Chapter Three

The first day at Nile University was overwhelming. The campus was massive, bustling with students from all walks of life. I had always imagined this day but being here felt surreal. Ubeid had promised to show me around, so I waited near the faculty building after my orientation session. When he finally arrived, he was wearing a simple navy-blue polo and jeans, looking effortlessly handsome. "Ami," he called, his voice calm yet commanding. I turned to see him smiling at me, and for a brief moment, I forgot the crowd around us.

 "You look lost," he teased as he approached.

"Let me guess, you’re already wondering how you’ll find your way to your classes?"

"Not really," I replied, trying to sound composed, even though my heart was racing. "I’m just taking it all in."

He chuckled. "Let’s start with the basics. Follow me."

We walked through the faculty, and he pointed out lecture halls, the library, and even a small garden where students liked to hang out. I was paying attention to his words but couldn’t help noticing how relaxed and confident he was.

“Why are you staring at me like that?” he suddenly asked, breaking my thoughts.

“I wasn’t staring,” I lied, quickly looking away.

“You’re a terrible liar, Ami,” he said with a grin.

As we walked back toward the main campus, he stopped abruptly. "Ami, I want to tell you something."

I turned to face him, my heart pounding. Was he about to say something important?

But before he could continue, a group of his friends joined us, laughing and chatting. They greeted me warmly, but I felt a pang of disappointment. Whatever he wanted to say would have to wait.

The days turned into weeks, and I settled into university life. Ubeid kept his promise and helped me navigate the challenges of my first semester. He even introduced me to some of his friends, making me feel more at ease.

But the more time I spent around him, the harder it became to suppress my feelings. I found myself looking forward to every moment we shared, even if it was just him explaining an assignment or us grabbing lunch at the cafeteria. One evening, as I sat in the garden trying to complete an essay, Ubeid walked over and sat beside me.

"Still reading The Color Purple?" he asked, glancing at the book beside me.

"Not really. Just needed some fresh air," I replied.

He nodded, staring out into the distance. "Ami, can I ask you something?"

"Of course," I said, my heart skipping a beat.

"Do you ever feel like... you're meant for something bigger? Like there’s a path laid out for you, but you’re not sure if you’re ready to take it?"

I blinked, surprised by the question. "I think we all feel that way sometimes. Why are you asking?"

He hesitated, then shook his head. "No reason. Just curious."

Before I could press further, he stood up. "I should let you get back to your essay. Goodnight, Ami."

"Goodnight," I replied, watching him walk away. His question lingered in my mind long after he was gone.