College is Rafe Cameron’s way out. His way of separating himself from his father’s expectations, living in Sarah’s shadow, from having to be a man he doesn’t want to be.

His acceptance to UNC Chapel Hill was just the door being propped open for him. When the fall semester rolls around, Rafe is already moved into his off-campus apartment, he’s ready for his classes to start, he’s excited to finally have control of his own life.

It’s at his eleven AM chemistry class on Thursday where he meets her. Y/N Y/LN.

He lets out a huff of air as he drops his bag beside the table, flopping down into the chair he’s claiming as his own for the semester.

The girl beside him turns her head to look at him, scanning his features. “Long Walk?” She asks softly.

Rafe’s eyes snap up, he hadn’t even realized she was there at first. But now that he does, he’s suddenly grateful he’s decided to sit her. Because she’s the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen in his life. With blonde hair that reminds him of the sand on the Outer Banks, and blue eyes that make him think of the sky right after the sun rises.

“Uh,” he starts, unable to form correct words. “Uh, yeah. Long— long walk.”