As the first two weeks unfolded, I found myself immersed in a flurry of academic activities. Master classes, transition seminars, and lectures became my daily routine. I took my academics very seriously and had always been a high performer. My GPA was strong, and I was not willing to let it drop, so I maximized every academic opportunity.
Sam and I would often meet up in front of the school building, attending lectures together whenever our schedules permitted. Sometimes, she would arrive late, and I would slip into class ahead of her, not wanting to miss a single moment of my lectures. But we always ended up sitting next to each other and leaving together.
At some point in the previous week, I met a friend of Sam's. His name was Colin, and he was notorious for his sporadic attendance. Despite his infrequent appearances in class or lectures, he was very interesting and funny, and we got along quite immediately.
Unfortunately, I didn't have the opportunity to attend another lecture with Professor Darcy apart from our initial encounter on the week's start because his next two classes clashed with my orientation seminars. However, his presence from that class had left a lasting impression, and I kept thinking about him intermittently, his image lingering in my mind. I kept hoping to see him on campus at least once, but I never did.
On a Friday, when classes were wrapping up for the week, my last lecture was with Professor Margaret, an elderly yet sharp-witted woman with a passion that reviled her years. Her class was a bit dry, but I did admire her love for literature.
After it was over, Sam immediately grabbed me by both shoulders. Looking at me with a mischievous grin, she said, "You have to come to this event tomorrow." Her eyes were sparkling with excitement. I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by her sudden enthusiasm, which was unusual for someone as laid-back as Sam when it came to academic activities. I asked, "What event?"
"It's a literary mixer," she replied. "Both professors and students will be there, and I think it's a great opportunity for someone like you to network and discuss literature in a more relaxed setting."
I hesitated, unsure if I wanted to attend, but Sam was insistent. "You have to come," she said firmly. "I don't even like this kind of events; I just go there for the free wine, but I know that you're going to absolutely love it. Get ready, I'll drag you there myself tomorrow."
The next day, Saturday, I decided to break out of my usual routine. I let down my hair, which had been tied up in a ponytail since my arrival in London. I also chose a dress that my mother had bought for me, one that I had brought with me but never had the chance to wear. The dress was short, with thin sleeves tied into bows. I felt more dressed up than usual.
When Sam arrived at my apartment, she knocked on the door and let herself in. "Let's get you ready," she said, heading straight to my makeup bag. She applied a light touch of makeup, knowing that I wasn't a fan of heavy cosmetics. "A little something extra never hurts," she said, smirking.
With our preparations complete, we left my apartment and headed to the literary mixer. I was a bit nervous about attending, but Sam's enthusiasm was infectious, and I found myself looking forward to the event.
THE EVENT........
As we walked into the venue, I could feel the excitement building up inside me. This was going to be an interesting night. I couldn't help but notice the cosy atmosphere of the mixer. The space was intimate, with couches scattered throughout, creating a warm ambience. Bookshelves lined the walls, stacked high with volumes of literature, giving the impression of a mini library. The room was filled with people, a mix of professors and students, all mingling and discussing literature. In one corner, a group of writers were signing books and taking pictures with fans.
Sam grabbed my arm and led me through the crowd, pointing out various people she knew. "I'm going to go get us drinks," she said. "You stay here and mingle." I nodded, already feeling a bit out of place. As I scanned the room, I recognized a few people from campus, but not anyone I knew well enough to strike up a conversation with.
Sam returned with drinks in hand, insisting that I loosen up and have fun. "I know you don't drink, but you have to let loose," she said, handing me a glass of sparkling wine. I took a sip, feeling the cool liquid touch my lips, and then carefully placed the glass on a nearby table. Sam laughed and told me she was going to go meet a guy she used to hook up with frequently. "I'll be right back," she said, winking at me.
I watched her disappear into the crowd, feeling a bit bored and out of place. I wasn't very social, and I didn't know how to small-talk with people. Just as I was starting to feel overwhelmed, I saw Professor Margaret approaching me. She smiled warmly and said, "Oh, you're the transfer student. Nice to see you here. I hope you're having a good time." I smiled back, "Yes, I am." I replied, an obvious lie.
We exchanged pleasantries for a few minutes before she excused herself.
As the evening wore on, I found myself getting tired of just looking around and not really talking to anyone. I decided to step outside for some fresh air. The cool night air hit me as I walked out of the venue, and I felt a sense of relief. I wandered to a corner of the building, where a wall separated me from the main entrance. I sat there quietly and stared at the sky.