Chapter 6: The Status

Halfway through the semester, there was a university event that I unfortunately missed. My friend Bradley attended and later informed me that Jackie had brought her boyfriend to the event. It felt like a blow to my soul. I was devastated to learn that she was already in a relationship. It became challenging to be around her, knowing my feelings for her were unrequited. Her vibrant personality made it inevitable to encounter her in our small campus. I tried to keep my composure, burying my emotions and carrying on each day, pretending everything was normal.

As the semester came to a close and we entered a one-week break, I took the opportunity to distance myself, regroup, and find solace as I had before. When the new semester began, and block sections were assigned, I felt a mix of sadness and relief as we were no longer classmates. Walking through the halls, I spotted Jackie sitting in a corner with a new bob haircut, replacing her long locks. When our eyes met, I suppressed a laugh but couldn't hide a smile that acknowledged her new look. She looked adorable and stunning, and my admiration for her only grew.

I couldn't resist teasing her, asking, "What happened?" with a playful chuckle. She explained that she simply wanted a change and found long hair too cumbersome, adding, "Plus, I broke up with my boyfriend." Those words hit me like a surge of energy. It felt like AC/DC blasting through the roof, like Led Zeppelin rocking their guitars to the limit. Unable to contain my happiness, my smile widened from ear to ear and I asked her "Oh I'm so sorry to hear that, are you okay?" While she noticed how much of a smile I made, she assured me that she is doing fine as she smiled her way through it.

Here was my chance again—the opportunity to pursue happiness with Jackie. She was single, I was single, and this time, I was determined to give it my all.