Joey and Renee locked eyes across the space, a moment heavy with unspoken words. Before anything could unfold, Max interrupted. "Joey, what are you doing? Let's go." Joey hesitated, then walked away. Renee remained rooted, awestruck and silent.
Later that evening, Renee stood in her new room, surrounded by boxes. Her aunt and cousin had finished unpacking, leaving her alone with her thoughts. She felt a whirlwind of emotions—sadness at leaving the city she had called home all her life, but excitement at the prospect of a fresh start. Their new home, an upgrade from the old one, had three bedrooms, giving everyone their own space. Eagerly, Renee began setting up her room, pouring her energy into creating a bright and colourful haven. She flung open the window for some fresh air and gasped. From her vantage point, she could see directly into Joey's lawn. He was sitting there with his friends, unaware of her gaze. Her heart soared. "I'm so lucky," she thought, barely able to contain her excitement. "I have my own room, and it comes with the best view!" She began jumping with joy.
Her mom's voice rang out from downstairs. "What's going on up there?"
"Nothing, Mom!" Renee called back, trying to stifle her laughter. She finished arranging her things and focused on preparing for her first day at school. She was determined to make a good impression, especially since her three cousins, alumni of the same school, were top performers. Comparisons were inevitable, and Renee wanted to prove herself. Renee dreamed of becoming an architect someday, designing spaces that blended beauty and functionality.
Meanwhile, Joey was in his final year of college, juggling assignments and preparations for his master's degree. At 23, he was a bright student with a structured routine. His family had elevated expectations for him to excel academically and pursue a successful career in engineering. When he was 19, he had been in a relationship for two years before parting ways, a chapter that added a touch of complexity to his otherwise straightforward life. While he diligently met his responsibilities, he had yet to explore the other colors' of life. That night, as Renee and Joey lay in their respective beds, they both anticipated the new day ahead—one with excitement, the other with practiced calm.
The next morning, Renee's father dropped her and her younger brother, John, at school. Joey, as usual, walked to the bus stop to catch the college bus at 8:45 AM. Their school and university shared the same transportation system. Renee's mother, who worked early shifts, had already left for her job, leaving her aunt Mary in charge of household affairs.
Renee's first class was nerve-wracking. The unfamiliar environment made her a little anxious, but her cheerful demeanor won her a few smiles. The teacher introduced her to the class, though most students paid little attention. She took a seat beside Diana D'Souza, the most popular girl in the class. Diana was stunningly beautiful but carried an air of pride and pretentiousness. On the other side of the classroom sat Alex Hamilton, the class's top student and most handsome boy. Though Alex was aware of Diana's charms, he kept his distance from her.
As the day progressed, Renee found herself befriending her desk mates. They clicked instantly, easing her nerves. When school ended, she waited with Diana and John for the bus. Suddenly, she noticed a shadow in front of her. Assuming it was Alex coming to say goodbye, she leaned back playfully without turning. "Bye, Aleeeeee..." she teased. When she finally glanced up, her smile froze. It wasn't Alex. It was Joey. Her face turned beet red as she quickly straightened up, mumbling an apology. Joey's expression remained neutral, though Max and Helen, his friends, chuckled quietly.
Diana, sensing Renee's embarrassment, started teasing her. "Oh, Renee, you just leaned on the most talked-about guy in town. Lucky you! But do not get your hopes up—he doesn't care about anyone."
Joey acted as if nothing had happened, skillfully ignoring the scene. Renee, on the other hand, was mortified. When the bus arrived, she mistakenly sat beside Max. Hearing John call her name, she bolted to sit with her brother, her head low the entire ride. Max chuckled. "She's funny," he remarked, making Joey and Helen smile.
Back in her room, Renee slammed the door shut, trying to calm her racing heart. After a nap, she forced herself to focus on her homework, determined to forget the embarrassing incident.
That evening, after dinner, Joey went for a walk. Glancing at Renee's window, he noticed the light was off. A small smile tugged at his lips. "What a funny, cute little girl," he thought, the sparkle in his eyes hinting at the beginning of something unexpected. Was this fate's hand at play, or merely a coincidence? Only time would tell.