatting excitedly while others hurried to their first classes of the day. The crisp morning air buzzed with the energy of a new academic year, and despite the slight chill, Leila felt a warm flush of excitement in her cheeks.
She checked her phone again, scrolling through her notifications, hoping to see a message from Grace. Leila was eager to get started—today marked the beginning of their university journey, something they had both worked so hard to achieve. She knew Grace would be just as excited, if not more, and the thought brought a small, anticipatory smile to her face.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Leila spotted Grace's dad's car pulling up to the curb. She straightened up, a grin spreading across her face as she watched Grace hop out, her eyes bright with enthusiasm. Grace gave a quick wave and goodbye to her dad before shutting the car door behind her with a satisfying thud.
"There you are!" Leila called out, her heart lifting as she saw Grace practically bounce over to her.
Grace beamed, closing the distance between them in a few quick strides before wrapping Leila in a warm hug. "I'm sorry I'm late! Dad was being all protective again, giving me the 'don't get into trouble' speech like I'm still in high school or something."
Leila laughed, shaking her head as she returned the embrace. "It's fine, you're here now, and that's what matters."
Grace linked her arm with Leila's as they began to walk together, the excitement between them palpable. "Can you believe it? We're actually here, Leila! Our first day of university! This is going to be the best year ever—I can just feel it."
Leila nodded, her own excitement growing as she listened to Grace. "I know, it still feels a bit surreal. But we made it, and now it's time to make the most of it."
Grace's eyes sparkled with ideas as they made their way across the campus, weaving through groups of students and soaking in the atmosphere. "This is our chance to reinvent ourselves, you know? We're not the same girls we were in high school. We can be whoever we want to be now. I'm thinking new look, new friends, maybe even a new attitude. What do you think?"
Leila smiled, content to let Grace's excitement wash over her. "I think that sounds amazing. I'm just happy to be here with you. Whatever you decide, I'm sure it'll be perfect."
Grace squeezed Leila's arm affectionately, her grin widening. "You're the best, Leila. Seriously, this is going to be our year. We're going to have so much fun, and who knows? Maybe we'll even meet some cute guys along the way."
Leila chuckled, rolling her eyes playfully. "Grace, you always have guys on the brain."
"Hey, I'm just saying, anything could happen," Grace teased, nudging Leila gently as they continued walking. "But for now, let's focus on getting to class on time and making a killer first impression."
YOU ARE READING
HIM
RomanceLeila Wilson never imagined that a single night at a frat party would change her life forever. Quiet, reserved, and more comfortable with a book than in the chaotic swirl of party life, she's never been the type to take risks-until she meets Jesci K...