Elise was still unpacking her things when Anastasia practically burst into the dorm, her excitement bouncing off the walls.
"You are not going to believe this!" Anastasia exclaimed, grabbing Elise's hands.
Elise sighed, bracing herself. "Anastasia… what now?"
Anastasia's eyes widened dramatically. "You've been paired with Davon for the science project!"
Elise froze, her stomach twisting into knots. She had been expecting a peaceful first semester, quiet classes, maybe a chance to adjust without drama—and now this? The most popular guy in school, Davon, was her partner. She didn't even know how to tell him.
"The problem," Anastasia continued, lowering her voice conspiratorially, "is… he missed class today. He has no idea about the project."
Elise groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Of course he doesn't! How am I supposed to… tell him? What if he's… annoyed or thinks I'm bothering him?"
Anastasia put a hand on her shoulder, trying to calm her. "Hey, breathe. You don't have to do this alone. We can figure out a way. I'll help you tell him. You won't have to face him by yourself."
Elise peeked at her cousin, relief mingling with her lingering nerves. "You… you really think you can do that?"
Anastasia smirked. "Trust me. I've dealt with enough crushes and popular guys to know a strategy or two. But you have to let me take the lead."
Elise nodded slowly, still anxious. "Okay… but… I really just wanted a quiet start. I didn't come here to… to be paired with the most famous guy in school."
Anastasia laughed softly, ruffling her cousin's hair. "Well, life has other plans. Don't worry. We'll survive this. Somehow."
Elise sighed, trying to steady her racing thoughts. With Anastasia's help, she hoped the inevitable conversation with Davon wouldn't be as terrifying as it seemed—but deep down, she couldn't shake the feeling that this project was about to change everything.