A Late Arrival

(Chapter 2) Crossing Paths With You

It was Friday night, and the usually quiet boarding school campus felt different. Students were spilling out into the courtyard near the dorms, the energy buzzing with the promise of freedom as the weekend started. 

Taylor had heard something about a bonfire event, organized by the student council—a chance for students to unwind, socialize, and forget about the pressures of the week.

Sam had practically dragged Taylor out of their room, trying to convince her that it would be a great way to meet new people. Taylor, hesitant like always, had followed reluctantly, her nerves buzzing just beneath her skin.

The bonfire was set up in the central courtyard, a large, open space surrounded by the old stone walls of the school. 

The flames crackled brightly, casting long shadows across the ground. Students sat in clusters, some laughing loudly while others huddled together, talking in lower voices. There was music playing somewhere, the soft strum of a guitar adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Taylor found herself hanging back at the edge of the gathering, her hands tucked into the pockets of her hoodie. She didn't know most of the people here and felt too shy to approach anyone.

Sam, of course, had already darted off, chatting excitedly with some girls from their class.

Taylor watched the fire flicker, her thoughts drifting. She was about to head back to her dorm, when, from the corner of her eye, she saw Cassidy.

Cassidy was standing near one of the old stone benches, surrounded by a small group of students. She didn't look out of place, even though she was standing slightly apart from the others, arms crossed over her chest.

Her sharp features were illuminated by the firelight, making her look even more striking than ever. As always, she carried herself with that air of confidence that seemed to demand attention, even when she wasn't speaking.

Taylor's breath caught in her throat as their eyes met—just for a second. It was a short glance, but enough to make Taylor's heart race.

 She quickly looked away, her face warming as she tried to focus on anything else but Cassidy. "Of course she's here" Taylor thought to herself, chewing on her lower lip. Everyone talks about her, and she's everywhere.

She wasn't sure why she was so affected by Cassidy's presence. It wasn't fear or anything... Taylor didn't feel afraid of Cassidy like so many others seemed to. It was something else, something she couldn't really put into words.

 Maybe it was the fact that Cassidy seemed so untouchable, yet Taylor had seen a softer side of her. Or maybe it was simply the pull of the unknown.

Whatever it was, Taylor tried to shake it off. She didn't need to get caught up in Cassidy's orbit. She wasn't like the other students who fawned over her or whispered about her from a distance. She just wanted to blend in, get through the school year, and avoid any unnecessary drama.

But then, out of nowhere, Cassidy started walking toward her.

Taylor's heart jumped as she realized Cassidy was cutting through the crowd, heading directly in her direction. She tried to keep her expression neutral, but she could feel the nerves building in her chest. Why was Cassidy coming over here?