Ishitha thought she could remain detached, but the universe seemed to have other plans. As they walked, Sofia and Emma chattered about their classes and professors, leaving Ishitha listening politely, occasionally nodding. Her heart wasn't fully in it—she preferred to stay invisible—but something in their warmth felt… tolerable.
"I guess we'll have different schedules," Emma said. "But maybe we can all meet for lunch?"
Ishitha hesitated, then nodded. "Sure," she said, surprising herself.
Internally, she scolded herself. Why am I letting myself get involved? she thought. I came here to stay away from people, and now…
Her phone buzzed, breaking her thoughts. Sofia and Emma had asked for her number. Ishitha hesitated—she rarely shared it—but something about their genuine energy made her relent. She handed it over reluctantly, her lips pressing into a straight line as she did so.
Once they split ways, Ishitha adjusted her hoodie and glanced around. She had made herself as inconspicuous as possible: all black, sleek hair, minimal effort, maximum effect. Yet, the lingering sensation of being noticed, however fleeting, pricked at her awareness.
This semester isn't going to be as quiet as I hoped, she thought wryly, a small smirk tugging at her lips.
And as she approached the college gates, unaware, two piercing eyes from across the courtyard seemed to fixate on her—a boy whose presence alone seemed to command attention. Something told her that Louis Valley International College had more surprises in store than she had ever imagined.
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