Gray Areas | Englot | GxG

7. Bonding Day

Upper East Side, Manhattan, NY

9 Years Ago, Senior Year

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Senior Bonding Day-the most eagerly awaited event for the senior class at Grand International Private School. It was a cherished tradition, marking the start of their final year at this prestigious institution.

Today, Charlotte and the other seniors were gathered in the auditorium, buzzing with anticipation as they waited for the principal and student council to kick off the announcements for the upcoming Senior Bonding Day. The energy in the room was palpable; excitement danced in the air, reflected in the bright eyes and eager whispers of the students.

"You're going to love this, Char. It's always the highlight of the senior year!" Heidi exclaimed, practically bouncing in her seat. Next to her, Tina and Marima nodded enthusiastically, sharing the same spark of anticipation.

Charlotte gave a slight nod, though her expression was more reserved. "Is it really that amazing?" she asked, her tone curious but cautious.

Tina leaned in closer, her eyes wide with excitement. "Oh, absolutely! There are always fun games and activities. And guess what? I heard there's going to be a fashion show this year!" Her voice lowered as if sharing a secret, adding to the intrigue.

Charlotte raised an eyebrow, casting a glance at Tina. "A fashion show?" she repeated, trying to hide her growing interest. But before she could ask more, the principal's voice crackled over the microphone, drawing the students' attention to the front.

The principal gave a brief opening speech, welcoming everyone before passing the stage to the student council members. Engfa, Faye, Patcha, Lingling, Apo, and a few other council members took their places, looking poised and ready to address the crowd. Charlotte's gaze settled on Engfa as she confidently took the microphone.

"Hello, my beloved Grand International family!" Engfa greeted, her voice bright and cheerful. The crowd erupted in cheers, and she playfully gestured for everyone to settle down. The room quieted, though the buzz of excitement remained thick in the air. Charlotte couldn't help but roll her eyes slightly at the theatrics. Such a show-off, she thought, a hint of amusement crossing her mind.

"Alright, everyone," Engfa began, her tone turning a bit more official, "this year's Senior Bonding Day will be held next week, just like always. But," she added, her eyes glinting with a hint of mischief, "we've decided to make some changes this year-add a little more flair to the activities."

She paused briefly, flipping over a sheet of paper she held, building the anticipation. "First, the dress code. We're going for 'casual elegance,' with a pastel color theme. There will be a red carpet, and our journalism and magazine club members will be acting as paparazzi, so make sure you're ready to strike a pose! There will be a Best Dressed award at the end of the event," she announced, her voice lively and engaging.

The auditorium erupted in applause and cheers. It was easy to tell that everyone was already picturing themselves dressed to the nines, posing for the cameras.

Engfa continued, "After that, we'll kick things off with a gourmet breakfast, prepared by none other than a Michelin-star chef. You can bet it'll be one of the best meals you'll ever have." She flashed a playful grin, earning a few chuckles from the crowd.

"And once you're full of energy, it's time to burn it off with some friendly competition. We'll have a Yacht Regatta Simulation, a Golf Putting Challenge, and even a Luxury Obstacle Course! Anyone interested in participating should register with the organizers."