Beyond friendship

Chapter 3: The unexpected encounter

The next day, Maddie was still thinking about her dinner with Alex. She couldn't shake off the feeling that something had shifted between them, but she couldn't quite put her finger on what it was. As she walked to class, she found herself replaying their conversation, wondering if she had misread the signs.

As she turned a corner, she ran into Ethan, a charming senior who had been trying to get her attention for weeks. He was tall, dark-haired, and had a charming smile that made Maddie feel like she was the only person in the world.

"Hey, Maddie!" Ethan said, falling into step beside her. "I've been trying to catch up with you for ages. How's it going?"

Maddie smiled, feeling a little flattered by the attention. "I'm good, thanks. Just trying to stay on top of things."

Ethan nodded sympathetically. "I know the feeling. But you look like you could use a break. How about I take you out for coffee?"

Maddie hesitated for a moment, unsure if she was ready to start dating again. But Ethan's friendly demeanor put her at ease, and she agreed.

As they walked to the coffee shop, Ethan told Maddie about his passion for photography. He showed her his phone, filled with stunning shots of sunsets, mountains, and cityscapes. Maddie was impressed by his talent and found herself laughing at his funny anecdotes.

Over coffee, Ethan asked Maddie about her interests, and she found herself opening up to him in ways she hadn't expected. He listened attentively, asking thoughtful questions and making her feel like he genuinely cared about what she had to say.

As they sipped their coffee, Maddie couldn't help but notice the way Ethan's eyes sparkled when he talked about something he loved. She felt a spark of attraction, and for a moment, she wondered if maybe she was ready to start dating again.

But as the afternoon wore on, Maddie's thoughts drifted back to Alex. She wondered what he was up to, and if he would approve of her spending time with Ethan. She pushed the thought aside, telling herself she was being silly. Alex was just a friend, after all.

As they finished their coffee, Ethan glanced at his watch and said, "I didn't realize how late it was. Would you like to grab dinner with me? I know a great Italian place nearby."

Maddie hesitated, unsure if she was ready for dinner. But Ethan's friendly smile put her at ease, and she agreed.

Over dinner, they talked some more, sharing stories and laughter. Maddie found herself feeling more and more comfortable around Ethan, and she enjoyed his company immensely.

As the evening drew to a close, Ethan walked Maddie back to her dorm. As they stood outside her building, he turned to her and said, "I had a great time today, Maddie. Would you like to do it again sometime?"

Maddie smiled, feeling a flutter in her chest. "I'd like that," she said, trying to sound casual.

Ethan smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Great. I'll call you soon, and we can plan something."

As Maddie watched him walk away, she felt a sense of excitement. She hadn't expected to enjoy Ethan's company so much, and she found herself looking forward to their next date.

But as she walked into her dorm building, she couldn't shake off the feeling that she was being pulled in two different directions. She thought about Alex, and the way he made her feel when they were together. She wondered if she was ready to explore her feelings for him, or if she was going to pursue something with Ethan.

As she got ready for bed, Maddie couldn't help but feel a sense of uncertainty. She knew she had to take things one step at a time, but she couldn't help but wonder what the future held.

*To be continued...*