The Dark Society

12

England had always been regarded as a nation of radical nonconformists, so the ethnic disparities and unwelcoming stares the girls experienced weren't entirely unexpected. Despite this, Sabrina and Tatum had spent the afternoon exploring the city, and after hours of sightseeing, they finally retreated to the dormitories.

"It's quite elegant," Sabrina declared, observing the gated entrance.

"Just imagine..." Tatum added, drawing closer. "This will be home for the next few years."

Sabrina stepped forward. "For you, anyway."

Tatum frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Sabrina glanced over her shoulder with a smirk.

Sixty-three Evelyn Gardens was a freshman dormitory located just minutes from Imperial's campus. Initially, seeing it had felt exciting, but the thrill quickly faded. Aside from that, they weren't expected guests, so they had to find their own way around.

Tatum's persistent smile wasn't surprising--meeting Sabrina had been like catching her breath after a long run. The idea of having such a relatable friend was reassuring, and she valued their growing friendship.

"Don't worry," she said confidently. "You're stuck with me."

Tatum beamed as they entered the dormitory, where panoramic views and striking sculptural pieces immediately caught their attention.

"It's incredible," Tatum observed, admiring the artwork.

Sabrina laughed. "I take it you haven't seen many luxury residences."

"Not this week, anyway," Tatum joked, closing the elevator gate.

The girls checked their paperwork and discovered they had separate rooms, so as the elevator reached the second floor, their search began.

"I know they're here somewhere," Tatum said, scanning the hallway.

"Tell you what," Sabrina suggested. "You go that way, I'll go this way, and we'll meet on the other side."

They separated and began searching. Though the task sounded tedious, it wouldn't take long, so Sabrina took a moment to reread several notes from her mother. And though roughly written, the sentiments were clear.

"The fishing isn't the same," read a caption under a recent photo of her and Tim angling together.

Sabrina covered her mouth as tears welled up--it was one of many reminders that neither she nor her mother could forget. Meanwhile, she tried to compose herself but was suddenly startled.

"I'm sorry," a young woman said. "I didn't mean to frighten you."

Sabrina quickly put on a guarded expression.

"I'm Lyndsey," the girl introduced herself. "Lyndsey Graham."

"Sabrina Kole," she replied. "My friend Tatum and I are trying to find our rooms."

Lyndsey ran her fingers through her wine-red hair. "Nice to meet you. What room numbers are you looking for?"

Sabrina retrieved her key. "Twenty-three and twenty-four."

Lyndsey pointed down the hall as Sabrina glanced over her shoulder and spotted the room numbers.

"Well done," she muttered sarcastically. "Excellent first impression."

Lyndsey laughed. "Don't be embarrassed--we've all been there."

Tatum suddenly appeared around the corner. "There you are. I'm completely lost, and you're making friends."

"This is Tatum," Sabrina said, gesturing toward Lyndsey.

Tatum noticed the sudden change in Sabrina's demeanor--expressions she'd seen many times when Sabrina felt irritated. Nevertheless, there would soon be another reason for her attitude.

"Americans don't usually attend this university," Lyndsey commented.

"Why's that?" Sabrina asked, squinting slightly.

"Well, as you know, there are many prestigious institutions in America, so it's unusual for students to travel so far for school."

Tatum caught Sabrina's expression and quickly changed the subject.

"So these are our rooms?" she interjected, stepping across the hallway.

Lyndsey gradually moved toward her door. "They are. But you should get settled if you're planning to see more of the city."

"Been there, done that, but thanks anyway," Tatum replied.

"You're welcome," Lyndsey responded. "One more thing--our other housemates should be back soon: Kyle, Logan, Jasmine, and Trina. They spend most of their time studying but show up occasionally."

"Typical college students?" Sabrina asked.

"Yeah," Lyndsey agreed. "They're quite friendly, so you should make friends quickly."