Elite Affairs - Book one

Chapter Sixteen

"Why......Why did you let them do this to you?"

As they settled into the airport chairs, the students let out a collective sigh of relief, their exhaustion from the long flight finally catching up with them. The 5-hour journey from Los Angeles had taken its toll, and even the usually energetic group was subdued, their eyes drooping and their movements sluggish. It could be understood because they woke up on time to prepare for the journey. Açelya, sitting towards the end of the bench, gazed around at her fellow students, feeling a sense of disconnection. She had never been on a trip like this before, and the unfamiliar surroundings only added to her sense of unease.

Father Thomas, standing at the front of the group, surveyed them with a critical eye, his expression disapproving. "Remember, students, you are here on a school-sponsored trip, and I expect you all to behave accordingly," he intoned, his voice dripping with sternness. "No wandering off, no disobeying the rules. We have a tight schedule to keep, and I won't have you all messing it up." Açelya felt a shiver run down her spine as his gaze swept over them.

As she glanced around at her classmates, Açelya couldn't help but feel a pang of envy. They all seemed so confident, so at ease in their surroundings. They had been on trips like this before, and it showed. She knew she didn't belong, that she was only here because of her uncle. And as she gazed around at the unfamiliar sights and sounds of the terminal, Açelya felt a sense of wonder mixed with anxiety.

As Father Thomas droned on, Açelya's gaze wandered to Mariya, who was calmly opening a bottle of sparkling water next to her. She unscrewed the cap and took a refreshing sip, her eyes closing in appreciation. Mariya's face relaxed, her shoulders sagging in relief. Then, Mariya's eyes met Açelya's, and she smiled reassuringly, as if to say, 'Don't worry, I'm here.' Açelya felt a warmth spread through her chest, and she smiled back.

Açelya heard the students behind her whispering to each other. "Ugh, this is so boring," one of them said. "I know, right? I'd rather be getting a root canal," another student replied, earning a stifled giggle from the others.

Açelya felt her face flush with embarrassment, hoping that Father Thomas wouldn't notice the commotion. She tried to focus on his words, but her attention kept drifting back to the whispered conversation behind her.

"I swear, Father Thomas has the personality of a cardboard box," one of them whispered. "Tell me about it, I've seen more excitement in a snail's pace," another student replied, their voices barely audible but still loud enough to make Açelya cringe.

As they stepped into the grand lobby of the Marriott Copley Place Hotel, she couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The high ceilings, sleek marble floors, and elegant chandeliers seemed to whisper luxury and sophistication. She gazed around, her eyes wide with wonder, taking in the bustling atmosphere of the hotel. The sound of gentle chatter and soft music filled the air, accompanied by the occasional chime of a glass or the rustle of papers.

As the students gathered in the lobby, Father Thomas and other staff began distributing room cards. "Remember, boys and girls will be staying on separate floors, as per school policy," he reminded them, his voice firm but not unkind. "You will have until dinner to freshen up and get settled. I expect you all to be in the hotel restaurant by 6 PM sharp."

Açelya received her room card and glanced at the number: 1412. She had been hoping to room with Mariya, but Mariya's card read 1608. They exchanged disappointed glances, both of them frowning.

"No switching rooms," Father Thomas barked, his voice firm and authoritative. "You'll stay where you're assigned."

Açelya took her card and headed towards the elevators, feeling a pang of disappointment. She had been looking forward to sharing a room with Mariya and staying up late gossiping and laughing.