chapter three

‎ A Handsome Stranger and a Familiar Stirring The salty air of the port did little to alleviate the knot of anxiety in Arden’s stomach. She stood near the main gate, a designated meeting point for their school group, her gaze flicking between her watch and the distant hum of the approaching bus. The plan was simple: board the ferry, endure the journey to the coastal area, and to "restart their minds" before the daunting national exams.

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‎Still, as always, her insides felt like a tempest.Then, she saw him.He was leaning against a weathered stone pillar, a little distance away from the main throng of travelers. He was wearing a crisp, white dress shirt – a stark contrast to the casual wear of most students and port workers – and tailored black trousers. His hair was swept back neatly, and even from this distance, Arden could tell he possessed a striking handsomeness.

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‎There was an air of calm formality about him, a quiet self-assuredness that drew her eye. He wasn't overtly trying to be noticed, yet he commanded attention.Her heart gave a peculiar little flutter, an unexpected sensation that had nothing to do with her queasy stomach. His profile was strong, his jawline well-defined.

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‎ He seemed utterly at ease, gazing out at the bobbing ferries and the vast expanse of the sea as if he belonged to this place, or perhaps, to a different world altogether. She quickly looked away, feeling a blush creep up her neck.

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‎It was inappropriate to stare, especially at a stranger.Minutes later, the familiar rumble of their school bus announced its arrival. Arden breathed a sigh of relief, eager to get on board and away from the open expanse of the port. As she turned to join her friends, who were now talking about the feeling of being on a ferry, her gaze inadvertently swept past the pillar.

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‎He was still there, but now he was moving, his gaze… it seemed to be directed towards her. Not a lingering stare, but a brief, direct sweep that caught hers. It was a fleeting moment, but it felt significant, charged with an unspoken awareness.A faint warmth spread through her chest.

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‎"He’s looking at me". The thought was startling. She quickly turned back to her friends, a sudden shyness making her movements a little abrupt.The bus ride was a blur of pre-exam chatter and Arden’s own internal battle with mild nausea.

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‎By the time they reached the ferry terminal, she felt drained, the earlier excitement of seeing a handsome stranger overshadowed by her lingering discomfort. The school had arranged for them to grab quick provisions at an open-air eatery near the dock before boarding.

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‎As her group settled at a cluster of tables, Arden’s eyes, seeking a distraction from her queasy stomach, scanned the area. And then, she saw him again.He was at the counter of the eatery, ordering something. The white shirt and black trousers were unmistakable. He looked every bit as striking up close, his features sharp and intelligent. This time, there was no mistaking it. His gaze drifted over the tables, and when it landed on her, it held for a beat longer than was merely accidental. It wasn't an intrusive stare, not by any means, but it was undeniably directed at her. It was a look that held a quiet curiosity, an acknowledgment that felt… personal.

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‎Arden’s breath hitched. Her stomach gave a nervous lurch, this time unrelated to motion sickness. It was a different kind of unease, coupled with a strange, budding fascination.

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‎Was it a coincidence? Or was he… following her? The thought was unnerving, but somehow, beneath the apprehension, there was a thread of something else. A nascent flutter of romantic intrigue. He was handsome, yes, but it was that consistent, quiet attention that made her pulse quicken.

Sorry everybody I have not been able to update lately . I was so busy, but don't worry I'll make sure to keep you all in the loop with any new developments. Your patience and understanding mean a lot to me, and I truly appreciate your continued support. Stay tuned for more updates soon!

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