Friends Forever

'Trrrrrrngggggg.'

His gaze was unwavering, locked onto hers as he grasped her hand firmly, lifting her into an upright posture. The connection in their eyes felt timeless, stretching beyond mere seconds.

"Your eyes are truly beautiful."

Percy Gillest stood before her, his tousled dark brown hair thick and radiant. His mesmerizing deep ocean blue eyes sparkled with flecks of silvery light, performing a delicate ballet. He possessed a strong, defined face, sculpted as if from granite, with dark eyebrows that sloped downwards in a serious demeanor. His build radiated the strength of someone who dedicated themselves to fitness. A smile began to unfurl across his lips.

“I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to...” Rachel whispered, her voice barely above a murmur.

He returned her apology with a warm smile and said gently, “I haven’t seen you here before, so you must be the new girl.”

His grin widened as he extended his hand, introducing himself with a sense of camaraderie. “I’m Percy Gillest, your classmate. If you ever need assistance, feel free to approach me; I’ll always be at my desk.”

"That's incredibly kind of you," she replied, her smile broadening.

"Excuse me, professor!"

“Yes, late on your first day, new lady. Hurry and take your seat. Since it's your first day, you're excused. Class, this is your new classmate, Rachel Hudson. Let’s make her feel welcome, and remember, no bullying.”

Rachel lowered her head, feeling the weight of her tardiness on the first day. Eli and Percy sat nearby, and she found comfort in their presence as they began to engage in hushed conversation.

“So, you moved just a few days ago?” Percy inquired.

“Yeah, just a few days back,” she confirmed.

“Where are you staying?” Eli chimed in.

“Silence! I shouldn't be hearing any noise. This isn't a talking class; it’s history. Focus, or you’ll find yourselves in detention. I trust you can understand that.”

The professor was known for assigning a hefty workload, always expecting timely submissions. Yet beneath his stern exterior lay a kind-hearted man who truly cared for his students.

The room fell silent until a hand shot up. “Sir!”

“Excellent! You consistently conquer the class with your answers,” the professor replied with pride.

“Who is that nerd?” Rachel asked, surprised.

“That’s Justin Windsor, our top student and a bit of a nerd. He’s the headmaster’s son, and this school belongs to them,” Percy whispered, adding with a chuckle, “He’s pretty rude; no one really talks to him, and even I’m a bit intimidated.”

“Okay, students, class is dismissed. Rachel, you have quite a few assignments to catch up on, including last year’s work. It’s a good idea to make more friends. Come see me later, and I’ll explain what you need to do.”

As the professor exited, everyone bid him farewell. Many approached Rachel to introduce themselves, except for the nerd, who didn’t even spare her a glance.

Percy leaned closer, and a rich conversation unfolded between them. From the corner of her eye, Rachel caught a sharp, intense gaze that felt as though it could pierce through her. Perhaps it was jealousy she sensed.

‘Is the nerd looking at me? I feel like he’s jealous, but of what?’ She continued her engaging dialogue with Percy and Eli, embracing the warmth of newfound friendships.

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