Paula the Mathematician

June 20, 2023. Dark, heavy clouds piled up in the sky - typical for my birthday. I made my way towards the cafeteria, opting for a delicious lentil curry dish and looked for an empty seat. Then a student, who had caught my eye recently, entered the room. There was something different about her. Copper-colored hair, cheeky freckles, and a lively, cheerful demeanor - she reminded me of a modern version of Pippi Longstocking. With a tray in hand, she left the cafeteria, accompanied by her two similarly red-haired friends.

After lunch, I strolled out of the cafeteria and let my gaze wander over the campus. Students were everywhere. The outdoor tables were all occupied, the weather practically inviting for outdoor dining. Further away, I spotted the redhead student on the opposite side of the cafeteria, near the high-rise building. They were all sitting cross-legged and enjoying their lunch. I walked over to her. As I approached, they noticed me.

»Hey«

»Hey! What's up?«

»I just saw you in the cafeteria and found you really likable. You remind me a bit of Pippi Longstocking. Would you like to grab a coffee with me after lunch?«

»That's nice of you, but I'm going back to the library to study.«

»Okay, no problem. Maybe we can grab a coffee together some other time.«

»No, but thanks for the offer.«

»Too bad, okay. Bye.«

I turned around and went back to the library.

Later, I decided to change my workplace. I headed to the Welfengarten, towards the university's main building. Upon arrival, I entered the cafeteria to get myself a coffee and an apple - and ran into Paula. She was Felix's girlfriend, who occasionally attended karate training as well. She was taking a short break with a chocolate muffin. We had a casual conversation, which made her likable in my eyes. Plus, she was a vegetarian and was writing a bachelor's thesis in mathematics, which definitely earned her bonus points with me. She also told me that she was no longer with Felix. That encouraged me to pay even more attention to her at our next meeting...