Self

Chapter 54

Bellmere University was an institution with a storied past; its library and cafeteria stood out because of its unique character, especially the cafeteria.

Back in her student days, Yara loved the second–floor spot. The server, a cheerful lady with a face that seemed to radiate good fortune, always had a kind word and an extra scoop of meat for Yara’s plate.

Yara spotted the familiar window from afar; it was where the cafeteria lady always stood.

Nothing had changed.

Three years post–graduation, Yara wondered if the lady would even recognize her.

As Yara joined the line, the lady was busy as ever, stirring and serving without a word. When she heaped the food onto Yara’s tray, her face lit up with a smile.

“Thanks!” Yara said, her heart warmed.

Wade paid with a card swipe, and they settled down at a table.

“I haven’t had this in ages, but it tastes just like it used to.”

The cook’s skills had not just held steady over the years–they had gotten even better.

Yara drifted back to her college days. “I’d be holed up in the lab, totally forgetting lunch. By the time I’d get out, it’d be nearly 1:30 PM, and the food would be almost gone. But she always saved a chicken leg for

me.”

Wade, who had been right behind her in line, remembered how the lady’s annoyance had melted into a smile at the sight of Yara.

Poking at her rice, Yara suddenly felt the need to spill her guts. “I didn’t really click with my roommate Besides Rainie and Professor Olson, the cafeteria lady is probably the nicest person to me.

“And now I’ve got you too,” she said.

Wade stopped mid–bite.

Yara said, “School’s great, isn’t it? It’s peaceful and simple. I can dive into something and research it. Looking back, deciding to continue my studies was probably the best choice I’ve ever made.” They lingered after their meal, wandering the campus without any particular destination.

They meandered down a gravel path, passed under a grapevine trellis, and were greeted by a gentle. breeze. Only then did Yara notice they had come upon Bellmere University’s most stunning lake. Although the lotus blossoms were past their prime, the lake was still dotted with their round leaves, à sight of understated elegance.

Feeling a bit worn out, Yara plopped down on a stone seat. Wade followed, sitting quietly beside her. “The breeze here is amazing.” She sighed,

She leaned back on her hands, her gaze following the lazy drift of lotus leaves across the lake. With each gentle ripple, her thoughts grew quieter, more serene,

Wade broke the silence. “You know, Bellmere University has stepped up its green game in the last couple of years. The lake’s practically spotless. I have to admit, kicking back here with the breeze? It’s the good life.”

Yara chewed on her words for a beat before letting them out. “About earlier-

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“He’s your ex, isn’t he? Wade cut in.

She turned to face him.

He adjusted his glasses but did not look away. “Sorry I couldn’t help but overhear you two in the study earlier.”

A ghost of a smile touched Yara’s lips. “Yeah, we just split. It got messy. I’m sorry you had to see that.”

Understanding flickered in Wade’s eyes. The pieces fall into place, the six–year puzzle of their past spat. He had his hunches but kept them to himself. It was not his style to dig into personal drama, but it clicked

Solomon was not the boyfriend he had assumed.

The sun dipped low, and they did not stick around, driving back as dusk settled.

At her door, Wade handed her a tube of ointment. “I picked this up for you. It’ll help with the healing.”

Yara hesitated, realizing he must have bought it while she was out: She accepted it with a slight nod.” Thanks.”