GEMINI.
The afternoon sun was just beginning to dip below the horizon as I met up with Ohio outside the campus library. She was already waving enthusiastically, a bright grin plastered across her face.
"Gemini! Over here," she called, skipping over with her usual energy. Her hair was a little tousled from running, and her designer backpack stuffed with sketchpads and other essentials.
"Hey, Ohio," I greeted, giving her a quick hug. "Ready for today's lectures?"
She nodded eagerly. "Absolutely! I've got my notes and my caffeine—though I think I might need more than that for Professor Rowan's lecture." she added making me laugh.
We headed towards our lecture halls, the chatter of students filling the air around us. The campus was lively, with groups of friends chatting, professors hurrying between buildings, and the distant sounds of campus life. Ohio and I slipped into our respective halls, sitting through our first lectures for the day alone—me on Design Fundamentals, hers on Creative Foundations—before our schedules finally aligned again.
After classes, we grabbed a quick bite at the campus café, then I headed over to my part-time job at the store. Ohio had plans to meet up with some friends, so we said our quick goodbyes before I settled behind the register, helping customers find whatever they need and sorting through new supplies. The shift was steady, and I appreciated the familiar routine—though my mind often drifted to thoughts about random things.
Once my shift ended, I stepped outside, the cool air refreshing after hours indoors. I texted Ohio to meet me at the arcade just outside campus, and she responded with a thumbs-up emoji. We agreed to meet at the entrance in fifteen minutes.
When Ohio arrived, her eyes lit up as she took in the place. "Ready for some serious arcade action?" she asked, grinning.
"Definitely!" I replied, feeling a little lighter after a busy day.
We pushed open the doors of the arcade, the neon lights and chattering crowds welcoming us. We dove into a series of games—racing cars, shooting aliens, and trying to beat each other's high scores. It was a fun, carefree way to unwind after a long day of classes and work.
After a while, as we were catching our breath and grabbing some sodas, a couple of theater art students approached us, looking eager and a little excited.
"Hey! You two look like you're having fun," one of them said with a friendly smile. She had bright blue hair and a spark in her eyes. "We're putting on a show next week in the theater arts department. It's a little experimental piece, and we'd love for you to come check it out. Free tickets, of course."
Ohio looked intrigued. "That sounds pretty cool. What's the show about?"
"It's a mix of dance, drama, and visual art," the other student explained. "It's all about exploring identity and expression. We think you'd really enjoy it—plus, it's right on campus."
I nodded, feeling a bit curious. "Thanks for the invite. I'll see if I can make it."
They grinned. "Great! Just swing by the theater next Thursday evening by six. We'd love to see you there."
With that, they waved goodbye, disappearing into the crowd. Ohio and I looked at each other, both feeling a little excited about the unexpected invite.
"Well, that was unexpected. Looks like our school life is about to get even more interesting."
I laughed. "Yeah, I guess so. It's always good to try new things."
As we left the arcade, I glanced at my phone, already looking forward to the show. But first, there was one last stop—going to drop my stuff in my dorm.
Once I was done dropping my things, I checked my phone and saw a message from Percy. It read: "Ready to come get you. Be there in 10."
I glanced at Ohio. "Percy's on his way. Almost time to head out."
Ohio grinned. "Alright, I should get going. I'll see you tomorrow, bunny."
"See you tomorrow, Ohio. Thanks for today," I said, slinging my bag over my shoulder.
We headed out of my dorm together, the cool night greeting us again. As I made my way to the parking lot, I saw Percy waiting by his car, leaning casually against the hood. His face broke into a gentle smile as I approached. I couldn't help but notice that he looks tired. Did dinner with his parents not go well?
"Hey," Percy greeted softly.
"Hey," I replied, feeling that familiar warmth settle in as I waved at him. "Thanks for coming."
Percy nodded. "You alright?"
"Yeah, I'm alright." I nodded, smiling tiredly.
He opened the car door, and I slid into the passenger seat. As we drove away from the campus, I looked out the window at the city lights, feeling a sense of contentment. It had been a busy day, but with my best friend, new experiences, and the promise of more adventures ahead. I feel like I'm exactly where I was supposed to be—making friends, helping the said friends, exploring new things with my friends, my grandma has always said life is about finding a little happiness and more peace with each step.