As I stepped onto the picturesque campus of Essex College, a thrill of excitement mixed with nervousness coursed through my veins. The lush green quad, historic buildings, and bustling students seemed to whisper promises of new beginnings and endless possibilities.
I took a deep breath, shouldering my backpack and joining the stream of freshmen flowing toward the student union. My roommate, Whitney, had texted me earlier, suggesting we meet up at the welcome fair.
Scanning the crowd, I spotted Whitney's bright smile and confident wave. Her infectious energy drew me in, and we hugged like long-lost friends, despite having just met online.
"I'm so glad we're rooming together!" Whitney exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. "I was worried I'd get stuck with someone boring."
I chuckled, feeling an instant connection. "No guarantees I'm not boring," I teased.
Whitney grinned. "I'll take my chances."
Together, we explored the fair, collecting brochures and information packets. We discovered shared interests in music and hiking, and Whitney introduced me to her favorite coffee shop.
As the afternoon sun began to set, casting a warm glow across campus, Whitney suggested we grab dinner at the cafeteria.
"I've heard the food is surprisingly good," she said, leading me to the dining hall.
Over pizza and salad, we delved deeper into each other's lives. Whitney shared stories of her high school adventures, and I recounted my own experiences.
Our conversation flowed effortlessly, like we'd known each other for years. I felt grateful for this chance encounter, this new friendship blossoming.
As dinner concluded, Whitney glanced at her phone. "Belinda and Savannah are hosting a welcome party tonight. We should totally go."
My stomach fluttered with anticipation. "Sounds like fun."
Little did I know, this party would be the start of an unforgettable journey.
YOU ARE READING
Between Semesters
Teen Fiction_"Between Semesters" isn't just about grades, parties, and deadlines-there's something darker waiting beneath the surface. A missing student, cryptic notes, and a secret society that seems to know more than they let on. As tensions rise and friendsh...