Knocking at the Harringtons

Long-tables

Finally the lunch bell rang and all the students rushed out, Amaya followed, since she didn't know where to go yet.

The cafeteria buzzed with students, laughter echoing against the high ceilings as they settled in. She remembered Chloe's invitation and decided to find her table after grabbing some food.

It felt like each table had its own distinctive vibe. Amaya couldn't help but feel like it represented the social hierarchy of Westminster Academy.

In the back, a group of quieter students sat at a table, engaged in hushed discussions.

Whilst in the far back left corner of the cafeteria, a bunch of students on their phones, laughing.

To her right, the girls' table. They all had perfectly tailored suits, manicured nails, and designer bags. Amongst them was Veronica. They chatted and tossed their hair, while occasionally glancing around the room. On the left side of the room was another long–table filled with girls. It had a similar energy. However, this time she recognized Chloe's face amongst them.

Amaya decided to approach Chloe's table. It felt like the safest bet. As she was crossing the cafeteria she noticed Sabastian sitting at one of the long tables, surrounded by his friends, their loud banter filling the air around them. He was leaning back in his chair with his arms crossed, wearing an indifferent expression that made him even more untouchable. He didn't notice her, and Amaya quickly averted her gaze, reminding herself that she wasn't here to dwell on him.

Chloe spotted her before she reached the table, her face lighting up with recognition. "Amaya! Over here!" she called, waving her over.

Amaya felt a rush of relief as Chloe's cheerful voice cut through the noise of the cafeteria. She quickened her pace until she reached Chloe's table, where a few other girls had already settled in.

"Hey, I'm so glad you made it!" Chloe said, gesturing for Amaya to take a seat next to her. The atmosphere around the table was lively, filled with animated chatter and laughter.

"Everyone, this is Amaya, our new transfer student!" Chloe announced, her tone bright.

Amaya slid into the chair, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness as the other girls turned their attention to her. They all wore the same tailored uniforms, but their individuality shone through in their accessories and the way they carried themselves.

"So, this is Sophie," Chloe said, gesturing to the brunette with emerald eyes, which was smiling at her. "This is Kendall and Stella," she pointed to the blond twins that were already waving at her. "This is Alice," she continued looking over at the brown-skinned girl with long, luscious curls. "Nice to meet you, "Alice exclaimed smiling. "And this is Alessandra, "Chloe pointed to the Asian girl with jet black hair and lash extensions. They all looked like they could model.

"So, Amaya, how are you liking it so far?" Stella asked, her voice bright and curious.

"Yeah, I mean it's good. Everyone seems nice and everything," Amaya answered smiling.

"We were actually just talking about the weekend plans." Chloe pointed out.

"About this upcoming seniors only masquerade ball this Saturday. You should totally come," Sophie said.

"Everyone relevant is going to be there, and not only people from our school," Kendall added, looking around at the rest of the girls knowingly. The rest laughed.

"Sounds fun! I'd love to join," Amaya said excitedly. "Perfect, I'm sure we can get you the invite. It's kind of exclusive." Chloe exclaimed. "You're going to love it."

Amaya smiled, feeling a bit more at ease as the conversation flowed. They all ended up exchanging numbers and their socials, and continued talking about their life at Westminster. It felt good talking to friendly faces. Amaya felt she actually had a chance of fitting in at her new school.

"Last year, we had this huge Halloween party," Sophie said, her eyes sparkling. "I went as a witch, and Kendall thought it would be funny to dress up as a pumpkin. She couldn't walk through the door without getting stuck!"

"Hey! That pumpkin costume was iconic!" Kendall protested, laughing along with the rest.

"Now I can't wait to see what you'll wear this year!" Stella chimed in, her blonde hair catching the light. "You have to bring your A-game."

As Amaya was about to respond she caught a glimpse of Sebastian laughing.

"Earth to Amaya!" Chloe said, waving a hand in front of her face. "You, okay?"

"Uh, yeah, sorry!" Amaya quickly replied, snapping back to the moment. "Just got distracted for a second." She answered as the bell rang again, signaling the end of the break.

"Time for class!" Alice said, gathering her things and standing up to leave, while the others followed.