Page 7 of Hailey Goes to College

She was right. Despite the challenges, we were adjusting. Every day brought something new, and it was exhilarating and exhausting all at once. I glance at the clock and realize it’s almost time for my next class.

“I’ve got to run,” I say, quickly gathering my books. “I’ll see you later?”

“Definitely,” Kelsey replies. “Have fun!”

Halfway across the quad, I feel a familiar rush of adrenaline as I realize I am cutting it close on time. I quicken my pace, weaving through groups of students. Just as I turn a corner, I collide with someone coming from the opposite direction. My books and notes scatter everywhere.

“Oh no, I’m so sorry!” I exclaim, dropping to my knees to gather my things.

“Hailey? Is that you?” a familiar voice asks.

I look up to see Ryan crouching down to help me. His expression was one of surprise mixed with amusement.

“Ryan! I didn’t see you there,” I said, feeling a mix of embarrassment and relief. “I’m really sorry about that.”

“We have to quit meeting like this Hailey,” he says laughing, handing me a notebook. “No harm done, though. Are you late for class?”

“Yeah, kind of,” I admit, stuffing my notes back into my bag. “I was just on my way to my history lecture.”

“Let me help you carry some of these,” Ryan offers, picking up a couple of my textbooks. “We can walk together.”

“Thanks, that’d be great,” I say, feeling my face flush slightly. “I appreciate it.”

As we walk together, the conversation flows easily. I find myself feeling more at ease and less worried about being late to class.

“I wanted to ask you something,” Ryan says as we approach the lecture hall. “Would you like to go out sometime? Maybe grab dinner or see a movie?”

His question catches me off guard but in a pleasant way. I’ve enjoyed our previous conversations and find myself looking forward to spending more time with him.

“I’d like that,” I say with a smile. “Dinner sounds great.”

“Awesome,” Ryan replies, his smile widening. “How about this weekend? Saturday night?”

“Saturday works for me,” I confirm, feeling a flutter of excitement.

“Great. Here, put your number in my phone and I’ll text you to set up the time,” Ryan hands me his phone and type in my number before handing it back to him.

“Good. Great. I’ll see you later.” He starts to back away and go down the hall.

“Bye, Ryan. See you later,” I say, watching him walk away before turning to enter the lecture hall.

As I take my seat, I couldn’t help but feel a little lighter, despite the hectic pace of the day. Meeting Ryan has been a pleasant surprise, and his invitation has given me something to look forward to amidst the chaos of being new and away from home.

Later that evening, when I get back in our dorm room, Kelsey notices the smile I can’t seem to wipe off my face.

“What’s got you so happy?” she asks, raising an eyebrow.

“Ryan asked me out,” I rush to tell her, unable to keep the excitement out of my voice.

“Finally! That’s awesome!” Kelsey says, practically bouncing with excitement. “Tell me everything!”

I recount the story of our collision and how Ryan asked me out, while Kelsey listens with a wide grin.

“I knew it!” she says, nudging me playfully. “This is going to be great. We have to plan your outfit and I can help you do your hair!” she says excitedly.

“Thanks, Kels, that would be great,” I say, feeling the anticipation build. “I have no idea what to wear.”

“Don’t worry about that,” Kelsey said, jumping up from her bed. “I’ll help you pick out the perfect outfit. We need to make sure you look amazing.”

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