Jacob's P.O.V.
Liz was intent on showing me around the entire campus and showing every nook and cranny to exist here.
I really wanted to study, after all, I needed to get a scholarship in order to get into a good college.
A lot rode on me doing well in academics. My mom was alone, taking care of herself and me.
She didn't have to look after my elder brother anymore as he'd decided to leave my suffering mom alone after dad… well cheated on mom and left her.
Now my mom was taking up two jobs at a time to keep the house running and though she never said it out loud, I knew that she was tired, frustrated and still grieving about my father.
So I needed to study hard and get into a good college and study hard again and then finally get a job that could support the both of us.
Mom has been saving up for college by cutting her own meals ― though she never told me about it ― and I don't like to see that.
I needed to work but Liz was so excited to show me the campus that I couldn't really say no to her.
"Have you even heard a word I've been saying?" She asked me, snapping me out of my reverie.
"U-um, what? Sorry, I― no no really." I said.
"That's what I thought. So, what's the matter?" She asked me, sitting down on a little ledge next to us.
"Um, nothing, nothing. I'm fine."
"Yeah sure. And I'm a horse. Now tell me the truth."
"I― well…" I still couldn't get myself to say anything to her.
"Did you have any other plans for this free?" She asked me after a moment. "Yes…" I said, softly.
"Then you should've just told me, silly! I wouldn't have wasted your time like this! Now I feel guilty." She said.
"N-no! Please, it's just… I need to study and catch up with the workload that's already been covered. But, I couldn't really say no to you either. I didn't want to make you feel bad." I said, in a small voice.
"Oh Jacob. You're so sweet! Honestly, you're actually a stupid, sweet guy!" She said, pulling me in a hug.
I was a little startled by it as I'm not used to people hugging me, or any kind of skinship for that matter.
I just awkwardly patted her back.
"Come on. I know a nice study spot. You can grab your stuff and we'll sit there. I won't disturb you, just sit there with you. If you need any help, I'll be right there to give it. I'm a straight A student, by the way!" She said, a sweet smile on her face.
I smiled gratefully at her and followed her to the study spot.
Surprisingly, it was a good study session. I got quite a bit done and she really was of help. She even said that I could text or call her any time I want if I need help. I could also call her over for her to tutor me.
I honestly felt so grateful.
For once, I found someone who was genuinely good to me.