Chapter 1: Introduction
The crisp January air nipped at my cheeks as I walked alongside Owen, our breaths visible in the chilly morning. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm golden glow over the quiet campus. It was the first day back after winter break, and the crispness of the early morning air seemed to promise a fresh start.
Owen, who was walking beside me, looked as if he had just rolled out of bed, which was probably true. His dark hair was tousled, and his brown eyes were still heavy with sleep. But even with his disheveled appearance, he had an undeniable charm about him.
He was always the type to throw on a hoodie over a t-shirt and call it a day, yet somehow, it worked on him. As we walked, he stretched his arms out wide, as if to embrace the cold, a playful smile spreading across his face.
"You know, I've always loved the first day back," Owen said, his voice a low rumble that seemed to vibrate through me. "It's like the campus is waking up after a long nap. Everything feels new again."
I laughed, tucking my hands into my coat pockets.
"You and your romantic notions, Owen. It's just a bunch of old buildings and frostbitten students to me."
He chuckled, nudging me gently with his elbow. "That's your problem, Amiee. You're too focused on the little things. You need to step back and appreciate the bigger picture."
We continued walking, our boots crunching on the frozen grass. The campus was deserted at this hour, save for a few early birds like us. The grand, gothic architecture loomed overhead, their spires reaching up towards the clear blue sky.