In the Name of the Sacred Tree

"Jack, Jack, Jack" jack's mom, Lorraine called out three times to wake him up from his slumber but he didn't budge, he slept as sound as a baby boy who just got into bed. " He is so quick witted but the loudest of bangs can't wake him up, that's a rare trait", jack's father, Mr.

Jake said with a big smile on his face and staring at Lorraine knowing very well that Lorraine's father also had that trait and therefore he obtained that very trait from his grandfather, Lorraine stared back at Jake which made his fade as quickly as a bolt, " Jack, there's a letter for you" Lorraine shouted again In just a moment I would not even describe as a minute, unsteady steps were heard pacing towards Lorraine, " let me see", Jack flung towards his mom Which startled her, "let me see, please", jack's mom handed over the letter to him, he opened it without patience out loud, " Congratulations, Mr. Thompson, we are pleased to announce to you that you have been accepted to study in Yale University with a scholarship which comes with accommodation setting and other pleasantries that will be discussed when you enroll in. You are to enroll Friday, 24th May. Note that, absence or delay may Occur some penalties. Jack's face grew with excitement, he started jumping and howling as he was so excited to have gotten a scholarship in a good college, " 24th ......., if I am right, it's just two days from now", jack's mom said, " two days from now is bit too close" his dad added, the three stared at each other, " but i can't let this opportunity slide, i will go" ,"Yes my son, you will go" jack's mom, assured him.

Then the very day arrived, Jack Thompson stood at the threshold of the university, a sea of eager faces swirling around him. The early morning sun bathed the bustling campus in a gentle light, illuminating the possibility of new beginnings. His heart raced, caught between exhilaration and trepidation, as he clutched the straps of his backpack tighter, drawing comfort from its familiar weight. Today marked the first step into a world filled with endless opportunities, yet he felt like an imposter navigating this vibrant tapestry of intellect and ambition.

The atmosphere buzzed with laughter and chatter, an intoxicating blend of voices dipping in and out of his consciousness. Jack carefully observed a group of students animatedly sharing stories, their camaraderie igniting a pang of longing within him. He had always been the diligent student, the one who focused on his studies rather than social maneuvering. Yet, as he stood there on the precipice of change, he silently wished for someone who would see beyond his earnest demeanor-someone who could spark a flame within him.

As he wandered towards the orientation event, a sense of gravity pulled him toward a cluster of people gathered at a nearby table. It was then that he first saw Manuel Salvatore-a figure who seemed to embody the very essence of charisma. Manuel leaned against a pillar, effortlessly charming the crowd around him with a wicked grin and a glint of mischief in his eyes, like he was both completely at ease and entirely out of reach.

The air between them crackled with energy that sent a shiver down Jack's spine. Unconsciously, he stepped closer, drawn into a gravitational pull that challenged his perceptions of what was possible. To be wrapped in such magnetic intensity felt like stepping into the unknown, where dreams danced on the edge of danger and allure.

"Hey there," Manuel spoke, his voice smooth and inviting, mingling with the din of laughter. Jack blinked, finding himself caught in the depths of those dark eyes, so full of secrets, yet inviting him to uncover them. The world around them faded, and for a moment, it was as if they existed in their own universe, suspended in time.

Jack took a breath, words momentarily escaping him as curiosity battled apprehension. Would he dare to venture into the extraordinary? The slamming of a door and the echoing laughter of other students snapped him back to reality, yet his heart thrummed wildly, whispering that this unexpected encounter might just alter the course of his life.

Jack felt a spark as if the universe had conspired to throw him into the orbit of someone remarkable. The pulse of uncertainty fluttered within him, but it was quickly overshadowed by a wave of reckless intrigue. Drawn to Manuel like a moth to flame, he resisted the urge to look away, ensnared by the intensity woven into those dark eyes. Who was this man who commanded attention effortlessly, mixing charm with a hint of danger?

"Jack, right?" Manuel's voice sliced through the surrounding chatter, his gaze piercing yet playful. The way he pronounced Jack's name ignited a flicker of warmth in his chest, and the sensation was both intoxicating and terrifying. He nodded, words seemingly lost in the whirlwind of excitement and uncertainty, feeling dwarfed by the magnetic presence before him.