*Chapter 2: The Coincidence*
Ava settled into her seat, trying to shake off the feeling of disappointment that lingered from her brief encounter with Max. She pulled out her book and tried to focus on the words, but her mind kept wandering back to the mysterious stranger.
As the train rumbled through the countryside, Ava's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of her phone buzzing. She pulled it out to see a text from her best friend, Rachel.
"Hey girl, how's the trip going?" Rachel asked.
Ava smiled, typing out a response. "It's been good, but I just met this guy on the train and he's already gone 😔"
Rachel's response was immediate. "Tell me more!"
Ava laughed, typing out a quick summary of her encounter with Max.
Just as she was about to hit send, she looked up to see a familiar face standing in the aisle. It was Max, his backpack still slugged over his shoulder, a look of surprise on his face.
"Ava?" he said, his eyes locking onto hers.
Ava's heart skipped a beat. "Max? What are you doing here?"
Max grinned, sliding into the seat across from her. "I realized I left my wallet on the platform. I had to catch up to you."
Ava felt a flutter in her chest. Was this fate?
As Max settled in, Ava couldn't help but notice the coincidence. "What are the chances of running into you again?" she asked, smiling.
Max's eyes met hers, a hint of mischief in them. "I think it's more than just chance, don't you?"