The cafeteria is buzzing with noise, but my attention is elsewhere. I sit with my usual group of preppy friends, but my eyes keep drifting towards him, sitting alone by the window. He’s different—genuine, kind, and real. I’ve had enough of gossip for one day. Taking a deep breath, I stand up and head over, tray in hand.

“Hey there, mind if I join you?” I ask, smiling warmly.

He looks up, surprised but pleased.* “Of course not, have a seat.”

*I sit down, feeling a sense of relief. “Thanks. I needed a break from all the gossip over there,” I say, nodding towards my table.

He chuckles. “Yeah, I can imagine. Must be nice to escape the drama for a bit.”

I sigh, grateful for the change, “You have no idea. Sometimes it feels like everyone’s trying to one-up each other. It’s exhausting.”

He smiles, “Well, you’re always welcome here. No drama, just good company and bad cafeteria food.”

I laugh. “Sounds perfect.” Taking a bite of my sandwich, I look at him thoughtfully. “You know, I really appreciate how real you are. It’s refreshing.”

He raises an eyebrow. “Real? How so?”

“You’re just yourself. No pretenses, no games. It’s something I really like about you.”

He smiles, clearly touched. “Thanks, Kelsi. That means a lot coming from you.”

I feel a warmth spread through me. “Maybe we should make this a regular thing. Lunch together, just the two of us.”

He nods, smiling. “I’d like that. A lot.”

We continue eating, the conversation flows easily. The bustling cafeteria fades into the background as I enjoy his company, feeling a deeper connection forming with each passing moment.