A ONE-NIGHT STAND WITH THE BILLIONAIRE RADIOLOGIST

I woke up at exactly 6:35 AM and stretched my body! I could hear the alarm still beeping. I got out of bed, walked to the cupboard, and turned it off. My mouth opened wide as I yawned for more sleep, but I used my hand to brush the exhaustion off my face.

I walked to the mirror and wiped my face with my hand to get my day started.

"And today is the big day," I murmured to myself. I had never anticipated a day like this, and every part of me rejoiced as I slowly made my way to the bathroom. A smile spread across my face, masking the nervousness bubbling inside.

I thought about the events that led up to today.

I had always dreamed of going to college, but my parents couldn't afford it. I had to work part-time jobs to save up for school, but most of the money went toward helping with household expenses. That is, until one fateful Sunday morning.

My pastor made an announcement during service. "There will be a scholarship exam for those who intend to attend college. This initiative is to help parents and guardians who find it difficult to support their children through higher education," he announced.

My brother, Anthony, tapped me on the shoulder as I was already half-asleep. He woke me up to hear the surprising news.

"This information is from the Institute of All Christian Fellowship. If you pass the scholarship exam, your tuition fees will be covered by the church for the entirety of your college journey," he added.

Mom, who was sitting in the front row of the church, turned toward me. She locked eyes with me and silently mouthed, "This is your time."

My family knew how much I had always wanted to go to college, and now, here I was, being given an opportunity!

After the announcement, I was so excited that I didn't even have dinner that evening. "I've finally been given the chance to prove myself!" I exclaimed. I quickly ran to my room and brought out books to study, determined to prepare. I didn't even stop to think about how overwhelming it all felt, I just knew I had to make it work.

I heard a knock on the door. It was, of course, my mom. I went straight to open it.

Mom entered the room almost immediately after I opened the door. Her face was glowing brighter than I had ever seen. I could tell she was just as happy for me as I was for myself. Mom has always shared in my happiness, my pain, and everything in between.

She walked over to my bed and sat down, still wearing that beautiful, wide smile. Finally, she spoke, "Ariel, I think God is on your side. He has given you an opportunity, and you need to do your best to make it work."

"I know, Mom. That's why I'm trying so hard to cram all this information into my head," I replied, holding my temples.

I could read my mother's thoughts in that moment, her eyes were filled with both hope and concern. She knew this might be a once-in-a-lifetime chance, and she was worried. But I reassured her, telling her I would make her proud.

After that conversation, I made a promise to myself. I would work as hard as I could, not just for me, but for her, too.

I threw myself into studying like never before. I read for hours on end, until I started developing migraines, but I pushed through it. I didn't care. All I wanted was to make it to college.

On a cold evening, dinner was served, and I was invited to join my family at the table. But I was so consumed with studying that I hadn't shared a meal with them in days. I decided to join them, just this once.

"Look who we have at the dinner table," Mom said, her voice full of disbelief as I sat down. I knew she was worried about my constant studying.

"Ariel, you need to take it easy on yourself. Give yourself a break before you burn out. You don't want to develop insomnia," Dad remarked.

Now I could tell everyone was concerned, but I was determined. I wanted this scholarship, and I knew I had to give it my all.

"Mom, Dad, I know I seem stressed, but I'm really not. Please, don't worry about me," I said, hoping to ease their minds.

Just as I spoke, a sharp pain shot through my head.

"Ouch," I murmured unintentionally.

Mom immediately turned to me. "Are you okay?" she asked.

"It's just a headache," I replied quietly.

Mom asked Anthony to get me some pills, but I insisted on getting them myself. As I turned to go to the cabinet, I stumbled, my legs giving out beneath me. I collapsed right there.

"Ariel!" Mom cried out, her voice full of panic. Dad rushed to my side.

"Ariel, are you okay?" he asked, but I couldn't respond. Everything went black.

Dad rushed me to the clinic.

In the clinic, I was diagnosed with fatigue and sleeplessness. The doctor advised that I get plenty of rest. Mom also pleaded with me to follow the doctor's advice and take it easy on myself, but I remained adamant. I no longer cared about my health, only the exam mattered. I was too scared to spend even a minute resting.

"Mom, I'm fine now. Can we go home? I still have some books to cover," I suggested.

Dad's face darkened with fury as he glared at me.

"Do you even realize what you're saying?" he fumed. "Your excessive reading got you here, and now you want to go home to do what? Continue studying? Are you serious?"

I could see the concern in his eyes, but I just couldn't afford to rest, not now. This might be my only chance to get into college, and I couldn't miss it.

"Dad, I'm fine, I promise. We need to go home now. I have to finish the book," I said, slowly getting off the bed.

"I swear, if you get out of that bed..." Dad's voice rose.

Mom intervened immediately. "You dare not! You're going to hit someone who's on a sickbed? Honey!" she questioned him.

"Does she know that?" he asked rhetorically, turning to me. "You think if you die from stress, the exams will still hold? They'll just send their condolences, right?" Dad lashed out, his anger palpable.

"God forbid! No one is sending condolences to anyone," Mom rebuked. "Then tell your daughter to have some pity on herself and get some rest," he said, storming out angrily.

I had never seen Dad so upset. It just showed how much he cared. Dad is someone who hardly expresses his emotions. I guess I really scared him earlier when I collapsed.

After a thorough checkup, I was finally discharged. We went home, and I headed straight to my room as soon as we arrived. I grabbed my book and continued studying.

And now, after all the drama, we were finally here. Today was the exam day, the very reason I had been studying so hard.

I went into the bathroom, took a warm bath, and came out with a towel wrapped around my chest. As I walked into my room, Mom entered behind me.

"Ariel, honey," she said in a soothing tone.

I knew she was here to talk to me about the exam.

"Yes, Mom?" I responded.

"I just want to wish you good luck," she said excitedly.

"Thanks, Mom," I replied.

"I believe in you. Go out there and do your best," she added with confidence.

"I will, Mom," I affirmed.

"Okay, it's obvious everyone in the family believes I'll go out there and crush this exam. Did I put their hopes this high?" I thought to myself.

Mom walked to the door and turned to me with a warm smile. "Make sure to pick a dress that will bring you good luck," she said before walking out.

I dressed up and left the room, holding on to the faith that I would indeed pass the exam, just like I had declared.

The exam center was quite far from the house. I took two buses to get there. Mom told me to wear something that would bring me luck, so I wore a purple dress. I don't know how it works, but I've always had this feeling that purple brings good luck! Or maybe it's just because I adore the color. I'm not really sure.

Finally, I was done with the "Almighty Exam" that had kept me on edge for weeks. I headed straight home afterward.

"How was the exam?" Anthony asked the moment I walked through the door.

I didn't respond. I just walked straight to the freezer, opened it with a gasp, and pulled out a bottle of chilled water. I drank it down in seconds. My body needed it more than anything at that moment.

I drank until I was satisfied, ignoring the crackling sound the bottle made.

Mom and Anthony watched me in bewilderment.

"Are you okay, honey?" she asked.

I stayed silent for a few seconds. Finally, I exhaled deeply, like I had just finished battling a wild creature. "Mom, I'm fine," I said, letting out a sigh.

Anthony gave me a pointed look, his black eyes sharp as if they wanted to say something.

"Why are you glaring at me, young man?" I asked.

"Because you're acting weird right now," he replied, his eyes never leaving mine.

"Well, I'm fine. All I need now is rest, and that's exactly what I'm going to do. Mom, please, no one should disturb me," I said before quietly retiring to my room.

I fell right onto my bed as I entered! A smile sparkled across my face. I hugged my pillow tightly as I screamed, "Yes!"

It felt like a burden had been lifted from my chest. It had been a rollercoaster of endless reading and sleepless nights, with not even a spare minute for myself. Now, I was back to being the "Outgoing Ariel Coleman" I truly am. I was free at last. I giggled as I rolled across the bed.

I got up, walked straight to my cupboard, and opened it.

Actually, I'm a girl with unique taste! I like catchy things and bright colors. My cupboard is my favorite item in my room. It's made of plastic but painted in a soft shade of pink and light lilac, my two favorite colors. It's filled with all my things, from my diary to notes, pills, and accessories.

I feel it's safer to keep important things in there, unlike the wardrobe where I just toss things in carelessly when I'm tired!

As I opened the cupboard, I reached for my phone. "Oh, baby, I've missed you," I said as I pulled it out and held it close. I puckered my lips to give it a kiss and stopped for a second. "Can I do this? Or should I ask for permission first?" I asked rhetorically, gazing at my phone. "I don't care," I muttered, and smooched it.

I hadn't held my phone since the scholarship announcement. I had really dedicated my time to the exams, and I prayed it would all work out. I grabbed my phone and walked back to the bed to lie down.

Just then, I heard a knock at the door. "Ariel, can I come in?" Anthony asked.

"I thought I told you I need to rest, didn't I?" I snapped.

"Just a minute, please?" he asked.

"Okay, come in," I replied.

He walked into the room, holding a jar of juice and a burger! He quietly moved closer to my bed. "Here, it's for you," he said, stretching out his hand to me.

I immediately sat upright and reached for his offer. "Aww, thank you," I said with a broad smile.

I took a sip of the juice. "It's my favorite! How did you get it?" I asked.

Anthony replied, "Well, someone has to save up to get snacks for days like this."

"Days like this?" I raised an eyebrow in curiosity.

I took a bite of the burger. "Oh, wow," I muttered.

"Do you like it?" he asked.

"I love it," I admitted, taking another bite and washing it down with the juice.

"I wonder how I still have space in my belly to eat this when I just had a meal," I mused. Anthony gave me a "I wonder too" look and laughed while gazing at me intently.

Thoughtfully, I recalled the statement he made: "Days like this." What does he even mean? I thought to myself.

"Ariel, not to be negative or anything, but what if you're not selected for the scholarship? What will you do?" Anthony asked politely.

I lifted my head and stared at him, bewildered. "Why this question all of a sudden?" I asked, confused.

"No, no, I don't mean to be a pessimist, I just wanted to know if you have a backup plan. You know, we can't put all our eggs in one basket," he said.

Anthony was right. Even though it wasn't the best time to bring this up, he wasn't far from the truth. I had been so focused on preparing for the exams that I didn't think about a backup plan. I had all my thoughts on one thing: the scholarship. But what if I didn't get it? What would I do?

I lost myself in thought.

"Ariel, are you okay?" Anthony asked. "I didn't mean to upset you. I'm sorry I even asked in the first place," he added, looking guilty.

"No, you're right, Anthony. You just reminded me that this scholarship isn't an automatic pass to college. You made me realize that, just like me, there are thousands of other girls and boys out there applying for it too. But I had so much confidence in myself that I didn't notice I didn't have a backup plan," I said.

"I'm not saying you won't get it. I'm saying you shouldn't put all your trust and hope in it. Be ready for both the good and the bad," he said.

"Yes, I will," I replied, taking another bite from the burger. "I'll look for a backup plan, but I'll still pray I get it," I proclaimed.

"Of course, we will pray," Anthony added.

"Just curious, what do you mean by 'days like this'?" I asked, tilting my head.

"Oh, days like this are when you need to be taken care of. You've been through a lot of stress, and I thought a snack would cheer you up a bit," he replied.

"Aww, thanks for being thoughtful. With those words, one might think you're older," I chuckled. We both laughed.

Anthony made his way out.

Exactly two weeks after the exam, I was sitting in my room watching my favorite TV show when my phone rang. I grabbed it right away and saw the name on the screen: "TANIA." Tania was the girl I met at the exam center. But why would she be calling me at this early hour? I thought as I took the call.

"Hello?" I said, trying to hide the curiosity in my voice.

A soothing and tender voice echoed from the other end. "Hi, Ariel, how are you today?"

"I'm fine," I responded.

She continued with more excitement in her voice. "Have you seen the list?"

I replied with a question, "Is the list out?"

"Yes! It came out yesterday. I wanted to call you, but it was late. I can send it to you now if you want," she said.

"Please do," I replied, my voice tense with nerves.

"Did you check for yours?" I asked.

She replied, "I was shortlisted."

"Congratulations, Tania!" I said, my voice full of excitement.

"Thank you!" she replied.

"I'll send the list right to you to check for your name," she said before hanging up.

Anthony walked into the room with a bright face. I could tell he had been listening to the conversation.

"Were you eavesdropping?" I fumed.

"It wasn't intentional. I just couldn't help but listen. Besides, the phone was on speaker, and I'm not deaf," he smirked.

"And who told you that you could listen without my permission?" I asked, glaring at him. His smile faded instantly.

"I'm sorry, but..." Just then, my phone beeped!

"I think she has sent the list," he said.

I grabbed my phone anxiously and opened the WhatsApp message.

I scrolled through the names, my eyes fixated on the screen. I looked at the words alphabetically, not knowing how my name was arranged on the list.

In a minute, I reached the end of the list and still couldn't find my name. My hands grew cold as I looked at Anthony with teary eyes. "My name isn't on the list," I said in a sad tone.

Anthony grabbed the phone from me without hesitation. "Don't conclude yet. Maybe you didn't search thoroughly. Excitement got the best of you. Let me help you," he said calmly, going through the list meticulously.

He raised his head and looked at me with gloomy eyes. "Ariel, you're right. Your name isn't on the list," he said.

I couldn't hold my emotions anymore. Tears began to fall from my eyes.

"But why? My name was supposed to be on the list! I know what I wrote! I know I performed well. Why isn't my name shortlisted?" I lamented, continuing to sob.

Anthony moved close to me and hugged me. "Ariel, God knows why. I know no amount of words I say will stop your tears, but believe me, another opportunity will come," he said, holding my head against his shoulder. I couldn't stop crying at that moment.

My nose began to run as I cried. I remembered all those days I skipped meals just to stick to my exam syllabus, the sleepless nights... All of it seemed in vain now. I cried even harder.

Suddenly, my phone rang again! Anthony let go of me and grabbed my phone.

"Ariel, Britney is calling," he said.

I didn't bother. I just continued crying.

"Is she not the same girl you met at the college entrance exam center? You have to pick up. Maybe the list is out," he added.

"Even if my name is on it, what does it matter now? The only path to college has been blocked. I'm alone," I cried harder.

"You still have to pick up, at least to know what she has to say. Please, huh?" Anthony insisted.

I stopped crying for a moment and picked up the call. "Hi, Britney," I said.

"Ariel, your voice? You don't sound okay. Are you crying?" she asked.

"No, I'm not. Just a runny nose," I lied.

"Okay, baby girl, good news! Our names are on the admission list. We both passed the college entrance exam!" she screamed with excitement.

"Okay, congratulations, Britney," I said in a low tone.

"You don't seem happy. Are you sure you're okay, girl?" Britney asked. I replied, "I am fine, just not in a happy mood. I'm sorry if I sound cold right now, but congratulations, babe." "Okay! Well, thanks, and you too. Try to fix the problems, okay? See you in college, bye!" she hung up.

"Congratulations, Ariel!" Anthony said.

"Congratulations for what, really? It's not as if I can do anything with the admission; it's useless now," I said, continuing to cry.

Mother walked into the room holding a grocery bag. "Anthony, what's going on here? Why is Ariel crying?" she inquired. "She wasn't shortlisted for the scholarship," he replied. "Oh, my poor baby," Mother said, moving close to me. She embraced me and placed her hand on my hair.

For a moment, I felt comforted; that sincere embrace was what I needed at that point. "Baby, I know how disappointing it is to see something you put your heart into not work out, but you still have to be strong. You know why? These are your trial times, and believe me, they will pass. Another greater opportunity will come," Mom suggested.

"But, Mum, I gave it my best! I know what I wrote. Why wasn't I shortlisted? Is it because we are average? I thought the scholarship was for people like us," I lamented.

"Baby, please calm down! Okay, listen, it's going to be fine, alright? The right time will come. Maybe this isn't meant for you," Mom said.

I always listened to Mom, but this time, I just couldn't bring myself to stop. I wanted to cry my lungs out, hoping I would feel better afterward.

I could still feel Mom's warm hand gently touching my hair to calm me down.

My phone beeped again! Anthony took a peek at the screen. "It's an email from the college," he said.

"I don't want any of it; it's all useless now," I declared.

"What's useless?" Mother inquired.

"Mom, Ariel passed the college entrance exam; she has been given admission to study medicine and surgery in college," Anthony said.

"Are you serious? Ariel, you got admission into the college!" she asked excitedly.

"Mom, why are you elated? It's not as if I can do anything with it now; it's useless," I wept.

"Ariel, this is evidence! It shows that you studied!" Mom stated.

I felt a bit of relief after this statement! Mother was right; this was clearly evidence that I studied! College entrance exams have always been some of the most challenging, and if I could write and pass it, then I most definitely did well in the scholarship exam too. It must have been manipulated.

"Mum, I think I am fine now," I said.

"Mom, she is lying; she is not fine! Look how swollen her eyes are," Anthony argued.

"Well, those pretty eyes of hers can't lie; Ariel is fine," Mom affirmed.

"Ariel, don't overthink, please! I'm sure a greater opportunity will come, okay?" Mom assured.

"Yes, Mom!" I nodded.

Mom rubbed my hair more with a tender smile.

I know I promised not to overthink, but I don't think I can keep that promise, not after skipping meals and studying tirelessly for weeks and for the fact that I know I performed excellently. I feel cheated!

Mother carried the grocery bag inside the room as Anthony walked closely behind her. I rose to walk to my room, my eyes still swollen from crying.

On a Sunday morning, I went to church with my family as usual. Not long after, the pastor walked to the altar for announcements, as he always did every Sunday.

He congratulated the shortlisted candidates for the scholarship, and the church erupted in applause.

"In the just concluded scholarship exam, three students performed exceptionally, which led them not to be included on the list, but instead sent a text," Pastor John said. He stopped to look at the congregation, as if he needed a sign to continue.

"For these three students, the church has decided not only to cover all their college expenses but also their accommodation, shelter, and food expenses," Pastor John declared! The church clapped with excitement.

"Congratulations to Benjamin Luke, Daniel Blue, and Ariel Coleman," Pastor John said. The church echoed with joyful noise.

I was confused when I heard my name!

"Did I just hear your name, Ariel?" Anthony asked.

"I think he made a mistake," I replied.

"You all can come to the altar so the church can acknowledge you," the pastor urged.

Benjamin and Daniel walked to the altar as the church continued to applaud them.

Pastor John turned to me, but I still couldn't grasp the situation.

"I think the pastor is looking at me, like he expects me to come out or something," I whispered to Anthony.

"Ariel, we are waiting?" Pastor John said.

Now it occurred to me that he must have made a mistake! I wasn't shortlisted, nor had I received a text. So why was he expecting me to come out? I rose to speak.

"Sir, I think there is a mistake; my name wasn't on the list, nor was I sent a text," I said firmly.

"Oh, sorry, Ariel. I thought I informed your parents beforehand! You filled in incorrect information on your slip, and the board couldn't text or reach you due to that," he said apologetically.

Wait, what? Is he trying to say I am among the three persons who performed exceptionally?

"Oh my goodness," I muttered in bewilderment.

Mom and Dad turned to look at me. "Go, girl!" Dad said.

Am I dreaming? I tried to pinch my face. "Ariel, they are waiting!" Anthony whispered.

I regained my composure! I slowly walked to the altar, trying to process the unfolding situation.

The church clapped in celebration.

"Oh my God, what is this called? A miracle at the eleventh hour? I had already given up, and now this!" I stood at the altar, dumbfounded, as I stared at the congregation clapping their hands.

I could literally see the excitement in my parents' faces! This was good news! This was mind-blowing!

We had a small family dinner to celebrate this mind-blowing news!

My parents were more excited, not just because the burden of tuition fees had been lifted from them, but also because other expenses were covered, including shelter and accommodation. To them, this was God's work!

I didn't know how to feel about this new phase I was about to embark on because I had never attended a Christian school before, and this would be my first. I didn't even know how it worked there, but I knew there would be strict rules that students had to follow. Still, I didn't think it would be as difficult as my parents' rules.

After all, they made me wear my promise ring until this day, and they still want me to keep it until my wedding night.

What could be more difficult than that? I might sound naughty, but I'm just being "a young girl" who wants to satisfy her curiosity.

When I was in high school, I saw a lot of girls getting boyfriends, but I couldn't, because I was made to wear a promise ring everywhere.

Most boys didn't want to have anything to do with a "Madam Mary," as they called me.

It was so bad that I couldn't find a date for prom! I had no choice but to take Anthony with me.

At first, it was awkward going to prom with my brother. I had seen people go to prom with their parents and relatives, but...

It felt like a blow to my face, thinking about how I had bragged about going to prom with the hottest guy in school when I was in middle school.

Well, that was my thought before high school. I thought I was pretty enough to get the hottest guy at my "beck and call." But guess what? There were other prettier girls.

Speaking of pretty, Lilian was basically the prettiest girl in school, with her long, silky blonde hair, dazzling blue eyes, fair skin, red, heart-shaped lips, and a soothing soft voice that could melt a man with a lion's heart. To top it all off, she wasn't wearing a promise ring.

With those outstanding features, most of the boys couldn't resist her; some even dumped their girlfriends just to stand a chance with her.

I'm definitely pretty, but when I came in contact with people like that, I felt nothing close to pretty.

And then there was the promise ring that drove away the ones who actually saw me as pretty.

Anyway, Anthony tried to be the best prom date for me, and with that, I had a memorable prom.

To be honest, nothing else can beat my parents' strict parenting rules.

A few months later, I was ready to go to college!

The church college was two states away from my city! I meticulously arranged my stuff into my bag, trying not to forget anything and avoid extra charges for a plane ticket.

Mom and Dad decided to talk to me before I left for college!

They sat quietly in the living room, waiting for me to come out.

I already knew it would be a boring conversation.

From our previous discussions, I knew this one would only be about "not keeping bad friends" and "staying away from sex."

Mom doesn't miss any opportunity to tell me how bad premarital sex can be. She has shared so many consequences that even the word "sex" now scares me.

"This discussion won't be anything new; I just have to sit down and listen as always," I thought to myself as I walked into the living room with my stuff, dressed in a comfortable outfit to help me move around freely.

Mom didn't even let me sit before she started!

"Ariel, darling, this will be the first time you're leaving home, and from now on, you'll be on your own. I want you to behave your best when we're not there, okay?" she said.

"Yes, Mom," I assured her.

"Ariel, you know how hard you studied to get this scholarship. Please don't forget that. Don't let those college boys trick you into doing things you'll regret, okay? They only want to have your body, and once you let them, they'll make fun of you," Dad said, and I nodded in agreement.

"Remember, don't follow bad friends. They might try to convince you to go against your will, and once they have their way, they'll get you in trouble. Please don't listen to them at any point. If you ever need someone to talk to, we're always here," Dad added. "Yes, Dad," I replied.

"Ariel, honey, please try not to get involved in premarital sex. Always remember you have your promise ring on, and don't forget to wear it. Don't let any boy influence you with material things. If you agree to have sex with them, you'll get pregnant, and then you'll be expelled! Don't ever forget why you're in college!" Mom advised.

That's one of the church rules: any student found pregnant will be immediately expelled.

But why does Mom always think that sex only leads to pregnancy? She doesn't even consider other things, like life-threatening infections, like HIV, STDs, and others. I guess "unwanted pregnancy" is what scares her the most.

"I've heard you, Mom. I promise to make you all proud," I said in agreement.

I grabbed my bag and headed for the door, and Anthony offered to walk me out.

He helped me with my other stuff, and we both headed out.

Life in college has been fun and interesting! I learn new things every day.

I've adhered to my parents' advice and haven't had a boyfriend in the last four years of college, not even friends, aside from my classmates, and even those relationships ended in the classroom.

And now I'm in my fifth year!

There's this guy, Collins, who always talks to me!

Since my very first year in college, Collins has been trying to talk me into a relationship, and to this day, he hasn't given up.

Just when I thought he had finally given up, I met him again!

"Ariel, please just give me a chance. I promise to treat you well," Collins pleaded.

As humans, one thing we can't ignore is good-looking people.

Collins is definitely the epitome of the word "handsome!"

He is tall, slim, and has a well-built physique, with dazzling blue eyes and mesmerizing lips that are visibly striking.

"Ariel, I'm sincere. I'm not like the other guys. Give me a chance to prove my worth to you," he added!

I stood still, listening to those words come from his beautiful lips. His eyes looked even more captivating as he spoke. I must say, he is a treasure to keep, but I just can't give in now!

I feel like, for someone who knows nothing about relationships, what if I get stuck trying to figure it out?

"Collins, you are such a lovely person! But I don't think I'm ready for a relationship right now," I said in a soft tone, trying not to hurt his feelings.

I could see the disappointment in his eyes as he tried to hide his emotions.

One thing I know is that college guys are definitely different from high school guys, or maybe they're just more grown up? I can remember back in high school when guys wouldn't want to talk to me because I had a promise ring on.

But guys here don't seem to see it as a big deal.

Or maybe they are trying to talk me into a relationship and then, afterward, into having sex!

I think that's why Mom doesn't want me to keep friends!

"Okay, Ariel, but whenever you're ready, I'm here. I will wait for you," he said in a soothing tone.

Oh, poor Collins. This is the sixth time I'm turning him down, and yet he keeps coming back!

Does he actually feel something for me? Is he really sincere? Come on, girl, how would you know when you haven't even given him a chance yet?

He is such a nice person; I'm just scared!

But what if I decide to give him a chance, and then things go south? What will I do then? Oh, Mom will skin me alive.

This is actually a time to build a love life. Experience, they say, is the best teacher. If I don't date in my twenties, when will I?

I've always been curious about things like:

How it feels to be in a relationship!

How it feels to receive flowers from a man who loves you!

How it feels to be in love and be loved in return!

How it feels to be kissed and held in a man's arms.

But I don't think I can cope with a relationship and studying right now!

I have seen couples fight and argue, and I don't want any of that right now, not when I'm trying to build my life.

Yet again, Mom is right. I just have to focus, graduate, and then I can explore.

So, I kept studying!

Before I got into college, I was told multiple times that medicine and surgery is one of the most difficult courses. I doubted it at first.

Now here I am.

Five years of commitment, dedication, sleepless nights, soul-draining practicals, assignments, and head-cracking exams, and I'm still thriving.

I must say, passion is the only thing that kept me going.

I've seen people change courses, and some even quit, but I think those people don't know what "dream" means. Maybe they just wanted the "doctor" title and got bored in between.

Me? Not even a thought of giving up.

One Wednesday morning, after class, I decided to walk home alone as always when I heard a voice: "Hey, Ariel!"

I slowly turned to see who called me.

Oh wow, it's Ken!

Ken is one of the popular boys in my class, and I wonder why he wants to talk to me.

"Hi, Ariel!" he said, gazing at me with a mild smile.

Alright, Ken is fine!

I just don't know why I find boys with black eyes more attractive. Some might say they're not even close to average, but have they seen Ken? No, they need to see him!

Now I understand why girls go wild when they get to college. Not many girls can hold themselves back from devouring someone like Ken. I mean, his beauty is surreal.

To think there are cuter guys out there, oh man!

"Hi, Ken!" I finally managed to say.

I slowly scanned him from head to toe as he spoke, and I must commend his fashion sense, it's top-notch.

He was wearing a clean white button-up shirt, a navy blue vest, perfectly ironed black trousers, and white sneakers.

"Will you be free this weekend?" he asked.

Why would Ken ask if I'm free this weekend? Am I missing something?

"Yes, anything?" I replied with curiosity.

"I'm having a birthday party at my place this weekend. Do you mind coming?" he asked with a captivating smile!

I know we're classmates, but we haven't really had a conversation!

And all of a sudden, he's inviting me to his party.

I didn't know how to react since I had never been to a party before, let alone a house birthday party, and I had no idea what to expect.

Okay, now I'm indecisive. Should I or shouldn't I?

But to be honest, maybe I should. This might spice up my boring life a little bit. After all, one party won't hurt, would it?

"I don't mind," I said with a smile, hiding my "Are you sure?" look.

He gazed at me with a satisfied smile.

"Thank you! I didn't think you would want to come!" he said.

I hope I don't regret this, I thought to myself.

"Do you have my contact? I'll send you the venue and time," he added.

"Oh right, your contact. I don't think I have it. Let me just..." I pulled my phone out of my bag.

"You don't have my contact?" he asked in disbelief!

His brow raised in shock as he spoke. "I'm surprised you don't have my contact saved! We've been in the same class and the same group chat for five years, and you still don't have my number?" he asked, disappointment lacing his voice.

Now I feel guilty! I don't even have an excuse to give. Not just to him, but I don't have any of my classmates' contacts saved on my phone! The reasons? I don't even know. Maybe I took what Mom and Dad said too personally because I'm literally distancing myself from people.

"I'm sorry, Ken. I'm not that kind of person; I just forgot to save your contact," I said in a low tone.

I raised my head to look at him, but he was silent, not even a yes or no from him!

I quickly opened my phone and clicked on the group chat, searching for his contact.

Finally, I found it and saved it!

"Here we go," I waved my phone at him, showing "Collins" on the screen.

He finally smiled back at me with acknowledgment.

Such a beautiful smile, I thought to myself!

"I will call to remind you," he said and walked away.

Now I have an engagement for the weekend! I muttered to myself.

I felt excited as I slowly walked away.

The phone beeped at exactly 7 a.m.! I ignored it at first because I wanted to sleep some more since I had stayed up late last night!

and now, I wanted more sleep, but what could I do when it was "laundry o'clock"?

I got up from bed and went to turn off the buzzing alarm.

I walked straight to the bathroom to wash up, then headed back to my wardrobe to get my day started.

I've always loved small rooms, ones where my things would fit in, and the college offered just that!

My parents were right: once you stick to staying away from bad company, you will live just right.

The church has always come through for me.

My parents didn't have the slightest thing to worry about when it came to me because the church always had me covered.

All I do is study and pass exams, nothing more! This has worked for the past five years.

I put on my ear pods as I did the laundry.

In the past five years, I've learned many things, like:

How to stay alone.

How to be self-disciplined.

How to clean up the house.

Most importantly, how to live a pretty decent life.

Finally, I finished the laundry and headed back to my room, lying down right on the bed.

"Hmm... another weekend to rest after a hectic week," I exhaled.

Wait, I think...