More Than Just Notes

Chapter 2 – Library Encounters

Olivia had never been one for studying in the library—it was too quiet, almost stifling. But today, her dorm felt unbearable, and the café was too noisy. She trudged into the library with her laptop in tow, determined to tackle her lab report.

She was halfway through her introduction when she noticed someone sitting across from her at the communal table. Harper. Her head was bent over her sketchbook, pencil moving in quick, confident strokes.

Olivia hesitated, her memory flashing back to their brief café encounter. She wondered if Harper would recognize her—or if she was interrupting something by even thinking about saying hello.

Before Olivia could make up her mind, Harper glanced up and caught her staring. A smile spread across her face, easy and genuine.

“Teal notebook girl,” Harper said, her voice breaking the silence. “Fancy meeting you here.”

Olivia smiled despite herself. “You’re everywhere, aren’t you?”

“Not everywhere,” Harper said with a playful shrug. “Just wherever the vibe feels good. And this table? Great vibe.”

Olivia rolled her eyes but couldn’t help grinning. “I’ll take your word for it.”

As the hours passed, Harper’s light banter made Olivia forget about the looming deadlines. Harper asked about Olivia’s classes, her major, her favorite coffee order. She jotted down notes in her sketchbook between questions, like Olivia’s answers were little inspirations she wanted to save.

“Alright, serious question,” Harper said suddenly, flipping her pencil between her fingers. “If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, which one would it be?”

“Just one?” Olivia asked, leaning back in her chair. “That’s impossible.”

“It’s hypothetical,” Harper said, grinning. “I won’t hold you to it.”

Olivia thought for a moment. “Maybe... ‘Rumours’ by Fleetwood Mac.”

Harper raised an eyebrow. “Strong choice.”

“And you?” Olivia asked, leaning forward.

Harper pretended to think deeply, then said, “Don’t laugh—probably Taylor Swift’s ‘Folklore.’”

Olivia laughed softly but nodded. “Actually, that’s a solid pick.”

Harper leaned across the table, smiling. “See? We might be wildly different, but I think we’re compatible.”

The comment caught Olivia off guard. It felt so casual but carried a weight she couldn’t quite ignore. She tried to focus back on her work, but Harper’s sketchbook and easy smile kept pulling her attention back.

As Olivia packed up to leave later that evening, Harper waved her sketchbook in the air.

“Catch you next time, Teal Notebook Girl,” Harper said, her tone warm and teasing.

Olivia rolled her eyes but smiled. “See you around, Sketchbook Girl.”