“There was a version of me who believed a glance could mean FOREVER.”

The first time I noticed him, I didn’t know he would stay in my mind longer than he ever stayed in my life. He was just another boy walking down the corridor  with his friends laughing, chatting about something I couldn’t hear. At least that’s what I thought the first time I saw him. 

I should’ve forgotten him the moment he disappeared around the corner. But I didn’t. 

Time flew  back to 2022. I just shifted to my new high school in Lisbon– Saint Julian’s School.Where I spent grade 11 and 12 and I had my unexpected life surprises.

2 September, 2022. I had just  finished some classes on the first day. The classroom was huge with so many students and  on top of that so many sections for  our class of 2023. I was feeling like a fish out of the  water for a few days before I had become friends with some in my section– it was A6.They were so sweet. They would always share their tiffin with me,  make me feel seen in a gathering and conversation. Those are some amazing people I've met in my life till now. It was going really great with a  new place, new people and a new journey  ahead. As  a freshman in senior high school, we were invited and welcomed to visit the clubs of extra curricular activity.

The school had so many clubs ,almost 21. I was more eager about visiting those clubs than my friends I’ve got in my section. They weren’t really fond of extra curriculum activities. I was really good at sports and debate throughout my middle and high school life. However, I wanted to explore every single club and so I did. It was an amazing experience to meet new people and face new situations that I’ve never been in before. It was Thursday. We had our club time in the 4th period. I decided to visit the debate club that day. The senior students of the debate club arranged a welcoming orientation and It was at the auditorium. I entered the auditorium and it was beautifully decorated with colorful balloons, paper cards, ribbons, etc. I took my time to let myself  soak into the surroundings. Then I took my seat as the seniors began their speech before us. The room was filled with  more students than I expected. I doubted myself for a sec , could I be able to secure a place at this club? Suddenly, I turned my head to my right. A  familiar face appeared. I think I felt on cloud nine for a minute , “ He is here as well.”  I didn’t even know his name but I was just relaxed and probably happy just cause he was there. Did I feel cringe? No. But I could tell I felt something for the first time in my life. Something…something was there!  Something familiar stirs in me. 

The bell rang and our club period ended. While exiting the room, I was looking for something but what? That familiar face? Perhaps, yeah, yes. It is him. But what is his name? Should I go and talk to him? No, I’m fine. However, my gaze was following him. Suddenly, I witnessed  a dazzling, charming smile from the near.