That evening, after rounds of laughter and games stretching late into the night, the lively atmosphere gradually faded. Serena learned against the window frame, quietly gazing at the starry night sky.
Within her, hazy thoughts of Cedric Lawrence lingered, like an unfinished melody. She didn't know when his gaze had become something that could so easily stir her heart.
[…]
The next morning, the lazy sunlight filtered through the curtains, bringing with it the first rays of a new day. Serena let her gaze drift into the distance, still holding onto the remnants of last night. Between her and Cedric, what exactly was beginning to form?
On a September afternoon, the autumn sunlight faded over the banyan tree's leaves, scattering golden patches on the red-bricked path. The wind swayed the treetops, and Serena glanced sideways.
Cedric leaned against the balcony railing, his gaze lazy yet deep.
"Staring so intently?" His voice rang out, skillfully pulling her from her wandering thoughts.
Serena blinked, realizing she had been staring at a book she hadn't read a single word from. She closed it and replied coolly, "Is Young Master Lawrence in the mood to bother me today?"
Cedric chuckled, his voice low and smooth.
"Not bothering—I just happened to notice someone looking rather dreamy in broad daylight, so I thought I'd give a little reminder."
A moment of silence stretched between them. The leaves rustled in the breeze, and as a gust swept through, the book slipped from her hands. Before Serena could pick it up, Cedric had already retrieved it with ease.
Then, without warning, he asked,
"So… am I just a habit too?"
Serena froze. She didn't know how to answer. A habit? Maybe, perhaps...
The wind still blew, the leaves still fell, but within her heart, something was changing—something beyond her control.
That night, her phone vibrated. A message from Cedric Lawrence:
"Come outside for a bit. I have something for you."
She stared at the screen. That name… it had become so familiar.
And then, she grabbed a jacket and stepped outside.
At the dormitory gate, Cedric stood there, his presence blending effortlessly into the night. The streetlight cast shadows over his sharp features, his deep eyes carrying an unreadable emotion.
"It's late. What do you need?"
She crossed her arms, trying to maintain a neutral tone.
Cedric didn't answer immediately. He extended his hand, revealing a cherry-flavored candy.
"Last time, you said this was too sweet."
He tilted his head slightly, a faint smirk playing on his lips.
"If the old one was too sweet, try this. Maybe you'll like it."
Serena stared at the candy in her palm, an unexplainable feeling rising within her. Slowly, she reached out to take it, her fingertips brushing against his.
Just a fleeting touch—but it sent an electric current through her heart.
Suddenly, she felt an unfamiliar warmth—a happiness so subtle, free of pressure or doubt.
Serena accepted the candy with a bright smile, her eyes curving into crescent moons, exuding a charm completely different from her usual aloof demeanor.
"Thank you, Senior Cedric!" Her voice carried a teasing lilt.
Something surged within Cedric—an emotion so intense he couldn't quite grasp it.
Was it because it was the first time she called him that? Or because of the way her voice sounded?
For some reason, he didn't want anyone else to hear her speak so softly.
His eyes flickered as he unconsciously tightened his grip on the candy wrapper in his other hand.
Just a smile, just a simple sentence—but he found himself unable to look away from her.
Clearing his throat, he regained his composure.
"It's nothing. If you like it, I'll bring you more next time. What flavor do you want?"
Serena thought for a moment before shaking her head with a gentle smile. "You can pick. I'm curious about your taste in candy."
Cedric raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Then just wait for the surprise."
They strolled leisurely along the lakeside path, the water reflecting the golden glow of the streetlights, shimmering like fallen stars. The night breeze was cool, carrying a hint of mist, yet it didn't make Serena uncomfortable. On the contrary, she felt at ease.
"For our upcoming trip, do you want to visit the flower garden in the outskirts?" Cedric suddenly asked.
Serena turned to him, a little surprised. "You like places like that?"
"Not really. But I heard the flowers are in full bloom this season—it should be beautiful."
Serena pursed her lips. She wanted to refuse, but his gaze seemed to already anticipate her answer.
Cedric smiled faintly, his eyes glinting with satisfaction.
"No need to overthink. I already made the arrangements. If you refuse, you'll be breaking a promise."
Serena didn't reply; she only flicked her long hair over her shoulder and continued walking. Her heart was beating a little faster, but she ignored it.
Suddenly, she realized—she had feelings for Cedric.
She didn't know when they started, at what moment they took root. But she feared they would bring uncertainties she had never faced before.
Serena wanted to suppress these emotions; wanted to stay focused on her studies and the image she had always maintained.
"Hey, Serena! Serena? Are you okay?" Cedric's voice snapped her back to reality.
She startled. Maybe she had been lost in thought for too long.
"But… this feeling… aishhh, I'm so confused…"
She fiddled with the edge of her sleeve, trying to ignore the turmoil in her chest.
She no longer understood herself. Many had pursued her before, yet why was it that just one glance from Cedric could make her heart race?