Chasing Hearts

Chapter 4: New Bonds and Unexpected Plans

Eva Sinclair woke up with a thrill of anticipation. Her first day at Stratford Hills had been unforgettable, and she felt eager to see what more this campus held in store. Though her encounter with Ethan Thompson had been brief, his genuine kindness and confidence had left an impression she couldn't shake. But with a deep breath, she focused instead on making new friends and settling into this new chapter of her life.

As she entered the lecture hall, Eva's attention was caught by a striking girl sitting confidently in the front row. She was dressed in a fitted black crop top and high-waisted, tailored trousers that accentuated her curves and made her stand out effortlessly. Her hair was swept to one side, cascading in soft waves, and she wore a bold, red lip that complemented her polished style. The girl caught Eva's gaze, flashing her a bright smile and waving her over.

"Hey! You must be new. I'm Noah—Noah Thompson," she introduced herself, extending a perfectly manicured hand.

"Eva," she replied, returning the handshake. Noah's confidence was magnetic, and Eva instantly felt at ease.

"Where are you from, Eva? I'd definitely remember you if I'd seen you around," Noah asked, her friendly curiosity evident.

"I just transferred here. Thought a fresh start would be good," Eva responded with a shy smile.

Noah grinned, leaning in conspiratorially. "Well, you're definitely in for an experience! Stratford Hills is never boring. And speaking of excitement—my family lives close by, and I throw the best parties. You have to come sometime!"

Eva chuckled, feeling a genuine warmth from Noah despite her sophisticated appearance. "I'd love that."

Just then, another girl approached, balancing a hefty stack of books with a gentle smile. She had a more understated look: glasses, soft features, and a kind, thoughtful demeanor. "Hi, Noah. Who's your new friend?"

Noah gestured with a flourish. "Eva, meet Jen—or Jennifer, but everyone calls her Jen. She's our resident genius and the top student around here."

Jen blushed and rolled her eyes, clearly a bit shy but kind-hearted. "Just dedicated, that's all."

Eva smiled at Jen, instantly sensing her kindness and sincerity. Within minutes, the three had settled into comfortable conversation, quickly sharing laughs and finding common ground in their interests.

After class, the three new friends went to a cozy café off-campus for lunch, chatting and laughing over coffee. The hours flew by as they shared stories and plans for the future.

Noah, ever the lively one, nudged Eva playfully. "So, you still haven't told us about your first day. Anyone special catch your eye?"

Eva hesitated, a smile tugging at her lips as she remembered Ethan. "Well... I did meet someone named Ethan. He sort of helped me out yesterday."

Noah raised an eyebrow with an amused smirk. "Ethan Thompson? Tall, athletic, easy on the eyes?"

Eva felt her cheeks warm, laughing at Noah's blunt description. "Yeah, that's him."

"Oh, Ethan's a good guy. A bit reserved but always there when someone's in trouble," Jen added with a kind smile. "Sounds like you got the Stratford Hills welcome."

Eva smiled, realizing just how lucky she was to have met people like Jen and Noah so soon. For the first time since arriving, she felt like she truly belonged.

Meanwhile, Ethan was trying to figure out how to spend more time with Eva. Ever since their encounter, he'd been captivated by her confidence and natural beauty. Determined, he spoke to his friend Jake, hoping for advice.

"Why don't you just ask her out?" Jake suggested casually.

Ethan shook his head. "I don't want to rush anything. Besides, I heard there's a big project coming up in Literature. If I can partner with her, we'd have a chance to connect naturally."

Jake nodded, a grin forming. "Sounds like a plan. But don't get too business-like—let her see the real you."