Malcolm University
The science department's beau, Benjamin Brooks, had a problem—he was hopelessly in love with the one girl who seemed untouchable. Across the science laboratory, he caught a glimpse of Valerie Parker in his mind's eye, her distant gaze making his chest tighten.
"Still thinking about her?" Michael Grayson's voice cut through his thoughts, followed by a nudge to his shoulder. "I don't get it, man. She's cold to everyone. I get that she's beautiful, but can you stop this? You're buying gifts for her friend, hoping she'll pass them along. What if Anika falls for you instead?"
Benjamin sighed, raking a hand through his slicked-back hair. "Valerie isn't cold the way people think. She's actually very warm—just distant. And this time, I'm going to pursue her directly."
Michael's eyes widened. "I don't get you, Benjamin. She transferred here in her second year. We're about to graduate. Why now?"
Benjamin rested his sharp jaw in his palm, his expression thoughtful. "She's serious about her studies. I didn't want to disrupt her. But I can't hold back anymore. I need to know if she feels the same."
At the far end of the laboratory, a tall blonde girl sat in silence, her gaze lingering on Benjamin's side profile. Jerylla Hopeson, the acknowledged belle of the science department, had long admired him. Though Benjamin possessed delicate features—thick lashes, naturally pink lips, a tall and refined nose, and elegant brown eyes—his presence was undeniably masculine. However, he never spared a glance for girls he wasn't interested in, and that fact infuriated Jerylla more than she cared to admit.
Bakita Nahaille, her closest friend, leaned in and whispered, "I heard from a source that Benjamin is pursuing a girl from the history department. I really hate the guts of those history girls."
Jerylla's expression darkened slightly, but she kept her composure. "It's just gossip. People love to talk. I'll believe it when I see it." Her tone was casual, but the flicker of determination in her eyes betrayed her true emotions.
Bakita nodded in understanding, silently vowing to keep an eye on things. Besides, she would love to have Benjamin for herself.
The bell rang, signaling the end of the day.
---
In the history lecture hall, a dark-skinned beauty sighed softly as she packed her books. Even amidst the crowd, she stood out effortlessly. Her rich chocolate complexion, framed by sleek cornrow braids, made her an enchanting sight. Valerie Parker, a student majoring in Historical Research (Specializing in Lost Histories and Unresolved Mysteries), was, without question, the belle of the history department. Yet, despite her beauty, she kept her distance from others—not just by choice, but by necessity.
Many students whispered behind her back, some admiring her from afar, others resenting her presence. She had grown used to the subtle glances, the hushed gossip, and even the occasional sneers. It didn't bother her. At least, that was what she told herself.
As she swung her backpack over her shoulder and made her way to the door, a familiar voice rang out.
"Valerie!"