chapter 5

An Accidental Encounter

Bella was hurrying to her next class, lost in thought, when she collided with a tall figure in the hallway.

"Ah, sorry!" she exclaimed, as her books and papers scattered across the floor.

Tan San's apologetic smile caught her off guard. "No worries, I'm the one who should be sorry."

As they bent down to gather the scattered items, their hands touched, sending a spark of electricity through Bella's body.

"Let me help you," Tan San offered, his eyes locking onto hers.

Bella's heart raced as they stood up, their faces inches apart. The air seemed to vibrate with tension.

"Thanks," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Tan San's gaze lingered on hers, and he seemed to hesitate, as if unsure of what to say next.

"Bella, it's been a long time," he finally said, his voice low and gentle. "How have you been?"

Bella's eyes widened in surprise, but she couldn't help feeling a flutter in her chest at the sound of his voice.

"I've been good, Tan San," she replied, trying to sound casual. "Just busy with school and stuff."

Tan San nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "I know how that is. But I've missed you, Bella. We should catch up sometime."

Bella's heart skipped a beat at his words, and she felt a smile spreading across her face.

"Yeah, that would be great," she said, trying to sound nonchalant despite the excitement building up inside her.