My curiosity was piqued, and I couldn't help but wonder what Sarah's secret was. Should I ask her? But I had a secret of my own - one that made my feelings for Sarah feel like a distant dream. Despite being 'out of my league,' Sarah had shown me kindness and compassion. And I couldn't deny it - I had fallen for her the moment we met.
As I reflected on my emotions, a nagging voice whispered, 'This is crazy. You can't fall for her. She's out of your league.' But my heart refused to listen.
I took a deep breath, the scent of old books and dusty air filling my lungs, and tried to rally my courage. I told myself I had to confess my feelings to Sarah, no matter how daunting the prospect seemed. Even if she rejects me – and I knew she would, because who could love someone as poor and worn out as me, clad in baggy, faded trousers? The thought sent a pang of insecurity through my chest, but I pushed on, fueled by a glimmer of hope.
Our circle of friends grew, and I recall one day when we were sitting on a bench in the quad. A strong gust of wind swept through, carrying away a sheet of Sarah's assignment. A passerby, a guy I'd never seen before, picked it up and walked over to us. He handed the paper to Sarah, who smiled in gratitude. I chimed in, "Thanks for that!" He replied, "You're welcome," and began to walk away.
On a whim, I called out, "Hey, this could be fate! Maybe one day you'll join our crew." I grinned, trying to sound casual. "By the way, I'm Cedric, and this is Sarah."
He stopped in his tracks, walked back to us, and said with a smile, "Hmmm, sense of humor, I love it." He extended his hand, his handshake firm but friendly. "I'm Peter, nice to meet you both." He glanced at the empty space beside us. "I was actually looking for a quiet spot to sit. Mind if I join you?" Sarah and I exchanged a glance, and then nodded in unison. And just like that, Peter became a part of our little circle.
As the year went by, I found myself surrounded by friends who genuinely cared about me. They'd ask about my day, listen with kindness, and offer words of encouragement when I needed them most. What struck me was that they accepted me for who I was, despite my struggles with poverty. Some of my friends were beautiful young women who caught my eye, but Sarah remained the one who held my attention.
Seeing Sarah's kindness and protectiveness towards me and our friends made my feelings for her deepen. I began to desire more than friendship, but I was hesitant to express my emotions. I didn't know how to tell her, fearing it might ruin our friendship.
One day, Chris, a soft-spoken and kind-hearted friend, visited me in my room. His simple yet intelligent nature made him a great confidant. I shared my feelings for Sarah with him, and he agreed to help me ask her out. However, he kept his plan a secret.
The next day, while we were lounging in the dining hall, Chris caught my eye and smiled mischievously. I sensed something was brewing. He glanced at Sarah, then back at me, and finally said, "You two should date. You look perfect together, Sarah and Cedric." His words hung in the air, leaving me stunned and wondering what Sarah's reaction would be.
Sarah's silence was deafening. I felt my heart racing, my palms growing sweaty. The thought of losing our friendship terrified me. But then, a gentle smile spread across her face, and she spoke words that changed everything.
Her response was music to my ears. From that moment on, our friendship blossomed into something more. We became inseparable, not just as best friends, but as a loving couple.
That first semester we dated, everything else faded into the background. It was like we were the only two people in the world. Love is a beautiful thing, and I've learned that it can make grown men act like kids again. When you're truly in love, you can't help but feel a little silly and carefree.
Being in love with Sarah, who I never thought I'd have a chance with, was an incredible feeling. It still gives me goosebumps to this day.
One night, while I was working on assignments, my phone rang. It was Charlotte, a friend of mine. Her soft, sweet voice came through the line, "Hi Cedric." I cleared my throat and replied, "Hey, Charlotte. How's it going? Having trouble sleeping?"
Charlotte's voice took on a flirtatious tone. "I couldn't stop thinking about you, that's why I couldn't sleep. And I've noticed the way you look at me... I've wanted to ask you, but I didn't want to cause trouble with Sarah." She teased, "Do you have a thing for me?"
I chuckled and replied softly, "I don't know what you're talking about, but am I attracted to you? Yes. Romantically? No." Charlotte's laughter echoed through my room, even though she was still on the call.
Was I really developing feelings for Charlotte? I couldn't be sure. But one thing was certain: Charlotte was stunning, inside and out. Her charismatic personality made her even more attractive and fun to be around.
We chatted for a while longer until I mentioned I had to get back to my assignments. The call went dead, and I was left with more thoughts than I bargained for.
The next morning, Charlotte burst into the lecture hall, radiating energy and joy. As she approached us, I couldn't help but stare. Her blue pencil dress accentuated her curves, earning whistles and compliments from the guys behind me. Sarah, however, seemed insecure, her eyes narrowed slightly as she watched Charlotte approach.
Charlotte walked over to me with a bright smile. Before she could take a sit to join us, she leaned in towards me, her perfume, a floral scent wafted over me,she kissed my head, sending shivers down my spine. I couldn't hide my smile, and my dimples flashed out.
As I watched Charlotte take her seat, I wondered: was this the start of something more? Was I developing feelings for her? Meanwhile, Sarah was gazing at me, watching my every reaction since Charlotte's arrival. Her gaze fell, and she bit her lower lip.