Why Don't You STAY

A GLIMMER OF FRIENDSHIP

As I stood there, I couldn't help but watch Victoria and Olivia walk away. I was transfixed, my eyes glued to their retreating figures. Time seemed to stand still, and I forgot about everything else around me.

Ace's voice broke the spell, his words dripping with amusement. "Hey, Catherine, you okay? You look fine on the outside, but I can tell something's brewing inside that head of yours."

I felt my cheeks flush as I turned to him, trying to brush off the awkwardness. "I-I'm okay, Ace. Just...distracted."

Ace raised an eyebrow, his grin mischievous. "Distracted, huh? By a certain someone, perhaps?" He winked at me, and I rolled my eyes, laughing.

"Shut up, Ace. Let's just go before we're late, okay?" I tried to sound stern, but my voice came out more playful than intended.

Ace chuckled, clapping me on the back. "Alright, alright. But don't think you're getting off that easy. Spill the beans, Catherine. What's got you all dreamy-eyed?"

I sighed, trying to shake off the feelings that lingered long after Victoria and Olivia disappeared from sight. "It's nothing, Ace. Just...let it go, okay?"

But Ace's knowing look told me he wasn't buying it. And honestly, neither was I.

As we stepped into the bustling building, I couldn't help but be swept up in the infectious energy of the crowded hallway. Friends were reuniting after the summer break, their laughter and chatter filling the air as they shared stories of their adventures. New students looked a bit lost, but eager to make connections.

Ace and I navigated through the throng, drawing curious glances our way. I was starting to feel like a celebrity, with Ace as my trusty bodyguard.

Just then, a tall, slender man with a kind face and vintage glasses perched on the end of his nose approached us. He wore a brown suit that seemed a bit too big for him, but his warm smile made up for it.

"Good morning, Catherine Hernandez! And this must be your...ah...bodyguard, Ace?" He extended a hand, his eyes twinkling behind his glasses.

"I'm Mr. Adam, the principal of this esteemed institution. It's an absolute pleasure to have you on board, Catherine. Your father, Mr. Hernandez, has told me so much about you."

I felt a flush rise to my cheeks as Mr. Adam beamed at me. "It's an honor to have the daughter of such a renowned tycoon join our university family. I trust you'll find our humble abode...enlightening."

Ace raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by the principal's old-fashioned charm. "We're looking forward to it, sir."

Mr. Adam nodded, his glasses slipping down his nose. "Splendid! I'll be giving you a personalized tour of our facilities. We have a lot to offer, and I think you'll find your time here...fruitful."

As we navigated the university's corridors, I couldn't help but feel like a celebrity. Students' eyes lingered on me, whispers spreading like wildfire: "That's Catherine Hernandez, Andrew Hernandez's daughter." Ace and Mr. Adam flanked me, a protective presence amidst the staring crowds.

I overheard snippets of conversation: "Must be so spoiled, growing up with all that wealth..." "Bet she thinks she's above everyone else..." Ace's eyes flicked toward the gossiping students, his expression darkening. But I placed a reassuring hand on his arm, shaking my head.

"It's fine, Ace. Let's just ignore it." I forced a smile, despite the pang of sadness. Why did people judge me before even knowing me?

Mr. Adam, oblivious to the whispers, led us on a thorough tour of the university. We finally arrived at my first class, and I pulled out my schedule to double-check the room number.

"Ah, yes, Room 101," Mr. Adam said, beaming. "One of our most popular courses. Miss Halsey is an excellent lecturer."

As we entered the classroom, Ace positioned himself beside me. Mr. Adam cleared his throat, announcing, "Everyone, please welcome Catherine Hernandez, our newest student."

Miss Halsey, a warm-eyed woman with a kind smile, greeted me. "Welcome, Catherine. We're glad to have you on board."

I asked Ace, "Could you wait outside? I want to blend in, just for a bit."

Ace hesitated, his protective instincts kicking in. But then he nodded, understanding. "You want to be a normal student, huh?" He leaned in, whispering, "I'll be right outside, keeping watch."

As class began, I scanned the room, my eyes locking onto Olivia's bright smile. She waved, and I returned the gesture, feeling a flutter in my chest.

Miss Halsey launched into her lecture, and I tried to focus.

When Miss Halsey's class finally wrapped up, I embarked on a marathon of consecutive lectures, tackling four to five hours of non-stop learning. By the time lunch rolled around, my stomach was growling loudly. Ace, my trusty sidekick, offered to grab me a snack from the university cafe. "Just something light, please," I begged, my eyes fixed on the evening's culinary delight - dinner at Olive Garden, celebrating My first day of university with dad .

Ace returned with a steaming coffee and crispy chips, and we settled onto a bench overlooking the bustling football field. The warm sun cast a golden glow over the lush green grass, and the sounds of laughter and shouts filled the air

We lingered for a bit until Olivia appeared, her familiar figure a warm welcome. "Hey, mind if I join you?" she asked, a hint of shyness in her voice. "You look like you could use some company."

I smiled, grateful for the distraction. "Not at all. Please do."

Olivia settled in beside me, apologizing for the morning's chaos. "My mom was in a rush, and I was so caught up in getting to class... I feel terrible for not introducing myself properly."

As she mentioned her mom, my thoughts drifted to that captivating woman with piercing blue eyes. Olivia's voice faded into the background, and I was lost in thought.

Olivia snapped her fingers, concern etched on her face. "Catherine, are you okay?"

I shook off the reverie, feeling a flush rise to my cheeks. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just spaced out for a sec."

We spent the rest of the break getting to know each other - sharing stories about our childhoods, families, and interests. Our conversations flowed effortlessly, and I was thrilled to have finally made a friend.

As our classes resumed, Olivia and I discovered we shared most of our schedule, with only one more class to go before heading home. After the final bell rang, we exchanged numbers and bid each other farewell.

Ace observed my radiant smile as we walked home. "You're beaming, Catherine! I'm stoked you finally made a friend."

I playfully teased, "You think I'd ditch you for Olivia? You're my partner in crime, Ace - my childhood buddy and surrogate big brother."

Ace chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "Just making sure. Can I ask you something?"

"Shoot," I replied.

Ace's tone turned curious. "When Olivia mentioned her mom, you zoned out. What were you thinking?"

I anticipated where he was heading and swiftly deflected. "I'm just exhausted after this long day. Can we head home, Ace?"

Ace nodded sympathetically, and we continued our stroll home, the conversation dropping.

A/N:

Chapter 3 = total awesomeness! Catherine's finally finding her footing (and friends!) at university. Don't be shy - vote, comment, and share your love!"