Loving you was not my decision, it was the intricate design of my own heart; a labyrinth so beautiful that I didn't have a choice but to lost in forever.
Should I call it fate! I don't know.
But after all these years, when I look back, I feel happy.
I still remember the high school days, the hallway where our eyes met. The campus where we played, we laughed, we ate, we danced, we sang. The empty lobby where I cried, cried my heart out.
I can still feel all the emotions that surrounded me, that defined me.
Meeting you was an accident. But it was a beautiful accident, indeed. It made me realize that true love often hides in plain sight.
....
Today, I woke up early.
It's a bright sunny day, and I couldn't be happier!
I've always loved the sunny days. Actually it works like an energy drink to me.
The shining bright sun in the clear blue sky, while clouds and gentle breeze carrying sweet scents lift my mood in no time.
And I was so happy to see the weather I like the most on my special day.
Special day!
Oh yes, it's indeed, very special.
Because today is the first day of my high school.
From today I'm going to be officially a student of the prestigious Riverine high!
The school from where my brother graduated four years ago. And now, it's my turn. I'm very very excited to start my high school journey, I wish it would be as great as I've thought.
....
I was standing before the mirror for a long time. Apparently, I could not take off my eyes from my new school uniform.
The navy blue uniform itself exudes a charm around it. I was feeling like I'm not wearing this uniform, it's just fitting me into it. The feeling is something, you know! It was like a brand new version of me, a different one.
Should I tie my hair, or keep it opened?
I wondered.
"Ann, you ready! Mimi is waiting for you!"
I was lost in thought. Suddenly I heard mom's call.
"Oh shit! I'll be late if I don't go now!"
Looking at the wristwatch, I picked up my backpack and came out of my room. Today is the first day of my high school, and I don't wanna be late!
I came downstairs and saw Mimi, my bubbly best friend. She was sitting on the sofa in the drawing room, eating an apple.
She took a small bite, looked at me and smiled.
"Ann, you're glowing today!"
I smiled.
"Let's go!"
"Wait, have your breakfast first."
Mom told me.
"Mom please, I'll be late. I promise I'll eat something from school's canteen."
"No, you won't. It takes hardly two to three minutes to finish."
Though I said, she just didn't listen.
I'm a big foodie. But today it seemed like it would take years to finish two pieces of bread.
"Okay, I'm off."
I just finished the breads and juice somehow, and headed outwards with Mimi.
"Ann, I'm so happy today! Finally, we're wearing the uniform of the high school. I've waited for it for a long time."
Mimi stated, while walking.
"Me too, Mimi. Well, we are not kids anymore. We are now officially high school girls!"
I laughed hard.
Suddenly everything looked good today, even the road we were walking on, even the bustling streets we like to avoid.
"Look, we're here!"
I stopped before the high school gate. Though I was wearing the uniform, but still..
For me it was hard to believe that this is my school!
Riverine high school is one of the best schools here. It's really hard to get admission, as the competition is intense. I was still wondering I got selected!
I've only entered the school once, on the day of my brother's graduation ceremony. I must say I fell in love with the school the moment I saw.
I didn't get to explore the school that day, but I've often heard so many things from him.
Whenever he says about his school life, his eyes lit up. As if he is rewinding his brain's memory card to see the beautiful days once again.. before his eyes.
He once said.
"Riverine High is not perfect, but it's home. I've grown up within these walls, and I'll cherish the memories."
I closed my eyes. His words were still wandering in my head.
I took a deep breath.
"Brother, from now on, it's my home too."
I whispered.
....
As I walked through the gates of Riverine High School, I felt a thrill of excitement mixed with a little nervousness.
Why! Well, it's obvious, isn't it?
Walking through the beautiful alleys, we started to explore the school. Our eyes wondered as we walk forward. I could feel the excitement to spend my next years in this school.
Riverine High is something! Now I understand why everyone is so eager to take admission here.
The school's huge modern buildings are amazing, the gleaming glass and steel facade are shining in the morning light.
The school buildings are surrounded by lots of green trees and sparkling fountains that make a soothing sound.
Even though the campus is filled with students, I could still feel the calm aesthetics within.
The main entrance is truly breathtaking. Though the design of the school is very minimalistic and simple, it adds charm to it's own beauty.
Inside, the hallways were super spacious, with huge windows that let in tons of sunlight.
I loved the classrooms, which were equipped with the latest technology, including interactive whiteboards and virtual reality stations.
The library was incredible, filled with thousands of books, cozy reading nooks, and comfy seats.
On the rooftop, there was a gorgeous garden with a fantastic view of the city.
Nearby, the outdoor amphitheater was perfect for school events and performances.
The sports complex was impressive, featuring an indoor pool, basketball courts, and a running track. Students were practicing basketball and swimming, and others were jogging on the track.
Overall, the school's campus is breathtaking.
"It's beautiful!"
I replied to Mimi.
"Indeed!"
Everyone looked smart in our school uniform – crisp white shirts, navy blue blazers, formals and plaid skirts. I felt proud to be part of this community.
"Ann, let's get back. We have search our classroom."
"Okay, let's go."
We started to look for someone to find our classroom. Suddenly my eyes got stuck on a girl.
She was walking with her friends through the hallway, towards us. Even in our school uniform she had a different aura around her, just like a fresh summer breeze. She was laughing, like a sunflower. She was so pretty!
I didn't realized I was staring at her, until she reached here and stood in front of me.
"Hey, what are you looking at?"
She smiled and asked me.
I felt embarrassed, I couldn't think she noticed that I was staring at her.
I stopped for a while, then said.
"Hi, I- I'm looking for room no. 214. C-can you please help me?"
She smiled.
"Newbies?"
We nodded.
"It's on the second floor, the last classroom in the right wing."
"Thank you."
They went forward.
"Julie."
I murmured.
"Huh!"
Mimi asked in surprise.
"Her name is Julie, she is our senior, in eleventh standard."
"How do you know!"
"Stupid! I saw her id card."
Mimi was silent for a while and said with a devilish smile.
"Ah ha, Ann! You have a crush on her?"
I replied.
"What nonsense are you talking about!"
"Nonsense! See, the way you were staring at her, even you peeked in her id, isn't it obvious!"
"Shut up."
"Why would I shut up! Umm hmmm, Ann, I can smell something."
I slapped her on the back.
"Will you just shut up, or I have to beat you to death!"
"Okay okay, I won't say anything about your crush!"
"Again!"
"Ok fine, I surrender. But to be honest, she is really so pretty. You have a good choice!"
"Mimmiiiii"
We both looked at each other and burst out laughing. Teasing each other, we went towards our classroom.