The school's exams were fast approaching, with just a month left for students to prepare themselves. As usual, the first one to get to the library was none other than one of the school's brightest students, Erica Thompson. This red-haired girl could be seen surrounded by books on either archaeology or geography; she was totally immersed in what she was doing. She adjusted her glasses on the bridge of her nose a couple of times, giving the impression she was at war with those big glasses that covered half her face.
After what seemed like forever, Erica finally emerged from the library, looking exhausted as she made her way to the hostel.
"I'm so tired right now, but all this stress will be worthwhile," Erica told herself. "I have to keep my scholarship; nobody will be able to pay the fees if I don't. It's a great opportunity for me to be in a school like this, and I won't lose it just because of laziness."
Upon entering her room, Erica was welcomed by the sight of her roommate, Zara Moon, blasting metal music and dancing wildly. Thankfully, the room was soundproofed by the school's management at Zara's request.
Zara spotted Erica at the door shortly after her arrival and turned off the music. "Hey, baby girl! How are you doing? I haven't seen you around lately," Zara asked.
"Yeah, well, I was studying," Erica replied.
"As expected of the school's top three students," Zara teased. "I know you want to keep your scholarship and all, but don't push yourself too much, okay? You look like a panda right now with those bags under your eyes."
"Thanks for your concern, Zara, but it's nothing to worry about, really. I just need to take a little nap; I'll be fine," Erica replied.
"Really, Erica? You were literally studying on a weekend! If you think you're fine, who am I to stop you?" Zara said. "But you sincerely need to take care of yourself; I wouldn't want a sick roommate."
"No worries," Erica said.
Although Zara and Erica were complete opposites, they got along pretty well. Zara, unlike Erica, was from a rich family but didn't like being dependent on anyone, not even her family. She only reached out to her family in emergencies.
Zara was so independent that she chose to live in the school's hostel when she could easily have gotten a house like the other rich kids in school. Zara may have looked headstrong, tough, and rebellious, but she was actually sweet, nice, and caring to those she cherished.
Zara was outgoing, daring, and carefree, while Erica was an introvert and meticulous – what people liked to call a total bookworm. At first sight, they might have seemed like the most unlikely people to get along, but they were close and could be mistaken for sisters.