Total pages in book: 74
Estimated words: 75195 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 376(@200wpm)___ 301(@250wpm)___ 251(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 75195 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 376(@200wpm)___ 301(@250wpm)___ 251(@300wpm)
“You see, we cannot merely study these issues from a safe distance.” Dr. Hartman’s eyes twinkled with a knowing wisdom. “We must engage with them, feel them, understand them from the inside out. Only then can we truly make a difference in this world.”
My heart warmed.
I made several notes and spotted the cute guy doing the same.
“I’ll leave you with this thought.” Dr. Hartman raised one finger. “Childhood trauma is not just a subject to be studied. It’s a reality to be confronted. And each one of you have the power to contribute to the healing, to be a beacon of hope and understanding. Think about it, reflect on it, and let it inspire you to action.”
With that, she stepped away from the podium. The screen behind her faded to black, while the faces of the children disappeared but could not be forgotten.
The room erupted in applause, but I sat still as her words echoed in my mind.
It was like she had reached deep into my soul, and I felt a renewed sense of purpose, a determination to make a difference.
The room filled with the rustle of notebooks closing and bags being zipped.
I slowly began gathering my things, still somewhat lost in thought about the material.
As I stood up, the cute guy turned to me, his blue eyes bright with interest. “Hey.”
My breath caught in my throat.
His voice was mellow and friendly. “I couldn’t help but notice you seem really into the subject.”
“I am.”
He nodded. “Would you maybe want to. . .grab a coffee sometime and discuss it further?”
I hesitated.
A flicker of uncertainty crossed my face.
Tristan’s face flashed in my mind.
I had just finished dating him, and although small, the wounds were fresh.
Was I ready to take a chance with someone new?
The guy seemed to sense my hesitation and grinned, leaning closer as though to share a secret. “Don’t worry, I promise not to draw any more cartoons.”
I couldn’t help but chuckle.
“My name is Hayden.” He straightened his shirt as if it were wrinkled. “I’m a pretty cool dude, so you really don’t want to pass this invitation up.”
“No?”
“Not at all.” Hayden shook his head. “Additionally, I’m something of a coffee connoisseur so. . .it will be the best cup of coffee in Paradise City.”
“Wow.”
“Impressive. Right?”
“Very.”
He handed me his phone. “Here you go. This is for your ease.”
I smirked as I held it. “And what do you want me to do with this?”
“Put your number in it.” He nodded at the phone. “This way we can guarantee that you do not miss out on this very important conversation over an amazing cup of coffee.”
Hmmm.
I stared at it.
Hayden’s humor—his easygoing manner—it all made the idea of spending time with him appealing.
It wasn’t like Tristan and I had engaged in a long dating spree. It had only been a few days, although. . .he had blown my mind.
In the end, I had to stop thinking about Tristan, and move on with my life.
I let out a long breath.
Hayden grinned. “Don’t worry. Take your time. I’m willing to stay here as long as necessary, until you put your number into my phone.”
Scarlett would say fuck yes, so. . .go for it.
I went to his contacts and began typing in my name, aware of his watchful eyes. The keys felt cool under my fingertips, each press a small affirmation of my decision, a choice to be open, to take a chance on someone new.
However, Scarlett is going to have so many jokes about this.
“So,” Hayden said as I began putting my number in, “what made you change your mind? Was it my irresistible charm or my stunning good looks?”
I laughed. “A little bit of both.”
“Fantastic.”
I finished and handed him back his phone. “But mostly, I think it was your drawing skills.”
“Oh.” He leaned his head to the side. “So, you like artists?”
I blinked, shoved off guard with that question. “Umm. . .yeah.”
“Then, I will work on this newfound talent.” Hayden checked out his screen. “Nova. That is a beautiful name.”
“Thank you.”
He put the phone in his pocket. “I’m looking forward to getting to know you better, Nova.”
Warmth spread through me. “Me too.”
“I will call you later.” Hayden grabbed his stuff.
“Awesome. I can’t wait.”
“You won’t need to wait for too long, Nova.” Hayden walked away.
Alright. Two guys in one month. This has to be some sort of record.
I blushed, gathered up my items, and headed off, only to be crushed by the sight in front of me.
What?
I froze.
There, standing in the doorway, was Tristan, and his gaze was fixed on Hayden.
Rage blazed in his eyes.
Shit.
I hurried with putting my notebook in my bag, glancing up every few seconds.
Hayden walked past Tristan with his eyes down.
Meanwhile, Tristan’s body language was threatening as though he was close to knocking Hayden out.
What the hell?!
Thankfully, Hayden never noticed and left the lecture room.