𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗬𝗼𝘂.

welcome to la.

Melanie stood at the airport gate, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. Today marked the start of a new life in Los Angeles, leaving behind the familiar streets of Seattle—the city where she had grown up and discovered her love for makeup.

Her family stood beside her, their faces a blend of pride and sadness.

"Are you ready, sweetheart?" her mom asked, wrapping her in a tight hug. Melanie nodded, trying to swallow the lump in her throat. She was ready for this adventure, but leaving her family tugged at her heartstrings.

The flight was uneventful, and soon Melanie stepped out into the bustling city of LA. The warm sun hit her face, and the vibrant energy of the city buzzed around her. This was it—her new beginning.

Arriving on campus, she could hardly believe her eyes. The college was even more beautiful than she had imagined. After checking in, her hands trembled slightly as she received her dorm keys.

Her family helped her carry her bags to her new home. When they reached her dorm room, Melanie took a deep breath and opened the door.

Inside, a girl was already unpacking. She looked up, giving Melanie a quick once-over before returning to her task.

"Hi, I'm Melanie," she said, trying to sound cheerful.

"Khia," the girl muttered, her tone flat.

Melanie felt a pang of disappointment but decided to focus on getting settled in. Her sister, always practical, began organizing her things, while her dad set up her laptop. Her mom fussed over the bed, making sure everything was perfect.

Despite the cold reception from Khia, her family made her feel at home. They stayed for a while, offering words of encouragement and laughter. But as they prepared to leave, the reality hit Melanie hard.

Time for goodbyes. She hugged her parents and sister tightly, tears threatening to spill over.

"You'll do great, Mel," Tanai whispered. "Just be yourself."

As they walked away, Melanie stood in the doorway, waving until they were out of sight. She turned back to the room, where Khia was still silently unpacking. Taking a deep breath, she decided to give her roommate some space.

Melanie arranged her makeup collection on her desk, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. This was her passion, her future.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of orientation activities and meeting new people. Melanie tried to push aside her worries about Khia and focus on the excitement of starting college.

Later, as night fell, Melanie lay in bed, the city lights casting a soft glow through the window. She couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. She missed her family, but she was also eager for what this new chapter would bring.

Just then, she heard a noise. Khia was humming softly, a catchy tune that made Melanie smile. It was a small moment, but it filled the room with warmth.

Melanie drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the endless possibilities waiting for her in LA.