MJ. Monday. October 1998. University.
The crisp Monday morning greeted me as I strolled towards my lecture hall for the early classes. Upon entering, I noticed some students had already claimed their seats. Opting for a spot at the edge of the row, I settled down and pulled out my laptop to catch up on lessons and assignments.
A sigh escaped me, my mind still preoccupied with the unsettling events from last Friday. The mysterious caller, who didn't bother introducing himself, lingered in my thoughts. The term "angel" felt like a cruel joke, and the worry about disappointing my mother added another layer of stress to my already turbulent emotions.
Attempting to regain focus, I began typing notes for my Greek mythology elective. Ancient Greek history had always fascinated me, partly due to my hometown library's collection and the captivating stories my grandpa shared from his travels. Despite my efforts, the memories of that unsettling encounter on Friday continued to distract me.
As I typed, my attention shifted towards the door, which swung open to reveal none other than Jason Reed. Our eyes met briefly, and I hastily averted my gaze.
The images from that unsettling night flooded back, causing my unease to intensify. This was definitely not the calm and relaxed start to the week I had hoped for.
Jason settled into a seat across the room, and the professor soon arrived to begin the lecture. I silently prayed for the class to pass quickly, hoping to escape the uneasy atmosphere that lingered. The professor's voice served as a temporary distraction, but my mind kept wandering back to the unsettling encounter with the mysterious caller and the unexpected presence of Jason Reed in the same room.
As the class progressed, I couldn't shake off the discomfort. The minutes seemed to drag on, and I silently wished for the lecture to conclude.
MJ. After Class. Library.
The library, my sanctuary for quiet contemplation and work, provided a momentary escape while I awaited my next class. Engrossed in my laptop, a sudden interruption shattered the calm – it was Maddy, her guilt-laden expression impossible to ignore.
"Maddy," I uttered coldly, signaling my disinterest in conversation.
"MJ, we need to talk," she pleaded, her eyes reflecting remorse for the events of that unsettling night.
"I can't, I'm busy right now." I responded, determined to maintain focus on my tasks.
Undeterred, Maddy acknowledged my avoidance, preparing to address the lingering issue.
"Look, I'm sorry if I made out with Jason. I know you have feelings for him, but it wasn't intentional. We were both drunk, and the mood just seemed right," she explained, revealing the details of their unexpected encounter.
My irritation became palpable as I looked up at her.
"Really? That's the best excuse you could give?" I questioned, unimpressed by her apology.
Frustrated, I gathered my belongings, drawing the attention of other students in the library. Maddy's attempt at an apology only fueled my irritation.
"I don't care if you like Jason, and I don't care if you made out with him. It's the way you apologize that pisses me off." I retorted, ready to leave.
With my backpack on, I issued a challenge. "If you know how to properly apologize, come back to me, then we can talk."
As I left, Maddy couldn't resist a parting shot, hinting at a connection between her and Jason.
"Fine! I guess, Jason and I can enjoy each other's company." I shot her a knowing look before exiting, embarrassed by the scene I had caused.
Outside, my frustration peaked when I found Jason waiting. It suddenly clicked – an orchestrated attempt at reconciliation by Maddy and Jason.
"So... this was your lame operation to get me back?" I accused Jason, my annoyance evident.
"We're trying our best to apologize." he defended.
"I don't even know why you're in this mess. This is between me and Maddy." I clarified, dismissing his involvement.
Jason insisted that Maddy wanted to apologize. Frustrated, I urged him to enjoy their company, mirroring Maddy's words. His frustration grew, and he expressed his exasperation.
"You're the most complicated and irritating girl I've ever known."
His words cut deep, and I struggled to hold back tears, despising the vulnerability that engulfed me.
"Leave me alone!" I pleaded, attempting to escape the emotional turmoil.
Refusing to let go, Jason grabbed my wrist, insisting that I accept Maddy's apology. Panic and pain surged as I resisted.
"Stop!" I screamed, tears now flowing freely.
Suddenly, a tall figure intervened, a deep, husky voice demanding the confrontation cease. He physically separated Jason and me, shoving him against the wall.
Breathing heavily, I looked at the stranger who had come to my rescue. His height was striking, and as our eyes met, I couldn't help but be captivated by his soft gaze.
"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice triggering a realization.
Wait a minute. This voice.
"What the fuck, man?!" Jason's voice echoed in frustration. Maddy, having witnessed the chaotic scene, was making her exit from the library. Some students couldn't help but glance at the unfolding drama.
Feeling overwhelmed and unable to handle the situation, I impulsively grabbed the mysterious man's arm and began sprinting away from the commotion. He followed without hesitation, and our impromptu escape led us through a long hallway, ultimately bringing us outside to the university garden.
Breathless and exhausted, I finally stopped and released my grip on the man's arm. Panting heavily, I wiped away my tears. It had been an incredibly eventful Monday, and my luck seemed to have taken a nosedive.
Turning to face him, I suddenly demanded, "Who are you?" His head lifted at my abrupt question, and I scrutinized him as he fixed himself, standing tall with an effortlessly imposing build. I admired his physique but maintained eye contact.
"Who are you? I'm serious, and I don't want any more bullshit happening." I asserted, my voice firm. I was done playing games; I needed answers.
"Okay, okay, calm down." he responded, raising his hands in a gesture of surrender.
I continued, "You saved me from the police, called without even introducing yourself, and now you're appearing like you're Batman and shit. Are you a creep?" I explained, seeking reassurance that he wasn't what my instincts were telling me.
"I'm sorry if I came off like a creep, but I promise my intentions are not like that." he reassured, maintaining a calm demeanor as he looked at me.
"I'm Kyle... Kyle Morgan. I also go to this university. I'm so glad that I can finally meet you," he added, waiting for my introduction.
"Mary Jane Sullivan, or just call me MJ." I replied, meeting his gaze.
A smile crossed his face at our exchange of names, and the awkwardness of the situation momentarily lifted, prompting a chuckle from both of us. Despite the chaos that had just transpired, a strange connection seemed to be forming between us.