Nora’s POVStarting over sucks. And I mean that. I never thought I would say that, I am the one who chose it. I packed up, followed my dad to this quiet town three hours away from campus, and enrolled in a smaller school. I thought I would be relieved. Less drama. A fresh start.But the first week has been… awkward.My dorm room is half-empty, echoes in the corners. The campus seems too clean, too brand-new. And the kids here, they smile a lot, but it is polite, not real. No messy, earnest friendships yet.I went to orientation, classes, club fairs. A guy named Lucas, smooth, dark-haired, huge dimples when he laughs, asked if I wanted to study together. He is nice enough, but when he looks at me, I still see Dante. When he smiles, I realize I’m comparing.So no, I can’t pretend this is easy.Lunch yesterday, I sat with Lucas and some new friends I barely know. He reached across the table, brushed my hand. I withheld the electric spark that still flares when I imagine it was Dante.“
Last Updated : 2025-07-17 Read more