The morning at President University felt brighter than usual. Vio arrived early at the dormitory cafeteria, hoping to see Sheren before class started. This habit had begun to grow in him—a desire to spend more time with Sheren, even without a clear reason.
As he waited with a cup of coffee in his hand, Sheren’s soft voice greeted him from behind.52Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0m6e1Ocs6v
"Good morning, Vio. Surprising to see you here this early."
Vio smiled and shrugged. "Just wanted to relax for a bit before class. What about you? Why are you here so early?"
Sheren pulled out a chair and sat across from him. "I had some things to take care of in the lab earlier, so I stopped by for breakfast."
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, from lighthearted topics about classes to deeper discussions about dreams and the future. Vio gradually realized that Sheren wasn’t just physically attractive but also intelligent and had a fascinating outlook on life.
As class time approached, they walked together toward their faculty building. Some of Vio’s friends, like Fariz and Arnold, watched them with knowing looks. Vio ignored them, but he knew they would interrogate him later.
Sure enough, during lunch break at the campus cafeteria, Arnold sat beside Vio with a curious expression.52Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnBnszsvchs
"You’re getting closer to Sheren, huh? Is there something you’re not telling us, Vi?"
Fariz joined in. "Yeah, did you already confess and not tell us?"
Vio sighed and shook his head. "There’s nothing to hide. We just talk more often, that’s all."
Syauqi, who had been quiet until now, finally spoke. "Well, it’s not surprising. You seem more comfortable when you're with her."
Vio rubbed the back of his neck. "I don’t even understand my own feelings yet, so… I’m just enjoying the moment for now."
Their conversation was interrupted when Sheren suddenly appeared with her tray of food.52Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4GqHkTAx0
"Mind if I join you?"
They all nodded instantly. Vio felt slightly awkward, but seeing Sheren’s warm smile helped him relax. This togetherness was becoming a part of their daily lives, and Vio realized he wanted these moments to last longer.
That night, Vio found himself lost in thought in his dorm room. His mind was filled with memories of Sheren. He replayed their conversations, their shared moments. Was this really just friendship? Or was it something more?
Arnold, who was sitting at his desk, turned to see Vio looking restless.52Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcm6h2GUYsv
"You’re thinking about Sheren again, aren’t you?"
Vio let out a deep sigh and nodded. "I don’t know, Nol. I feel really comfortable with her. But I’m also afraid that this is just a temporary feeling."
Arnold smiled knowingly. "You won’t know unless you try to get closer. But if you don’t want to rush, that’s okay too. Just don’t deny what you’re feeling."
Vio fell silent. Arnold had a point. He didn’t want to rush, but he also didn’t want to ignore his emotions.
The next day, he decided to understand his feelings better. Vio began looking for more opportunities to talk with Sheren. He even offered to help her with her class project—something he rarely did.
"Are you serious about helping?" Sheren asked, her eyes sparkling with surprise.
Vio nodded. "Yeah, maybe I’ll learn something new too. Besides, I’d like to know more about the project you’re working on."
They started spending more time together, from studying in the library to working on group assignments. The more time they spent together, the more Vio realized that his feelings for Sheren were more than just admiration.
Meanwhile, Vio’s friends began noticing the change in him. Fariz, who was usually playful, started observing how Vio and Sheren were getting closer.
"Have you noticed that you’ve changed, Vi?" Fariz said one afternoon while they were sitting in the campus park.
Vio frowned. "What do you mean?"
Fariz grinned. "You never used to care this much about a girl. Now, you’re even willing to help Sheren with her assignments, when you usually avoid extra work."
Vio chuckled. "Maybe I just enjoy spending time with her."
Fariz patted his shoulder. "If you really like her, don’t hesitate to show it. Take it slow, but be honest with yourself."
Fariz’s words echoed in Vio’s mind. That night, before going to bed, he sent Sheren a short message.
Vio: "Thanks for today. I enjoyed working with you."
A few minutes later, Sheren replied.
Sheren: "Me too, Vio. Talking with you is always fun."
A small smile appeared on Vio’s lips. Slowly but surely, he knew one thing—this bond was becoming more meaningful to him.
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