Destined Strangers

Chapter 3

"Curiosity is lying in wait for every secret."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Afternoon sunlight filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground, and the college cafeteria buzzes with the energy of students. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and savory food wafts through the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels almost electric.

She sits with her friend at a corner table, her hair cascading down her back in soft waves. Her warm smile illuminates her face, making her look effortlessly radiant. A simple silver necklace with a tiny pendant glimmers around her neck, adding a touch of elegance that complements her natural beauty. She radiates a warmth that draws people in, effortlessly commanding attention without even trying.

With a sly smile spread across his face, He stands at a distance, watching her. The way she engages in conversation, her laughter mingling with the chatter around her, captivates him. He can't help but admire how she effortlessly lights up the room, the world around him fading into a blur as he focus solely on her.

In this bustling space, it feels like time stands still for a moment, the noise of the cafeteria fading away as he allow his self to get lost in the sight of her.

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In this life, a person meets thousands of faces-while walking on the road, at work, among their social circle, and at the airport in the form of dozens of passengers. Each face is a fleeting moment, a fleeting connection, yet it rarely happens that someone gets stuck on a random face, someone with whom they feel a sense of belonging, as if they've shared a bond for years.

It's been a while since anyone has truly caught Sania's attention. Growing up as an introvert, she has always avoided socializing and never had many friends. Nour has always been enough for her.

Sania rises from her bed and walks toward the window. As the morning light filters through the blinds, she opens them, letting a soft, golden glow fill the room. The air is cool, carrying the faint scent of rain. Outside, birds sing their morning tunes, and the quiet of the house wraps around her. Her eyes fall on the side table where the box Hassan gave her rests, and a small smile touches her lips.

She glances at the clock-7:30. It's time to get moving. She quickly goes through her morning routine, her actions practiced and efficient.

After having breakfast, Sania gathers her bag and phone, preparing to leave for the hospital. As she opens the door, she is met with an unwelcome sight again-a bouquet of flowers lying at her doorstep, accompanied by a note:

"I saw this and thought of you..."

Sania's expression tightens in frustration. For the past two weeks, she has been receiving similar anonymous notes-at her door, in her hospital cabin, even at the coffee shop she frequents. At first, she ignored them, but now, they've become a regular occurrence, and it's beginning to unsettle her. She's only been here a few months, knows few people beyond her colleagues and neighbors, and this growing pattern of attention is starting to feel invasive.

Despite her discomfort, she hasn't told anyone. Something holds her back from sharing this with those around her, hoping it will end on its own. But the question that stays with her most persistently is, "Who's doing this?"

Sania briefly considers going to the police but dismisses the idea, uncertain for several reasons.

LATER that day, she moves toward the hospital cafeteria during a brief break between shifts. She sits alone, sipping her coffee, and warmth spreads through her hands as she cradles the cup.

Her focus returns as she sees Maria moving in her direction. Maria has a similar medical specialty, and they work in a related department.

"Hey! Mind joining me?" Maria says with warm hazel eyes, and Sania smiles softly.

"Not at all,"

Maria and Sania have developed a professional rapport built on shared experiences and mutual understanding. Maria pulls up a chair and sits beside Sania.

"So, how is your day?"

"Just the usual... "

"You look a bit stressed today," Maria says with a slight pause, and Sania sighs, wondering to herself, Is it that obvious?

"Eh, just some personal stuff," she replies casually.

"Personal stuff?"

Maria's tone becomes more thoughtful as she places a hand on Sania's arm.

"Yup, nothing to worry about... just the usual."

Sania avoids the question, not feeling ready to share. She still holds on to the wall she's built around her emotions.

"You can always talk to me about anything, you know this."

"I do," Sania replies, placing her hand on Maria's.

"Well, what are your plans for the weekend?" Sania asks, changing the topic.

"Nothing special. I am thinking of visiting my parents... it's been a long time." Maria's features soften, and a smile breaks on her face.

"Suits you, and don't forget to convey my greetings to your parents," Sania says warmly.

"I will."

After some random chit-chat, they exit the cafeteria and move toward their respective departments. The day continuing to unfold.

Later that evening, Sania arrives home, exhausted. She drops her bag on the table and slips off her shoes, feeling the cool air brush across her feet. The soft light in the living room provides a quiet comfort after a long day.

Too tired to cook, she orders dinner and takes a quick shower. Outside, the air is crisp and carries the scent of night-blooming flowers.

Sania settles into bed, but when sleep evades her, she grabs a book and steps onto the terrace. The night is cool, and clouds drift lazily across the moon. The soft hum of distant traffic and rustling leaves provide a calm backdrop as she tries to focus on her reading, though her thoughts repeatedly return to the anonymous notes.

'Who is leaving them, and why do they seem to know her so well?'

She is lost in her thoughts when her mind suddenly drifts to a stranger she met a day ago, unable to shake the feeling that their paths are somehow connected.

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The chapters will get longer and more engaging as the story progresses, so stay tuned .