Episode 1

...— Maya —...

My stomach churns, a sickening wave of nausea rising up my throat. I grip my pen trying not to gag. This class is mind-numbingly dull.

My gaze shifts from the board to outside the window on the beautiful flower garden which brings me joy. Before I could fully relax someone taps my shoulder, abruptly pulling me out of my thoughts and back into reality. Samantha— my best friend. She looks somewhat concerned. I put on a smile hoping she wouldn't notice that a tango is going on in my stomach.

"You ok girl?" She asks putting a hand on my shoulder gently.

It's pretty comforting knowing she's there, attentive to my emotions. "Yeah, I'm fine." I reply with a reassuring smile grateful for her genuine care. I look back at the board tapping my pen on the desk glancing at the clock every now and then. The ticking clock seems to slow each passing second. My mind drifts, my thoughts scattering like leaves in the wind.

Samantha taps my shoulder again. I look at her and notice class already ended. I hurriedly gather my stuff and shove them in my bag and rush out of the classroom. My grip on Samantha's wrist tightens, as I pull her with me through the halls. The chatters and footsteps of people turn into a blur in the background.

As soon as I step foot outside a confused look on Samantha's face appears.

"Wait, why outside?" She asks, her voice tinged with curiosity and surprise. But I tug her along. The outside air is refreshing unlike the confines of that boring shitty classroom.

I'm eager to spend some time away from the academic bustle. "I'm hungry, come on!" I tug her along impatiently. We finally reach that one café I love, the familiar aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling my nostrils. The chatter of other patrons making me feel at ease. It's a sanctuary away from the demands of university life, a place where I can unwind and indulge in a moment of tranquility.

The barista behind the counter spots me and nods with an reassuring smile already knowing my usual order. I smile back and sit down in a secluded corner with Samantha.

I huff exhausted from all the running. I lean my head back before looking at Samantha. "You were hungry in class, weren't you?" She smirks raising her eyebrows. "I didn’t have time to eat this morning cause I was studying." I explained before pausing. That stomach churning tango is going on in my stomach again. I quickly reach out to grab the water bottle and take a sip.

The waitress brings our food. The warm scent of coffee bringing me comfort. I thank the waitress with a soft nod appreciating her prompt service and attention to detail. I take a bite of my sandwhich, savoring the flavour as my hunger slowly fades away. "Any plans?" I look at Samantha. "Party!" Samantha says excitedly. "Of course!" I remarked sarcastically. Before I can say anything else someone called me.

...Kaiden...

I look around and my gaze lands on a dark brown haired girl. Maya. I call out her name walking towards her table. She's not alone. She's with Samantha. "Maya!" I call, a soft smile on my face. She looks at me, confusion stretched on her face before turning into a look of realization. "Oh hey, Kaiden." She smiles.

"I was looking for you." I pause. "Do you wanna come with me to go to the concert tonight?" I ask.

"Why not?" Her smile widened. A wave of happiness washing over me. "Great! Meet you there." I stated before making my way to the counter. I order a coffee and lean against a wall.

I glance at Maya, her soft hair draping down her shoulder in soft waves. The way her lips move when shes speaks. So delicate. It captivates me. A soft smile forms on my own lips, unbidden, as I take in her presence. I sigh and walk over to the counter again taking my coffee. I step out of the café leaving behind the comforting hum of conversations and smell of freshly brewed coffee.

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