Second Meet Up

I recall the second encounter with her at a mutual friend's birthday gathering. Upon arriving at the party, I found her already present in the company of other friends. She graciously welcomed me at the door, adorned in a charming pink sweater matched with elegant white earrings. Initially reserved, she engaged in conversations with familiar faces before drawing the attention of everyone with her charismatic presence. Amidst the joy of the celebration, she captured moments of our dance on camera.

As I sat discreetly on the sofa, stealing glances at her, we eventually found ourselves swaying to the music together. Following the traditional cake cutting, we joined the group in photographing the birthday boy as he enjoyed his treats. As the room erupted with cheers, encouraging us to join in the fun, I hesitated, unsure of her reaction to the playful banter. Without missing a beat, she gracefully fed the birthday boy his piece of cake, unfazed by the teasing calls to include me at the moment.

The young man celebrating his birthday took a daring leap and shared a piece of cake with me that she had already taken a bite of. Without missing a beat, I accepted the sweet treat amidst the loud cheers around us. Neither of us reacted to the situation until the end of the party.

As we all went our separate ways, she approached me and nervously asked, 'Have you mentioned anything about us to your friends?' I stumbled over my words and assured her, 'No, they were just joking. I haven't breathed a word to anyone, but I'll make sure they don't do it again.' She chuckled and reassured me, 'It's okay, they were just teasing, like we used to do back in school.' We shared a smile, and after mustering up the courage, I requested her contact information. We exchanged numbers and Instagram IDs before she and her friend hailed a cab to their hostel, parting ways with me. 'Goodbye, see you at college tomorrow,' she said with a smile, to which I replied, 'Absolutely.' And just like that, our paths crossed for the second time.

After that moment, our conversations blossomed within the walls of our college. Our rendezvous in the cafeteria during breaks became a cherished routine, filled with laughter and camaraderie. Those days were brimming with joy. I couldn't help but notice her ever-changing collection of earrings, prompting me to ask, 'How many pairs do you own? Your selection is always so unique.' To my surprise, she confessed, 'I have quite a few. I simply adore earrings and can't resist picking up a new pair whenever I'm out shopping.' Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she posed the question, 'But do they suit me?' Her expression hinted at a hint of uncertainty. In a soft tone, I reassured her, 'They look absolutely stunning on you.' A radiant smile graced her face before she departed for class.

Looking back, I wonder if my response truly made her happy. Was she hoping for more? Perhaps I should have said something more profound. It was then that I began to feel a pull towards her. Her contagious positivity and infectious laughter lit up every room she entered.

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