Chapter 1:

The Hangout & Sparks in the Lounge

I leaned back against the worn leather couch in the common lounge, my legs tucked under me, and let the late afternoon sunlight filter through the tall windows warm my skin. University life after lectures always felt like this lazy, golden, full of possibility. Today, the usual crowd had thinned out fast. Only five of us remained: me, Leo, our mutual friends Maya, Jamal, and Priya. The building was quiet, most students already heading home or to evening gigs. Perfect.

Leo sat across from me, legs spread casually, that easy smirk playing on his lips as he scrolled through his phone....