Chapter 2: Unexpected Connections
*********Writer's POV
Hey there, dear readers! Exciting things are happening, and I've finally created a way for us to connect more closely. I now have a Discord account, where we can interact and chat! Here's the link:
https://discord.gg/8BFaGjRMFQ
Now, let's dive into today's chapter, shall we?
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The next morning, sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow on the sleeping girl. Alena stirred, blinking as she adjusted to the light. Slowly, she stretched, feeling the softness of the bed beneath her.
"Good morning, Father. Good morning, Holy Spirit," she murmured as she swung her legs off the bed, her feet brushing against the cool floor. She paused, hands clasped together in prayer.
"O Lord, I praise You for another day. Many did not make it through the night, but here I am, healthy and whole. I surrender my life to You today—every part, even the ones I don't understand. Go with me, Lord, and make the path ahead easy. May I find favor in the eyes of those around me, and let Your light shine through me. Amen."
With a deep breath, Alena opened her eyes, feeling at peace. She quickly rushed into the bathroom, getting ready for the day. In less than 20 minutes, she was dressed in a light, airy top and trousers that felt perfect for the sunny weather.
As she finished her light makeup, a thought crossed her mind: "I should've asked that cutie for his number. Now I'm regretting it."
She sighed as she walked out of the dorm, feeling a little lost.
"Good morning, sir. Would you be able to take me on a tour?" she asked a passing man, but then paused. She remembered she didn't have any money.
Great. Staying in an expensive university is making me feel like I'm rich, she thought to herself, frustrated.
Just as she turned to leave, a voice whispered in her mind: Just because you don't have money doesn't mean you can't get a ride.
Alena stopped, recalling the words of Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not lack."
She smiled to herself, a sense of peace flooding her heart. "Yes, Lord. I trust in You. Let's go for it."
She turned back to the car. "Sir, can I hop in for a tour around?" she asked.
The man glanced at her with a warm smile. "Of course, young lady. I see you're new here. I'll take you to the best spots."
As they drove, Alena noticed a photo of a woman and two children hanging on the dashboard. The girl looked strikingly like the driver, while the boy resembled his wife. She reached out to touch the photo, intrigued.
"Your family?" Alena asked with a smile.
"Yes, that's my wife and kids," the man chuckled. "And you know, my daughter's pregnant now. Everyone says she's my twin."
Alena laughed. "That's beautiful. It must be nice to have such a close-knit family."
They continued driving until they arrived at a stunning location. "We've reached the Love Gathering," the man said. "It's a popular spot for friends to meet up."
Alena's eyes widened in awe. "Wow, this place is amazing! It's so beautiful, so... peaceful. It's perfect for the name."
Suddenly, a familiar voice interrupted her awe. "See who I meet again…"
She turned quickly, her heart racing. "Lexy?" she asked, hopeful.
"Hey, Alena," Lexy grinned, walking toward her. "I didn't think I'd run into you here."
Alena felt a sense of relief. She hadn't expected to see him again so soon, but now, knowing he was around, she felt a little more at ease.
"You know we're classmates, right?" Lexy teased, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I'll be seeing you a lot more often."
Alena laughed, feeling a spark of excitement. Before she could say more, the driver's voice interrupted.
"Miss, your ride's waiting," he reminded her, drawing her attention back.
"Oh, right, I'm sorry, I almost forgot," Alena said. She turned to leave, but Lexy stopped her.
"Wait, why are you leaving?" He reached out, gently grabbing her arm.
"I didn't mean to leave so soon," she explained. "This man gave me a ride earlier, and he's waiting to drop me off."
Lexy's eyes softened, and for a moment, there was a brief silence. Then, he said, "It's okay. Let's walk him to his car. After that, I'll take you on the best tour."
Alena smiled at his kindness. Together, they walked to the driver's car. "Thank you for the tour, sir," Alena said.
"No problem, dear. Have fun with him," the driver replied warmly, waving as he drove off.
With a shared laugh, Lexy turned to Alena. "So, how are we getting around? No fancy car, huh?"
She grinned. "Guess we're walking."
"Then let's make the most of it," he said with a wink. And just like that, they set off together, their laughter echoing through the air.