Chapter One: A New Beginning
The sun shone brightly over the university campus, casting long shadows across the concrete walkways. Students hurried about, some laughing, some lost in thought, all chasing the promise of something new.
Among them walked Celine—her heart beating fast, her eyes wide with wonder. A petite girl with a simple dress, a small suitcase in one hand, and dreams tucked deep into her soul. The day felt like the beginning of her life. It was her first time away from home, and she could still hear her mother's voice echoing: "Stay focused, don't trust anyone too quickly, and always protect your heart."
But no warning could prepare her for what was about to happen.
She clutched her admission letter like it was gold, glancing around the campus, trying to find her hostel. Everything felt larger than life. She looked left, then right—completely lost.
"Need help?" a calm voice asked.
She turned, startled—and there he was.
Ben. Tall, with warm brown eyes and a confident smile that looked like it had broken more than a few hearts. He wore a faded denim jacket and carried himself with the kind of ease that made people take notice.
"I'm Ben," he said, offering his hand. "You look like you're searching for your future."
Celine smiled nervously, shaking his hand. "I'm Celine. It's my first day. And yes... I'm totally lost."
Ben chuckled. "Well, lucky for you, I'm the unofficial campus guide. Come on, I'll show you around."
And just like that, her story began.
They walked through the campus together—he showed her the lecture halls, the library, the cafeteria. With every step, her nerves melted. Ben wasn't just helpful, he was funny, attentive, and surprisingly kind. He made her feel like she belonged.
By the time they reached her hostel, the sun was already beginning to set, bathing the sky in soft orange and gold.
"Thanks," Celine said quietly, unsure of why she suddenly felt shy.
Ben looked at her for a moment, then smiled. "I hope we see more of each other. This place can be overwhelming. You need people."
Celine nodded. "I'd like that."
As she watched him walk away, something stirred in her chest. Something she had never felt before.
Excitement. Hope. And maybe… the beginning of love.
She didn't know it yet, but the moment she met Ben would change her life forever.