A long-distance romance. A chase that ended in rejection. Walls up, heart open. She never expected him to come back, never imagined he’d be patient, respectful, and persistent.

Unexpectedly Yours: When Timing Turns is a story of first meetings, family drama, nervous hearts, and a love that proves sometimes timing really is everything. Can trust, patience, and courage survive distance — and the surprises' life throws along the way?

There's only one way to find out...

Unexpectedly Yours: When Timing Turns ❣️

.........

Sometimes in life, meetings are unexpected. Some memorable, some beautiful while some.…ugh…can't even say what that part entails. I liked someone, told my feelings, got rejected, I stopped. I had a fair share of boyfriends in my life and trust me they were a lot of things. Some thought me love, some … Disappointment and heartbreak while others, a complete sack of assholes and jerks.

When I met first met him, sparks hit me right at that moment. I thought to myself ... he's the one! But there was a change in plans. I then realized a guy like him...and a girl like...me? Oh, we'd never match that's for sure. But the heart wants what it wants it seems. So then…it had other plans. I decided to go for it.

" Um... I was wondering if you'd like to be my boyfriend?" My heart pounded against my ribs praying for none rejection. But not everything's like that. Welcome to reality.

" I'm sorry, but no." His firm words cut right through me like a lightening bolt. I froze for like an eternity. Hello? What were you thinking? That he'd ,What? Like you? You? what's wrong with you? Unmoving still looking at his face for a ghost of the reciprocated love I'm giving him right now but nothing. Just blank...like a damn piece of paper.

" Hey...are you okay?" his voice snaps me back to reality. I close my eyes to wake myself from this nightmare.

" Err... Yeah, yeah. Why wouldn't I be?" Asking me like I'm supposed to be fine after pouring my all into this ! Am not! Not at all! My emotions are screaming at me to punch his face and yell at him for his words. But how can I do that when he's super charming with those dark eyeballs that seem to stare right into my soul? Snap out of it! You're better than this. I force myself to get out of the, but his voice stops me.

" Look, you're everything a man could want in a woman, but I can't break the bro code with my guys. I admire your courage." Oh. My. God. What the heck is this supposed to mean?!Bro code? A man?! What?! I'm completely losing it. I need to leave immediately! So awkward!

* nervous laugh*

" Um... thank you? But I got to go"

With that I fled. What was I thinking?! I want to best my ass right now. So much it'll being me back to my senses! Oh, wait. The story is yet to begin. Back from the top! Rewind.

.........

Unexpectedly Yours:When Timing Turns ❣️

*Alarm goes off*

* Hmm*

Waking up to the alarm and my mom's yelling and stuff like that, I hurry downstairs. It's school break, and she wants me to pick options for the school I'm going to next. Experience in the last ones were pretty eventful in the worst ways.

Flashback

Breakups, heart breaks, love again, break up again, academically useless should be the right word. But still I pulled through with the exams to go into high school! And yet I didn't want to attend the same school again and meet the same faces. I shine my head and came back to reality just in time to listen to what my mom's saying.

Present

" Why wouldn't you go back to your old school? It had wonderful results"

My mom, Bea, short for Beatrice has always had a knack for excellence. She topped her class in her years in school and now wants me to achieve that same goal. How am I going to tell her not everyone's meant for that?

* Sighs*

" Mom, I told you already. I just want a new environment. The last one was pretty toxic."

I pout and frown. I drink from the glass of lemon drink in front of me. I watch her set the table.

" It couldn't have been that bad for you to change it"

" Mom, please. New semester, new school, new people, new experience. It should be great."

She sighs and sits opposite to me. She places her hand over mine.

" Fine. I just want you to be comfortable. I'll have your back. Now eat. School will start in a few days"

* I smile at her*

" Thanks, Mom"

She returns the smile, but says nothing. The rest of the days are busy with the preparations for my school. Which is a boarding school?!

.........

The day finally arrived when I get to go to school. It feels almost like travelling across the globe. Why does it have to be so far away from? I look over at my mom, who's talking to the driver. I sigh. It was my choice anyway. Maybe a terrible one at that. I lay back and didn't realize when I fell asleep.

I was dreaming of ponies, butterflies, when a voice roared me awake. Wake-up!

I snap my eyes open and look at my mom, staring right at me.

" Don't tell me you're dreaming of ponies again, Debbie?" She's teasing me? Typical mom. I got out of the car looking at the new environment and the chatter of students and teachers moving things. I groan looking at them put my things down from the truck.

" Come on, Debbie. Help me move your things up."* I approach her taking up my stuff to the check in point. Mom follows with the driver with the rest of my things. I watch them check in all my stuff till I was granted permission to move to my assigned dorm.

" Debbie, you go right ahead. I have an old friend to meet."

I nod briefly and pick up some of my things heading inside. The driver follows me with the heavy ones. When I arrive, I see girls settling down, beds, and their stuff. I greeted them but didn't wait for an answer. I moved into the other room which was bigger than the one outside. Furthermore, I took the bed by the wall and window overlooking the game field and classroom arena far down to the East.

He sets down the goods.

" Are these all of them, Mr Bruce?" I ask him as he looks around the place.

" I think that's it."

" You think? " I look at them in doubt. " Why don't we check?"

He nods and we step out of the dorm, heading back to the check in point. Nothing's left. I nod at him. But mom hasn't come back yet.

" You know you got an eye for the good stuff"

Mr. Bruce says pulling off his gloves. I smile admiring the view.

" I do, don't I? It's beautiful, actually. Just wondering if it's worth my time to study here"

" You know, kid. It's not advice able to have such thoughts. Zero expectations always make your experience better. Don't you agree?"

He smiles at me with a twinkle in his eyes.Thoughh he's old, but hasn't lost his physical form. It's quite impressive.

" Yeah, right." upon turning around, my mom waves me over. She's standing there with a man. I hurry over to her.

" This is my daughter, Deborah. Debbie meet your care taker, Mr. Louis Nixon."

Mom introduces us with a smile. I nodded at him.

" Nice to meet you, Deborah. I'm quite sure we'd get along just fine"

Mr. Louis says with a smile. He's quite like a jug though. Big belly, almost bulging eyes and skinny legs. Like a hungry strike chicken. I laugh to myself and my Mom nudges me back my senses. She clears her throat.

" Thank you for accepting my offer, Louis. I appreciate it "

" Don't you worry. it's the least I can do-"

I don't listen to their conversation anymore. It's boring listening to old people and their pleasantries. It sickens me to the stomach. My eyes drift over his shoulder and I froze. A group of young guys were passing by. My eyes stop on one of them, immediately I knew that guy, is the one. I couldn't take my eyes off of him. But he looks like someone who could snap me like a twig if I go anywhere close. His handsome face and skin tone tells me he's a foreigner. His dark eyeballs stares right back at me. I quickly look away. My heart pounding in my chest as he noticed me staring. I looked like a stalker drooling over him. I shake my head snapping myself back to reality.

" Okay. Well go ahead now"

finally out of that conversation,we walk towards the dorms.

" So do you like it so far?" mom asks. I click my tongue.

" It's not bad so far. I mean...I chose it remember?"

" Sure, honey. You take after your mom of course." I roll my eyes at her as we walk into my dorm. She helps me arrange my stuff and clean up around the space where little dirt laid back.

" Now ,that's settled."

" Thanks, mom"

" Sure thing honey. But you have to talk to your dad and tell him you'll be away from home and your phone for a few months"

Mom says so casually as if it's no big deal. I mean I already knew that but, I won't be Debbie if I don't react to her words.

" A few months?! Mom. That's so long."

" Don't be a drama queen, Deborah. It'll all work out."

I purse my lips as she hands her phone over to me. I look at the screen and dad's face pips up.

" Hey, Daddy."

" Oh, Debbie. It's good to see you again. Going to be even longer since you're at that school"

* nods*

" Yeah. Longer than some but it's going to be fine"

" Glad you're all positive. Remember to study hard and tell me whatever thing or problem you have, get to your mom, and she'll come to me okay?"

" I will, Daddy. See you soon"

" Sure sweetie"

The call ends and mom smiles at me.

" It's going to be okay, Debbie. I trust this place is going to be way better than the last ones"

" I know it will"

" it's getting late. We need to hit the road or else the rain will catch up to us"

" Okay, Mom. See you soon. Mr. Bruce. Take care of my mom. She shouldn't work herself too much."

I say and they both laugh. I do too.

" Okay. Give your mom a hug"

She squeezes me so tight I nearly died.

" I gave your allowance to, Mr. Louis. Remember what I said,he's going to be helping you get squinted here. So be respectful. I'll be going now."

" Okay, I will. Goodbye"

She nods then leaves the dorm with Mr. Bruce. I turn to my bed and sleep face flat on it. My mind drifts back to the guy I saw earlier instantly. Who was that? I click my tongue hoping I'd see him sooner.

...Later that day, night fall....

We all assemble at the assembly ground for role calls. High school is way different. We stood according to classes. My eyes dart around In case I see him already bored out of my mind. Then my eyes stop on his face. I freeze again. My mind stops working. I stare at him, just sitting there and conversing with two guys. I swallow hard. He looks so effortlessly handsome. he's too good-looking to be an ordinary guy in tHe school. Should be the school's crush. Maybe there's a cheerleading squad if bitches hovering over him. he's quite fit to be part of tHe basketball team.

I sigh while looking at him. I stop myself when he looks at me too. The smirk which crosses his face makes my heart flutter. I instantly look away. Again. He caught me staring. We disperse to our various dorms as the girls took the right, the boys took the left.

The next day...

It wasn't a class or school day. We had chores before going for another roll call and worship service. Typical for a school as this. Preston High and their religion. But it isn't bad at all. During the late afternoon period, games were going on and soccer was the main event. I went to take a look and met my ex. the one which made me feel loved and all this excitement, but I had to put an end to it since it affected my studies. We're more like friends now or that's what I think.

" Oh, Debbie hi. it's great to see you. I'm glad you finally made it through your exams"

Jeffery Tyler. He orders JT, to be addressed by. But I'm the only one calling him by his full name. His smile makes me smile too. Guess we didn't end on bad terms.

" Glad to be here. This is your last year before college?"

" Well, yeah. Though I'd be attending a choreography school"

" No kidding! A dance school?! that's awesome!"

He smiles all proud and so ambitious of his dreams.

" Yeah. And I hope you'll get to see me out there like we planned."

His gaze is even warmer than when we were together. Way too warm. It made me blush slightly. He turns around and then I noticed the guy who's been beside him.

" Nathan, look who's here. This is Debbie, you remember her right?"

Jeffery says. The guy turns around, and fuck! It's him! Why?!

" Yeah, I remember. she's your ex right?"

My heart sank at his words of description. It's not a lie but I wanted something out of That.

His voice is deep and he talks, like an American. His time was cold stern like my presence bothered him, but he stretches out hai hand anyway.

" Yeah. Nice to meet you, Nathan."

I took his hand which is twice the size of mine.

" Same. My brother told me what happened between you two."

I look at Jeffery questioningly.

" Brother?"

I asked lost.

" Yeah. And damn girl, you broke his heart. I mean shattered."

Jeffery stood there at a loss for words. I blink twice, and laugh nervously.

" It was necessary. The circumstances were unfavorable."

" I bet"

" Don't listen to him. That's just how he is. So blunt and forward. I'd like to show you around, but I'm watching the game. Can you manage on your own?"

I nod. My eyes look at Nathan's back.

" Yeah, sure. Enjoy your game"

"Thanks"

He turned around watching the game with his arm over Nathan's shoulder. I slowly walk away with my mind conflicting. Whoa,I didn't hope for such a meeting at all. What a first impression this is! This is so weird! And awkward. How can I continue from here on?

Ugh...kill me. I'm so screwed!

..........

Unexpectedly Yours: When Timing Turns...❣️

Being in this new environment had been the craziest thing I've done my entire life. Never did I think once that I'd become this different version of myself in the last couple of years. Trust me my past is hideous as comes. I tried so hard to get a hold of myself. I was never a bright student, never had a knack for studying -at all. Now the thought almost seems foreign to me, but I got to do this for my sake. My parents did everything they could to keep me out of a non boarding school.

I got into fights, beat people up, got beat up, didn't really make it in academics. Transferred from several schools, still no one hit me like this one. It seems change is really getting to me.

On my way to class during the morning period, I pass by the classrooms area and saw her seated there,by the window. Debbie-Jeffery's ex. He's got good taste. Her rounded face,and delicate jawline ,her curves and the way her big eyes blink severally when embarrassed was intoxicating. I know, I've met her just once,but can't you get such description from just a single meeting? She seemed pretty interesting. I'm looking forward to more encounters but she's not in my too priorities right now.

I take a seat on my locker and Jeffery comes over.

" What's up, bro?"

He greets me and we do a bro hug. He leans against my desk.

" What's good?" I ask.

" So what do you think if her?"

The question hits me like a blow in the gut.

" Who?"

I feign cluelessness.

" Debbie. Do you like her?"

I laugh. Short and curious.

" Like her? Bro. You know I'm not into all that lovey-dovey stuff. Besides,, I got better things to think about than... That."

I say bluntly. He just shakes his head.

" When will you? You've never been in a relationship before. You ain't getting any younger, dude. Open up"

He talks my shoulder with intent and the teacher walks in for the first period of the day. He leaves me be, drowning in my thoughts. I hate to be haunted like this.

*Bell rings*

The class periods pushed in deeper till midday and we're out on our lunch break. it's really stressful though the school year just begun. Still, I can't quIte get Jeffrey's words out of my head. I've never had many love interests then what's making me hesitant? I can't pinpoint what actually going on.

I lean at the pillar by the classroom block, and my eyes stops on a particular figure. Debbie. Her laughter is very audible even from here. She runs around like a kid. So carefree and nonchalant-or so it seems to me. I watch her longer than usual,not noticing when Jeffery and Leroy are focused at what I'm so focused on.

" Bro!"

I snap out of it.

" Damn it, Leroy. You're trying to give me a heart attack?!"

I snap. I glare at both of them who seem to be enjoying themselves.

" Not funny"

" ooh, what a grouch. We haven't been here long and you've got a crush?"

Leroy presses further

" Will you cut it out?"

I face them fully.

" I don't have a crush on her. Besides, she's Jeffrey's ex. I can't like her."

" oh, smooth"

Jeffery just looks at me. I. never one to banter or lie. I'm always as straight as you see me.

" Don't, Nate. This isn't about me, but you. Don't bring it up every time you see her or me. We're over Ra long time ago. She ended it herself."

Jeffery says.

" Yeah,she did. Remember what she said," circumstances". I saw the way you looked at her man. Stop fooling yourself. you're still in love with her. Admit it, and it might help You a lot"

A dark shadow crosses his face and the playful expression becomes serious. His fair skin red from burning rage.

" I've told you already, Nate. we're over and done. Sure,it was "circumstantial" so what? We're done. It doesn't change that fact."

I look at him in his eyes. His golden brown eyes burn with restrained rage. I decide to stop.

" Fine, chill. I get it."

He doesn't say another then leaves. I watch his retreating back.

" Not cool man"

Leroy shakes his head and leaves too. I sigh a run my fingers through my curls. My gaze stops on her again. Now she's looking right at me. Unable to contain that, I decide to return to class.

Nighttime

7:30 pm.

Heading towards the classrooms for the night session, I was running late for chemistry class because he decided to take out studying time and lecture at night. I'm cumming right now.

I don't realize when I bump into someone.

" Watch it!"

I hear female voice say. That familiar,, sharp edged voice. I look down at her and meet those big eyes.

" Oh...it's you."

Debbie laughs nervously. this meeting is quite awkward I'd say. didn't actually expect to see her again. Well, not again-again, but in a completely different scenario. My expression hard, makes her step back from me a little.

" Yeah. The one and only. Where are you headed when the night has just begun?"

Not that I care to know, just being curious so the situation doesn't feel too awkward.

" Umm,I'm running errands for my language class tomorrow"

She says. Her voice sharper than usual. Although I hate to admit, but she's not bad looking. Almost cute. I nod.

" Okay. Then I won't keep you."

Without another word I side step her and walk away. I don't look back. I'm already too occupied just thinking of chemistry class. I think I'm losing it.

A Week later...

Monday 11: 49 am

It's a day with no classes, no teachers bossinaroundnd the place. I bypass the other game courts and see a group of girls in at the handball court. Already at it. I don't know what made me stop, but I Did.

Then I saw-her. She's a left-winger. Her speed average for her curvy body and the sports attire she wears is crazy fitting. Like hell are guys supposed to focus? I watch her aim for the shot, but miss. She shakes her head and walks away from the field for a break. I force myself not to go to her and turn around for the basketball court.

On arrival, teammates are waiting on me.They wave me over.

" Yo! Look who's here!"

Gavin, one of the strikers say with a small on his face. The others go" yeah!!!

"What's up, cap?"

Oriel gives me a bro salute, so does the others.

" Where coach at?"

I ask.

" Ain't coming in today. Today's a day off for all teachers. Did you forget?"

" No. Just- " I pause." never mind that"

" You'll be the coach for today's practice."

Leroy says and I shake my head with a smile.

" You bastards. You connived behind my back?"

I ask playfully. They laugh

" If not,you would've declined. come on , Coach!"

They say jogging off to the other dend of the court. I'm busy tiring my shoe laces when Aster walks by*

" Yo, Nate? You seem distracted lately. Everything cool?"

I look up at him, and stand up to my full height. I have my hands in my hips.

" Yeah. Why wouldn't it be?"

He shrugs and taps me on the shoulder.

" Just worried man. Since I've known you,you've never been like This. Just thought I'd bring you back to the surface"

With that, he jogs off and meet the others.

" Yeah. Thanks."

I jog over too and join in.

Hours later.

3: 15 pm

Everyone leaves the court greeting me goodbye while I sit there alone, with my thoughts. I run a finger through my hair. I raise my head and see a water bottle sticking to my face. I raise my head higher to see -her. Standing There.With that smile on her face. My eyes rake over her face them down to her curves. I clear my throat.

" Thirsty?"

Her voice comes out wet and nourished. I slowly grab the bottle

" Thanks..."

Is the only thing I got to say.

" Mind if I join you?"

I pause Without much of an answer she sits by me.

" Yeah, sure."

I mumble under my breath, gulping a reasonable amount of water. We sit there in silence for a while.

" So...why're you here? Is there,, something you want?"

I ask casually. She clicks her tongue.

" Yes, actually."

Debbie says and I look down at the bottle in my hands. Waiting for what she wants to say.

" Jeffery never told me he had a brother before"

That took me by surprise. Personal stuff I guess.

"Cousin"

I correct.

" The same thing you know. You're still related by blood"

I shake my head.

" Nah. It's a lot complicated than that."

" Oh."

Is all she says. We go silent again. I feel her eyes on me.

" Nate?"

I feel a pang in my chest at her choice of referring to me.

" I can call you that right?"

She clarifies.

" Err, sure"

" Okay...since I met you at the field two weeks ago for the first time...I felt somehow connected to you...like a spark flies whenever I see you pass by-"

I feel her tiny hands over mine. I then look at her in the eyes. there's nothing there but seriousness dancing in their depths. Her hands tremble a little, but she doesn't pull back.

" I...I like you. And I was hoping you could give me a chance?"

I freeze.