Second Chance

Chapter 1

She saw him for the first time across the campus green. He was sitting alone on one the benches scattered around the grounds, reading some papers. He looked older than the average student. What struck her was an almost indefinable air of loneliness surrounding him. He didn't look upset or anything but something in his body language or face seemed to convey the message that he didn't want or need company.

She was close enough to make out his features and had to admit that he was one of the most beautiful men she had ever seen. He had a luxurious crop of blond, wavy hair that would look dishevelled if he ran his hand through it. Although she couldn't see his eyes, his face had high cheekbones and a strong chin. His lips were full and looked eminently kissable. There were male models that would kill for that face. Even though he was sitting down, she could tell that he was tall and very well built. He was wearing a casual shirt that emphasised the breadth of his shoulders and she could make out his well defined chest.

At that moment, he looked up in her general direction, deep in thought. She looked at his eyes and her heart stuttered. He had the most amazing blue eyes she had ever seen. They were a deep cerulean blue and held a sadness so deep that it made her want to cry. How could someone so beautiful have so much sadness? It wasn't right. Eyes that beautiful should be shining with joy and happiness, bringing happiness to others. It made her want to do whatever she could to see those eyes radiate happiness.

Yeah right Alice. Like you could do that! Look at him. He can have any female he wanted, why would he want someone like you? He's probably got a girlfriend or wife. Yeah? Then why does he look lonely? I'm probably imagining it, he's probably supremely contented with his life.

Alice wondered what he was studying as she hadn't seen him around the campus before. She would have noticed him, that's for sure.

Whilst she was lost in her thoughts, she didn't notice that his gaze had landed on her. He briefly ran his gaze over her face before turning to gather his papers and put them in his briefcase. He stood up and looked directly into her eyes for an brief moment before turning and walking away across the grounds.

Alice's breath seemed to have left her for that brief instant that their gazes met. In that instant, she knew, deep inside, that this man was going to be important to her. She didn't know his name or anything about him, but she felt like she looked into his eyes, and saw her destiny. She didn't know how it would happen or even how she would find him again, but she would. She would make him happy.