Chapter 12: Unexpected Advice
Amidst the bustling atmosphere of the university cafeteria, Ahmad and Olivia were engrossed in a meaningful conversation about their upcoming exams. The stakes were high, and they shared strategies for acing their tests, exchanged notes, and discussed ways to alleviate the mounting pressure.
As they immersed themselves in their academic discussion, Professor Evelyn Foster approached their table. Her usual confidence had given way to a palpable sense of melancholy, casting a shadow on her demeanor. Olivia was the first to notice and inquired with genuine concern, "Professor Foster, is everything alright? You seem distressed."
The professor sighed and took a seat at their table, grateful for the support. She hesitated briefly before opening up, "I sometimes feel lonely, as if my social life is over. I know it might sound a little cringe, but I long to experience what others have. I want to be out there as well, but it feels like something keeps pulling me back."
Olivia recognized the depth of the professor's struggle and responded with a heartening touch. She offered her thoughtful wisdom, "There's nothing 'cringe' about your feelings, Professor Foster. Sometimes, that feeling of being pulled back can be a blessing. You never know; what's tugging at your heart might be guiding you towards the right path."
The professor was touched by Olivia's support and understanding. "Thank you for your kind words. You've been great friends," she expressed her gratitude, hugging Olivia before she left to face her day, her heart a little lighter than before.
As Professor Foster walked away, Ahmad couldn't help but admire Olivia's compassionate response. He complimented her, a warm smile gracing his face. "I never thought you could do something like this."
Perplexed by his statement, Olivia inquired, "Do something like what?"
"What you just did for Professor Foster," Ahmad responded. "You've comforted her, even though it might not make complete sense."
Both of them chuckled, appreciating the lighthearted moment. Ahmad continued to shower her with compliments, and Olivia couldn't help but smile and blush.
Their heartfelt moment was disrupted by the arrival of Xavier, who strutted over with a mischievous grin. Teasingly, he commented, "Looks like you two are getting pretty cozy here. Olivia, are you trying to steal Ahmad's heart? Sorry to break it to you, Ahmad already has someone he loves."
Suddenly, Olivia's expression shifted, and she left the table, visibly affected. Xavier had unknowingly crossed a line with his jest.
Taking Olivia's vacated seat, Xavier quickly realized that his words had consequences. Ahmad held him accountable for his thoughtless comments, urging him to apologize. Xavier attempted to explain that he had been joking, but the weight of his words lingered.
Ahmad firmly stated, "She's not that far," a hint of frustration in his voice. Xavier immediately followed Olivia to make amends, his face a mask of worry.
As Xavier departed, one of Ahmad's classmates, Lena Ramirez, joined him at the table. She had a bubbly personality and a deep passion for art. With an inquisitive smile, Lena asked, "Hey Ahmad, do you know if your friend Tyrone has a girlfriend?"
Ahmad pondered for a moment before responding, "Not that I know of. Why do you ask?"
Lena smiled, expressing her gratitude for the information. "Oh, it's just that I've been wondering. Thanks for letting me know!"
Left alone once again, Ahmad contemplated the unpredictability of university life. He couldn't anticipate the encounters and interactions that awaited him in the cafeteria on any given day.