Old Rivals and a New Flame

## Hazel's POV

Sebastian's sleek black car glided through traffic with the smoothness of silk on skin. I watched the familiar landmarks of my old university pass by, nostalgia mingling with nervous anticipation.

"We're almost there," Sebastian said, his deep voice drawing my attention away from the window.

The campus came into view—transformed for the centennial celebration with elegant banners and floral arrangements. Security personnel directed most vehicles to distant parking lots, but when we approached the main entrance, a guard simply waved us through.

"That's strange," I remarked, surprised. "I thought this area was blocked off for the event."

Sebastian's lips curved into a slight smile. "I made arrangements."

The car rolled to a stop directly in front of the grand administration building, where other attendees walked from distant parking areas. Several people stopped to stare at the luxury vehicle.