2: The Mystery Guy

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I can't wait for uni to be over soon. Just three more years, I remind myself, trying to stay optimistic.

I'm listening to the group discussion, nodding along as everyone shares their ideas. We've been assigned to a group of ten to create a video on a contemporary issue. 

But my problem is, I don't talk much; I just sit here, nodding and agreeing—which frustrates me. I always wonder what people think about me in moments like these. 

Do they see me as uninterested? Or maybe too quiet?

"I think we should just separate our tasks, or maybe start on script writing," I say, feeling a small burst of confidence as I speak up. 

They all nod in agreement, and I feel a rush of relief. Finally, something useful.

"I can write the script," I offer. Being the "best writer" in my head, I believe I can create a good script for this project.

Inside, I feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Writing has always felt like my strong suit, yet I worry if it'll come across as good to them as it does in my head. But, maybe this is my chance to stand out a little—to have people see a side of me that's more than just the quiet one nodding along. 

As soon as we wrap up the discussion, Raissa and I are about to head to the library when two of the girls in our group catch up to us.

"Hey, you guys want to join us at the café?" one of them asks, glancing between us.

Raissa looks at me, her eyes asking if I'm okay with it. I nod, playing it cool. "Yeah, that's fine," I say, a small smile on my face. Raissa then agrees too.

"Which café?" I ask, and there's a long pause as they glance at each other.

"Coffee Bean near the Mall?" one of them finally suggests, sounding a bit tentative.

"Sure, let's go," I reply, keeping my tone light. It feels like a small adventure in a way—breaking away from our usual routine and joining the others. 

I take a breath and start to walk with them, wondering if this outing will be different somehow, or if I'll end up sitting in quiet observation as usual.

"Noor, what are you ordering?" Raissa asks, nudging me a little.

"Hmm, I don't know... maybe something with chocolate?" I say with a shrug.

"Alright!" she replies with a grin. We grab our drinks and head over to the table with Izzah and Sha, settling in together.

"I wish this semester would end already," Izzah sighs, looking just as tired as I feel.

"Same. This whole video thing isn't my thing," Sha adds, rolling her eyes.

"Honestly, I don't like doing the video either," I say, laughing a little. My nerves feel lighter, and I find myself actually relaxing.

"Right?" Izzah laughs, and soon the conversation picks up momentum, with us sharing little complaints about the semester, class projects, and random stories. I feel genuinely comfortable, like I've found my rhythm in this little group. 

We were all laughing and chatting, completely absorbed in our conversation, when Raissa suddenly  said, "The sky looks dark."

We all glanced out the café window, noticing clouds gathering ominously.

"Yeah, it does," I said, feeling a twinge of worry. Sha asked, "Where did you guys park?"

That's when I realized I parked quite a distance away because I couldn't find any spots closer.

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