College life was starting to feel almost normal. Chris and Evan made sure I didn't stay cooped up in my room, dragging me to games, late-night food runs, and whatever event was happening on campus. I wasn't used to having friends who actually stuck around, but with them, it didn't feel forced.
One evening, after a long boxing practice, Chris insisted we check out the campus café. The place was buzzing, students crammed into every corner. I spotted an empty table by the window, but before I could make a move, Chris nudged me.
"Dude, check her out," he whispered, nodding toward the counter.
That's when I saw her. Scarlet. She was leaning against the counter, chatting with the barista, her laugh carrying over the noise. Her dark hair was pulled into a messy bun, a few strands falling around her face. There was something effortless about the way she moved—confident but not in-your-face.
Evan raised an eyebrow. "She's out of your league, man."
Chris smirked. "Nah, Max has got this."
I shot them both a look, but they just grinned. Before I could second-guess myself, Scarlet glanced my way. Our eyes met for a second, and she smiled—a small, genuine curve of her lips. I couldn't help but stare, and when I realized, I quickly looked away.
"Go talk to her," Chris said, giving me a light shove.
I hesitated. "What am I supposed to say?"
"Anything. Just don't stand here looking like an idiot."
Taking a breath, I made my way to the counter. She was still there, waiting for her order.
"Hey," I said, trying to sound casual.
She looked up, her eyes bright. "Hey yourself."
"You come here often?" I cringed internally. Was I seriously using that line?
She just laughed. "Only when I need caffeine to survive. You?"
"First time. My friends kind of forced me."
She glanced over my shoulder at Chris and Evan, who were blatantly watching us. "Looks like they're rooting for you."
"Yeah... they don't know when to quit."
The barista called her name, handing over a caramel latte.
"I'm Scarlet," she said, offering her hand.
"Max." I shook it, her grip surprisingly firm.
"Nice to meet you, Max. Maybe I'll see you around?"
Before I could think of a response, she walked past me, flashing another smile on her way out.
When I turned back, Chris and Evan looked like they'd just watched a movie.
"How'd it go?" Evan asked.
I shrugged, trying to hide my own smile. "Not bad."
Chris slapped my shoulder. "Man, you're hopeless."
But I couldn't help it. Something about the way Scarlet looked at me made my heart beat faster. For the first time, I found myself wondering what it would be like to really know someone like her.