My Last And My Only

Chapter 180: Fourth Year

Monday arrived before anyone felt ready for it.

The first day of a new academic year had a way of making the campus feel brand new, even when every building stood exactly where it always had.

Students streamed through the gates carrying fresh notebooks, coffee cups, and the quiet determination that came with another beginning.

For the girls...

It was the start of fourth year.

Their last.

At six-thirty that morning, Gwen wandered into the kitchen with her hair still slightly damp.

She found Ivy packing lunch containers while Aiah poured coffee into a travel mug.

"...It's officially happening."

Aiah looked over.

"What is?"

"I'm a fourth-year student."

She dropped dramatically into a chair.

"I don't think I signed up to become a senior."

Ivy laughed.

"You signed up four years ago."

"I'd like a refund."

"You'll have to speak to the registrar."

"I knew this day would come."

Aiah slid a plate of toasted bread toward her.

"Eat first."

"I'll panic after breakfast."

"That's a much better schedule."

Gwen picked up a slice.

"I can't believe this is my last first day."

Aiah smiled.

"You'll do great."

"I know."

Gwen sighed.

"I just wish summer lasted another week."

"So do I."

Before leaving for work, Aiah glanced at her phone.

The group chat had already started waking up.

Christine:
WHO DECIDED 7:30 CLASSES WERE A GOOD IDEA 😭

Yves:
The registrar.

Christine:
I don't like them.

Nica:
I'm on my way.

Francheska:
Campus is so crowded already.

Gwen:
I'm questioning all my life choices.

A photo appeared.

Khae had sent a picture of the morning sky above the campus parking lot.

Khae:
Good morning. ☀️

Lindtsey:
Already here?

Khae:
I wanted to avoid traffic.

Christine:
Translation:
She wanted coffee.

Khae:
...

😬

Aiah smiled at her screen before slipping her phone into her bag.

Some things, thankfully, never changed.