{Connor}
Life moved on, or at least it tried to. I started college, a new chapter in my life, far away from the small town where I grew up, hoping that the distance would help me forget that night in the forest. My parents were supportive, and Jack assured me that everything would be fine as long as I focused on my studies and kept my emotions in check.
Jack's car drove into the humongous gates of Ridgenell College and pulled up in front of the dorm building and we all stepped out. My heart pounded in anticipation, I couldn't believe I was here.
My dormitory building was a massive structure with multiple stories and countless windows. I picked up my bags and walked inside with Jack and Laura following closely behind. We made our way to the second floor, where my room was located.
Room 212
I stood in front of the door for a moment as my nerves slowly crept in. This was the place where I would spend the next few years, where I would probably make friends, and hopefully grow as a person.
With a deep sigh, I inserted the key into the lock and opened the door. It was your standard college dorm, with two beds, two desks, and two closets. It felt strange to see only one bed neatly made, while the other side of the room remained empty.
"Looks like your roommate hasn't arrived yet," Laura observed.
"Yeah," I muttered. A part of me had hoped to meet my roommate right away, to break the ice and get it over with, but now I had to anticipate meeting them.
Jack placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Don't worry, Connor. You'll meet your roommate soon enough. For now, let's get you settled in."
We spent the next hour unpacking my belongings and arranging my things. Jack and Laura helped me hang posters on the walls and organize my books on the shelves. It felt good to have them with me, at least until they had to say goodbye.
"Alright, that's everything." I sighed taking the last of my clothes and putting it in the closet.
"I guess it is." Laura wiped away a tear as she hugged me tightly, "You're going to do great, sweetheart."
Jack held me by the shoulders, his gaze steady. "I am so proud of you son. Just remember, we're only a phone call away if you ever need anything."
I nodded, smiling back at them, my eyes moist, "I love you both."
They stood at the doorway for a moment, smiling softly. Then, with a final wave, they closed the door and walked away, leaving me alone in my new dorm room.
I sat on the edge of my bed, staring at the empty side of the room. I shrugged and fell back on my bed staring at the ceiling. I couldn't tell how long I had stayed that way but I was jolted back to reality by a soft knock on the door.
"Could it be my roommate?" I pondered, getting up.
I opened the door to find a beautiful girl with curly orange hair standing outside.
"Connor, right?" she asked with a friendly smile.
I nodded, feeling a bit nervous. "Yeah, that's me."
She extended her hand. "I'm Emily, the student director for this house. We're having a college orientation in the living room. You should come join us, all the freshmen are already gathered there."
"Yeah sure, thanks, Emily. I'll be there in a minute," I said, and she gave me a nod before heading down the hallway to gather other students.
I closed the door behind me and rushed into the bathroom, "Alright man, this is it. This time it's going to be different, this isn't high school." I reassured myself, splashing some water on my face before walking out of the bathroom.
I left my room and made my way to the living room for the orientation. As Emily spoke, I listened intently trying my hardest to grab everything I'd need to know about Ridgenell.
"Welcome, freshers, to Ridgenell University!" Emily began, her smile infectious. "I'm Emily, your student director, and I'm here to help you navigate your college life. Today, I'm here to provide you with much-needed information and to introduce you to the wonderful community you're now a part of."
Emily continued, "In the coming days, you'll meet your professors, explore the campus, and start building lifelong friendships. Ridgenell is not just a place for academics; it's a place where you'll grow, learn, and discover your passions."
She went on to explain the resources available on campus, from the library to the various student organizations. I made a mental note to check out the writing club and the outdoor adventure club. I had to come out of my comfort zone and hiking seemed like a great way to do that.
After quite some time, Emily concluded her speech, "Remember, you're not alone in this journey. We're here to support you every step of the way. Make the most of your time here, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Welcome to Ridgenell University, where your adventure begins!"
I was already mentally exhausted as I made my way back to my dorm room, upon opening the door to my room, I was met with a surprising sight. A guy with dark brown hair falling over his shoulders stood on the other side of the room, his back to me as he arranged his belongings.
His tall and impressive physique was hard to miss, and the realization hit me like a ton of bricks. This was my roommate.
For a moment, I stood there, unsure of how to approach the situation. As if sensing I had returned, he turned to look at me, his hair somewhat covering his eyes.
I cleared my throat, feeling a bit awkward. "Hey, I'm Connor," I offered, extending my hand.
"Ethan," he replied curtly, looking down at my hand for an uncomfortable period before shaking my hand briefly, he returned to organizing his side of the room.
I watched him for a while, trying to decipher what kind of person he was. One thing was for sure, he clearly wasn't the type to engage in idle conversation.
I decided to give him some space and began organizing my desk. After some time, Ethan had finished arranging his side of the room. Without a word, he walked out, leaving me alone in the room. I shrugged and decided to focus on my own preparations for the classes that would start the next day.
Evening slowly crept in and I was growing increasingly tired. I couldn't tell why I was so exhausted but I knew I needed to rest. I slipped into my bed and drifted off to sleep.
Later that night when I woke up, I glanced around the room and still didn't catch sight of Ethan anywhere. Realizing that it wasn't my business, I drifted back to sleep, mentally readying myself for my official first day of college.
The sound of my phone's alarm startled me awake, I fumbled for it on the nightstand and after a moment of clumsy swiping, I managed to turn it off. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I sat up in bed and stretched, trying to shake off the feeling of sleep, I became aware of the sound of running water coming from the bathroom.
It abruptly stopped and suddenly the door swung open revealing Ethan, walking out with nothing but a towel wrapped around his waist. His impeccable physique glistened with droplets of water, and his long brown hair was tied up to reveal his face and amber eyes.
"Uh, good morning," I stammered, unsure of how to react.
Ethan nodded in acknowledgment but didn't say a word as he walked past me, seemingly unfazed by the situation as headed to his side of the room. I couldn't help but wonder where he had been all night and when he actually returned. However, I decided against asking him, respecting his privacy.
I quickly gathered my things and headed into the bathroom, giving Ethan some space. A quick shower helped me wake up and after getting dressed, I rushed out of the dorm room, my backpack slung over my shoulder, determined not to be late for my first class.