I step out of the lecture hall, still replaying Professor Pauline’s words in my head, when I see her again. Zoey. She’s leaning against a nearby wall, scrolling through her phone with a casual ease that makes me pause for a moment.
She looks up and catches my eye. A small, hesitant smile crosses her lips. “Hey, Chester.”
I nod, walking toward her. “Hey. Didn’t expect to see you again so soon.”
She shrugs, her curls bouncing with the motion. “The campus isn’t that big. Plus, I figured I’d wait and see if you’d bump into me again.”
I let out a soft laugh. “I don’t think my clumsiness needs more encouragement.”
We start walking together, and there’s a strange comfort in it. Maybe it’s because I actually know her—or rather, once saw her—but it feels less daunting than trying to talk to someone completely new.
“So, how’s psychology treating you?” I ask, glancing at her.