I still remember the day clearly.
Our exams had just finished, and after a short vacation, we were all returning to our boarding school in April 2019. I was coming back by car, and the whole ride felt normal… nothing special, nothing unexpected. I didn't know that this ordinary day would become unforgettable for me.
When we reached the school campus, all of us walked toward the big hall where every student had to go through checking. Boys were lined up on one side, and girls on the other. Teachers were checking bags, uniforms, and making sure everyone followed the rules.
And that was the moment.
The first time I saw him.
I was standing in the girls' line, talking with my friends, when my eyes suddenly moved to the boys' line. There were many students standing there, but somehow, he stood out immediately. I didn't know who he was, I didn't know his name… but something about him made me look again.
He was standing quietly, holding his bag, waiting for his turn during the checking.
I didn't even realize I was staring until I felt my heart skip a beat.