Can I borrow your book?

The guy was two seats away from me. He’s smiling at me. A “close-up” smile. Nah! Better. This is real.

Please?

Sure.

I handed over to him my book. Our eyes were locked to each other. The eyes, the face, the lips, the teeth, perfect. Why I haven’t noticed him before?

It has been two months since the class started. I haven’t noticed anyone that got my attention until that day.

I was not into guy spotting that time. I don’t even dare to look at them, unless I need to. Maybe that was the reason why I haven’t noticed Clarenz. That is how he wanted to be called, the first syllables of his last name and first name put together.

The teacher didn’t show up. Students started to leave the room one by one, and sometimes in groups.

Can I borrow this for a while? I will photocopy a few pages for my report assignment.

Sure!

I could even give the book to him if he wanted that time. The book was cheap. The textbook we use for our not so important subject.

He was a criminology student. I was taking accountancy, my third one. Going to college is habit forming, lol! I was always late during enrolment, the reason I was always given the subject offering leftovers.

Where will you be after this subject?

Not sure yet, this is my last subject for the day. Why?

I thought you still have another subject after this. I was planning to return it to you after I have it photocopied.

Where will you have it photocopied?

Downstairs.

I can go with you.

Are you sure?

Yup.

Ok, thanks.

I am going now.

Let’s go.

We went out of the classroom. Photocopying services were available at the ground floor. They were cheaper than the photocopying service outside the campus. The quality is readable but not good. It is practical. You only have to read it and throw it after.

There were a number of students ahead of us. We had to fall in line, not literally though. We know who was behind us and ahead of us.

Will you be graduating this semester?

No. I still have 3 more semesters to go.

Really? You mean we will graduate together? But, I haven’t seen you around.

I smiled.

I am not from your department. I am not a Criminology student.

He smiled back.

Oh, sorry. I thought you were.

My brother is. One is enough.

It was our turn. The lady operating the copier asked him what pages of the book will be photocopied. He told the lady the specific pages.

You’re lucky. You must be the teacher’s favorite.

Why?

He only gave you one topic to report.

Each student was given at least 2 topics to report. I had three because the two topics were short and simple.

No, I have two.

Why didn’t you include the other topic?

I don’t have enough money right now. I’ll just borrow your book again next week, if it is ok with you.

Have it all photocopied now. I’ll cover you.

He was surprised. He looked at me, still wearing that irresistible smile.

Are you sure?

Yup! So, you can study all your topics early.

Thanks! I’ll just pay you next week.

No, you don’t have to.

He laughed.

Had I known it earlier, I would have photocopied the whole book.

I laughed.

The very reason I haven’t told you.

We both laughed.
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