ECHOES OF FATE

Elmridge, a quaint town with cobblestone streets and colonial charm, cradled the cozy house on Peace Street. The name alone echoed the quiet and serenity that had been Lilly and Maria's refuge for the past two years.

Lilly, with her wistful gaze, often found herself lost in thought by the window of their home. Peace Street lived up to its name, offering a respite from the bustle of life, a place where time seemed to slow down.

'Hey Lilly, where are you? We're going to be late for class today. Come on, hurry up,' Maria's voice urged from her room, the faint hint of annoyance underscoring their morning ritual.

Maria, Lilly's unwavering friend, had been the pillar of support since they arrived in Elmridge. It had taken no time for Elmridge, its charming streets and welcoming community, to become their new home. In this idyllic town, Lilly and Maria had built a friendship on complete openness; there were no secrets between them.

Today, like many other mornings, the argument ensued just before they were to head to Elmridge University. Maria was the energetic motivator, always pushing Lilly forward when self-doubt crept in.

In class, Maria pointed out a handsome boy. 'Hey Lilly, see that boy? He's looking even more handsome today, don't you think? Let's chat with him after this class.'

Lilly nodded without fully registering Maria's words. After the physics class, Maria was positively beaming, 'Lilly, I never thought you'd agree to chat with him. Thank goodness.'

'What are you talking about, Maria? Chatting with whom? When did I agree?' Lilly was genuinely puzzled.

'You nodded when I mentioned him in class earlier. Don't tell me you weren't paying attention,' Maria replied, her eyes welling up with tears. Lilly's indifferent response was met with Maria's disappointment.

Later, Maria introduced Lilly to the boy, Noah. Their casual conversation made it clear that Maria already knew him. As they exchanged greetings, Lilly mustered a polite smile but declined Noah's offered handshake. She tried her best to ignore the fact that he was studying her intently. Feeling overwhelmed, she excused herself to the restroom to regain composure.

Back in class, the lecturer had already begun. Lilly entered, only to find her seat taken. The only available spot was next to Noah—the blue-eyed guy from the break. The lecturer scolded her for being late and blocking the class.

The lecturer instructed, 'Take a seat quickly.' Lilly hesitated but eventually settled beside Noah. His gaze locked onto her with those intense blue eyes, and she couldn't avoid him any longer. 'Why are you looking at me like that?' she asked.

With a smile, Noah replied, 'You never told me your name.'

'Why should I? Is it that important?' Lilly retorted, her patience waning.

'Oh, it's disappointing. I thought maybe we'd meet again, so knowing each other's names could be a start.'

Lilly tried to concentrate on the class, suppressing her irritation. However, Noah persisted. 'Hey, you're more interesting than I thought. A bit mysterious too.'

'Please, stop. I don't want to talk to you,' Lilly pleaded, her frustration growing.

Despite her plea, Noah continued, 'Hey, you're interesting and a little bit mysterious.'

Lilly's anger flared, and she snapped, 'I told you to stop!'

Unexpectedly, the lecturer caught their exchange and expelled them from the class. Outside, Lilly glanced at Maria, who was engrossed in conversation with another student, Jimmy.

Lilly headed to the park and began reading a mysterious novel to calm herself. Noah suddenly appeared, apologizing and sitting beside her. Her alarm bells rang louder; this wasn't a safe situation. 'Lilly please forgive me. Let's be friends okay?'

Lilly didn't relent and said, 'I don't need any friends. I told you many times, can you please leave me alone.'

Noah smiled and said, 'Never Lilly. I want to be your friend. Why don't you give me a chance? Let's be friends. I never told you to be my girlfriend. why this big fuss.'

Lilly tried her best to calm her mind and said, 'I don't need a friend and we will never meet again too. I don't want to see your face.'

Tried to smile but he couldn't go away saying, 'Goodbye Lilly. But I think we will meet again soon.'

Lilly shouted on the way he went, 'Never.'"