Love at first sight

CHAPTER SIX; NEW CONNECTIONS

Alex burst into Stacy's dorm room, excitement radiating from her face.

"Stacy, oh my gosh, I have to tell you about the guy I bumped into yesterday!"

She plopped down beside Stacy on her bed, launching into a detailed account of her encounter with Max.

Stacy listened intently, her eyes sparkling with interest.

"That's so cool! What's he like?" she asked, leaning in.

Alex's face glowed.

"He's amazing. Really sweet and handsome. We exchanged numbers, and he's going to text me later."

Over the next few days, Alex and Max would often cross paths on campus. They'd exchange smiles and brief conversations, and Alex found herself looking forward to these encounters.

In one of their lectures, Alex sat next to a classmate, taking notes while the professor droned on. Max slid into the empty seat beside her, whispering,

"Hey, how's it going?"

Alex's heart skipped a beat.

"Good, thanks. Just trying to stay awake," she whispered back, smiling.

A week after their initial encounter, Alex met Max at a cozy coffee shop near campus. They settled into a corner booth, sipping their lattes as they dove into conversation. They talked about everything — their favorite books, music, childhood stories, and dreams for the future.

As they chatted, Alex felt the connection between them deepening. Max was thoughtful, funny, and attentive. He listened without interrupting, and his laughter made her feel at ease.

As the evening drew to a close, Max walked Alex back to her dorm. "I had a great time today," he says, smiling .

Would you like to do it again soon?

Alex's heart skipped a beat. I'd love to," she replied trying to sound casual.

Over the next few days, their friendship blossomed. They studied together at the library, went for walks around campus, and shared late-night snacks at the dorm cafeteria.

Stacy occasionally joined them, and Alex loved how easily Max fit into her circle. But she also started noticing how much time she was spending away from her best friend.

One evening, as Alex returned to her room, Stacy was already there, seated quietly with her arms crossed.

"Hey," Alex greeted, setting her bag down. "Everything okay?"

Stacy gave a small nod, then sighed.

"I just miss us, Alex. You've been so wrapped up in Max lately. We barely talk like we used to."

Alex's heart sank. She crossed the room and sat beside her friend.

"I'm so sorry, Stacy. I didn’t realize. You’re right. I’ve been caught up, and I should’ve made time for you. That’s on me."

Stacy smiled slightly.

"I’m happy for you, truly. I just don’t want to lose our friendship."

"You won’t," Alex promised, squeezing her hand.

"Let’s make a plan — girls’ night every Friday. Just us."

"Deal."