After the whirlwind of the campus tour, Elise finally felt a small sense of calm. She had unpacked her things, found her favorite quiet spots in the dorm, and even managed a few moments alone to breathe. It wasn't the life she had imagined in high school, but it was peaceful enough—at least, she thought it would be.
Her first class was in the science building, a modern structure with glass walls and sunlight streaming through. Elise took a seat near the back, trying to remain as inconspicuous as possible. That's when she noticed her seatmate—a friendly-looking girl with striking eyes and a confident presence.
"Hi! I'm Patricia," the girl said, extending her hand. "I think we have a few classes together."
Elise hesitated for a second before shaking her hand. "Elise," she replied. "Nice to meet you."
Patricia smiled warmly. "Don't worry, you'll get used to college life fast. It's crazy at first, but once you find your rhythm, it's not so bad."
By the end of the lecture, Elise already felt more at ease. Patricia was easy to talk to, full of energy and helpful tips about navigating the school. She even teased Elise gently about her nervous glances around the room, and Elise found herself laughing for the first time that morning.
Then came the announcement that made her stomach drop.
"Alright class," the professor said, "for your next science project, I'm pairing students together. Elise, you will be partners with Davon."
The world seemed to tilt slightly. Elise blinked, stunned. Davon? The most popular guy in school—the one she had noticed briefly during the campus tour, the one everyone seemed to whisper about, the one that made Anastasia's heart skip a beat—was now her partner?
She wanted a peaceful start. She had come to college hoping for quiet classes, manageable schedules, and maybe a chance to explore her independence without drama. And now, fate had handed her the exact opposite.
Patricia leaned over, whispering, "Whoa… that's… intense. Are you okay?"
Elise forced a tight smile. "Yeah… sure," she muttered, though inside her chest felt tight. She couldn't explain why—she didn't even remember Davon yet—but there was something unnerving about being paired with him.
As she gathered her things, Elise tried to push the thought away. She had her work cut out for her, and she wasn't going to let anyone, even someone as popular and striking as Davon, derail her plans for a peaceful college life. But deep down, a small, uneasy feeling whispered that this project might be more complicated than she had anticipated.